Develop tele-controls for self thrusting percussion drilling machine and associated interface.

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to develop tele-controls to control drilling operations from a distance. The controls were fitted to the prototype quiet rock drill and demonstrated to be working. Noise is a generic hazard common to all commodities and, to a greater or lesser extent, all operations within mining. More people are exposed to the risk of noise- induced hearing impairment than to any other hazard. The pneumatic percussion drill is a major contributor to noise-induced hearing impairment in mines. The design and development of tele-controls for drills so that the operator can be positioned away from the drill will reduce this risk. The tele-control of rock drills has the added advantage of increased safety to the drill operator by his positioning away from the rock face. During this project such a system was developed, tested and demonstrated.