Computer Assisted Remote Control and Automation Systems for Longwall Shearers

Abstract

The automation and centralized monitoring of longwall type underground mining is presently an important subject matter of research in France. The purposes are : . to improve safety and working conditions . to increase productivity. . to improve efficiency in machine operation through continuous “health monitoring”. . to make winning possible in difficult seams. For these purposes, CERCHAR has developed adequate equipment for shearer monitoring and remote control : . a direct view remote control system, TELSAFE, which allows one or two machine-operators to control the shearer from a remote place (typically 30-40 feet) safe from dust and falling blocks. This system is of general use in French coal mines . a high rate teletransmission system transmitting analog and digital data from the shearer to a remote station through the machine power cable. . a remote control system to drive the shearer from a remote station also through the power cable. These two systems operating through the power cable were mounted on a shearer working in a very steep seam (almost vertical) iri the Lorraine Collieries. The driver's station is located a few hundred meters from the face at the end of the panel. Data Collected from the sensors on the shearer is transmitted to a micro-computer which then displays on a graphic color terminal a mimic diagram of the machine, of its position and motion in the face, including different values of typical operating parameters and automatic default warning. Research is in progress to build algorithms for real-time optimization of shearer command.