Low Cost Remote Control Continuous Miner

Abstract

Preliminary results are presented for a study to determine the feasibility of providing adequate human-engineered cabs in thin coal seams through the use of a remotely positioned operator. This study, which is being performed under contract to the U.S. Bureau of Mines, concentrates on the development of a cab for a continuous miner and involves three phases. First, workers were observed and questioned to produce a detailed task analysis of work performed by the miner operator and his helper, and a critical incidents analysis was conducted to define system requirements for handling unusual events in the work place. Second, evaluations were made of remote continuous mining system components in order to develop a baseline system configuration. Third, a baseline design concept was developed consisting of a remote, two-wheeled trailer cab linked to a Jeffrey 101 miner by coaxial cable. The miner is modified by adding to it an automatic cable handling system, a multiplexed remote control and sensor system, and two controllable closed circuit TV cameras. Potential safety and economic benefits are presented for the baseline concept.