Collision avoidance systems (CAS) have become integral to mining safety by ensuring safe distances between people and mobile equipment on surface mines.

CAS specialist Booyco Electronics says that by capturing and processing more data in real time there is growing potential for these systems to make surface mining even safer. New and existing technologies such as satellite positioning systems, radar and smart vision, sensors and tracking technology are used to further improve the reliability and functionality of CAS. The company highlights its use of developments in satellite positioning systems to achieve greater performance in collision algorithms.

“We have become interested in smart vision systems that allow intelligent perception of people, vehicles, objects and other risks,” adds Booyco Electronics CEO Anton Lourens. “Wearable technology also allows us to enhance context and to readily distribute safety information. New technologies have even allowed us to embrace cutting edge fatigue detection solutions.”

Noting that Industry 4.0 has brought new levels of digitalisation and automation, the company says it has invested in software-based solutions for increased flexibility to customise solutions for specific needs.

“Functionality can therefore be adapted more easily, and can be applied remotely through a wireless connection instead of requiring in-person attention on site,” says Lourens.

Rapid developments in sensor and tracking technology are also delivering exciting opportunities to advance CAS capabilities. Integration is really the key to success in these endeavours, he argues.

“We have progressed considerably down the path of combining the power of sensors with information technology,” adds Lourens. “This allows us to capture extensive data about the respective locations of personnel and machinery through proximity detection systems.”

Digitalisation gives Booyco Electronics the ability to upload and analyse this data in real time, so that it can inform on-mine decisions and enhance safety strategies. More than this, CAS can now contribute to emerging automated mine ecosystems. As autonomous mining is gradually rolled out in the sector, CAS can be relied upon to support this process with the necessary safety levels.