By automating mining operations through its Transfer Point Alignment (TPA) system, thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions says users can increase productivity, machine availability and lower operational costs. TPA automatically keeps the transfer points of autonomous downstream machines aligned during the excavation process, saving time and money.
TPA is an intelligent, sensor-based solution for all machines required in the excavation process – from the bucketwheel excavator (BWE) and belt wagon to the tripper car. TPA automation system ensures transfer point alignment by following a set of steps:
- Measuring the position of each mobile machine involved in the excavation process by means of radar and GPS sensors
- Evaluating the current machine constellation
- Sending individual commands to different actuators when detecting deviation on the optimal transfer point position
- Stopping the material flow if the deviation exceeds a predefined value
The TPA user interface offers miners a real-time visualisation of a machine’s constellation and any transfer point misalignment. It also allows users to edit parameters and show diagnosis information, alarms and trend graphics.
