Utilizing Mechanical Linear Transducers for the Determination of a Mining Machine's Position and Heading

摘要

Computer-aided control of a mining machine can place its operator in a safe, remote location. A guidance system aids remote positioning of a mining machine by determining its position and heading. The Mechanical Position and Heading System (MPHS) developed at the Bureau of Mines provides such navigation information during face maneuvers. Formulating the required theory yielded a reliable algorithm for calculating machine position and heading. Implementing this theory in hardware and software design made surface testing of the MPHS possible. Analysis of the errors and test results showed the MPHS provides reliable results. The MPHS can, therefore, provide useful guidance information for face navigation.