Modern Mining May 2017

PRODUCT News

Accurate 3D spatial monitoring with new Sentry system Maptek’s recently upgraded Sentry monitoring system is a laser-based solution for the constant surface monitoring required by geotechnical teams and mine management for managing risk. Intuitive 3D visuali- sation of movement and powerful analysis tools are combined in one easy to use, turnkey solution. The Sentry DMS (Deployable Monitoring System) was unveiled in March this year alongside the third generation Maptek I-Site laser scanners. Deployed in a custom trailer, the system offers a power and com- munications module, cellular and wi-fi networking, a dedicated, stable bollard for an I-Site laser scanner and Sentry software. The trailer is driven to the desired monitoring location and parked. Users can unpack the system and start monitoring in 15 minutes. “Geotechs welcome the idea of a system where they can just hit the button to start monitoring. Quick and easy setup is ensured by the new configuration and there is no need for the surveyor to orga- nise the workshop to build a bollard for mounting the scanner,” says Maptek.“Alert levels and rules are easily defined, allowing critical infor- mation to be sent direct to geotechnical staff or mine managers so they can decide on action to be taken.” Sentry allows users to analyse the mechanics of wall failures with greater fidelity than other systems. Generating 3D digital terrain models (DTMs) or overlaying 3D imagery on heat maps coloured by displacement or velocity provides an overview of movement. Zones can be animated over time to show morphology of terrain changes and this information then used to predict movement in other areas. The captured laser scan data can be used for any number of other spatial monitoring tasks, such as per shift dig reconciliation, design conformance, geological mapping and kinematic analysis. Sentry helps site personnel monitor and report on movements caused by surface instability that have the potential to interrupt operations. It can be applied to mining and civil engineering projects including road cuttings, land slips, dam walls and tunnel openings. Sentry monitors multiple zones within a scene without the need for targets or reference points. Movement can be detected down to 1 mm per hour. While radar systems can monitor even smaller movements, they have limitations when there are large movements. Maptek, tel (+27 11) 750-9660, website: www.maptek.com/sentry

The Sentry monitoring system is deployed in a custom trailer.

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