Depth Estimation to Enable Safe Mine Vehicle Operation

Based on Patent Research | CN-115272351-B (2023)

Ensuring the safe operation of mine vehicles is paramount. Mine trackless vehicles often exceed operational limits, risking accidents. Current detection methods are slow, delaying corrective actions and compromising safety. Depth estimation, using techniques like binocular vision, precisely measures object distances to build accurate 3D data. This technology enables timely detection of vehicle overruns, allowing prompt adjustments. It enhances operational safety and prevents potential incidents effectively.

SOLUTION OVERVIEW

Delayed Detection Automated via Smart Monitoring

Depth Estimation technology provides a robust solution to enhance safety in Mining and Quarrying, tackling the challenge of vehicles exceeding operational limits. This method employs techniques like binocular vision and line lasers to precisely measure distances. It generates accurate 3D spatial data, creating a detailed environmental understanding. This enables real-time detection of vehicle positions and dimensions against safe zones, facilitating prompt adjustments and preventing incidents.

This approach integrates seamlessly into existing workflows, automating constant oversight of vehicle movements. It significantly reduces reliance on manual checks. The continuous flow of precise 3D data supports immediate alerts for potential overruns, ensuring timely interventions and enhancing overall site safety. Imagine it like a digital guardian constantly measuring the distance of a haul truck to a quarry edge, preventing it from getting too close. This capability ultimately leads to improved operational efficiency, better resource allocation, and a safer working environment for personnel.

HOW IT WORKS

Extracting Vehicle Depth from Video

Capturing Environmental Data

The system begins by continuously capturing visual and spatial information from the mining environment. Using techniques like binocular vision and line lasers, specialized sensors gather detailed data on the surrounding area. This input forms the foundation for understanding the dynamic operational landscape.

Generating Precise 3D Maps

Next, this raw data is processed using advanced depth estimation algorithms. The system precisely measures object distances, transforming the captured information into accurate 3D spatial data. This creates a detailed, real-time understanding of the vehicle's environment and surrounding structures.

Analyzing Vehicle Positions

With the 3D environmental map established, computer vision analyzes vehicle positions and dimensions within this spatial data. It constantly compares the detected vehicle locations against predefined operational limits and safe zones. This crucial step identifies any potential overruns or unsafe proximity to hazards.

Triggering Safety Alerts

When a vehicle is detected exceeding or nearing its operational limits, the system immediately triggers safety alerts. These timely notifications are sent to operators or control systems, enabling prompt adjustments to vehicle movements. This proactive intervention significantly enhances operational safety and prevents potential incidents.

Potential Benefits

Enhanced Site Safety

The system precisely monitors vehicle positions in real time, detecting overruns before they occur. This significantly reduces accident risks and safeguards personnel in mining and quarrying environments.

Real-time Overrun Prevention

Accurate 3D spatial data provides immediate alerts for vehicles nearing operational limits. This enables prompt adjustments, preventing incidents and ensuring continuous safe operations.

Improved Operational Efficiency

Automated vehicle movement monitoring streamlines operations by minimizing delays from manual checks and potential incidents. This optimizes workflow and resource allocation within the site.

Reduced Manual Oversight

Continuous, automated tracking of vehicle distances against safe zones lessens the need for constant human supervision. This frees personnel for other critical tasks, enhancing productivity and safety.

Implementation

1 Deploy Sensors. Install binocular cameras and line lasers on vehicles or at strategic site locations for robust data capture.

2 Calibrate Depth System. Precisely calibrate all sensors to ensure accurate distance measurements and reliable 3D spatial data generation.

3 Configure Safety Zones. Input specific operational limits, exclusion zones, and vehicle dimensions into the system software to define detection parameters.

4 Integrate Alert System. Integrate the depth estimation system with existing control room or vehicle operator alert interfaces for timely notifications.

5 Validate Operations. Conduct thorough on-site testing to verify accurate overrun detection and alert triggering in diverse operational scenarios.

Source: Analysis based on Patent CN-115272351-B "Mine trackless rubber-tyred vehicle overrun detection method based on binocular vision and linear laser" (Filed: January 2023).