Surface mining operations are some of the most dangerous in the world. Large mining equipment has many blind spots, and it can be difficult for operators to spot nearby workers or other equipment before it’s too late to avoid a collision. Unsafe behavior and near misses can lead to safety audits, reports and other time-consuming activities. Traffic accidents can lead to increased costs from repairs, insurance and administrative investigations. That’s why Hexagon developed the HxGN MineProtect Collision Avoidance System (CAS).
Overview of Collision Avoidance System (CAS)
CAS is a real-time monitoring system integrated directly into more than 35,000 vehicles worldwide. It uses advanced sensors to track the location of nearby vehicles in order to prevent collisions.
Technology behind CAS
CAS is integrated with a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). The information available from this system enables CAS to determine the exact location, speed, and direction. It even considers vehicle-specific information, such as the time it takes the operator to brake based on the vehicle’s type and weight.
When all vehicles on the jobsite are equipped with CAS, they can all share this information with each other, enabling each vehicle to “see” other vehicles. Using smart trajectory prediction algorithms, the system can then determine when there is a high risk for a collision. When a collision is imminent, CAS sends an audible alarm to each at-risk operator, enabling them to correct their direction or speed and avoid the collision.
CAS can also provide integrated reporting through HxGN MineEnterprise CAS Analytics, which turns events in the field into critical information for decision making. This data visualization and analytics tool gives mine managers valuable statistics and key performance indicators to help find the root cause of an incident.
In addition, CAS also integrates with other solutions from our safety portfolio like the Operator Alertness System and Personal Alert. Combined, these tools give mines even more comprehensive safety coverage.
If you would like more information about how our Collision Avoidance System works, or if you have any questions about our safety portfolio, please contact us.