Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates generally to the field of wear predictions. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a wear detection apparatus and a method thereof.
BACKGROUND
Prediction of wear or various articles is necessary in certain applications. One such application is grinding mills, where prediction of wear of rubber liner is necessary. Other applications are pipelines, shell plate, lifer bar, chute liner, scraper blade, and the like. Grinding mills are the devices that break ore lumps into smaller pieces by grinding, crushing, or cutting. Grinding mills have a shell that rotates which facilitates break down of the solid into smaller pieces. The shell of the grinding mills includes liner, preferably a rubber liner, that is disposed with the inner wall of the shell around the periphery of the shell of the grinding mill. The mill liners facilitate to protect the shell from wear caused by impact and abrasion of the mill charge. The mill liners further facilitate elevating and tumbling the mill charge in the necessary manner to create a grinding action. During this action, the mill liners are worn off, which causes depleting the dimension of the mill liners. Upon complete depletion or depletion of the mill liners up to some extent, the mill liners need to be replaced with new ones.
There are various ways for predicting wear and tear of the mill liner. One such technique is physical inspection of the mill liners in which the operator routinely inspects the mill liners. Problems associated with the physical inspection are continuous shut down of the grinding process, which increases the processing time. For carrying out physical inspection, a maintenance schedule is prepared which makes the process tedious. Further, physical inspection is usually a time-consuming process which requires substantial manpower in which a lot of time is wasted in determining the wear of the mill liner. Another such technique requires an optical fiber cable to be inserted inside the mill liner. In such a technique, the optical fiber cable is usually inserted across the surface area of the mill liner. This requires a lot of optical fiber cable to be consumed in just embedding the cable into the liner. Generally, a number of layers of the optical fiber cables are embedded at different levels in the mill liners, by virtue of which, the wear level of the mill liner is predicted. This again makes the wear detection process tedious. Further, embedding of the optical fiber cable inside the mill liner requires to make a fissure or gap in the mill liner that facilitates insertion of the optical fiber cables inside the mill liner. While making such a gap or fissure in the mill liner, the performance of the mill liner is affected, therefore, the purpose of mill liner is negated. Additionally, wear life of a polymer part is not easily identified using existing techniques. This is because of fixed position of the polymer part in a machinery.
Therefore, there exists a need for an improved technique or way that can solve the aforementioned problems of conventional wear detection techniques/apparatuses.
SUMMARY
In view of the foregoing, a wear detection apparatus is disclosed. The wear detection apparatus includes a stem, an optical fiber cable, and processing circuitry. The optical fiber cable includes a first optical fiber cable and a second optical fiber. The first optical fiber cable is disposed along a length of the stem such that the first optical fiber cable is adapted to receive a first laser beam. The second optical fiber cable is disposed along the length of the stem such that the second optical fiber cable is adapted to receive a second laser beam. The processing circuitry is coupled to the first and second optical fiber cables and configured to determine, based on a distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable and the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable, a wear level of the stem such that the wear level of the stem corresponds to wear of an article.
In some embodiment of the present disclosure, the first optical fiber cable having a first length and the second optical fiber cable having a second length such that the first length is less than the second length.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the wear detection apparatus further includes a first laser source that is adapted to emit a first laser beam such that the first laser beam travels through the first optical fiber cable.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the wear detection apparatus further includes a second laser source that is adapted to emit a second laser beam such that the second laser beam travels through the second optical fiber cable.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the wear detection apparatus further includes a photodetector that is coupled to the first and second optical fiber cables and the processing circuitry and configured to detect a reflected version of the first and second laser beams that facilitates the processing circuitry to determine the wear level of the stem.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the processing circuitry is further configured to generate an alarm signal when the wear level of the stem is equal to a predefined wear threshold.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the wear detection apparatus further includes a base portion that facilitates connection of the first and second optical fiber cables with the processing circuitry.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, a method for detecting wear of a stem is disclosed. The method requires a step of receiving a first laser beam by way of a first optical fiber cable of an optical fiber cable. The method further requires a step of receiving a second laser beam by way of a second optical fiber cable of the optical fiber cable. The method further requires a step of determining a wear level of the stem based on a distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable and the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable by way of processing circuitry.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, prior to the receiving the first laser beam, the method further requires emitting, by way of a first laser source, the first laser beam.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, prior to the receiving the second laser beam, the method further requires emitting, by way of a second laser source, the second laser beam.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The above and still further features and advantages of aspects of the present disclosure becomes apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of aspects thereof, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and wherein:
FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of a wear detection apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of a stem showing different wear levels of the stem, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 3A illustrates a sectional view of a liner of a ball mill, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 3B illustrates a zoomed view of a section “D” of FIG. 3A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method for detecting wear of the stem of the wear detection apparatus of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Various aspects of the present disclosure provide a wear detection apparatus and a method thereof. The following description provides specific details of certain aspects of the disclosure illustrated in the drawings to provide a thorough understanding of those aspects. It should be recognized, however, that the present disclosure can be reflected in additional aspects and the disclosure may be practiced without some of the details in the following description.
The various aspects including the example aspects are now described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the various aspects of the disclosure are shown. The disclosure may, however, be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein. Rather, these aspects are provided so that this disclosure is thorough and complete, and fully conveys the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, the sizes of components may be exaggerated for clarity.
It is understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it can be directly on, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers that may be present. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
The subject matter of example aspects, as disclosed herein, is described specifically to meet statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Rather, the inventor/inventors have contemplated that the claimed subject matter might also be embodied in other ways, to include different features or combinations of features similar to the ones described in this document, in conjunction with other technologies. Generally, the various aspects including the example aspects relate to a wear detection apparatus and a method thereof.
As mentioned there remains a need for a wear detection technique that solves the problem of conventional wear detection techniques. Accordingly, the present disclosure provides wear detection apparatus that requires only insertion along the thickness of an article, for which, wear is to be predicted. The wear detection apparatus of the present disclosure is configured to determine the wear of the article by way of an optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) technique. The wear detection apparatus of the present disclosure is able to predict wear of the article without removing the article from a machinery.
FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of a wear detection apparatus 100 (hereinafter interchangeably referred to as “the apparatus 100”), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 100 may be disposed or inserted in an article such that the apparatus 100 detects/determines the wear of the article. In some examples, the apparatus 100 may be disposed or inserted in a mill liner of a grinding mill (for example a ball mill) such that the apparatus 100 detects/determines the wear of the mill liner that may worn out during operation of the ball mill. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of application where the apparatus 100 may be used that may facilitate the apparatus 100 to detect or determine the wear of the article, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the article may be made up of a material, including but not limited to, metal, non-metal, and polymer such as plastic, rubber, composite, and the like. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of known and later developed materials for the article, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the article may be disposed in a storage tank, a mill such as a ball mill, a chute, a crusher, a feeder, a conveyor, a stacker, a scrapper blade, a grinding mill, and the like. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any possible application for the article, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
The apparatus 100 may include a stem 102, an optical fiber cable 103, a base portion 108, a first laser source 110, a second laser source 112, a photodetector 114, and processing circuitry 116. The stem 102 may include a proximal end 102a and a distal end 102b. The optical fiber cable 103 may include a first optical fiber cable 104 and a second optical fiber cable 106. The first optical fiber cable 104 may include a first proximal end 104a and a first distal end 104b. The second optical fiber cable 106 may include a second proximal end 106a and a second distal end 106b. The base portion 108 may include a first flange 108a, a second flange 108b, a first strip 108c, and a second strip 108d.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the apparatus 100 may have a length that may be in a range of 230 millimeters (mm) to 250 mm. Preferably, the apparatus 100 may have the length that may be 241 mm. The length of the apparatus 100 may refer to a combined length of the stem 102 and the base portion 108. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any value of the length of the apparatus 100, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the base portion 108 may have a width that may be in a range of 90 mm to 100 mm. Preferably, the base portion 108 may have the width that may be 98 mm. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any value of the width of the base portion 108, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the base portion 108 may have a height that may be in a range of 55 mm to 60 mm. Preferably, the base portion 108 may have the height that may be 58 mm. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any value of the height of the base portion 108, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
The stem 102 may be a rod or a stick that may extend along a longitudinal axis (X-X) of the apparatus 100. In other words, the stem 102 may project outwardly from the base portion 108. The proximal end 102a of the stem 102 may be coupled to the base portion 108. The distal end 102b of the stem 102 may be disposed opposite to the proximal end 102a. The stem 102 may be inserted in the article such that a length of the stem 102 corresponds to a dimension of the article. Since, the length of the stem 102 is equal to the dimension of the article, therefore, wearing of the stem 102 corresponds to wearing of the article. The distal end 102b of the stem 102 may be inserted in the article such that the wearing of the stem 102 initiates from the distal end 102b during operation.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the stem 102 may have a length that may be in a range of 150 millimeters (mm) to 250 mm. Preferably, the stem 102 may have the length that may be of 200 mm.
The optical fiber cable 103 may be wrapped around the stem 102. In other words, the optical fiber cable 103 may be wound around the stem 102 such that a number of coil turns (hereinafter interchangeably referred to as “the coil turns”) are formed along the stem 102. The optical fiber cable 103 may have a first end (not shown) and a second end (not shown). The optical fiber cable 103 while being wrapped on the stem 102, the first and second ends may be disposed at the same side of the stem 102 i.e., at the proximal end 102a of the stem 102. The optical fiber cable 103 may worn off when the apparatus 100 is deployed for wear detection. Specifically, wearing of the optical fiber cable 103 may initiate from the side that may be disposed at a side of the distal end 102b of the stem 102. At the moment of wearing of the optical fiber cable 103, the optical fiber cable 103 may be sliced or torn into two parts. Specifically, the optical fiber cable 103 may be sliced from the side that may be disposed at the side of the distal end 102b of the stem 102. The optical fiber cable 103, upon being sliced into two parts, may thereafter become the first optical fiber cable 104 and the second optical fiber cable 106. In other words, the first part of the optical fiber cable 103 may become the first optical fiber cable 104 and the second part of the optical fiber cable 103 may become the second optical fiber cable 106.
The first optical fiber cable 104 may be disposed along the length of the stem 102. Specifically, the first proximal end 104a may be disposed at a side of the proximal end 102a of the stem 102. The first distal end 104b may be disposed at a side of the distal end 102b of the stem 102. In other words, the first optical fiber cable 104 may be disposed along the length of the stem 102 such that the first proximal end 104a may be disposed near to the base portion 108 and the first distal end 104b may be disposed away from the base portion 108 i.e., at a tip of the stem 102. When the apparatus 100 is deployed for wear detection, wearing of the first optical fiber cable 104 initiates from the first distal end 104b that corresponds to wearing of the stem 102 from the distal end 102b.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first optical fiber cable 104 may be one of, a single mode optical fiber cable and a multi-mode optical fiber cable. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of optical fiber cable that may be used or substituted for the second optical fiber cable 106.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first optical fiber cable 104 may have a length that may be in a range of 0.5 meters (m) to 2 meters (m). Preferably, the second optical fiber cable 106 may have the length that may be 1 m.
The second optical fiber cable 106 may be disposed along the length of the stem 102. Specifically, the second proximal end 106a may be disposed at the side of the proximal end 102a of the stem 102. The second distal end 106b may be disposed at the side of the distal end 102b of the stem 102. In other words, the second optical fiber cable 106 may be disposed along the length of the stem 102 such that the second proximal end 106a may be disposed near to the base portion 108 and the second distal end 106b may be disposed away from the base portion 108 i.e., at the tip of the stem 102. When the apparatus 100 is deployed for wear detection, wearing of the second optical fiber cable 106 initiates from the second distal end 106b that corresponds to wearing of the stem 102 from the distal end 102b.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the second optical fiber cable 106 may be one of, a single mode optical fiber cable and a multi-mode optical fiber cable. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of optical fiber cable that may be used or substituted for the second optical fiber cable 106.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the second optical fiber cable 106 may have a length that may be in a range of 3 meters (m) to 6 meters (m). Preferably, the second optical fiber cable 106 may have the length that may be 4 m.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first optical fiber cable 104 may have a first length and the second optical fiber cable 106 may have a second length such that the first length is less than the second length.
In some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the number of coil turns of the second optical fiber cable 106 may be 10 that may extend along 0.28 meters of a total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 20 coil turns may extend along 0.56 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 30 coil turns may extend along 0.84 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 40 coil turns may extend along 1.12 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 50 coil turns may extend along 1.40 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 60 coil turns may extend along 1.68 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 70 coil turns may extend along 1.96 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 80 coil turns may extend along 2.24 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 90 coil turns may extend along 2.52 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with hundred (100) coil turns may extend along 2.80 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 110 coil turns may extend along 3.08 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 120 coil turns may extend along 3.36 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 130 coil turns may extend along 3. 64 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 140 coil turns may extend along 3.92 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 150 coil turns may extend along 4.20 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 160 coil turns may extend along 4.48 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 170 coil turns may extend along 4.76 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 180 coil turns may extend along 5.04 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 190 coil turns may extend along 5.32 meters of the total length of the stem 102. In some examples, the second optical fiber cable 106 with 200 coil turns may extend along 5.60 meters of the total length of the stem 102.
The base portion 108 may be disposed between the stem 102 and the first and second laser sources 110, 112. The base portion 108 may facilitate connection of the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106 with the processing circuitry 116. The first and second flanges 108a, 108b may be disposed parallel to each other such that the first flange 108a is disposed at a distance from the second flange 108b. The first and second flanges 108a, 108b may be connected to each other by way of a connecting portion (not shown). The first and second strips 108c, 108d may be coupled to the first flange 108a and may be disposed parallel to each other. In other words, the first strip 108c may be disposed above the second strip 108d as seen through the FIG. 1. Specifically, the first and second strips 108c, 108d may project outwardly from the first flange 108a. In other words, the first and second strips 108c, 108d may project towards a side of the distal end 102b of the stem 102. The stem 102 may be coupled to the second strip 108d. In other words, the stem 102 may project outwardly from the second strip 108d. Specifically, the proximal end 102a of the stem 102 may be coupled to the second strip 108d. The proximal end 102a may be coupled to the second strip 108d by way of a plate 108e and a plurality of fasteners 108f (hereinafter referred to and designated as “the fasteners 108f”). The plate 108e may be disposed over or near to the proximal end 102a of the stem 102. Upon placement of the plate 108e over or near to the proximal end 102a of the stem 102, the fasteners 108f may be inserted in suitable holes that may facilitate connection of the proximal end 102a of the stem 102 at the second strip 108d. Thus, the stem 102 may be coupled to the second strip 108d by way of the plate 108e and the fasteners 108f. The first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106 may be passed through the first strip 108c. Specifically, the first and second proximal ends 104a, 106a of the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106, respectively, may be passed through the first strip 108c. The first and second proximal ends 104a, 106a may be coupled to the first strip 108c by way of a suitable connector 108g. The connector 108g may be disposed on the first strip 108c such that the connector 108g receives the first and second proximal ends 104a, 106a. The first optical fiber cable 104 may be coupled to the first laser source 110. Specifically, the first proximal end 104a may be coupled to the first laser source 110. The first proximal end 104a may be coupled to the first laser source 110 by way of the connector 108g and a coil of an optical fiber cable that is wrapped around the connecting portion between the first and second flanges 108a, 108b. The second optical fiber cable 106 may be coupled to the second laser source 112. Specifically, the second proximal end 106a may be coupled to the second laser source 112. The second proximal end 106a may be coupled to the second laser source 112 by way of the connector 108g and the coil of the optical fiber cable that is wrapped around the connecting portion between the first and second flanges 108a, 108b.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the connector 108g may be one of, a subscriber connector (SC) and a Lucent connector (LC). Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of the connector 108g, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, each fastener of the fasteners 108f may include, but not limited to, a rivet, a screw, a bolt, a clip, and the like. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of the fastener of the fasteners 108f, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
The first laser source 110 may be disposed behind the base portion 108. Specifically, the first laser source 110 may be disposed at a side that is away from the stem 102. The first laser source 110 may be coupled to the first optical fiber cable 104. Specifically, the first laser source 110 may be coupled to the first proximal end 104a of the first optical fiber cable 104. An appropriate circuitry of the first laser source 110 may be configured to perform one or more operations. For example, the first laser source 110 may be adapted to emit a first laser beam. The first laser beam may be created when a plurality of electrons absorb energy from an electric current. The electric current may be provided by way a battery. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the electric current may be provided by way of an alternating current source, a direct current source, and the like. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of electric current source that may provide the electric current to the first laser source 110, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. The electric current may excite the plurality of electrons that facilitate the plurality of electrons to shift from a lower energy band to a higher energy band. Once the plurality of electrons loses their excited energy, the plurality of electrons shifts back to the lower energy bands (original energy states) from the higher energy bands. While the plurality of electrons shifts from the higher energy bands to the lower energy bands, the plurality of electrons emits a plurality of light particles that forms the first laser beam. Since, the first laser source 110 is coupled to the first proximal end 104a of the first optical fiber cable 104, therefore, the first laser beam may be adapted to enter the first optical fiber cable 104 from the first proximal end 104a of the first optical fiber cable 104. The first laser beam may be adapted to enter the first optical fiber cable 104 such that the first laser beam travels in the first optical fiber cable 104. In other words, the first laser beam may be adapted to travel in the first optical fiber cable 104 upon entering into the first optical fiber cable 104 from the first proximal end 104a. Specifically, the first laser beam may be adapted to travel from the first proximal end 104a to the first distal end 104b.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first laser source 110 may be one of, a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd-YAG) based laser source, krypton fluoride (KrF) based laser source, and a Xenon monochloride (XeCl) based laser source. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of the laser source, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
The second laser source 112 may be disposed behind the base portion 108. Specifically, the second laser source 112 may be disposed at a side that is away from the stem 102. The second laser source 112 may be coupled to the second optical fiber cable 106. Specifically, the second laser source 112 may be coupled to the second proximal end 106a of the second optical fiber cable 106. An appropriate circuitry of the second laser source 112 may be configured to perform one or more operations. For example, the second laser source 112 may be adapted to emit a second laser beam. The second laser beam may be created when a plurality of electrons absorb energy from an electric current. The electric current may be provided by way a battery. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the electric current may be provided by way of an alternating current source, a direct current source, and the like. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of electric current source that may provide the electric current to the second laser source 112, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. The electric current may excite the plurality of electrons that facilitate the plurality of electrons to shift from a lower energy band to a higher energy band. Once, the plurality of electrons loses their excited energy, the plurality of electrons shifts back to the lower energy bands (original energy states) from the higher energy bands. While the plurality of electrons shifts from the higher energy bands to the lower energy bands, the plurality of electrons emits a plurality of light particles that forms the second laser beam. Since, the second laser source 112 is coupled to the second proximal end 106a of the second optical fiber cable 106, therefore, the second laser beam may be adapted to enter the second optical fiber cable 106 from the second proximal end 106a of the second optical fiber cable 106. The second laser beam may be adapted to enter the second optical fiber cable 106 such that the second laser beam travels in the second optical fiber cable 106. In other words, the second laser beam may be adapted to travel in the second optical fiber cable 106 upon entering into the second optical fiber cable 106 from the second proximal end 106a. Specifically, the second laser beam may be adapted to travel from the second proximal end 106a to the second distal end 106b.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the second laser source 112 may be one of, a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd-YAG) based laser source, krypton fluoride (KrF) based laser source, and a Xenon monochloride (XeCl) based laser source. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of the laser source, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first and second laser sources 110, 112 may be powered by the battery. The battery may be one of, a lithium ion (Li-ion) battery and a lithium polymer (Li-Po) battery. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of the battery, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
The photodetector 114 may be disposed behind the base portion 108. Specifically, the photodetector 114 may be disposed at a side that is away from the stem 102. The photodetector 114 may be coupled to the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106. Specifically, the photodetector 114 may be coupled to the first and second proximal ends 104a, 106a of the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106, respectively. An appropriate circuitry of the photodetector 114 may be configured to perform one or more operations. For example, the photodetector 114 may be configured to detect a reflected version of the first and second laser beams. The reflected version of the first and second laser beams may correspondingly indicate a distance travelled by the first and second laser beams in the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106, respectively. In other words, the reflected version of the first laser beam may correspond to a bounce back of the first laser beam from the first optical fiber cable 104 such that the reflected version of the first laser beam indicates the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104. The reflected version of the second laser beam may correspond to a bounce back of the second laser beam from the second optical fiber cable 106 such that the reflected version of the second laser beam indicates the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106. The photodetector 114 may include a photodetector material. The photodetector 114 may be configured to detect the reflected version of the first and second laser beams by way of a photoelectric effect. The photodetector 114 may be configured to convert an optical signal into an electric signal. The reflected version of the first and second laser beams may correspond to the optical signal such that the optical signal may be received by the photodetector material of the photodetector 114. In other words, the optical signal may correspond to the distance travelled by the first and second laser beams in the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106, respectively. The optical signal may facilitate ejection of one or more electrons from the photodetector material upon being received by the photodetector material. The ejection of the one or more electrons from the photodetector material may facilitate generation of an electric current or the electric signal. The generation of the electric signal may therefore correspond to the optical signal that may be received by the photodetector material of the photodetector 114. Therefore, the electric signal may indicate the distance travelled by the first and second laser beams in the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106, respectively. The photodetector 114 may be configured to transmit the electric signal to the processing circuitry 116.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the photodetector 114 may be one of, an avalanche photodiode, Schottky diode, photoconductive detector, phototransistor, photomultiplier, and the like. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of the photodetector, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
In some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the first length may be 200 mm and the second length may be 5400 mm. The stem 102 may have 100% length when the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 may be 200 mm and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106 may be 5400 mm. The stem 102 may have 90% length when the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 may be 180 mm and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106 may be 4860 mm. The stem 102 may have 80% length when the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 may be 160 mm and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106 may be 4320 mm. The stem 102 may have 70% length when the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 may be 140 mm and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106 may be 3780 mm. The stem 102 may have 60% length when the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 may be 120 mm and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106 may be 3240 mm. The stem 102 may have 50% length when the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 may be 100 mm and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106 may be 2700 mm. The stem 102 may have 40% length when the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 may be 80 mm and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106 may be 2160 mm. The stem 102 may have 30% length when the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 may be 60 mm and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106 may be 1620 mm. The stem 102 may have 20% length when the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 may be 40 mm and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106 may be 1080 mm. The stem 102 may have 10% length when the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 may be 20 mm and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106 may be 540 mm. The stem 102 may have 0% length when the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 may be 0 and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106 may be 0. This indicates that the stem 102 may completely worn out which further indicates that the article is completely worn out.
The processing circuitry 116 may be disposed behind the base portion 108. Specifically, the processing circuitry 116 may be disposed at a side that may be away from the stem 102. The processing circuitry 116 may be coupled to the photodetector 114. The processing circuitry 116 may be configured to receive the electric signal. Specifically, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to receive the electric signal from the photodetector 114. The processing circuitry 116 may be configured to determine a wear level of the stem 102 such that the wear level of the stem 102 corresponds to the wear of the article. Specifically, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to determine the wear level of the stem 102 based on the electric signal that may correspond to the reflected versions of the first and second laser beams or the distance travelled by the first and second laser beams in the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106, respectively. In other words, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to determine the wear level of the stem 102 based on the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106. Preferably, the processing circuitry 116 may be an optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) such that the processing circuitry 116 determines the wear level of the stem 102 by way of an OTDR technique. The processing circuitry 116 may be configured to generate an alarm signal. Specifically, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to generate the alarm signal when the wear level of the stem 102 is equal to a predefined wear threshold. In other words, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to generate the alarm signal when the wear level of the article is equal to the predefined wear threshold. The alarm signal may be received by an alarm unit (not shown) that may be configured to produce an alert sound. In other words, the alarm unit, upon receipt of the alarm signal, may be configured to produce the alert sound such that the alert sound notifies an operator about the wear level of the article. The operator may thereby replace the article upon generation of the alert sound.
FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the stem 102 showing different wear levels of the stem 102, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 2 illustrates the side view of the stem 102 showing three wear levels i.e., first through third wear levels L1, L2, L3 of the stem 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The stem 102 may worn out when the apparatus 100 is deployed in the vicinity of the article. The first wear level (L1) may indicate a first worn-out length of the stem 102 when the apparatus 100 is deployed in the vicinity of the article. In other words, the first wear level (L1) may indicate the first worn-out length of the article when the apparatus 100 is deployed in the vicinity of the article. The second wear level (L2) may indicate a second worn-out length of the stem 102 when the apparatus 100 is deployed in the vicinity of the article. In other words, the second wear level (L2) may indicate the second worn-out length of the article when the apparatus 100 is deployed in the vicinity of the article. The third wear level (L3) may indicate a third worn-out length of the stem 102 when the apparatus 100 is deployed in the vicinity of the article. In other words, the third wear level (L3) may indicate the third worn-out length of the article when the apparatus 100 is deployed in the vicinity of the article. The third wear level (L3) may indicate replacement of the worn-out article with a new article. In other words, the predefined wear threshold may correspond to the third wear level (L3). In such a scenario, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to generate the alarm signal. Specifically, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to generate the alarm signal when the stem 102 worn-out till the third wear level (L3). The alarm signal may be received by the alarm unit that may notify the operator about the third wear level (L3) of the article. The operator may thereby replace the worn-out article that may be worn out till the third wear level (L3) with the new article.
In some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the stem 102 may have a length of 200 millimeters (mm). The first through third worn-out lengths may be 40 mm each. In other words, the first worn-out length may be 40 mm such that a remaining length of the stem 102 becomes 160 mm. The second worn-out length may be 40 mm such that the remaining length of the stem 102 becomes 120 mm. The third worn-out length may be 40 mm such that the remaining length of the stem 102 becomes 80 mm. In such a scenario, the predefined wear threshold may be 120 mm such that the processing circuitry 116 generates the alarm signal when the remaining length of the stem 102 becomes 80 mm.
FIG. 3A illustrates a sectional view of a liner 302 of a ball mill, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The ball mill may include a hollow cylindrical shell 304 (hereinafter referred to and designated as “the shell 304”). The liner 302 may be disposed along a length of a hollow cylindrical shell 304 (hereinafter referred to and designated as “the shell 304”) of the ball mill. The liner 302 may wear upon rotation of the shell 304. The wearing of the liner 302 may result in decreased thickness of the liner 302. The apparatus 100 may be inserted in the liner 302. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the apparatus 100 may be inserted in a gap that may be formed within adjacent liners of the ball mill. Specifically, the stem 102 may be inserted in the liner 302 to determine wear of the liner 302. The stem 102 may be inserted in the liner 302 such that the length of the stem 102 is substantially equal to thickness of the liner 302. The apparatus 100 may be configured to determine or detect the wear level of the liner 302 during operation of the ball mill. Specifically, the apparatus 100 may be configured to determine or detect the wear level of the liner 302 during rotation of the shell 304.
FIG. 3B illustrates a zoomed view of a section “D” of FIG. 3A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 100 may be encased in a cap 306. Specifically, the apparatus 100 may be encased in the cap 306 that may be coupled to a wall of the ball mill. The cap 306 may be adapted to protect the apparatus 100 from environmental factors, for example, weather conditions, dirt, debris, and the like. During rotation of the shell 304, the stem 102 may undergo wear at different levels. For example, during rotation of the shell 304, the stem 102 may undergo wear at the first through third wear levels L1, L2, and L3. To determine wear of the liner 302, the first and second laser sources 110, 112 may be configured to emit the first and second laser beams, respectively. Specifically, the first and second laser sources 110, 112 may be configured to emit the first and second laser beams such that the first and second laser beams travel in the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106, respectively. The photodetector 114 may be configured to detect the reflected version of the first and second laser beams. The reflected version of the first and second laser beams may correspondingly indicate the distance travelled by the first and second laser beams in the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106. In other words, the reflected version of the first laser beam may correspond to the bounce back of the first laser beam from the first optical fiber cable 104 such that the reflected version of the first laser beam indicates the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable. The reflected version of the second laser beam may correspond to the bounce back of the second laser beam from the second optical fiber cable 106 such that the reflected version of the second laser beam indicates the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106. The processing circuitry 116, upon detection of the reflected version of the first and second laser beams by the photodetector 114, may be configured to determine the wear level of the stem 102. In other words, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to determine the wear level of the stem 102 based on the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106. Preferably, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to determine the wear level of the stem 102 by way of the OTDR technique. Since the length of the stem 102 is equal to the thickness of the liner 302, therefore, the wear level of the stem 102 indicates wear of the liner 302. The processing circuitry 116 may be further configured to generate the alarm signal. Specifically, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to generate the alarm signal when the wear level of the stem 102 is equal to the predefined wear threshold. In other words, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to generate the alarm signal when the wear level of the liner 302 is equal to the predefined wear threshold. The alarm unit, upon receipt of the alarm signal, may be configured to produce the alert sound such that the alert sound notifies the operator about the wear level of the liner 302. The operator may thereby replace the liner 302 upon generation of the alert sound.
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cap 306 may be made up of a material including, but not limited to, plastic, metal, and the like. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of known and later developed materials for the cap 306, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method 400 for detecting wear of the stem 102 of the wear detection apparatus 100 of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method 400 may include following steps to detect the wear of the stem 102 of the apparatus 100.
At step 402, the apparatus 100, by way of the first laser source 110, may be configured to emit the first laser beam. The first laser source 110 may be disposed behind the base portion 108. Specifically, the first laser source 110 may be disposed at the side that is away from the stem 102. The first laser source 110 may be coupled to the first optical fiber cable 104. Specifically, the first laser source 110 may be coupled to the first proximal end 104a of the first optical fiber cable 104. An appropriate circuitry of the first laser source 110 may be configured to perform one or more operations. For example, the first laser source 110 may be adapted to emit a first laser beam. The first laser beam may be created when the plurality of electrons absorb energy from the electric current. The electric current may be provided by way the battery. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the electric current may be provided by way of the alternating current source, the direct current source, and the like. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of electric current source that may provide the electric current to the first laser source 110, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. The electric current may excite the plurality of electrons that facilitate the plurality of electrons to shift from a lower energy band to a higher energy band. Once the plurality of electrons loses their excited energy, the plurality of electrons shifts back to the lower energy bands (original energy states) from the higher energy bands. While the plurality of electrons shifts from the higher energy bands to the lower energy bands, the plurality of electrons emits a plurality of light particles that forms the first laser beam.
At step 404, the apparatus 100, by way of the first optical fiber cable 104 of the optical fiber cable 103, may be configured to receive the first laser beam. The first laser source 110 may be coupled to the first optical fiber cable 104. Specifically, the first laser source 110 may be coupled to the first proximal end 104a of the first optical fiber cable 104. Since, the first laser source 110 is coupled to the first proximal end 104a of the first optical fiber cable 104, therefore, the first laser beam may be adapted to enter the first optical fiber cable 104 from the first proximal end 104a of the first optical fiber cable 104. The first laser beam may be adapted to enter the first optical fiber cable 104 such that the first laser beam travels in the first optical fiber cable 104. In other words, the first laser beam may be adapted to travel in the first optical fiber cable 104 upon entering into the first optical fiber cable 104 from the first proximal end 104a. Specifically, the first laser beam may be adapted to travel from the first proximal end 104a to the first distal end 104b of the first optical fiber cable 104.
At step 406, the apparatus 100, by way of the second laser source 112, may be configured to emit the second laser beam. The second laser source 112 may be disposed behind the base portion 108. Specifically, the second laser source 112 may be disposed at a side that is away from the stem 102. The second laser source 112 may be coupled to the second optical fiber cable 106. Specifically, the second laser source 112 may be coupled to the second proximal end 106a of the second optical fiber cable 106. An appropriate circuitry of the second laser source 112 may be configured to perform one or more operations. For example, the second laser source 112 may be adapted to emit the second laser beam. The second laser beam may be created when the plurality of electrons absorb energy from the electric current. The electric current may be provided by way the battery. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the electric current may be provided by way of the alternating current source, the direct current source, and the like. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to include and/or otherwise cover any type of electric current source that may provide the electric current to the second laser source 112, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. The electric current may excite the plurality of electrons that facilitate the plurality of electrons to shift from the lower energy band to the higher energy band. Once the plurality of electrons loses their excited energy, the plurality of electrons shifts back to the lower energy bands (original energy states) from the higher energy bands. While the plurality of electrons shifts from the higher energy bands to the lower energy bands, the plurality of electrons emits a plurality of light particles that forms the first laser beam.
At step 408, the apparatus 100, by way of the second optical fiber cable 106 of the optical fiber cable (103), may be configured to receive the second laser beam. The second laser source 112 may be coupled to the second optical fiber cable 106. Specifically, the second laser source 112 may be coupled to the second proximal end 106a of the second optical fiber cable 106. Since, the second laser source 112 is coupled to the second proximal end 106a of the second optical fiber cable 106, therefore, the second laser beam may be adapted to enter the second optical fiber cable 106 from the second proximal end 106a of the second optical fiber cable 106. The second laser beam may be adapted to enter the second optical fiber cable 106 such that the second laser beam travels in the second optical fiber cable 106. In other words, the second laser beam may be adapted to travel in the second optical fiber cable 106 upon entering into the second optical fiber cable 106 from the second proximal end 106a. Specifically, the second laser beam may be adapted to travel from the second proximal end 106a to the second distal end 106b of the second optical fiber cable 106.
At step 410, the apparatus 100, by way of the photodetector 114, may be configured to detect the reflected version of the first and second laser beams. The reflected version of the first and second laser beams may correspondingly indicate the distance travelled by the first and second laser beams in the first and second laser beams in the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106, respectively. In other words, the reflected version of the first laser beam may correspond to the bounce back of the first laser beam from the first optical fiber cable 104 such that the reflected version of the first laser beam indicates the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104. The reflected version of the second laser beam may correspond to the bounce back of the second laser beam from the second optical fiber cable 106 such that the reflected version of the second laser beam indicates the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106. The photodetector 114 may be configured to detect the reflected version of the first and second laser beams by way of the photoelectric effect. The photodetector 114 may be configured to convert the optical signal into the electric signal. The reflected version of the first and second laser beams may correspond to the optical signal such that the optical signal may be received by the photodetector material. The optical signal may facilitate ejection of the one or more electrons from the photodetector material upon being received by the photodetector material. The ejection of the one or more electrons from the photodetector material may facilitate generation of the electric current or the electric signal. The generation of the electric signal may therefore correspond to the optical signal that may be received by the photodetector material of the photodetector 114. Therefore, the electric signal may indicate the distance travelled by the first and second laser beams in the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106, respectively. The photodetector 114 may be configured to transmit the electric signal to the processing circuitry 116.
At step 412, the apparatus 100, by way of the processing circuitry 116, may be configured to determine the wear level of the stem 102 such that the wear level of the stem 102 corresponds to the wear of the article. Specifically, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to determine the wear level of the stem 102 based on the electric signal that may correspond to the reflected versions of the first and second laser beams or the distance travelled by the first and second laser beams in the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106, respectively. In other words, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to determine the wear level of the stem 102 based on the distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable 104 and the distance travelled by the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable 106. Preferably, the processing circuitry 116 may be the optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) such that the processing circuitry 116 determines the wear level of the stem 102 by way of the OTDR technique. The processing circuitry 116 may be configured to generate the alarm signal. Specifically, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to generate the alarm signal when the wear level of the stem 102 is equal to a predefined wear threshold. In other words, the processing circuitry 116 may be configured to generate the alarm signal when the wear level of the article is equal to the predefined wear threshold. The alarm signal may be received by the alarm unit (not shown) that may be configured to produce the alert sound. In other words, the alarm unit, upon receipt of the alarm signal, may be configured to produce the alert sound such that the alert sound notifies the operator about the wear level of the article. The operator may thereby replace the article upon generation of the alert sound.
Thus, the apparatus 100 may be easy to operate and may require less maintenance during use. The apparatus 100 may be economical and may have less maintenance cost. The apparatus 100 may easily predict the wear level of the article. The apparatus 100 may be a noise free apparatus i.e., the apparatus 100 may not produce sound during use. The apparatus 100 may be easy to install and may exhibit a plug and play feature. In other words, the apparatus 100 may be easily deployed or removed from a site i.e., near to the article. The apparatus 100 may advantageously predict wear of the article that is installed at a particular location or site of the machinery. For example, the apparatus 100 may advantageously predict the wear level of the liner 302 without removing the liner 302 from the shell 304. The apparatus 100 requires first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106 for predicting wear of the article, therefore, the apparatus 100 may advantageously have longer life. For example, the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106 may have a life span of about 100 years. The apparatus 100 may advantageously facilitate non-contact prediction of the wear of the article. In other words, the apparatus 100 may not require much contact with the article while predicting wear of the article. While predicting wear of the article by the apparatus 100, over all process may not be stopped or halted. In other words, the apparatus 100, while predicting wear of the article, may not require the article to be removed from the site which eliminates the need of halting or stopping the overall process. The apparatus 100 may facilitate transmission of the optical signal in the first and second optical fiber cables 104, 106 up to several ten of kilometers without requiring any signal booster. Thus, the apparatus 100 may have an improved efficiency of predicting wear of the article.
The foregoing discussion of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. In the foregoing Detailed Description, for example, various features of the present disclosure are grouped together in one or more aspects, configurations, or aspects for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. The features of the aspects, configurations, or aspects may be combined in alternate aspects, configurations, or aspects other than those discussed above. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention the present disclosure requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed aspect, configuration, or aspect. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate aspect of the present disclosure.
Moreover, though the description of the present disclosure has included description of one or more aspects, configurations, or aspects and certain variations and modifications, other variations, combinations, and modifications are within the scope of the present disclosure, e.g., as may be within the skill and knowledge of those in the art, after understanding the present disclosure. It is intended to obtain rights which include alternative aspects, configurations, or aspects to the extent permitted, including alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps to those claimed, whether or not such alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to publicly dedicate any patentable subject matter. , Claims:1. A wear detection apparatus (100) comprising:
a stem (102);
an optical fiber cable (103) comprising:
a first optical fiber cable (104) disposed along a length of the stem (102) such that the first optical fiber cable (104) is adapted to receive a first laser beam;
a second optical fiber cable (106) disposed along the length of the stem (102) such that the second optical fiber cable (106) is adapted to receive a second laser beam;
processing circuitry (116) coupled to the first and second optical fiber cables (104, 106) and configured to determine, based on a distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable (104) and the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable (106), a wear level of the stem (102) such that the wear level of the stem (102) corresponds to wear of an article.

2. The wear detection apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first optical fiber cable (104) having a first length and the second optical fiber cable (106) having a second length such that the first length is less than the second length.

3. The wear detection apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a first laser source (110) coupled to the first optical fiber cable (104) and adapted to emit a first laser beam such that the first laser beam travels through the first optical fiber cable (104).

4. The wear detection apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a second laser source (112) coupled to the second optical fiber cable (106) and adapted to emit a second laser beam such that the second laser beam travels through the second optical fiber cable (106).

5. The wear detection apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a photodetector (114) that is coupled to the first and second optical fiber cables (104, 106) and the processing circuitry (116) and configured to detect a reflected version of the first and second laser beams that facilitates the processing circuitry (116) to determine the wear level of the stem (102).

6. The wear detection apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry (116) is further configured to generate an alarm signal when the wear level of the stem (102) is equal to a predefined wear threshold.

7. The wear detection apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a base portion (108) that facilitates connection of the first and second optical fiber cables (104, 106) with the processing circuitry (116).

8. A method (400) for detecting wear of a stem (102), the method (400) comprising:
receiving (404), by way of a first optical fiber cable (104) of an optical fiber cable (103), a first laser beam;
receiving (408), by way of a second optical fiber cable (106) of the optical fiber cable (103), a second laser beam; and
determining (412), by way of processing circuitry (116) coupled to the first and second optical fiber cables (104, 106), a wear level of the stem (102) based on a distance travelled by the first laser beam in the first optical fiber cable (104) and the second laser beam in the second optical fiber cable (106).

9. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, wherein prior to the receiving (404) the first laser beam, the method (400) further comprising emitting (402), by way of a first laser source (110) coupled to the first optical fiber cable (104), the first laser beam.

10. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, wherein prior to the receiving (408) the second laser beam, the method (400) further comprising emitting (406), by way of a second laser source (112) coupled to the second optical fiber cable (106), the second laser beam.

11. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, wherein prior to the determining (412) the wear level of the stem (102), the method (400) further comprising detecting (410), by way of a photodetector (114) coupled to the first and second optical fiber cables (104,106) and the processing circuitry (116), the reflected versions of the first and second laser beams.