COLLISION AVOIDANCE
based tracking . Not only that , but it has our well-known and well-proven proprietary MineHop tracking system integrated as well . It is also a core personal device for vehicle-to-pedestrian ( V2P ) collision avoidance protection . It provides EMESRT Level 8 and Level 9 V2P protection with our new CxS platform ."
He added : " It not only works in a peer-to-peer fashion for collision avoidance purposes ; with no infrastructure required – but it also integrates with infrastructure including WiFi and LTE , if available . So , if you have an entire mine network coverage , it will use that to provide live position data coverage back to our OptiMine ® Mining Data Platform ( MDP ) server .
If you don ' t have coverage , then it stores all the positioning data that it receives and sends it up once it does reach WiFi coverage . It gives you the best of both worlds , enabling you to track offline and online ; plus , it enables you to have complete V2P collision avoidance protection with the same device .
Waghorn also said that what ' s unique is that it doesn ' t just tell the machine ' s operator that you are within their proximity warning zones ; it also provides the pedestrian with the same feedback . That is through a series of light indicators on the LCD display to provide awareness . If the pedestrian gets too close , it will interact with the control system of the vehicle and the CxS with Level 9 will initially slow down the vehicle and then stop it .
So , what differentiates it from other underground CAS offerings ? " There are several things that make this a distinctive solution compared to others . Non-reliance on infrastructure is just one of these . One of the other most powerful aspects of our technology is our ability to see around corners , so it is not just a line-of-sight product . And we are not limited by short-range protection . We utilise two independent-ranging technologies for different purposes . One technology offers high accuracy for short-range distances , while the other is designed for medium and long-range proximity sensing , allowing us to detect objects up to 120 meters away , even around corners . Our innovative solutions have moved away from outdated electromagnetic-based systems as the mining industry increasingly adopts battery electric vehicle ( BEV ) fleets , both presently and in the future . Battery machines have massive amounts of electromagnetic radiation which will interfere with any legacy magnetic systems ." The Cap Lamp 3.0 lamp , Waghorn said , was a major progressive step from the Cap Lamp 2.0 , which was designed for the initial rollout of Newtrax ' s MineProx proximity detection system with MineHop tracking .
This in itself was the first to be wholly
Becker ’ s smartdetect and PDS4.0
IM also spoke to Michelle Murray , Becker Varis Marketing Manager and Jonas Maximilian Becker at Becker Mining Systems . Murray commented : “ Collision avoidance and proximity detection systems , often associated with automotive safety , are rapidly becoming indispensable in the mining sector . These systems leverage cutting-edge technologies such as radar , lidar , cameras , and advanced algorithms to detect potential collisions and mitigate risks . Their implementation in mining environments can significantly reduce accidents , injuries , and fatalities , while also optimising operational efficiency .”
Becker added : “ With all the hazards that are present on a mine site , a technological solution seemed imperative . Regardless of the level of training or years on the job an operator has , collisions still occur because of these risks , which can factor into mining vehicle collisions . All too often , accidents occur because of limited visibility due to the size and environment constraints , lack of situational awareness and , in underground surroundings , operating machinery in confined spaces .”
The company argues that two of the most significant contributions to the collision avoidance landscape belong to smartdetect and the PDS4.0 from Becker Mining Systems . Becker : “ Ther impact lies in their abilities to address the unique challenges posed by the mining industry . Reducing the number of on-site accidents in a mine is crucial ; ensuring that personnel remain safe in both in underground and surface settings is necessary . “
Murray adds : “ These products address the unique challenges posed by the mining environment . smartdetect and PDS4.0 create a dynamic safety zone around equipment , alerting operators , and workers to potential dangers , addressing the unique challenges posed by mining operations . In a dynamic environment where massive trucks , excavators , and personnel coexist , the potential for accidents is ever-present . These systems provide real-time monitoring and alerts , enabling operators to make informed decisions and take timely corrective actions . By doing so , smartdetect and PDS4.0 not only safeguard human lives but also protect expensive machinery and prevent costly downtime .”
Becker says that to adapt to all possible circumstances , the PDS4.0 is available in a variety of configurations , suitable for side by sides , trucks and buses , loaders , and mining vehicles . The smartdetect can be interfaced with the PDS4.0 to offer a PDS solution for both surface and underground while utilising a single screen .
The system can be interfaced to the vehicle ’ s engine controller via CAN-Bus or , for older vehicles , via dedicated IOs . In this way the system does not only alert the operator but also slows and stops the machine if there is no appropriate action taken . Optionally the system also integrates as a location tracking and telemetry solution . All transmitters can send their current location onto the mine ’ s Wi-Fi or LTE network .
Becker : “ With its full range of accessories , and Level 9 compliancy , smartdetect and PDS4.0 have been designed to offer vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-person solutions in one comprehensive and robust package , allowing for upgrades , and simple system modifications , based on the needs of the customer . Becker Mining Systems designs every system to ensure high-quality and reliable products for every type of environment and application . The components of smartdetect and PDS4.0 are designed to provide system longevity in the harshest environments .”
The company says smartdetect and the PDS4.0 from Becker Mining Systems represent a gamechanger for the mining industry , ushering in a new era of safety and operational efficiency . “ As the world looks to industries to adopt sustainable practices , the mining sector can lead the way by prioritising the well-being of its workforce through the integration of advanced safety technologies . smartdetect and PDS4.0 are not just technological evolutions ; they are a commitment to a safer , more resilient , and sustainable future for the mining industry and the communities it serves .”
Becker ' s PDS4.0 facilitates bi-directional notification and alert messaging against potential collision for both V2P and V2V
International Mining | JANUARY 2024