Rock Wall Closure Detection Device with Telescopic Segments

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rock wall closure detection apparatuses are typically permanently or semi-permanently fixed and not easily reusable or re-deployable, limiting their adaptability in different excavation locations.

Innovation Solution

A rock wall closure detection apparatus featuring an axially variably extensible elongate member with resilient segments and an indicator module, actuated by a spring-loaded mechanism to produce warning signals when rock walls move, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, and re-deployment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the apparatus is permanently or semi-permanently fixed in position, then the detection function is stable and reliable, but the adaptability to different excavation locations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection function stabilityVSAvoidadaptability to different excavation locations

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The apparatus is divided into separate components including an elongate member with first and second segments, an indicator module, and an actuator that can be detached and reattached. This segmentation enables the device to be disassembled and re-deployed at different excavation locations while maintaining functional integrity through standardized connection interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The apparatus incorporates an axially variably extensible elongate member that can dynamically adjust its length to accommodate different excavation geometries. The resilient segments allow the structure to adapt to varying rock wall positions and closure rates, providing both stability during operation and flexibility for re-deployment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the apparatus is easily disassembled and reassembled, then the reusability and adaptability improve, but the structural stability and detection reliability may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovereusabilityVSAvoiddetection reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The apparatus includes pre-configured connection interfaces and alignment features that ensure proper assembly before deployment. The indicator module and actuator are pre-positioned relative to the elongate member segments, allowing for quick reassembly while maintaining the precise geometric relationships necessary for reliable detection functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

Standardized coupling mechanisms serve as intermediaries between the elongate member segments and the indicator module. These intermediaries provide consistent mechanical and electrical connections that ensure detection reliability remains unchanged between assembly cycles, enabling repeated deployment without compromising performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the elongate member is axially variably extensible with resilient segments, then the adaptability to different excavation geometries improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to excavation geometriesVSAvoidstructural complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The elongate member incorporates nested telescopic segments that can extend and retract axially to accommodate different excavation geometries. The first and second segments are telescopically inter-engaged, allowing the structure to adapt to varying distances between rock walls while maintaining a compact form when retracted, thus managing complexity through space-efficient design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The resilient segments enable the elongate member to change its axial length parameter dynamically in response to excavation geometry. The spring mechanism allows continuous adjustment of the extended length to match different rock wall separations, providing adaptability through parameter variation rather than requiring multiple fixed-structure configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 effective detection and signaling of rock wall movement, providing timely warnings of potential rockfalls while being reusable and adaptable to various excavation settings.

Implementation Method 1

The elongate member may include a biasing member, for example a spring, located between the first and second segments

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

on compression of the member, the actuator moves relatively the module to, actuate the module to produce the warning signal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS9664043B2Rock wall closure detection device

Publication Date: 2017.05.30 EPIROC DRILLING TOOLS AB

AI summary

The invention provides a rock wall closure detection apparatus which includes an elongate member, variably extensible between a first wall and a second wall Of an underground excavation which comprises of a first and a second segment which are resiliently axially compressible relatively to one another when the waits close and an indicator module which produces a warning signal when actuated, attached to the first segment and an actuator attached to the second segment wherein on compression of the member, the actuator moves relatively to the module to actuate the module to produce the warning signal.