Modular Ore Scanning Assembly for Portable Mine-Site Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scanning systems for validating ore grade detection are bulky and unsuitable for frequent relocation between sites, making them difficult to transport and deploy.
Innovation Solution
A compact, disassemblable geological sample scanning system comprising a collapsible stand, imaging sensor, and transporter with a rail arrangement, designed for easy setup and teardown at mine sites, utilizing a hyperspectral imaging sensor for ore analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a scanning system is designed with sufficient components for ore grade detection and validation, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but the system becomes bulky and difficult to transport
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning system is divided into separate modular components including the scanner assembly, stand with retractable legs, transporter with rail arrangement, and lighting system. Each component can be independently disassembled and transported, resolving the contradiction between having sufficient components for precise measurement and maintaining a compact transportable form.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand incorporates retractable legs that can be extended during operation to provide stable support for precise scanning, then retracted for compact transport. The transporter features a movable carriage along the rail arrangement that can be positioned as needed, allowing the system to adapt between operational and transport states.
2Reliability
If the scanning system includes all necessary components for field validation, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation for setup and teardown deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into self-contained modules (scanner, stand, transporter, lighting) that can be independently handled during setup and teardown. This modular approach maintains reliability by ensuring all necessary components are present while improving ease of operation through simplified assembly and disassembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand includes adjustable feet that can be independently positioned to self-level the system on uneven ground, and the transporter has adjustable feet for similar self-adjustment. These features reduce the need for complex external setup procedures while maintaining reliable operation conditions.
3Measurement precision
If the stand structure is made stable for accurate scanning, then measurement precision is improved, but compactability for transport deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The stand employs retractable legs that can be extended to provide stable support during scanning operations, ensuring measurement precision. During transport, the legs are retracted to minimize the stand's volume. The legs pivot and retract together as a coordinated mechanism, efficiently transitioning between operational and transport configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractable legs are designed to nest within or alongside the stand body when retracted, minimizing the overall volume occupied by the stand during transport. This nesting arrangement allows the stable extended structure to be compacted into a small transportable form.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, portable ore grade detection with high scan quality, allowing for easy transportation and rapid deployment at various locations.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor may include a hyperspectral imaging sensor
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a geological sample scanning system to be disassembled for transport and then re-assembled onsite at a mine site or field. The system includes a stand. An imaging sensor is provided for being supported by the stand. The system also includes a transporter for transporting a geological sample, in the form of ore from the mine site or field, along a single axis to be sensed by the sensor.