CEN DEC
12
THE MODULAR SYSTEMS
, which range from a simple, low-cost single technology system,
to an integrated multi-technological system, encompass all aspects of advanced mining
communications and technology.
Becker’s latest patented tri-technology Collision Avoidance System, with four proximity
warning zones, has been designed to overcome the limitations of existing systems and can
bring a mine vehicle to a complete stop, should this be necessary.
“This reliable system, which is installed in various mine vehicles and cap lamp battery packs,
acts as an early warning indicator to vehicle operators and pedestrians, playing a vital role in
enhancing safety,” says Johann Smit, Chief Sales Officer, Becker Mining South Africa. “CAS
is a necessary safety system on the mines, particularly underground, because in this harsh
environment, it is impossible for a vehicle operator to always be fully aware of other miners
and vehicles in his immediate proximity.”
Becker collision and personnel avoidance systems consist of personnel and vehicle tags and
machine mounted devices that detect them. Higher end tags warn personnel of an approaching
vehicle. These products may be utilised as a simple stand alone, or complete system and can
be deployed using a phased approach, to minimise initial capital outlay.
First in its class, the new CAS-400 series receiver provides audible voice annunciation
(customisable in different languages, on request) and visual warning proportional to the
position of the threat. An onboard buffer enables authorised personnel to download daily
movement details, either physically or via a wireless network.
Miners are cautioned by a transceiver tag, Personnel Avoidance System or PAS, when they
come close to any vehicle, by means of a flashing light and buzzer on a cap lamp. The number
of flashes, which is limited to five, indicates the number of vehicles in a miner’s vicinity. The
detecting range can be set according to specific requirements. The combination of this system
provides a warning where miners are alerted to machines; machines are warned of personnel
and machines are warned of other machines.
A further advantage of Becker’s new multiple technology approach is that mines now have
the flexibility to monitor both slow and fast moving equipment on surface and underground,
with one system.
With the new patented tri-technology Collision Avoidance System, absolute distances
constituting each zone transition threshold are variable, but default values for slow moving
vehicles – less than 10kmph – are clearly defined. In the critical zone, up to five metres,
vehicles are forced to stop. In the warning zone, between five and 12m, there is an intense
warning for vehicle operators and miners. In the caution zone, between 12.5m and 100m,
there is a gentle warning for vehicle operators and miners. In the safe zone – more than
100m, no warning is necessary.
An important feature of Becker Mining South Africa’s safety systems is that they are designed
to facilitate future upgrades.
Collision Avoidance Systems
(CAS
),
developed for the mining
sector by Becker Mining South
Africa, prevent fatalities,
injuries, damage and down time
resulting from the operation
of vehicles in the proximity of
personnel - on the surface, or
underground.
Reliable safety on the mines
Becker Mining South Africa’s latest patented tri-
technology Collision Avoidance System (the CAS-
400 series) with four proximity warning zones,
has been designed to overcome the limitations of
existing systems and can bring a mine vehicle to
a complete halt, should this be necessary.
Becker Mining South Africa (Pty) Ltd
Contact:
Johann Smit, Chief Sales Officer
Tel:
(011) 617 6300
Email:
Web:
looking back on 2013
LOOKING BACK
ON 2013