Synthetic Payload Records for Mining Delivery Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for monitoring payload delivery from loading machines to haulage machines in mining sites face challenges due to stiction issues in strut measurements and poor communication, leading to inaccurate reporting of loading operations.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method to estimate delivery events by generating synthetic payload records based on estimated loading machine payload weights and timing values, which are incorporated into the loading operation data to account for missing data and improve accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If payload weight measurements are taken using strut movement measurement, then payload weight can be measured, but stiction in the struts leads to initial dipper-loads not registering and measurements not being taken
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary estimation system that uses communication data between loading machines and haulage machines to infer delivery events. This intermediary approach bypasses the defective direct measurement method (strut stiction) by using alternative data sources (communication messages) to estimate payload delivery, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the payload delivery data through estimation algorithms that reconstruct delivery events from available communication data. This synthetic payload record copying allows the system to recover missing measurement data without relying on the faulty direct measurement system, addressing both precision and reliability concerns
2Loss of information
If payload weight measurements are taken and communicated to central control, then loading operations can be monitored, but poor communication coverage leads to messages going missing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary estimation of payload delivery events using available communication data before finalizing the loading operation report. By proactively identifying and estimating missing delivery events based on timing and weight patterns, the system compensates for potential communication losses and ensures data completeness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the estimation system continuously monitors communication data patterns and adjusts its estimates based on observed delivery behaviors. This feedback loop allows the system to adapt to communication reliability variations and maintain accurate payload records despite message losses
3Measurement precision
If synthetic payload records are generated to estimate delivery events, then accuracy of reporting loading operations is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal estimation algorithm that handles multiple scenarios (missing initial loads, missing intermediate loads, communication failures) through a single integrated system. This multi-functional approach improves reporting accuracy across various failure modes without proportionally increasing complexity, as the same core estimation logic adapts to different situations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter-based estimation where the system adjusts its calculations based on varying parameters such as loading machine capacity, haulage machine capacity, communication timing patterns, and observed delivery frequencies. This parameter-driven approach allows flexible adaptation to different worksite conditions without requiring complex custom solutions for each scenario
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for processing loading operation data to estimate one or more delivery events is described. The loading operation data comprises payload records, each representing a delivery event. The method comprises, for a selected payload record, operating a processing unit to determine whether a delivery weight in respect of the selected payload record is likely to reflect a single delivery event. If the delivery weight is unlikely to reflect a single delivery event the method further comprises generating a synthetic payload record representing an estimated delivery event and comprising synthetic weight and timing values.