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Processing the data
“Once the data is collected, you transfer the data and proceed with the first data analysis, pre-modeling. We have algorithms that describe the behavior of the rock,” he says. The SWIPS technology profiles Vs (shear wave velocity), Density, and the Poisson Ratio (the relationship between collecting and spreading when you press on a material). SWIPS can then determine the mechanical properties of the solids such as the Modulus of Rigidity, the Modulus of Elasticity and Liquefaction index.
The properties and profiles are integrated with the previously gathered data and the system graphically details the information into an in depth picture of the physical and mechanical properties of the site in 2D.
“Now we have physical properties, so if you want to know how resistant or brittle the material is, you have all of the data. Besides that, we have the other mechanical data parameters. There is a relationship between those characteristics and a rock family-type which helps to establish the likelihood of a specific rock type.
“Adding a third dimension to the relationship graph we can see the properties as they are in the ground to determine drill holes and angles, so you only have to drill two holes to confirm the rock type.”
Drill Hole Wizard complimentary software by MicroMentis helps identify where to drill and at what angle in order to increase the drill hole yield. Tunnel digging machines can have these sensors mounted on the drill head (as pictured left). “You apply the head to the surface and you acquire what is ahead of you,” he says.
User Interface
The User Interface manages the entire SWIPS technology. It is because of the interface that the user can formulate a plan and orient the work by controlling the entire process of data acquisition in the field. It then consolidates and integrates all gathered information for meaningful analysis. The interface guarantees that all sub-components are fully functional and calibrated once the SWIPS technology is powered and linked.
Like the sensors, the user interface is wireless, portable, self-powered, robust and easy to operate, as well as is georeferenced through embedded GPS and inertial positioning technologies. It has a set of powerful processors, a dual-core and a processor capable of quickly calculating and mapping the input data.
Moving forward
“Mounted on a piece of equipment, you can have a control mechanism that, based on the 3D properties of the map, can alter the behavior of the equipment to change the feed rate, for example, automatically. Everything can be embedded into a piece of equipment,” says Rioux. People operating a backhoe can use the technology to avoid damaging the equipment on rocks while digging.
“Accuracy is based on the sensor spacing. Mining is a lot deeper, over 200 meters, but if you are within 30 meters like on a construction site, you can use shorter spacing and get a more accurate reading of buried structures,” he says.
“The SWIPS system lets you know the ground properties, so for specialists trying to develop strategies for what type of equipment to use, knowing ahead of time what you will be finding, where and to what depth, how solid (dense) the ground is, or whether or not there are some fractures in the ground” offers fast ROI, equipment protection and efficiency.
