Robotic Arm Waveguide for Efficient Microwave Rock Preconditioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for microwave preconditioning of rock for mining are complex and costly, lacking a commercially viable solution for efficiently applying microwaves to rock faces underground.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a microwave generator, an articulable robotic arm with rotatably connected rigid waveguide segments, and an applicator that moves along the rock face to apply microwaves, controlled by a robotic control system that adjusts based on sensor feedback and mining parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing microwave preconditioning systems are used, then rock can be weakened through thermal expansion, but the system complexity and cost become prohibitive for commercial mining applications

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverock weakening effectivenessVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The waveguide is divided into multiple modular segments that can be independently positioned and oriented. Each segment contains microwave applicators that can be independently controlled, allowing the system to treat different rock zones separately while using a single integrated platform, thereby reducing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The robotic system integrates multiple functions into a single platform: microwave generation, waveguide positioning, rock treatment, and sensor feedback. This multi-functional integration eliminates the need for separate specialized equipment, reducing system complexity while maintaining rock weakening effectiveness

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If existing microwave preconditioning systems are used, then rock fractures can be induced, but the cost becomes prohibitively high for commercial viability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefracture induction capabilityVSAvoidcommercial viability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses a dynamic robotic arm with multiple degrees of freedom to position and orient the waveguide segments, replacing static, oversized microwave equipment. This dynamic positioning allows precise delivery of microwave energy to fracture rock effectively while using smaller, more cost-effective components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical rock breaking methods with microwave-induced thermal fracturing. By substituting mechanical excavation equipment with electromagnetic energy delivery systems, the overall system cost is reduced while maintaining effective rock fracture capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If microwave energy is applied to rock face, then thermal expansion fractures the rock, but energy delivery efficiency must be maximized to reduce excavation time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveexcavation efficiencyVSAvoidmicrowave energy delivery efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates sensors that provide real-time feedback on rock properties, microwave energy absorption, and treatment effectiveness. This feedback allows the control system to dynamically adjust microwave power levels and waveguide positioning to maximize energy delivery efficiency and minimize energy loss

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The waveguide segments are positioned and oriented to deliver microwave energy locally to specific zones of the rock face that require treatment. This localized energy delivery concentrates microwave power where needed, maximizing excavation efficiency while minimizing overall energy consumption

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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

The system effectively weakens rock by inducing fractures through differential thermal expansion, reducing the energy and time required for excavation, and improving the efficiency of microwave energy delivery to the rock face.

Implementation Method 1

The application of microwaves to rock may serve to weaken certain types of rock, including those frequently encountered during excavation and mining, by inducing fractures within the rock. These fractures form based on the tremendous stresses and strains created by differential thermal expansion of the rock

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDielectric heating: Dielectric Heating

Implementation Method 2

These fractures form based on the tremendous stresses and strains created by differential thermal expansion of the rock and against which rock has a generally very weak resistance

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal expansion: Thermal Expansion

Data Source

PatentUS12252988B2Microwave-based mining systems and methods with robotic arm waveguide

Publication Date: 2025.03.18 OFF WORLD INC

AI summary

A system for excavating a rock face using microwaves. The system may include a microwave generator, an articulable robotic arm with a plurality of rotatably connected rigid waveguide segments, an applicator attached to a distal end of the robotic arm, and a robotic control system. The system produces microwaves with the microwave generator and moves the robotic arm such that the applicator moves along the rock face as the microwaves exit the applicator to precondition the rock face for excavation. Various patterns of microwave treatment, and controls based on sensor feedback, may be implemented.