Application of a roof support monitoring system for analysis of work parameters of a powered longwall system

Abstract

In recent years, the world economy has undergone dynamic technological changes known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution. One of the main areas of these changes is the practical use of information systems to optimize production processes. Universal digitization results in the emergence of cyber-physical systems that, apart from the Internet of Things, are beginning to be used more and more widely in many industries. These changes are being applied also in the mining industry, including the Polish coal mining. Competition on the global energy market and growing requirements in the field of work safety and environmental protection make it necessary to take decisive action to modernize and adapt this industry to global standards. The article presents the results of the use of information technology in the process of hard coal production in mines owned by Polska Grupa Górnicza S.A., a leading coal mining company in Poland. The paper focuses on the operation of the powered roof systems which, in addition to protecting the work environment (longwall area), is also a construction base for the entire longwall system. The monitoring of the operation of individual sections of the support therefore allows control and evaluation of the condition and efficiency of the entire powered unit. The solution proposed by the authors should enable this process to be carried out.