Real-time underground route identification and route progress using simple on-board sensing and processing

The global emphasis on conserving energy resources has led to the adoption of hybrid power systems in vehicles. Optimally applied, can save up 40% fuel costs. To optimally manage a vehicle's flow it is necessary know, real time, all requirements complete given route. consumption depends mainly vehicle mass, speed profile, and route topography. Of these, topographic profile one factor that only route-dependent not influenced by or driving styles. heading vs. distance also an example characteristic style. In this study profiles are used identify routes, easily measured means digital barometric pressure compass sensors. Correlations between current previously travelled/stored routes performed based their point-by-point manner. Above-ground tests were first using road six evaluate system. system consistently correctly identified 20 km within 4 km. It proved function underground through implementation instrumented hand-held surveyor's wheel. This finds direct practical application optimizing management locomotive mining industry South Africa, but be benefit applications where identification required GPS feasible.