\chapter{Introduction}

\section{Motivation}

\subsection{Transportation of Bulk Material}

It is necessary in several industries, including those of mining and manufacturing, to transport bulk material from one on-site location to another. In mining, it may be sand or gravel. In manufacturing, it may be powdered chemicals.

The transportation of this bulk material typically involves the use of a belt conveyor. These belt conveyors are designed especially with the purpose of containing bulk material, as well as applying the necessary forces to transport them. \citep{protogerakis_discussion_2020}\todo{remove test citation}

\subsection{Measuring Bulk Material Flow}

This transportation of bulk material flow introduces challenges into the processing engineering and automation ability of the facility.  This work deals with the specific challenge of measuring bulk material flow on a conveyor.

Possessing this information is important for the proper control and regulation of the conveyor system, as well as for safety functions. Knowing when a belt is overloaded, running empty, or broken may prevent damage to people and machinery.

\subsection{Conventional Belt Scales}

\begin{figure}[h]
        \begin{center}
                \includegraphics[width=0.8\textwidth]{beltscale}
                \caption{A conventional electronic belt scale. Source: \url{https://www.mts-waagen.de/}}
        \end{center}
\end{figure}



The conventional method of measuring bulk material flow in use in the industry today the electronic belt scale. These scales use load cells to translate compression and tension into electrical signals.

These electronic belt scales are robust and proven in the field. However, there are also downsides with this approach.

Firstly, the retrofitting of these belt scales are difficult and costly. \todo{add more info}

Secondly, the cost of the units themselves are high, not including the necessary maintenance and servicing these units require. \todo{add cost examples}



\section{Aims of this Work}

\section{Approach}
