Definition, Connotation, and Development Path of Intelligent Flotation Machines

In recent years, with the deterioration of mineral resource endowment and the development of intelligent technologies, traditional flotation machine technology has been rapidly integrated with cutting-edge technologies, such as modern sensing, artificial intelligence, big data, and the Internet of Things. This integration aims to improve the efficiency and controllability of the flotation process, thereby driving the transformation of the mineral processing field toward intelligent, automated, and green directions. However, as a new development, intelligent flotation machines have not yet achieved a unified and clear understanding. This study interprets intelligent flotation machines from three aspects: definition, connotation, and development path. The core characteristics of intelligent flotation machines have been proposed, including self-sensing and self-diagnosis abilities in the whole spatial domain, data-based intelligent control algorithms, predictive maintenance of core components, and coordination of global and local optimization in flotation processes. This study identifies the current challenges faced by intelligent flotation machines, and proposes the future development paths, including enhancing the comprehensive monitoring and intelligent regulation of flotation parameters, improving equipment fault prediction and precise localization, and achieving unmanned operations and intelligent maintenance. By continuously optimizing and refining the design and application of intelligent flotation machines, they can play an increasingly important role in the sustainable development of the mining industry.