Invention:
This invention describes a design for the development of an instrumented rock bolt (smart bolt) for monitoring the stability of underground openings in mining applications.
Background:
In commercial mining operations, safety and efficiency are of utmost importance. To maintain a safe and effective mining operation, it is critical to monitor the stability and state of openings and stress spots.
The inventors have designed a “smart bolt” that will have new abilities to collect data that can measure localized stresses and strain, detect corrosion, and survey for potential vibration and seismic events.
Applications:
- Smart bolt to be used in mining operations
- Evaluate rock mass deformation and movement in response to changing mining conditions
- Measure localized stresses and strains
- Detect corrosion
- Work as an acoustic sensor to measure vibrations and seismic events
Advantages:
- Improves safety at mining sites
- Gives insightful data to benefit mining operations
- Could be easily incorporated into an existing mining operations
