Key Technologies in Intelligent Mining Equipment

A special issue of Machines (ISSN 2075-1702). This special issue belongs to the section "Robotics, Mechatronics and Intelligent Machines".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 March 2025 | Viewed by 5279

Special Issue Editors

School of Mechatronic Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
Interests: pose accurate perception; autonomous navigation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, China
Interests: coal mine efficient intelligent mining technology and equipment Intelligent mining robot

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

In recent years, there has been a significant surge in the development and adoption of intelligent mechanical equipment across various industries. Intelligent mechanical equipment, empowered by cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, the Internet of Things, and robotics, has revolutionized traditional manufacturing, construction, transportation, and other sectors. This special issue aims to explore the latest advances, challenges, and applications of intelligent mining equipment, providing a platform for researchers, engineers, and practitioners to share their insights and experiences.

Intelligent Control Systems: Novel control algorithms and strategies for intelligent mining equipment, including adaptive control, predictive control, and reinforcement learning-based control.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Applications of AI and machine learning techniques in intelligent mining equipment, such as pattern recognition, fault diagnosis, and predictive maintenance.

Sensing and Perception: Advanced sensors and perception technologies for intelligent mining equipment, including vision-based systems, LiDAR, and sensor fusion techniques.

Human-Machine Interaction: Design principles and technologies for enhancing human-machine interaction in intelligent mining equipment, including augmented reality interfaces and collaborative robotics.

Autonomous and Semi-autonomous Systems: Development and deployment of autonomous and semi-autonomous systems in manufacturing, agriculture, logistics, mining and other domains.

Safety and Reliability: Methods and technologies for ensuring the safety and reliability of intelligent mining equipment, including risk assessment, fault tolerance, and safety standards compliance.

Case Studies and Applications: Real-world case studies, applications, and best practices of intelligent mining equipment in various industries, highlighting their impact on efficiency, productivity, and sustainability.

Dr. Lei Si
Dr. Jianbo Dai
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • intelligent control systems of mining equipment
  • artificial intelligence and machine learning in mining sensing and perception of mining sensors
  • human-machine interaction of mining robot
  • safety and reliability of mining technologies
  • case studies and applications of intelligent mining

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Published Papers (4 papers)

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Research

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17 pages, 6160 KiB  
Article
Research on Velocity Feedforward Control and Precise Damping Technology of a Hydraulic Support Face Guard System Based on Displacement Feedback
by Qingliang Zeng, Yulong Hu, Zhaosheng Meng and Lirong Wan
Machines 2024, 12(10), 676; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines12100676 - 27 Sep 2024
Viewed by 589
Abstract
The hydraulic support face guard system is essential for supporting the exposed coal wall at the working face. However, the hydraulic support face guard system approaching the coal wall may cause impact disturbances, reducing the load-bearing capacity of coal walls. Particularly, the hydraulic [...] Read more.
The hydraulic support face guard system is essential for supporting the exposed coal wall at the working face. However, the hydraulic support face guard system approaching the coal wall may cause impact disturbances, reducing the load-bearing capacity of coal walls. Particularly, the hydraulic support face guard system is characterized by a large turning radius when mining thick coal seams. A strong disturbance and impact on the coal wall may occur if the approaching speed is too fast, leading to issues such as rib spalling. In this paper, a feedforward fuzzy PID displacement velocity compound controller (FFD displacement speed compound controller) is designed. The PID controller, fuzzy PID controller, feedforward PID controller, and FFD displacement speed compound controller are compared in terms of the tracking characteristics of the support system and the impact response of the coal wall, validating the controller’s rationality. The results indicate that the designed FFD displacement speed compound controller has significant advantages. This controller maintains a tracking error range of less than 1% for target displacement with random disturbances in the system, with a response adjustment time that is 34% faster than the PID controller. Furthermore, the tracking error range for target velocity is reduced by 8.4% compared to the feedforward PID controller, reaching 13.8%. Additionally, the impact disturbance of the support system on the coal wall is suppressed by the FFD displacement speed compound controller, reducing the instantaneous contact impact between the support plate and the coal wall by 350 kN. In summary, the FFD compound controller demonstrates excellence in tracking responsiveness and disturbance rejection, enhancing the efficacy of hydraulic supports, and achieving precise control over the impact on the coal wall. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Key Technologies in Intelligent Mining Equipment)
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19 pages, 5885 KiB  
Article
Collaborative Production Planning Based on an Intelligent Unmanned Mining System for Open-Pit Mines in the Industry 4.0 Era
by Kui Liu, Bin Mei, Qing Li, Shuai Sun and Qingping Zhang
Machines 2024, 12(6), 419; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines12060419 - 18 Jun 2024
Viewed by 883
Abstract
Open-pit mining is a cornerstone of industrial raw material extraction, yet it is fraught with safety concerns due to rough operating conditions. The advent of Industry 4.0 has introduced advanced technologies such as AI, the IoT, and autonomous systems, setting the stage for [...] Read more.
Open-pit mining is a cornerstone of industrial raw material extraction, yet it is fraught with safety concerns due to rough operating conditions. The advent of Industry 4.0 has introduced advanced technologies such as AI, the IoT, and autonomous systems, setting the stage for a paradigm shift towards unmanned mining operations. With this study, we addressed the urgent need for safe and efficient production based on intelligent unmanned mining systems in open-pit mines. A collaborative production planning model was developed for an intelligent unmanned system comprising multiple excavators and mining trucks. The model is formulated to optimize multiple objectives, such as total output, equipment idle time, and transportation cost. A multi-objective optimization approach based on the genetic algorithm was employed to solve the model, ensuring a balance among conflicting objectives and identifying the best possible solutions. The computational experiments revealed that the collaborative production planning method significantly reduces equipment idle time and enhances output. Moreover, with the proposed method, by optimizing the configuration to include 6 unmanned excavators, 50 unmanned mining trucks, and 4 unloading points, a 92% reduction in excavator idle time and a 44% increase in total output were achieved. These results show the model’s potential to transform open-pit mining operations by using intelligent planning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Key Technologies in Intelligent Mining Equipment)
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17 pages, 4689 KiB  
Article
A Walking Trajectory Tracking Control Based on Uncertainties Estimation for a Drilling Robot for Rockburst Prevention
by Jinheng Gu, Shicheng He, Jianbo Dai, Dong Wei, Haifeng Yan, Chao Tan, Zhongbin Wang and Lei Si
Machines 2024, 12(5), 298; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines12050298 - 28 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 851
Abstract
A walking trajectory tracking control approach for a walking electrohydraulic control system is developed to reduce the walking trajectory tracking deviation and enhance robustness. The model uncertainties are estimated by a designed state observer. A saturation function is used to attenuate sliding mode [...] Read more.
A walking trajectory tracking control approach for a walking electrohydraulic control system is developed to reduce the walking trajectory tracking deviation and enhance robustness. The model uncertainties are estimated by a designed state observer. A saturation function is used to attenuate sliding mode chattering in the designed sliding mode controller. Additionally, a walking trajectory tracking control strategy is proposed to improve the walking trajectory tracking performance in terms of response time, tracking precision, and robustness, including walking longitudinal and lateral trajectory tracking controllers. Finally, simulation and experimental results are employed to verify the trajectory tracking performance and observability of the model uncertainties. The results testify that the proposed approach is better than other comparative methods, and the longitudinal and lateral trajectory tracking average absolute errors are controlled in 10.23 mm and 22.34 mm, respectively, thereby improving the walking trajectory tracking performance of the walking electrohydraulic control system for the coal mine drilling robot for rockburst prevention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Key Technologies in Intelligent Mining Equipment)
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Review

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17 pages, 285 KiB  
Review
Equipment and Operations Automation in Mining: A Review
by Michael Long, Steven Schafrik, Peter Kolapo, Zach Agioutantis and Joseph Sottile
Machines 2024, 12(10), 713; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines12100713 - 9 Oct 2024
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Abstract
The mining industry is undergoing a transformative shift driven by the rapid advancement and adoption of automation technologies. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of automation in mining, examining the technological advancements, their applications, and the prospects of automation [...] Read more.
The mining industry is undergoing a transformative shift driven by the rapid advancement and adoption of automation technologies. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of automation in mining, examining the technological advancements, their applications, and the prospects of automation in this critical industry. A key focus of this paper is the impact of automation on the safety and efficiency of mining operations. Highlighting the successful implementation of Automated Haul Truck Systems (AHSs) in surface mining. Additionally, this paper explores the development of automation in underground mining and its challenges, particularly limitations in communication and localization, which hinder the development and deployment of fully autonomous systems. It also provides an exploration of the challenges associated with widespread automation adoption in mining, including high initial investment costs, concerns about job displacement, and the need for specialized skills and training. Looking toward future advancements in enabling technologies will be critical for furthering automation in mining. Machine learning and AI will play an increasingly critical role in intelligent automation, enabling autonomous systems to adapt to dynamic environments, optimize processes, and make informed decisions. This paper provides a look into human–robot collaboration in the future of mining. As the industry transitions toward greater automation, it is essential to consider the evolving roles of human workers to foster a collaborative work environment. This involves prioritizing human safety, providing adequate training, and addressing concerns about job displacement to ensure a smooth transition toward a more automated future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Key Technologies in Intelligent Mining Equipment)
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