Rapidly developing technology is constantly being harnessed by proximity detection systems (PDS) to deliver steadily improved functionality to customers. “The world of electronic technology is an ever-evolving space with newer solutions and offerings being made available quicker than ever,” says Anton Lourens, CEO of Johannesburg-based PDS pioneer, Booyco Electronics. “Based on our experience in this space, we see improved PDS solutions being developed; one such instance is the combination of multiple different sensing technologies into a single fully integrated solution.”
This integrated sensing solution is then optimised through functional performance driven mainly by software for these specific comprehensive PDS requirements. As PDS technology evolves and matures, the demand for processing power and the ability to process multiple sensor has increased dramatically since the first basic PDS units were developed.
“Fortunately, in our continuously evolving electronic world, the PDS industry can access the required processing platforms,” he explains. “Likewise, the field of sensing technology is advancing quickly, bringing in a growing number of suppliers who offer specialised solutions that often provide enhanced and varied functions” Lourens argues that PDS is definitely playing a vital part in mine automation. Indeed, it is seen by some stakeholders as the foundation for autonomous vehicles, specifically with the enhancements around Level 9 engineering control solutions for trackless mobile machines (TMMs). In another important trend, various mining stakeholders and organisations are engaged in workstreams to clearly define specific PDS requirements that are applicable to different operations.
“For instance, labour intensive operations have different requirements to automated operations,” he says. “At the same time, we are also experiencing more engagement from OEMs, which have an integral role in the overall proximity detection ecosystem. This is also driving their own standards and regulatory compliance.”
In general, Booyco Electronics is seeing more collaboration from a variety of stakeholders to ensure improvements on safety standards, actively promoting the drive towards Zero Harm. As a leading player in PDS technology, the company remains committed to continuous improvement and meeting best practices that include integrated real-time data solutions for customers.
“In addition to the standard PDS functionality, the user gains significant benefits from using the data as a tool for change management. Beyond the ability to analyse traffic flow, for example, mines can identify actual high-risk areas and apply mitigation interventions. With the deployment of additional integrated technology, the value of this data can be further extended to include the measurement and improvement of operator behaviour, which in turn could lead to productivity increases,” he concludes.
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