Trends in automatic hoist controls

The paper outlines the problems facing mine hoist engineers in the design and application of automatic hoist equipment. Duty cycle requirements, types of hoists, and the advantages of mine hoist automation are discussed. Particular mention is made of available a-c and d-c control systems. Overriding speed reference equipment and the safety features of modern automatic controls are described. A discussion on hoist brakes is also included, as these are an integral part of each hoist control design. It is the purpose of this paper, and its bibliography, to provide the designer with many references and with a detailed outline of existing thinking on the subject.