Smart Visualisation for Dump Stations: Enhancing Bulk Materials Handling
Precision Unloading Through Smart Vision
At Axo33, we believe smarter systems start with better data. That’s why we’re leveraging advanced 3D visualisation and point classification technologies to drive new levels of precision and control in bulk materials handling through our Axo33 TRAINS™ product.
One of our latest innovations is a point classification system that segments scanned data of a rail wagon into distinct, meaningful zones. This allows our algorithms to treat each part of the wagon differently, improving the accuracy of volume calculations and enabling safer, more efficient train unloading.
Each point in the scanned data is classified based on its physical location and context. For example, points corresponding to the wagon roof are identified in green, the base and baffles in magenta, material passing through the door in black, and material inside the wagon in blue. These classifications give us a clear framework for analysing the data and forming a baseline for volume computation.
By comparing real-time scan data to a pre-established base profile, we can identify and measure solid material volumes with high accuracy. This is critical for detecting whether a wagon is empty or full, tracking how coal flows during unloading, and identifying operational anomalies such as material hang-ups. For example, the image below depicts where our system detected 11 cubic metres of coal remaining in a wagon past the closing trigger, a scenario that could impact throughput and safety if left unaddressed.
Environmental noise, such as steam, dust, fog or smoke, is another challenge in real-world operations. Our system accounts for this by highlighting such interference (for instance, rendering steam in green) and excluding it from volume calculations. This ensures only solid material is factored into unloading decisions, improving both the reliability of the system and the quality of downstream data.
This intelligent classification and filtering capability is a core feature of our Axo33 platform, which is designed to support safe, autonomous and optimised train unloading in high-throughput environments.
Ready to optimise your train unloading operations?
Get in touch with the Axo33 team to learn how our intelligent visualisation and point classification technologies can enhance safety, improve accuracy and drive performance across your bulk handling systems.
Contact us today to book a demo or speak with one of our automation specialists.