Mining Truck Spotting Under Shovel Using Sensor Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for aligning mining trucks under shovels in mining operations are time-consuming and hazardous due to limited visibility and operator skill, leading to potential accidents and inefficiencies in material transfer.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a communication interface, distance sensors, steering sensors, and an electronic control module that guides the mining truck's operator to align the vehicle by measuring distances and steering angles, controlling the throttle and steering mechanism to automatically or semi-automatically position the truck under the shovel within safety parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual alignment of mining truck under shovel is performed by operator, then operator can control vehicle positioning, but alignment time increases and safety risks arise due to limited visibility and operator skill
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated electronic control system that uses sensors (ultrasonic, infrared, or laser) to measure distances and steering angles, then automatically adjusts the truck's throttle and steering mechanism to achieve precise alignment under the shovel, eliminating reliance on operator skill and visibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the mining truck to perform self-alignment by automatically controlling its own throttle and steering mechanisms based on sensor feedback, without requiring continuous manual intervention from the operator, thereby reducing alignment time and improving safety
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple attempts are made to properly spot the mining truck under the shovel, then alignment accuracy may improve, but time and fuel are wasted during the respotting process
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously receives feedback from distance sensors and steering angle sensors during the alignment process, automatically adjusts control signals to the throttle and steering mechanism, and monitors progress toward the target position, ensuring precise alignment in a single attempt and eliminating the need for respotting
Solution Approach 2:
The automated electronic control system replaces manual operator control with sensor-based measurement and automatic actuation, providing consistent and precise alignment that eliminates the variability and inefficiency of manual respotting attempts
3Reliability
If the shovel is repositioned relative to the mining truck to correct alignment issues, then alignment can be achieved, but the process becomes slow, impractical, and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the impractical mechanical repositioning of the heavy shovel with an automated electronic control system on the mining truck that uses sensors to measure alignment parameters and automatically controls the truck's throttle and steering mechanism, achieving rapid and safe alignment without moving the shovel
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure is generally drawn to methods, systems, devices and/or apparatus related to aligning a mining truck with a shovel. Specifically, some of the disclosed example methods, systems, devices and/or apparatus relate to semi-automatic and/or automatic alignment of mining trucks relative to shovel during mining loading operations.