1. Automated Bolting and Meshing Project - C17018
Research Update
Automated Bolting and Meshing Project - C17018

2. Update Bolt Manipulator
Work in the fifth quarter has seen the assembly and testing of a bolt manipulator that will be used to automatically assemble and place drilling consumables into each of the two sets of vertical drilling rigs and two rib drilling rigs on the continuous miner. Laboratory testing has demonstrated and confirmed the manipulator’s ability to complete a set of tasks within a satisfactory timeframe. Bolt Manipulator.wmv

3. Bolt Manipulator

4. Roof Mesh Manipulator Update
In conjunction with bolt manipulation, a system which automatically handles steel roof mesh on a continuous miner platform is currently being fabricated and assembled. Laboratory trials and testing will be carried out on a mock base frame in combination with the bolt manipulator complete with working drilling rigs. A demonstration to industry peers is expected by mid October.
In addition to the above activities, design continues on the rib mesh manipulation. The system will be also mounted onboard the continuous miner and expected to complete the overall roof support automation objectives for this project. Roof Manipulator.wmv
Roof mesh manipulator

5. Roof Mesh Manipulator