3GSM introduce new BMX Fragmenter
Platform offers fast, accurate, and fully automated 3D analysis of entire muckpile from drone imagery
3GSM GmbH, Austrian-based developers of software that optimizes blasting and reduces inherent environmental issues, have introduced new post-blast fragmentation analysis software – BMX Fragmenter – that works as an independent module or seamlessly integrates into BlastMetriX UAV.
BMX Fragmenter is said to be a first-of-its-kind platform that automatically converts high-resolution drone images into a highly accurate 3D rendition of the muckpile with colour-coded delineation of gradation.
The system accepts overlapping high-resolution images taken by an operation’s standard drone. Using an interactive or pre-programmed flight plan, the flexible system leverages the drone’s GPS co-ordinates, so no ground reference markers are required. To save time and improve efficiency, the images remain local to the computer and do not require time-consuming uploading to the cloud.
BMX Fragmenter generates millions of 3D data points, reviewing photos at an average rate of 200 per hour, for more complete statistical particle analysis. 3GSM say what sets it apart from other programs is that BMX Fragmenter automatically combines both 2D and 3D analysis for a more accurate and comprehensive evaluation of the muckpile surface.
‘Delineation using only 2D analysis can lead to inaccurate measurements due to shadowing and the particle’s contour and structure,’ commented Robert McClure, president of US-based blast engineering and consulting firm Robert A. McClure (RAM) Inc. ‘Adding the third dimension offers more accurate delineation through shape, with the 2D analysis used for refinement and smaller particle detection.’
A 3D post-blast model is automatically generated showing the width, throw, and height of the muckpile. Particle sizes are colour-coded to give a quick gradation overview and for easy visualization of oversized material.
The system comes as standard with editing tools for analysis refinement. Quantitative charts generated provide distribution of particle size and percent passing through the screen. Users can also assign fragmentation models like Rosin-Rammler, Swebrec, and Swebrec extended to the analysis. Results can be exported and saved in PDF format. New BMX Fragmenter also generates comprehensive summary reports for use in blast programme optimization.
‘For continuous, cyclic optimization of a surface blasting programme, operators need a reproduceable blast design and objective analysis and quantification of the results,’ added Mr McClure. ‘New BMX Fragmenter offers simple, fast, and incredibly accurate analysis of the post-blast muckpile gradation, critical for a site’s KPI programme.’
