GPS and sonar guidance of an underwater mining system

摘要

Mining of alluvial aggregates by dredge in an urban setting poses special challenges. Tight constraints in permitted slopes and excavation depths within the vicinity of major roadways and high-value commercial and residential developments necessitate careful management of dredge behavior. By informing dredge positioning with both GPS and sonar mapping, it is possible to allow real-time comparison of the as-built landform with the mine plan, achieve improved correspondence between the excavation and the proposed final landform and thereby maximize reserve extraction while minimizing future reclamation costs. Integrating this mining control system with remote access networking facilitates communication between the office and plant.