Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a mineral separation device that is capable of accurately identifying, processing, and isolating different types of minerals from a raw mixture, enabling efficient recovery, enhanced purity, and streamlined mineral handling without manual intervention.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In the mining industry, the separation of valuable minerals from extracted ore is a critical and resource-intensive process that significantly impacts the operational efficiency, material recovery, and overall profitability of mining operations. Among various minerals, iron ore is one of the most commonly extracted and processed materials due to its widespread use in construction, manufacturing, and steel production. However, accurately identifying and separating iron ore from heterogeneous mineral deposits, especially in dynamic or remote field conditions, continues to pose technical challenges. Factors such as varying particle sizes, inconsistent moisture content, adhesion of fine iron particles, and the lack of integrated automated systems often result in substantial material loss, lower purity, and increased manual labour. Additionally, real-time monitoring and analytical capabilities for assessing ore quality are often limited in conventional mobile mineral processing setups, hindering timely decision-making and precise material handling.

[0003] Traditionally, mineral separation systems have relied heavily on stationary, large-scale equipment that demands significant infrastructure and offers minimal flexibility for field operations. Processes such as moisture removal, crushing, and magnetic separation are typically carried out in segmented phases, often requiring manual intervention and time-consuming material transfers. Moreover, conventional setups are seldom equipped with smart technologies such as visual imaging, near-infrared moisture detection, or real-time composition analysis, thereby lacking the ability to dynamically respond to material variations. As a result, inefficiencies in separation accuracy, delays in data acquisition, and underutilization of resources are common. There exists a strong need for a compact, mobile device capable of executing a continuous, automated workflow that includes crushing, drying, classification, and magnetic separation, while providing instant feedback on material composition and quantity through user-friendly digital interfaces.

[0004] WO2023185416A1 discloses a mineral dry separation device, comprising: a material-feeding system, a material-distributing device, an identifying device, and an actuating mechanism, wherein the material-feeding system is located upstream of the material-distributing device and is used to supply raw mineral materials to the material-distributing device; the identifying device comprises a pulse type X-ray source located above the material-distributing device and an X-ray detector located below the material-distributing device; the identifying device is used to identify information of the raw mineral materials; and the actuating mechanism is used to separate the raw mineral materials according to the information of the raw mineral materials. The mineral dry separation device of the present application uses the pulse type X-ray source, making imaging clear, can correct afterglow of a detector, and thus makes detected data more accurate, thereby improving the separation precision and processing capacity of the device, and ensuring a good separation effect.

[0005] US4659457A discloses a gravity-magnetic ore separator for concentrating magnetic or weakly magnetic minerals having a relatively high specific gravity is disclosed. The ore separator utilizes directional magnetic and gravitational forces to achieve separation capabilities in excess of that which can be achieved using gravity forces alone. Typically, the gravity-magnetic ore separator is formed by retrofitting a conventional gravity separator such as a spiral, cone, pinched sluice, etc. with magnets so as to enhance the separation capability of the conventional gravitational ore separator. Means are provided to prevent build-up of magnetic material on the surface over which the ore flows.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices used for mineral separation are stationary, large-scale systems that require manual handling and multiple standalone units for drying, crushing, and sorting. These existing systems are not suitable for field operations due to their lack of mobility and integration. Additionally, these devices also often lack intelligent sensing capabilities, leading to inefficient separation, excessive labour, and poor recovery rates, especially when dealing with mixed minerals or moisture-laden ores.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to combine drying, crushing, and intelligent sorting. Additionally, the developed device also needs to facilitate on-site operation, minimize manual effort, and enhance separation efficiency through real-time sensing and automated functional control based on mineral characteristics.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that enables efficient on-site processing of mineral ores with minimal manual intervention.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that integrates drying, crushing, and sorting functions into a single compact and mobile unit.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that improves he precision and speed of separating different types of ores from a mixed mineral input.

[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to ensure continuous monitoring and recording of separated mineral quantities for improved process control and assessment.

[0013] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The present invention relates to a mineral separation device that is capable of effectively identifying, processing, and separating various types of minerals based on their physical and elemental properties to ensure enhanced accuracy, improved recovery efficiency, and better resource management during mineral handling operations.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a mineral separation device, comprises a movable cart having a pivotally mounted bucket within a frame for receiving mineral input, a plurality of wheels attached underneath the cart for facilitating mobility, a camera integrated with a processor mounted on the cart for capturing images of the mineral to determine presence of different ores based on visual characteristics, a conical hopper mounted on the cart for transferring the mineral into a spirally lined conduit incorporated with a plurality of nozzles, an air blower connected to the nozzles for delivering high-pressure air to remove moisture from the mineral, an NIR sensor installed inside the hopper for detecting moisture content and regulating the air blower accordingly, a crusher housed within the hopper comprising a cylindrical housing, an inward slanted annular member actuated by a plurality of linear actuators, and a conical structure rotating on a shaft to crush large minerals into smaller pieces for further processing, an electromagnetic mesh mounted at a bottom end of the hopper by means of a primary ball and socket joint for retaining iron ore based on magnetic attraction, a plurality of electromagnets configured with the mesh for imparting magnetic properties.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises of an agitating pulley connected between the mesh and inner surface of the hopper in an offset manner for generating oscillatory motion to facilitate ore separation, a motorized drive pulley operatively connected to the agitating pulley via a belt for supplying rotational power, a speed sensor installed on the hopper for detecting speed of the agitating pulley and regulating the motor accordingly, a compartment arranged within the cart offset to the hopper opening for receiving retained iron ore by rotation of the mesh and deactivation of the electromagnets, a vacuum unit mounted at an end of an L-shaped telescopic link for suctioning fine iron ore particles from the mesh surface and transferring them into the compartment, a pair of sliders mounted along opposing edges of the mesh with a plate attached via articulated telescopic bars for scrapping residual iron ore into the compartment, a weight sensor installed within the compartment for monitoring collected iron ore quantity, a user interface adapted to be installed with a computing unit for displaying data received from a control unit regarding ore collection status, and an XRF unit installed in a partition beneath the mesh for detecting elemental composition of remaining non-ferrous ores and relaying data to the user via the user interface.

[0017] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a mineral separation device; and
Figure 2 illustrates an inner view of a conical hopper associated with the device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0020] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0021] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0022] The present invention relates to a mineral separation device that is capable of efficiently identifying, processing, and separating different types of minerals based on their inherent properties to ensure improved accuracy, enhanced recovery, and streamlined mineral handling operations.

[0023] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, an isometric view of a mineral separation device and an inner view of a conical hopper associated with the device are illustrated, respectively, comprising a movable cart 101 contains a bucket 102 mounted pivotally within a frame 103, a plurality of wheels 104 installed underneath the frame 103, a camera 105 mounted over the cart 101, a conical hopper 106 mounted over the cart 101, a conduit 201 lined within the hopper 106 in a spiral arrangement, a plurality of nozzles 202 arranged along the conduit 201, the nozzles 202 connected with an air blower 203 provided with the hopper 106, a crusher 204 provided within the hopper 106, the crusher 204 comprises a cylindrical housing 204a positioned within the hopper 106, an annual member 204b with an inward slanted cross-section arranged within the housing 204a by means of a plurality of linear actuators 204c.

[0024] Figure 1 further illustrates a conical structure 204d located underneath the member 204b by means of a rotatable shaft 204e, an electromagnetic mesh 205 installed at a bottom end of the hopper 106 by means of a primary ball and socket joint 206, a plurality of electromagnets 207 are installed with the mesh 205, an agitating pulley 208 connected between mesh 205 and inner surface of the hopper 106, a motorized drive pulley 209 attached with the hopper 106 and connected with the agitating pulley 208 by means of a belt 210, a compartment 107 located within the cart 101 offset to the bottom opening of the hopper 106, an expandable arm 211 attached towards a bottom portion of the hopper 106 by means of a secondary ball and socket joint 212, the expandable arm 211 having a vacuum unit 213 at an end, a pair of sliders 21 4 mounted along opposing edges of the mesh 205, a plate 215 attached with the sliders 214 by means of a pair of articulated telescopic bars 216.

[0025] The device disclose herein includes a movable cart 101 comprises a sturdy rectangular frame 103 made of reinforced aluminum or stainless steel for corrosion resistance and durability. The movable cart 101 consists of a bucket 102 mounted pivotally with a frame 103 for dumping of processed minerals. The bucket 102 made of abrasion -resistant polymer or coated steel, is supported by trunnion joints for smooth rotation.

[0026] A plurality of wheels 104 installed underneath the frame 103 for locomotion of the bucket 102. The wheels 104 are mounted beneath the frame 103 using axle shafts and ball bearings to ensure smooth rotation and load distribution. Each wheel is connected to the frame 103 via suspension brackets, allowing slight vertical movement to absorb shocks on uneven terrain. The wheels 104 include directional casters for controlled movement. Typically, the wheels 104 are made of high-strength rubber with a metal or polymer core to balance durability and traction in outdoor or rugged environments.

[0027] When a user loads raw mineral into the bucket 102, a microcontroller in the device activates a camera 105 integrated with a processor mounted over the cart 101 to capture images of mineral places in the bucket 102 to determine presence of different ores in the mineral based on visual characteristics of the mineral. These captured images are processed in real-time by the integrated processor to analyze visual characteristics such as color, texture, and shape. The processor runs an artificial intelligence (AI) protocol to identify different ores based on their visual profile. Once detected, classification data is relayed to a control unit for decision-making in sorting or processing for classifying the mineral sample as iron ore or non-ferrous ores.

[0028] Based on the classification, a signal is sent to the microcontroller to initiate the appropriate processing path. A conical hopper 106 mounted over the cart 101 for receiving and holding mineral from the bucket 102 and directs them downward by gravity. Its conical shape ensures smooth flow and prevents clogging. The hopper 106 is typically made of abrasion-resistant stainless steel or high-grade polymer, ensuring durability against sharp mineral edges and resistance to corrosion.

[0029] A conduit 201 lined within the hopper 106 in a spiral arrangement serves as a channel for pressurized air supplied by an air blower 203 provided with the hopper 106. A plurality of nozzles 202 is integrated along the conduit 201, each precisely angled to distribute air jets uniformly across the mineral surface. When activated by the microcontroller, the conduit 201 delivers air to the nozzles 202 which expel fine, high-velocity streams to aid in moisture evaporation. This arrangement ensures that the mineral particles are exposed evenly to airflow as they descend through the hopper 106, enhancing drying efficiency before processing.

[0030] The air blower 203 internally comprises a motor-driven impeller enclosed in a housing 204a. When activated by the microcontroller, an impeller rotates at high speed, creating a low-pressure zone that draws in ambient air and forces it through a narrow outlet under high pressure. The blower 203 is connected via ducts to the spiral conduit 201, supplying pressurized air to the nozzles 202. The blower’s operation is controlled by the microcontroller, which activates or regulates its speed based on real-time moisture data from a NIR (Near Infrared) sensor installed in the hopper 106, ensuring optimal airflow for mineral drying within the hopper 106.

[0031] The NIR sensor installed in the hopper 106 to detect moisture content of the mineral to accordingly cause the air blower 203 to impart air jets from the nozzles 202 from the removal of moisture. The NIR sensor operates by emitting near-infrared light onto the mineral surface inside the hopper 106 and detecting the reflected wavelengths. Moisture within the mineral absorbs specific NIR wavelengths, causing measurable changes in the reflected light spectrum. The sensor contains a light source and a photodetector array. The photodetector converts the reflected light into electrical signals, which are then processed by an internal signal processor to calculate moisture content. This moisture data is sent to the microcontroller, which uses it to determine whether and how long the air blower 203 must be activated for drying the mineral.

[0032] When moisture is removed from the mineral, the dried mineral continues to move downward inside a crusher 204 provided within the hopper 106 to break larger minerals into smaller pieces. The crusher 204 comprises a cylindrical housing 204a positioned within the hopper 106 and serves as the containment shell for the crushing process. The housing 204a ensures proper alignment and protection of internal crushing components. The housing 204a guides the vertical movement of the annular member 204b and provides structural support for the crushing forces.

[0033] The annular member 204b with an inward slanted cross-section arranged within the housing 204a by means of a plurality of linear actuators 204c. The annular member 204b features an inward-sloped surface to channel mineral flow toward the center. The linear actuators 204c enable precise vertical movement, allowing the member 204b to adjust pressure against the conical structure 204d below. As minerals enter the crushing zone, the lower surface of the annular member 204b presses them downward with controlled force, adapting to mineral sized and hardness for efficient crushing.

[0034] Further, a conical structure 204d located underneath the member 204b by means of a rotatable shaft 204e to crush the minerals between the lower and upper surface of the member 204b. The conical structure 204d rotates via the shaft 204e connected to a motor. Its upper surface faces the inward slant of the annular member 204b, creating a narrowing gap where minerals are crushed. As the conical structure 204d spins, minerals are ground between its upper surface and the downward-moving annular member 204b. This combination of rotation and pressure breaks down the minerals into smaller particles, preparing them for magnetic separation.

[0035] An electromagnetic mesh 205 installed at a bottom end of the hopper 106 by means of a primary ball and socket joint 206 underneath the crusher 204 for receiving broken minerals and retaining iron ore and causing the other ore to fall into a partition provided in the cart 101. The electromagnetic mesh 205 consists of a fine metal grid embedded with one or more electromagnets 207 to impart magnetic properties to the mesh 205. When activated by the microcontroller, these electromagnets 207 generate a magnetic field across the mesh 205, enabling it to attract and retain iron ore particles while allowing non-magnetic materials to fall through into a separate partition.

[0036] The mesh 205 is attached to the hopper 106 by means of the primary ball and socket joint 206, allowing tilting or rotation for discharging retained particles into separate portion. The primary ball and socket joint 206 allow the electromagnetic mesh 205 to pivot in multiple directions for controlled discharge of retained iron ore. Internally, it consists of a spherical ball fixed to the mesh 205 base, which fits snugly into a concave socket attached to the hopper 106. This configuration permits multiaxial rotation while maintaining mechanical stability. When the microcontroller triggers a motor, the joint 206 enables the mesh 205 to tilt or rotate, directing the iron ore into a collection compartment once the electromagnets 207 are deactivated.

[0037] An agitating pulley 208 connected between the mesh 205 and inner surface of the hopper 106 in an offset manner to provide agitation to the mesh 205 for separation of the iron. The agitating pulley 208 consists of a circular wheel connected to a short shaft that transmits rotational motion. When in motion, its eccentric position creates a vibratory or shaking effect, agitating the mesh 205 to loosen and dislodge iron ore particles. This agitation improves magnetic separation by preventing clogging and allowing continuous exposure of particles to the magnetic field.

[0038] The agitating pulley 208 is powered by a motorized drive pulley 209 attached with the hopper 106 transmitting rotational power to the agitating pulley 208 by means of a belt 210 connecting the drive pulley 209 and the agitating pulley 208. When the drive pulley 209 gets activated, the motor rotates the drive pulley 209, which is connected to the agitating pulley 208 through the belt 210. The belt 210 transfers rotational energy from the drive pulley 209 to the agitating pulley 208, ensuring synchronized movement. Speed and torque are controlled via the microcontroller based on input from a speed sensor, enabling optimal vibration for effective separation.

[0039] The speed sensor installed with the hopper 106 to detect the speed of the agitator pulley to enable regulation of the motor for an effective separation of iron ore. The speed sensor operates using an optical encoder for high precision. A slotted disc is mechanically attached to the shaft of the agitating pulley 208. As the pulley rotates, the disc spins between an infrared light emitter and a photodetector. Each time a slot passes, the light beam reaches the detector, creating a pulse. The number of pulses generated over a specific time interval is counted and converted into a speed value by the sensor's internal circuitry. This data is sent to the microcontroller, which adjusts the motor’s speed to ensure effective and controlled agitation of the mesh 205.

[0040] A compartment 107 located within the cart 101, positioned offset to the bottom opening of the hopper 106 to receive the retained iron ore by a rotation of the mesh 205 imparted by the joint 206 and a demagnetization of the mesh 205 by deactivation of the electromagnets 207. When the processing cycle ends, the electromagnets 207 embedded in the mesh 205 are deactivated by the microcontroller, causing the iron ore to lose magnetic adhesion. Simultaneously, the mesh 205 rotates or tilts via the primary ball and socket joint 206, guiding the released iron ore into the compartment 107. This offset placement ensures that only targeted, magnetically separated iron particles are collected, preventing contamination from non-ferrous materials falling directly into the iron ore compartment 107.

[0041] Further, an expandable arm 211 comprises an L-shaped telescopic link attached towards a bottom portion of the hopper 106 by means of a secondary ball and socket joint 212. The telescopic link of expandable arm 211 operated by a pneumatic unit function by using compressed air to extend or retract its segments. The link consists of multiple nested tubular sections that slide within each other. A pneumatic actuator cylinder is connected to the innermost section. When compressed air is supplied, the pneumatic actuator pushes the inner segments outward, causing the link to extend. Releasing or reversing the air pressure causes the segments to retract back into each other.

[0042] The secondary ball and socket joint 212 at its base allow multi-directional movement and internally operates in a similar manner as the primary ball and socket joint 206, enabling a vacuum unit 213 at the end to precisely reach and clean iron particles. The vacuum unit 213 operates by creating a low-pressure zone to suction fine iron ore particles from the mesh 205 surface. Internally, it consists of a motor-driven fan or impeller enclosed in a sealed housing 204a. When the motor is activated by the microcontroller, the impeller rapidly spins, drawing air and any loose particles through an intake nozzle. The particles travel through a connected duct toward a collection chamber, which traps solid particles while allowing air to exit.

[0043] A pair of sliders 214 mounted along opposing edges of the mesh 205 moves linearly along a guided track. Each slider is connected to a plate 215 by means of a pair of articulated telescopic bars 216 for scrapping of adhered iron ore particles into the compartment 107. The sliders 214 consist of a carriage block fitted with low-friction bearings or wheels 104 that enable smooth motion. It is driven by a miniature linear actuator powered by a motor. When the motor is activated by the microcontroller, the slider moves along its path, positioning the plate 215 accurately.

[0044] The pair of articulated telescopic bars 216 functions to extend and retract the plate 215 connected to the sliders 214 for cleaning the mesh 205. Each bar 216 comprises multiple nested segments that slide within one another, allowing for adjustable length. These segments are joined with pivoting joints at both ends, enabling multi-directional movement and flexibility. When the slider moves along its track, the telescopic bars 216 extend or compress accordingly, maintaining alignment and pressure of the plate 215 against the mesh 205. The articulations allow the plate 215 to adapt to the mesh’s curvature or tilt. The bars 216 operate passively, synchronized with the slider’s motion for efficient scraping.

[0045] Additionally, a weight sensor embedded in the compartment 107 for monitoring quantity of iron ore collected. The weight sensor is typically a load cell, operates by converting mechanical force (weight) into electrical signals. Internally, the sensor contains a metallic strain gauge element that slightly deforms when iron ore accumulates in the compartment 107 and applies pressure. This deformation alters the electrical resistance of the strain gauges bonded to the metal. The change in resistance is detected and converted into a voltage signal by a Wheatstone bridge circuit inside the sensor. This signal is then amplified and sent to the microcontroller, which calculates the corresponding weight of the iron ore, enabling real-time monitoring and data transmission via a user interface.

[0046] The user interface (UI) adapted to be installed with a computing unit to establish connection with a communication unit installed with the control unit provided with the cart 101 to trach the quantity of iron ore collected as detected by the weight sensor. The UI operates as an interactive layer between the user and the device. Internally, it is driven by the microcontroller that receives data from the various sensors. This data is processed and displayed on a digital screen using a graphical user interface (GUI), often developed with embedded firmware. The user able to view parameters like ore weight, separation status, or elemental composition. The UI include touch inputs for user commands and communicates wirelessly with the control unit to issue or receive instructions.

[0047] An XRF (X-ray Fluorescence) sensor installed in the partition to detect for presence of different elements in the ores other than iron ore and accordingly relay the findings via the UI. The XRF sensor works by emitting primary x-rays from an X-ray tube, onto the mineral sample places in the partition. These high-energy rays excite atoms in the sample, causing inner-shell electrons to be ejected. As outer-shell electrons fill the vacancies, they emit secondary (fluorescent) X-rays that are unique to each element. A detector captures these fluorescent X-rays and converts them into electrical signals. These signals are processed by internal circuitry to identify the elemental composition of the sample. The results are then transmitted to the microcontroller and displayed through the user interface for analysis.

[0048] Lastly, a battery is associated with the device as the primary power source for all electrical and electronic components, ensuring portability and uninterrupted operation. supplies current to all the components that need electric power to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery utilized here is generally a dry battery which is made up of Lithium-ion material that gives the device a long-lasting as well as an efficient DC (Direct Current) current which helps every component to function properly in an efficient manner. The device is battery-operated and does not need any electrical voltage to function.

[0049] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the movable cart 101 as disclosed in the invention is guided to the desired location and the mineral is poured manually by the user into the bucket 102 mounted pivotally within the frame 103 of the cart 101. The camera 105 integrated with the processor and mounted above the cart 101 captures images of the mineral to determine presence of different ores based on visual characteristics, and relays data to the microcontroller for initiating further processing. The conical hopper 106 mounted over the cart 101 receives the inspected mineral and guides it into the spirally arranged conduit 201, wherein the plurality of nozzles 202 connected to the air blower 203 eject high-pressure air jets to remove surface moisture. The NIR sensor installed inside the hopper 106 continuously monitors the moisture content and controls activation of the air blower 203 accordingly. Upon drying, the mineral flows downward into the cylindrical housing 204a of the crusher 204, where the annular member 204b with an inward slanted cross-section is actuated by the plurality of linear actuators 204c to press the mineral against the conical structure 204d rotating underneath, thereby breaking large pieces into smaller fragments. The fragmented mineral then falls onto the electromagnetic mesh 205 located at the bottom end of the hopper 106 and connected by means of the primary ball and socket joint 206, where the electromagnets 207 magnetize the mesh 205 to retain iron ore while allowing non-ferrous ore to fall through into the partition of the cart 101.

[0050] In continuation, the agitating pulley 208 connected in an offset manner between the mesh 205 and the inner surface of the hopper 106 provides oscillatory motion to the mesh 205, powered by the motorized drive pulley 209 via a belt 210 transmission arrangement, and the speed sensor attached to the hopper 106 detects pulley rotation to regulate motor performance for optimized separation. Once iron ore is retained, the electromagnets 207 are deactivated, and the mesh 205 is rotated using the primary ball and socket joint 206 to direct the iron particles into the compartment 107 offset to the bottom opening of the hopper 106. The expandable arm 211 comprises the L-shaped telescopic link mounted on the secondary motorized ball and socket joint 212, positioned at the lower end of the hopper 106 and operated by the pneumatic unit, extends the vacuum unit 213 to suction fine iron particles adhering to the mesh 205 surface and convey them into the compartment 107. Simultaneously, the pair of sliders 214 mounted along the opposing edges of the mesh 205 moves inward, and the pair of articulated telescopic bars 216 connected to the sliders 214 adjust the scraper plate 215 to dislodge remaining particles into the compartment 107. The weight sensor embedded inside the compartment 107 monitors the total iron ore collected and communicates the data to the control unit installed on the cart 101, which relays it to the user interface. The user interface, installed with the computing unit, displays real-time information such as quantity of collected iron ore status, while the XRF installed in the partition analyzes the falling non-ferrous ores for detection of other elemental compositions and transmits the analysis results through the same interface for review.

[0051] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A mineral separation device, comprising:

i) a movable cart 101;
ii) a camera 105 integrated with a processor, mounted over the cart 101, to capture images of mineral placed in the cart 101 to determine presence of different ores in the mineral based on visual characteristics of the mineral;
iii) a conical hopper 106 mounted over the cart 101, for receiving and holding mineral;
iv) a conduit 201 lined within the hopper 106 in a spiral arrangement, incorporated with a plurality of nozzles 202 arranged along the conduit 201, the nozzles 202 connected with an air blower 203 provided with the cart 101, to remove moisture from the mineral;
v) an NIR (near infrared) sensor installed in the hopper 106 detects moisture content of the mineral to accordingly cause the air blower 203 to impart air jets from the nozzles 202;
vi) a crusher 204 provided within the hopper 106 to break larger minerals into smaller pieces;
vii) an electromagnetic mesh 205 installed at a bottom end of the hopper 106 by means of a primary ball and socket joint 206, underneath the crusher 204 for receiving broken minerals and retaining iron ore and causing the other ore to fall into a partition provided in the cart 101;
viii) an agitating pulley 208 connected between mesh 205 and inner surface of the hopper 106 in an offset manner to provide agitation to the mesh 205 for separation of the iron;
ix) a compartment 107 located within the cart 101, offset to the bottom opening of the hopper 106, to receive the retained iron ore by a rotation of the mesh 205 imparted by the primary ball and socket joint 206 and a demagnetisation of the mesh 205;
x) an expandable arm 211 mounted with the hopper 106, having a vacuum unit 213 at an end for suctioning fine particles of iron ore adhered with the mesh 205 and convey the particles to the compartment 107; and
xi) a pair of sliders 214 mounted along opposing edges of the mesh 205, having a plate 215 attached with the sliders 214 by means of a pair of articulated telescopic bars 216 for a scrapping of adhered iron ore particles into the compartment 107.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the movable card comprises a bucket 102 mounted pivotally within a frame 103, a plurality of wheels 104 installed underneath the frame 103 for a locomotion of the bucket 102.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein one or more electromagnets 207 are installed with the mesh 205 to impart magnetic properties to the mesh 205.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the agitator pulley is powered by a motorised drive pulley 209 attached with the hopper 106 transmitting rotational power to the agitating pulley 208 by means of a belt 210 connecting the drive pulley 209 and the agitating pulley 208.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a speed sensor is installed with the hopper 106 detects a speed of the agitator pulley to enable a regulation of the motor for an effective separation of iron ore.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the crusher 204 comprises a cylindrical housing 204a positioned within the hopper 106, an annular member 204b with an inward slanted cross-section arranged within the housing 204a by means of a plurality of linear actuators 204c, a conical structure 204d located underneath the member 204b by means of a rotatable shaft 204e to crush the minerals between the lower and upper surface of the member 204b.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the expandable arm 211 comprises an L-shaped telescopic link attached towards a bottom portion of the hopper 106 by means of a secondary ball and socket joint 212.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a weight sensor is embedded in the compartment 107 for monitoring a quantity of iron ore collected.

9) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a user interface is adapted to be installed with a computing unit, to establish connection with a communication unit installed with a control unit provided with the cart 101, to track the quantity of iron ore collected as detected by the weight sensor.

10) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an XRF (X-ray Fluorescence) is installed in the partition to detect for presence of different elements in the ores other than iron ore, and accordingly relay the findings via the user interface.