Abstract: A method and system for detecting electrically conductive objects such as tramp metal embedded in a load of mineral ore/earth within a detection space of an earth moving receptacle. A magnetic signal pulse is projected into a detection space of the receptacle by an antennae loop surrounding the detection space. The magnetic response of the system is monitored and analyzed to determine the presence or absence of electrically conductive objects in the loose material within the detection space.

Abstract: In particular embodiments of the technology, the bulk density of the payload in the bucket of a large electric dragline is measured during the carry phase of dragline operation by scanning the loaded bucket using a boom mounted scanner to provide data relating to the volume of the loaded bucket. Suitable methods can further include calculating the volume enclosed by the surface of the payload and the known base and sides of the bucket to give payload volume, and dividing the payload volume into payload weight data derived from rope length and motor current data to give the payload bulk density. Methods of screening data points originating from surfaces other than the bucket and payload, and methods of dealing with bucket ope and sway are also described and claimed.

Abstract: The present invention uses an Oscillating Disc Cutter (ODC) in a controlled manner to cut rock for assay purposes. The ODC (1) is mounted in an elongate guide frame typically in the form of an open box channel (2). The ODC is located on a carriage (3), the carriage itself mounted on guide rails (4) within the channel (2). The apparatus includes drive means operable to drive the carriage (3) in a rectilinear manner along the rails (4) such that the rails (4) define a cutting path. The ODC cuts a groove of controlled width and depth in a rock face, yielding rock chips that can be used for accurate assay of the face.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and system for monitoring the flow of ore in block cave mining operations by inserting an active magnetic beacon 1 into an ore body 22 and generating an alternating magnetic signal with the beacon 1. The ore is monitored with a magnetometer (14, 15, 16, 17, 18) to detect the magnetic flux emitted by the beacon 1 thereby determining a position of the beacon. Successive recordings of the position of the magnetic beacon are taken as it moves along with the ore as it “caves”. In this way, flow patterns of the ore may be revealed.

Abstract: In particular embodiments of the technology, the bulk density of the payload in the bucket of a large electric dragline is measured during the carry phase of dragline operation by scanning the loaded bucket using a boom mounted scanner to provide data relating to the volume of the loaded bucket. Suitable methods can further include calculating the volume enclosed by the surface of the payload and the known base and sides of the bucket to give payload volume, and dividing the payload volume into payload weight data derived from rope length and motor current data to give the payload bulk density. Methods of screening data points originating from surfaces other than the bucket and payload, and methods of dealing with bucket ope and sway are also described and claimed.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and system for monitoring the flow of ore in block cave mining operations by inserting an active magnetic beacon 1 into the ore body 12 and generating an alternating magnetic signal with the beacon 1. The ore is monitored with a magnetometer (14, 15, 16, 17, 18) to detect the magnetic flux emitted by the beacon 1 thereby determining the position of the beacon. Successive recordings of the position of the magnetic beacon are taken as it moves along with the ore as it “caves”. In this way, the flow patterns of the ore may be revealed.

Abstract: A method of surveying drill holes, typically for use in underground mining situations where the holes are bored using a top hammer drill rig (10), utilizes a survey tool located adjacent the drill bit (1) which is used to log position readings as the drill string is withdrawn from the hole after the drilling operation. In this manner, it is possible to log the actual hole bored by the drill string (3) in real time as the drilling operation proceeds, and show deviation from intended hole positions (5) or (6). The survey tool typically includes an inertial survey package, a power source, and a data logger with the survey package selected from the group comprising commercially known inertial known survey packages, for superior characteristics of resistance to vibration and impact. The survey tool is maintained in a sleeping mode while drilling is undertaken, and activated to provide position data as the drill string is progressively withdrawn from the actual hole path (3).

Abstract: The invention provides a method and system for monitoring the flow of ore in block cave mining operations by inserting an active magnetic beacon 1 into the ore body 12 and generating an alternating magnetic signal with the beacon 1. The ore is monitored with a magnetometer (14, 15, 16, 17, 18) to detect the magnetic flux emitted by the beacon 1 thereby determining the position of the beacon. Successive recordings of the position of the magnetic beacon are taken as it moves along with the ore as it “caves”. In this way, the flow patterns of the ore may be revealed.

Abstract: The present invention uses an Oscillating Disc Cutter (ODC) in a controlled manner to cut rock for assay purposes. The ODC (1) is mounted in an elongate guide frame typically in the form of an open box channel (2). The ODC is located on a carriage (3), the carriage itself mounted on guide rails (4) within the channel (2). The apparatus includes drive means operable to drive the carriage (3) in a rectilinear manner along the rails (4) such that the rails (4) define a cutting path. The ODC cuts a groove of controlled width and depth in a rock face, yielding rock chips that can be used for accurate assay of the face.