Portal MR Sensor Layout for Accurate Ore Grade Assignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mining operations face challenges in accurately determining the destination of ore haul vehicles due to high uncertainty in ore grade estimates at small lot sizes, leading to misassignment and negative impacts on mining economics.
Innovation Solution
The development of a magnetic resonance (MR) sensor system integrated into a portal structure for haul vehicles, which measures the ore grade in real-time using RF pulses and analysis methods to provide accurate mineral concentration estimates as a function of depth, optimizing sensor positioning and sensitivity for reliable measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If ore grade is estimated using mine block model data, then destination assignment can be predetermined, but measurement precision deteriorates due to high uncertainty at small lot sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces statistical estimation methods with magnetic resonance sensing technology. The MR sensor system uses nuclear magnetic resonance principles to directly measure ore grade in situ, substituting the indirect statistical approach (mine block model) with a direct physical measurement approach, thereby achieving both speed and precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic resonance sensors as an intermediary measurement device between the ore and the destination assignment decision. The sensors are positioned in the haul vehicle to provide real-time grade measurements, acting as a mediator that bridges the gap between bulk ore transport and precise grade determination
2Measurement precision
If sensors are used to measure ore grade in haul vehicles, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic resonance sensor system is designed to serve multiple functions: it measures ore grade, provides real-time feedback for destination assignment, and can potentially measure multiple mineral components. This multi-functionality justifies the device complexity by delivering comprehensive measurement capabilities from a single integrated system
Solution Approach 2:
The MR sensor system is deployed within the haul vehicle itself, allowing the vehicle to perform its own grade measurement without requiring external sampling or laboratory analysis. The system is self-contained and provides autonomous measurement capability, reducing the need for additional external equipment
3Measurement precision
If magnetic resonance sensors are positioned close to ore burden, then measurement precision improves, but electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces shielding structures and filtering mechanisms as intermediaries between the MR sensor and the electromagnetic environment. These protective elements mediate the interaction between the sensor and external electromagnetic sources, allowing close positioning while maintaining measurement quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent acknowledges the presence of electromagnetic interference from haul vehicle equipment but converts this challenge into an opportunity by implementing targeted shielding and filtering solutions. The interference sources are identified and addressed with specific countermeasures, turning a potential deal-breaker into a manageable design consideration
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
This solution reduces haul vehicle misassignment by providing precise ore grade measurements, improving mining economics through accurate destination assignment and minimizing the impact of grade heterogeneity.
Implementation Method 1
at least one magnetic resonance (MR) sensor comprised in the portal, the MR sensor comprising: a main loop positionable in the portal zone above or on an ore burden carried by the haul vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for the measurement of ore in mine haul vehicles is disclosed, the apparatus comprising: a portal, defining a portal zone, wherein a haul vehicle carrying ore is positionable in or movable through the portal zone; and at least one magnetic resonance (MR) sensor comprised in the portal. The MR sensor includes a main loop and a drive loop located above the main loop. A magnetic resonance sensor control system is provided and configured to control at least one of: the positioning of the at least one MR sensor relative to the portal zone and/or ore burden; the positioning of elements comprised in the MR sensor relative to each other; electromagnetic suppression characteristics of the at least one MR sensor; and/or sensitivity of the at least one MR sensor as a function of distance of the sensor from the ore burden.