Millimetre wave radar visualisation system: Practical approach to transforming mining operations

This paper describes the development of millimetre-wave frequency modulated continuous wave radar and its application in the mining industry. Assessment of various sensors: laser, sonar, visual and microwave radar, against the mm wave radar sensor proves radar performance superiority in difficult mining conditions. The implementation and performance verification of the radar sensor for range and 3D profiling were undertaken in underground environment for stope fill and orepass monitoring and in surface mines for dragline environmental mapping and rope shovel bucket and dig face imaging. The millimetre wave radar visualisation system development, testing, on-site applications and the benefits to the mining industry are hereby discussed