Wireless Proximity Sensing in Explosion-Proof Miner Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Proximity sensing systems in mines require tedious and time-consuming manual processes to access and reprogram microprocessors or change magnetic fields, due to the need to open explosion-proof housings, which poses safety risks and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a wireless communication module within the explosion-proof housing that allows remote and wireless reprogramming of microprocessors and adjustment of magnetic fields via a telecommunications network, such as Wi-Fi, eliminating the need to physically open the housing for common operations like data collection and magnetic field changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual access to components is required for reprogramming or magnetic field adjustment, then operational control is achieved, but time consumption and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical access (opening housing, removing bolts) with wireless electronic communication. The wireless communication module receives signals wirelessly to reprogram microprocessors and adjust magnetic fields, eliminating the need to physically open the explosion-proof housing for these operations.
2Ease of repair
If explosion-proof housing is opened for maintenance, then component access is enabled, but safety risks and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service maintenance through wireless communication. The proximity sensing portion can be reprogrammed and adjusted without external intervention requiring housing opening. The wireless communication module autonomously receives and processes reprogramming commands and magnetic field adjustment signals.
3Productivity
If remote wireless control is implemented, then operational efficiency and safety improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication module serves multiple functions: receiving reprogramming commands for microprocessors, receiving magnetic field adjustment signals, and enabling remote monitoring. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by consolidating multiple maintenance and operational functions into a single integrated system.
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 safer and more efficient operation by allowing remote control of proximity sensing systems, reducing manual intervention and time required for maintenance tasks, thereby enhancing miner safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic field source which produces a magnetic field that is used to sense a location of the miner relative to the machine
Implementation Method 2
a wireless communication portion disposed in the explosion-proof housing through which the magnetic field produced by the magnetic field source is changed remotely and wirelessly from outside the explosion-proof housing
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for protecting a miner from injury by a machine in a mine includes an explosion-proof housing. The apparatus includes a proximity sensing portion disposed in the explosion-proof housing having a magnetic field source which produces a magnetic field that is used to sense a location of the miner relative to the machine. The apparatus includes a wireless communication portion disposed in the explosion-proof housing through which the magnetic field produced by the magnetic field source is changed remotely and wirelessly from outside the explosion-proof housing. A method for protecting a miner from injury by a machine. A system for protecting a miner from injury by a machine in a mine.