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Title:
A FEEDING SYSTEM AND METHOD
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2024/064990
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to a feeding system and method, and in particular an improved feeding system and method for feeding separation or filtration device(s). The improved feeding system for feeding material into one or more separation devices including: a pump in communication with the one or more separation devices; and a control system in communication with the pump, wherein the control system is configured to automate operations of the pump based on one or more requirements of the one or more separation devices. The improved method includes: providing feeding material to a pump; receiving one or more requirements of at least one of one or more separation devices; automating operations of the pump based on the one or more requirements; and feeding the feeding material to the at least one of the one or more separation devices based on a first operation of the pump.

Inventors:
QIN GUOFANG (AU)
YUE QIANG (AU)
FENG DINGWU (AU)
YU YANG (AU)
LIN YANGFAN (AU)
YANG SHIJIAN (AU)
SONG YONGSHENG (AU)
Application Number:
PCT/AU2022/051164
Publication Date:
April 04, 2024
Filing Date:
September 29, 2022
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
SINO IRON HOLDINGS PTY LTD (AU)
International Classes:
B01D25/00; B01D25/12
Foreign References:
CN211097720U2020-07-28
CN111804022A2020-10-23
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
ALLENS PATENT & TRADE MARK ATTORNEYS (AU)
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Claims:
CLAIMS 1. A feeding system for feeding material into one or more separation devices, the feeding system including: a pump in communication with the one or more separation devices; and a control system in communication with the pump, wherein the control system is configured to automate operations of the pump based on one or more requirements of the one or more separation devices. 2. The feeding system according to claim 1, wherein, when at least one separation device of the one or more separation devices needs to be fed, the control system is configured to send a first pump signal to the pump to provide flow to the at least one separation device. 3. The feeding system according to claim 2, wherein, upon receiving the first pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor input frequency at a first predetermined frequency value so that the at least one separation device is fed with the material. 4. The feeding system according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, upon receiving the first pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor until a pressure reaches a first predetermined pressure value so that the at least one separation device is fed with the material. 5. The feeding system according to claim 4, wherein the pump is configured to receive a feedback signal for adjusting its motor frequency so that the pressure reaches the first predetermined pressure value. 6. The feeding system according to any one of the preceding claims, further including one or more feeding valves, wherein each of the one or more feeding valves is in communication with a corresponding separation device of the one or more separation devices. 7. The feeding system according to claim 6, wherein, when at least one separation device of the one or more separation devices needs to be fed, the control system is configured to send a first feeding valve signal to at least one feeding valve corresponding to the at least one separation device that needs to be fed. 8. The feeding system according to claim 7, wherein, upon receiving the first feeding valve signal, the at least one feeding valve is configured to open. 9. The feeding system according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the first pump signal and/or the first feeding valve signal indicate one or more requirements for feeding the at least one separation device. 10. The feeding system according to claim 9, wherein the first predetermined frequency value and/or the first predetermined pressure value are based on the one or more requirements for feeding the at least one separation device. 11. The feeding system according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the one or more requirements for feeding the at least one separation device include the number of separation devices needing to be fed. 12. The feeding system according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the one or more requirements for feeding the at least one separation device include which separation device(s) needing to be fed. 13. The feeding system according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the one or more requirements for feeding the at least one separation device include a pressure requirement. 14. The feeding system according to claim 1, wherein, when a separation device of the one or more separation devices needs to be fed, the control system is configured to determine if there are any separation devices being fed. 15. The feeding system according to claim 14, wherein, if it is determined that there are no separation devices being fed, the control system is configured to send a first pump signal to the pump to provide flow to the separation device.

16. The feeding system according to claim 15, wherein, upon receiving the first pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor input frequency at a first-type predetermined frequency value so that the separation device is fed with the material. 17. The feeding system according to claim 15 or claim 16, wherein, upon receiving the first pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor until a pressure reaches a first-type predetermined pressure value so that the separation device is fed with the material. 18. The feeding system according to claim 17, wherein the pump is configured to receive a feedback signal for adjusting its motor frequency so that the pressure reaches the first- type predetermined pressure value. 19. The feeding system according to any one of claims 14 to 18, further including one or more feeding valves, wherein each of the one or more feeding valves is in communication with a corresponding separation device of the one or more separation devices. 20. The feeding system according to claim 19, wherein, if it is determined that there are no separation devices being fed, the control system is configured to send a first feeding valve signal to a feeding valve corresponding to the separation device to be fed. 21. The feeding system according to claim 20, wherein, upon receiving the first feeding valve signal, the feeding valve is configured to open. 22. The feeding system according to claims 15 to 21, wherein the first pump signal and/or first feeding valve signal indicate one or more requirements for feeding the separation device. 23. The feeding system according to any one of claims 16 to 22, wherein the first-type predetermined frequency value and/or the first-type predetermined pressure value are based on the one or more requirements for feeding the separation device.

24. The feeding system according to claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the one or more requirements for feeding the separation device include which separation device needing to be fed. 25. The feeding system according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the one or more requirements for feeding the separation device include a pressure requirement. 26. The feeding system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, when terminating feeding process for at least one separation device of the one or more separation devices, the control system is configured to send a second pump signal to the pump to terminate flow to the at least one separation device. 27. The feeding system according to claim 26, wherein, upon receiving the second pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor input frequency at a second-type predetermined frequency value so that feeding to the at least separation device is terminated. 28. The feeding system according to claim 26 or claim 27, wherein, upon receiving the second pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor until a pressure reaches a second-type predetermined pressure value so that feeding to the at least separation device is terminated. 29. The feeding system according to claim 28, wherein the pump is configured to receive a feedback signal for adjusting its motor frequency so that the pressure reaches the second-type predetermined pressure value. 30. The feeding system according to any one of claims 6 to 13 or claims 19 to 29, wherein, when terminating feeding process for at least one separation device of the one or more separation devices, the control system is configured to send a second feeding valve signal to at least one feeding valve corresponding to the at least one separation device. 31. The feeding system according to claim 30, wherein, upon receiving the second feeding valve signal, the at least one feeding valve is configured to close.

32. The feeding system according to any one of claims 26 to 31, wherein the second pump signal and/or second feeding valve signal indicate one or more requirements for terminating the feeding process for the at least one separation device. 33. The feeding system according to claim 32, wherein the second-type predetermined frequency value and/or the second-type predetermined pressure value are based on the one or more requirements for terminating the feeding process for the at least one separation device. 34. The feeding system according to claim 32 or claim 33, wherein the one or more requirements for terminating the feeding process for the at least one separation device include the number of separation devices needing the feeding process to be terminated. 35. The feeding system according to any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein the one or more requirements for terminating the feeding process for the at least one separation device include which separation device(s) needing the feeding process to be terminated. 36. The feeding system according to any one of claims 32 to 35, wherein the one or more requirements for terminating the feeding process for the at least one separation device include a pressure requirement. 37. The feeding system according to any one of the preceding claims, further including at least one drain valve positioned before and/or after the pump. 38. The feeding system according to claim 37, wherein the control system is configured to send a drain valve signal to the at least one drain valve. 39. The feeding system according to claim 38, wherein, upon receiving the drain valve signal, the at least one drain valve is configured to open to allow the material to be drained out of the feeding system and/or the one or more separation devices. 40. The feeding system according to any one of claims 37 to 39, wherein the control system is configured to send a third pump signal to the pump.

41. The feeding system according to claim 40, wherein, upon receiving the third pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor input frequency at a third-type predetermined frequency value so that the material is drained out of the feeding system and/or the one or more separation devices. 42. The feeding system according to claim 40 or claim 41, wherein, upon receiving the third pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor until a pressure reaches a third-type predetermined pressure value so that the material is drained out of the feeding system and/or the one or more separation devices. 43. The feeding system according to claim 42, wherein the pump is configured to receive a feedback signal for adjusting its motor frequency so that the pressure reaches the third- type predetermined pressure value. 44. The feeding system according to any one of the preceding claims, further including one or more pressure sensors. 45. The feeding system according to claim 44, wherein the control system is configured to send a pressure sensor signal to the one or more pressure sensors. 46. The feeding system according to claim 45, wherein, upon receiving the pressure sensor signal, the one or more pressure sensors are configured to measure a pressure and indicate if the pressure is a predetermined pressure value. 47. The feeding system according to claim 46, wherein the predetermined pressure value is the first predetermined pressure value according to claims 4 and 5, the first-type predetermined pressure value according to claims 17 and 18, the second-type predetermined pressure value according to claims 28 and 29, and/or the third-type predetermined pressure value according to claims 42 and 43. 48. The feeding system according to any one of the preceding claims, further including a blind plate for blocking a pipeline system of the feeding system.

49. The feeding system according to any one of the preceding claims, further including an input valve followed by the pump. 50. The feeding system according to claim 49, wherein the input valve remains open while the one or more separation devices are in operation. 51. The feeding system according to claim 49 or claim 50, wherein the input valve is configured to close when the pump is under maintenance or testing. 52. The feeding system according to any one of claims 49 to 51, wherein the control system is configured to control operations of the input valve. 53. A method including: (a) providing feeding material to a pump; (b) receiving one or more requirements of at least one of one or more separation devices; (c) automating operations of the pump based on the one or more requirements; and (d) feeding the feeding material to the at least one of the one or more separation devices based on a first operation of the pump. 54. The method according to claim 53, wherein the first operation of the pump is according to a first-type predetermined pressure value that the pump generates. 55. The method according to claim 53 or 54, wherein the feeding material includes a mixture of solids and liquids. 56. The method according to any one of claims 53 to 55, wherein the feeding material includes magnetite. 57. The method according to any one of claims 53 to 56, further including: (e) separating, by the at least one of the one or more separation devices, the feeding material to provide one or more filtered products.

58. The method according to any one of claims 53 to 57, wherein the one or more requirements include the number of separation devices needing to be fed, which separation device(s) needing to be fed, and/or a pressure requirement. 59. The method according to any one of claims 53 to 58, wherein step (c) is based on one or more control signals received at the pump. 60. The method according to claim 59, wherein the one or more control signals include a signal sent from a control system based on the one or more requirements of at least one of the one or more separation devices. 61. The method according to claim 59 or claim 60, wherein the one or more control signals include a signal sent from one or more pressure sensors based on a predetermined pressure value, wherein the predetermined pressure value is based on the one or more requirements of at least one of the one or more separation devices. 62. The method according to any one of claims 53 to 61, further including: (f) terminating step (d) based on a second operation of the pump. 63. The method according to claim 62, wherein the second operation of the pump is according to a second-type predetermined pressure value that the pump generates. 64. The method according to claim 63, wherein the first-type predetermined pressure value is larger than the second-type predetermined pressure value. 65. The method according to any one of claims 53 to 64, further including: (g) draining out the feeding material based on a third operation of the pump. 66. The method according to claim 65, wherein the third operation of the pump is according to a third-type predetermined pressure value that the pump generates. 67. The method according to claim 65 or 66, wherein the pump is not in operation in the third operation.

68. The method according to any one of claims 65 to 67, wherein step (g) includes opening at least one drain valve positioned before and/or after the pump.

Description:
A FEEDING SYSTEM AND METHOD TECHNICAL FIELD [001] The present disclosure relates to a feeding system and method, and in particular a feeding system and method for feeding separation or filtration device(s). BACKGROUND [002] In many applications, materials with a mixture of solids and liquids (e.g. slurries) may require separation of the liquids and solids to produce one or more products. The one or more products may include the liquid itself and/or one or more of the solids of the materials. Such applications may be in the field of, for example, manufacturing, mining and energy generation. Key efficiencies/compromises in completing a separation process may include: i) maximising the service life of the relevant equipment; ii) minimising the required spare parts that may be used to accomplish the separation process; iii) minimising energy consumption; iv) minimising time durations for completing the separation process; and/or v) maximising production of solids and/or filtered liquid per unit filter area, etc. In other words, efficiency in the separation process is dependent upon, amongst other things, the time and energy consumed to complete the separation process as well as the amount of spare parts required for the system. [003] A separation/filtration device (e.g. a filter press) may be used in separation processes. The separation/filtration device generally requires a feeding system for feeding the material to be separated/filtered into the separation/filtration device. In some examples, the material fed into the separation/filtration device may include magnetite and/or other mineral materials. The working efficiency of the feeding system is, therefore, also relevant to the separation process efficiency. In particular, the rate at which materials are delivered by the feeding system, together with the energy and system maintenance associated therewith, can affect the efficiency of the separation/filtration device. In the past, simple control systems have led to feeding systems having inefficient re-circulation loops, over-pumping, additional components (including expensive valves) and more maintenance, part replacement and downtime. [004] Bearing this in mind, the present inventor(s) have developed an improved feeding system and method for feeding separation or filtration device(s). [005] Any reference to or discussion of any document, act or item of knowledge in this specification is included solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any of these matters or any combination thereof formed at the priority date part of the common general knowledge, or was known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which this specification is concerned. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [006] The present disclosure generally relates to feeding systems, components and methods for one or more separation devices. Various embodiments are described that include a pump, operations of which are controlled based on one or more requirements of the one or more separation devices. [007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a feeding system for feeding material into one or more separation devices, the feeding system including: a pump in communication with the one or more separation devices; and a control system in communication with the pump, wherein the control system is configured to automate operations of the pump based on one or more requirements of the one or more separation devices. [008] In some embodiments, when at least one separation device of the one or more separation devices needs to be fed, the control system is configured to send a first pump signal to the pump to provide flow to the at least one separation device. In some embodiments, upon receiving the first pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor input frequency at a first predetermined frequency value so that the at least one separation device is fed with the material. In some embodiments, upon receiving the first pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor until a pressure reaches a first predetermined pressure value so that the at least one separation device is fed with the material. In some embodiments, the pump is configured to receive a feedback signal for adjusting its motor frequency so that the pressure reaches the first predetermined pressure value. [009] In some embodiments, the feeding system further includes one or more feeding valves, wherein each of the one or more feeding valves is in communication with a corresponding separation device of the one or more separation devices. In some embodiments, when at least one separation device of the one or more separation devices needs to be fed, the control system is configured to send a first feeding valve signal to at least one feeding valve corresponding to the at least one separation device that needs to be fed. In some embodiments, upon receiving the first feeding valve signal, the at least one feeding valve is configured to open. [010] In some embodiments, the first pump signal and/or the first feeding valve signal indicate one or more requirements for feeding the at least one separation device. In some embodiments, the first predetermined frequency value and/or the first predetermined pressure value are based on the one or more requirements for feeding the at least one separation device. In some embodiments, the one or more requirements for feeding the at least one separation device include the number of separation devices needing to be fed. In some embodiments, the one or more requirements for feeding the at least one separation device include which separation device(s) needing to be fed. In some embodiments, wherein the one or more requirements for feeding the at least one separation device include a pressure requirement. [011] In some embodiments, when a separation device of the one or more separation devices needs to be fed, the control system is configured to determine if there are any separation devices being fed. In some embodiments, if it is determined that there are no separation devices being fed, the control system is configured to send a first pump signal to the pump to provide flow to the separation device. In some embodiments, upon receiving the first pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor input frequency at a first-type predetermined frequency value so that the separation device is fed with the material. In some embodiments, upon receiving the first pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor until a pressure reaches a first-type predetermined pressure value so that the separation device is fed with the material. In some embodiments, the pump is configured to receive a feedback signal for adjusting its motor frequency so that the pressure reaches the first-type predetermined pressure value. In some embodiments, the feeding system further includes one or more feeding valves, wherein each of the one or more feeding valves is in communication with a corresponding separation device of the one or more separation devices. In some embodiments, if it is determined that there are no separation devices being fed, the control system is configured to send a first feeding valve signal to a feeding valve corresponding to the separation device to be fed. In some embodiments, upon receiving the first feeding valve signal, the feeding valve is configured to open. In some embodiments, the first pump signal and/or first feeding valve signal indicate one or more requirements for feeding the separation device. In some embodiments, the first-type predetermined frequency value and/or the first-type predetermined pressure value are based on the one or more requirements for feeding the separation device. In some embodiments, the one or more requirements for feeding the separation device include which separation device needing to be fed. In some embodiments, the one or more requirements for feeding the separation device include a pressure requirement. [012] In some embodiments, when terminating feeding process for at least one separation device of the one or more separation devices, the control system is configured to send a second pump signal to the pump to terminate flow to the at least one separation device. In some embodiments, upon receiving the second pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor input frequency at a second-type predetermined frequency value so that feeding to the at least separation device is terminated. In some embodiments, upon receiving the second pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor until a pressure reaches a second-type predetermined pressure value so that feeding to the at least separation device is terminated. In some embodiments, the pump is configured to receive a feedback signal for adjusting its motor frequency so that the pressure reaches the second-type predetermined pressure value. [013] In some embodiments, when terminating feeding process for at least one separation device of the one or more separation devices, the control system is configured to send a second feeding valve signal to at least one feeding valve corresponding to the at least one separation device. In some embodiments, upon receiving the second feeding valve signal, the at least one feeding valve is configured to close. [014] In some embodiments, the second pump signal and/or second feeding valve signal indicate one or more requirements for terminating the feeding process for the at least one separation device. In some embodiments, the second-type predetermined frequency value and/or the second-type predetermined pressure value are based on the one or more requirements for terminating the feeding process for the at least one separation device. In some embodiments, the one or more requirements for terminating the feeding process for the at least one separation device include the number of separation devices needing the feeding process to be terminated. In some embodiments, the one or more requirements for terminating the feeding process for the at least one separation device include which separation device(s) needing the feeding process to be terminated. In some embodiments, the one or more requirements for terminating the feeding process for the at least one separation device include a pressure requirement. [015] In some embodiments, the feeding system further includes at least one drain valve positioned before and/or after the pump. In some embodiments, the control system is configured to send a drain valve signal to the at least one drain valve. In some embodiments, upon receiving the drain valve signal, the at least one drain valve is configured to open to allow the material to be drained out of the feeding system and/or the one or more separation devices. In some embodiments, the control system is configured to send a third pump signal to the pump. In some embodiments, upon receiving the third pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor input frequency at a third-type predetermined frequency value so that the material is drained out of the feeding system and/or the one or more separation devices. In some embodiments, upon receiving the third pump signal, the pump is configured to operate with its motor until a pressure reaches a third-type predetermined pressure value so that the material is drained out of the feeding system and/or the one or more separation devices. In some embodiments, the pump is configured to receive a feedback signal for adjusting its motor frequency so that the pressure reaches the third-type predetermined pressure value. [016] In some embodiments, the feeding system further includes one or more pressure sensors. In some embodiments, the control system is configured to send a pressure sensor signal to the one or more pressure sensors. In some embodiments, upon receiving the pressure sensor signal, the one or more pressure sensors are configured to measure a pressure and indicate if the pressure is a predetermined pressure value. [017] In some embodiments, the predetermined pressure value is the above first predetermined pressure value, the above first-type predetermined pressure value, the above second-type predetermined pressure value, and/or the above third-type predetermined pressure value. [018] In some embodiments, the feeding system further includes a blind plate for blocking a pipeline system of the feeding system. [019] In some embodiments, the feeding system further includes an input valve followed by the pump. In some embodiments, the input valve remains open while the one or more separation devices are in operation. In some embodiments, the input valve is configured to close when the pump is under maintenance or testing. In some embodiments, the control system is configured to control operations of the input valve. [020] According to another aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a method including: (a) providing feeding material to a pump; (b) receiving one or more requirements of at least one of one or more separation devices; (c) automating operations of the pump based on the one or more requirements; and (d) feeding the feeding material to the at least one of the one or more separation devices based on a first operation of the pump. [021] In some embodiments, the first operation of the pump is according to a first-type predetermined pressure value that the pump generates. [022] In some embodiments, the feeding material includes a mixture of solids and liquids. [023] In some embodiments, the feeding material includes magnetite. [024] In some embodiments, the method further includes: (e) separating, by the at least one of the one or more separation devices, the feeding material to provide one or more filtered products. [025] In some embodiments, the one or more requirements include the number of separation devices needing to be fed, which separation device(s) needing to be fed, and/or a pressure requirement. [026] In some embodiments, step (c) is based on one or more control signals received at the pump. In some embodiments, the one or more control signals include a signal sent from a control system based on the one or more requirements of at least one of the one or more separation devices. In some embodiments, the one or more control signals include a signal sent from one or more pressure sensors based on a predetermined pressure value, wherein the predetermined pressure value is based on the one or more requirements of at least one of the one or more separation devices. [027] In some embodiments, the method further includes: (f) terminating step (d) based on a second operation of the pump. In some embodiments, the second operation of the pump is according to a second-type predetermined pressure value that the pump generates. In some embodiments, the first-type predetermined pressure value is larger than the second-type predetermined pressure value. [028] In some embodiments, the method further includes: (g) draining out the feeding material based on a third operation of the pump. In some embodiments, the third operation of the pump is according to a third-type predetermined pressure value that the pump generates. In some embodiments, the pump is not in operation in the third operation. In some embodiments, step (g) includes opening at least one drain valve positioned before and/or after the pump. [029] Further features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [030] Various preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of examples only, with reference to the accompanying figures, in which: [031] Figure 1 illustrates a simplified schematic diagram of a separation device in the form of a filter press, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; [032] Figure 2 illustrates an schematic diagram of a feeding system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and [033] Figure 3 illustrates another schematic diagram of a further feeding system, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS [034] Figure 1 illustrates a simplified schematic diagram of an exemplary separation/filtration device in the form of a filter press 100. The filter press 100 may be used in separation processes, specifically to separate solids and liquids, and is particularly suitable for processing fine-grained minerals. It, generally, has a small footprint and provides products having a low moisture content. As illustrated in Figure 1, the filter press 100 comprises a set of plates (101A,…, and 101N, collectively 101). Each plate (101A, …, or 101N) includes a chamber 102 covered by filter cloths 103. The set of plates 101 can be compressed by a hydraulic unit 104 (usually a hydraulic cylinder) between a stationary frame 105 and a movable supporting beam 106. The set of plates 101 may also include a space (usually watertight), which may hold the slurry to be compressed. The hydraulic unit 104 allows watertightness between the neighboring plates 101 at joining surfaces. The hydraulic unit 104 assists in balancing the compression on the feed material, which is provided at a certain filling pressure by a feeding pump (not shown in Figure 1) throughout the separation/filtration process. Under this filling pressure, the liquids (or filtrates) pass through the filter cloths 103 and are drained out, e.g. by taps set on each plate (101A, …, or 101N) or by launders or troughs or channels at one end of the filter press 100. In some examples, compressed air is introduced to the filter press 100 to further drive the liquids out. The solids are retained in the chamber and between the filter cloths 103 of each plate (101A, …, or 101N) as a filter cake. The feeding pump is required to regulate its flow rate according to the pressure change by the formation of cakes in the chambers. When the separation/filtration process is completed, the cakes are discharged by backward movement of the supporting beam 106, which leads to separation of the plates 101. In some examples, a plate shifting system with trolleys may be used to automate the cake collection process. [035] It will be understood from above that the separation process may involve multiple steps including, for example, material feeding, initial setting of the separation/filtration device, compressing, air/heat drying, separation/filtration device opening, collection, device cleaning and waiting. More specifically, in the example of using the filter press 100 for the separation process, the involved steps may include low hydraulic pressure closing, high hydraulic pressure closing, slurry feeding, plate compressing, air drying, top blowing, high hydraulic pressure drain, hatch opening, filter opening, hatch closing, cloth cleaning (e.g. washing and vibration), and waiting. The involved steps form a filter cycle. The separation/filtration device may work according to one or more filter cycles as required. A control system (e.g. a programmable logical controller (PLC)) with one or more sensors may be used to automate the sequence of the multiple steps and the timing for each step according to, for example, the feed condition and filtered product requirement(s). Amongst the steps involved in the separation process, the step of material feeding may consume a substantial amount of time, for instance accounting for about 20-25% of the cycle time in the example of using a filter press for the separation process. Therefore, it will be appreciated that any optimisation of the feeding system may facilitate efficiency improvement of the separation/filtration process. [036] The inventors note that, conventionally, while the filter press operates in one or more filter cycles, the feeding pump is relatively simple and always works at full speed. For example, when feeding material through a feeding pipe 108 into the filter press 100, a feeding valve 107 on one end of the filter press 100 is opened and a dumping valve 109 on one end of the feeding pipe 108 is closed. In this regard, the material (e.g. slurry) is fed into the filter press 100. When not feeding the filter press, the feeding valve 107 is closed and the dumping valve 109 is opened, the material (e.g. slurry) is introduced back into a storage unit 110 (e.g. a storage tank). This may not only increase the power consumption of the feeding pump, but also increase wear of the dumping valve 109 due to frequent open and close actions and therefore affect operational efficiency of the separation process and increase associated costs (e.g. for repairing or replacing the dumpling valve). Further, operating the feeding pump at full speed may also continuously create pressure within the pipeline, resulting in reduced service life of the feeding pump and/or pipeline. In addition, the maximum size of the dumping valve (e.g. with a diameter of 100mm) may limit the size of the feeding pipe, which may in turn limit the feeding speed. [037] Given the importance of avoiding any unscheduled shutdowns in mining operations, together with a preference to maintain conventional technologies, the present inventors have developed a non-obvious feeding system that may assist in providing an improved system and method for feeding material into a separation/filtration device (e.g. a filter press) in a more efficient manner. For example, the time for feeding pump operating in full speed is reduced and/or the energy consumption is reduced. In addition, the use of the dumping valve for introducing the material back to the storage unit (e.g. a storage tank or place) when the separation/filtration device is not fed may be avoided, which may in turn speed up the feeding process by using a feeding pipe with a larger size without the limitation of the dumping valve size and also reduce associated costs for repairing and replacing the dumping valve. Feeding System – Single Separation Device [038] Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary arrangement of a feeding system 200. The blocks represent functional components of the feeding system 200. It will be appreciated that functionality may be provided by distinct or integrated physical components. As shown in the figure key, control signals (e.g. electrical signals), carried by, in this example, electrical conductors, are represented by a solid line connector. These control signals may also be communicated wirelessly. Feeding material flow direction (e.g. along an interconnect pipeline system 207 where the feeding material is transported) is represented by a striped arrow shape. Like connectors and arrow shapes are used in Figure 3 as well to illustrate like control signals and feeding material flow. [039] As shown in Figure 2, the feeding system 200 for feeding material into a separation/filtration device 100A (e.g. in the form of the filter press 100) includes a control system 201 for controlling/automating the operation of the feeding system 200, an input valve 202 followed by a pump 203. In some embodiments, the pump 203 is in communication with the separation/filtration device 100A. The control system 201 is in communication with the pump 203 and is configured to automate operations of the pump 203 based on one or more requirements of the separation/filtration device 100A. In other embodiments, the feeding system 200 may also include a feeding valve 206 following the pump 203. The feeding valve 206 is in (fluid) communication with the separation/filtration device 100A. [040] The control system 201 may include an application specific device configured to perform the operations according to one or more of the embodiments in the present disclosure, such as a configured or configurable programmable logic controller (PLC), or a general purpose computing device with computer readable memory storing instructions and data to cause the computing device to perform the operations. In the instance of an application specific device, the instructions and/or data for controlling operations may be in whole or in part implemented by firmware or hardware elements, including configured logic gates in one or more integrated circuit devices. In the instance of a general purpose computing device, the control system 201 may include one or more processing units (e.g. one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more graphics processing units (GPUs), and/or other computational units) or involve remote processing systems accessible and useable by the computing device, one or more machine readable storage/memory devices (e.g. short term memory and/or long term memory) configured to store instructions and/or data for controlling operation of the computing system and/or feeding system. The control system 201 may also include one or more interfaces configured to interface the computing device with one or more devices (integral with and/or separate from the control system 201) and/or networks through wired and/or wireless connections according to any appropriate standard or proprietary hardware and communications protocols. [041] When the separation/filtration device 100A is in operation, the input valve 202 to the pump 203 remains open. In some configurations (e.g. when the pump 203 in under maintenance or testing), the input valve 202 may be closed, preventing the feeding material from flowing into the pump 203 and/or flowing back to the storage unit 110. [042] In the embodiments where the feeding system 200 includes both the pump 203 and the feeding valve 206, when the separation/filtration device 100A needs to be fed, the control system 201 is configured to send a first signal 2001 (i.e. a feeding signal) to the pump 203 and the feeding valve 206. Upon receiving the feeding signal 2001, the feeding valve 206 is configured to open while the pump 203 is configured to operate with an input frequency of its motor at a first predetermined frequency value. The first predetermined value for the input frequency of the motor of the pump 203, in its first operation, corresponds to a feed pressure required and predetermined for the feeding process. In some embodiments, one or more pressure sensors 204 are used to measure and/or monitor the feed pressure. In these instances, the pump 203, upon receiving the feeding signal 2001, is configured to operate with its motor until the feed pressure reaches a first predetermined pressure value, wherein the feed pressure is monitored and indicated by the one or more pressure sensors 204. The feed pressure or the motor input frequency of the pump 203 may be kept stable, allowing feeding at a constant pressure. In other embodiments, the pump 203 may be configured to receive a feedback signal for adjusting its motor frequency so that a required pressure is provided. For example, the pressure sensor 204 may be configured to provide a feedback signal (not shown) to the pump 203 for adjusting the motor frequency of the pump 203 to a required frequency value based on a predetermined/required pressure for feeding the material into the separation/filtration device 100A. It will be understood that the pressure sensor 204 may facilitate in determining the predetermined/required frequency value for the pump 203. Further, with the assistance of the pressure sensor 204, the required pressure for the feeding process may be used even when the motor frequency of the pump 203 is not accurate in indicating the corresponding pressure, e.g. due to wear and tear of the pump 203 or any other type of attenuation within the feeding system. For example, a pressure of X Pa is required for feeding the material into the separation/filtration device 100A. The feeding system with a brand new pump operating at a motor frequency of Y Hz and without any sources of attenuation may be able to provide the required X Pa of pressure. With wear and tear of the pump and/or other sources of attenuation within the feeding system, the pump operating at the motor frequency of Y Hz may only provide a pressure of X' Pa, which is smaller than X Pa (i.e. X' < X). In this regard, the pressure sensor 204 may be configured to send the feedback signal to the pump 203 for adjusting the motor frequency to an appropriate value so that the required pressure of X Pa is provided for feeding the separation/filtration device 100A. An alert signal may also be provided to indicate that the pump requires attention. [043] As a result, the material in the storage unit 110 is transported/fed into the separation/filtration device 100A in the interconnect pipeline system 207 as illustrated in Figure 2. It will be understood that the control system 201 may be configured to send different signals to the pump 203 and the feeding valve 206 to perform the operations as discussed above. In this regard, the first signal 2001 may comprise a first pump signal and/or a first feeding valve signal that may form one signal or separate signals. In the examples where separate signals are used, the control system 201 is configured to send the first pump signal to the pump 203 to provide flow to the separation/filtration device 100A and/or to send the first feeding valve signal to the feeding valve 206. [044] In the embodiments where the feeding valve 206 is omitted, when the separation/filtration device 100A needs to be fed, the control system 201 is configured to send the first signal 2001 (i.e. the first pump signal) to the pump 203 to provide flow to the separation/filtration device 100A. Upon receiving the first signal 2001, the pump 203 is configured to operation in accordance with the description in the above paragraph. As a result, the material in the storage unit 110 is transported/fed into the separation/filtration device 100A in the interconnect pipeline system 207 as illustrated in Figure 2. [045] For terminating the feeding process, in the embodiments where the feeding system 200 includes both the pump 203 and the feeding valve 206, the control system 201 is configured to send a second signal 2002 (i.e. a terminating signal) to the pump 203 and the feeding valve 206. Upon receiving the second signal 2002, the second feeding valve 206 to the separation/filtration device 100A is configured to close, and the pump 203 is configured to provide a second operation with the motor input frequency at a second predetermined frequency value or until the pressure reaches a corresponding second predetermined pressure value and kept stable. The pump 203 is then configured to stay in a standby mode with the motor input frequency at the second predetermined frequency value when the separation/filtration device 100A is not fed. The second predetermined frequency value is smaller than the first predetermined frequency value. Correspondingly, the second predetermined pressure value is smaller than the first predetermined pressure value. It will be understood that the control system 201 may be configured to send different signals to the pump 203 and the feeding valve 206 to perform the operations as discussed above. In this regard, the second signal 2002 may comprise a second pump signal and/or a second feeding valve signal that may form one signal or separate signals. In the examples where separate signals are used, the control system 201 is configured to send the second pump signal to the pump 203 to terminate flow to the separation/filtration device 100A and/or to send the second feeding valve signal to the feeding valve 206. [046] In the embodiments where the feeding valve 206 is omitted, the control system 201 is configured to send the second signal 2002 (i.e. the second pump signal) to the pump 203 for terminating the feeding process. Upon receiving the second signal 2002, the pump 203 is configured to operate in accordance with the description in the above paragraph for terminating the feeding process. [047] In some embodiments, the feeding system 200 may also include at least one drain valve 205 positioned before and/or after the pump 203. In some embodiments, the drain valve 205 positioned before the pump 203 may be connected at a location between the input valve 202 and pump 203 via a T-shape joint pipeline. The drain valve 205 positioned after the pump may be connected at a location between the pump 203 and the feeding valve 206 via a T-shape joint pipeline. [048] In some embodiments, when the separation/filtration device 100A is not fed with the feeding material and/or when the separation/filtration device 100A needs to be maintained, the control system 201 is configured to send a third signal 2003 (i.e. a draining signal) to the pump 203 and the at least one drain valve 205. Upon receiving the third signal 2003, the at least one drain valve 205 is configured to open and the pump 203 is configured to provide a third operation with the motor input frequency at a third predetermined frequency value so that the feeding material is drained out of the feeding system 200 and/or the separation/filtration device 100A to the storage unit 110 or other places (not shown). For example, the feeding material within the pipeline system 207 is discharged or drained back to the storge tank 110 or to other places (not shown). The third predetermined frequency value may be the same as or different from the first predetermined frequency value. In some embodiments, the pump is not in operation (e.g. stops working) in response to the third predetermined frequency value. In this case, the material may be drained out by flushing liquid (e.g. water) into the pipeline system 207 and/or may be self/spontaneously drained out by gravity. It will be understood that the control system 201 may be configured to send different signals to the pump 203 and the at least one drain valve 205 to perform the operations as discussed above. In this regard, the third signal 2003 may comprise a third pump signal and/or a drain valve signal that may form one signal or separate signals. In the examples where separate signals are used, the control system 201 is configured to send the third pump signal to the pump 203 and/or to send the drain valve signal to the at least one drain valve 205. [049] In some embodiments, when the separation/filtration device 100A is not fed with the feeding material and/or when the separation/filtration device 100A is under maintenance (i.e. the pump is not in operation), the control system is configured to send the third signal 2003 to the at least one drain valve 205. Upon receiving the third signal 2003, the at least one drain valve 205 is configured to open so that the feeding material is drained out of the feeding system 200 and/or the separation/filtration device 100A to the storage unit 110 or other places (not shown). In some examples, the material is drained out by lushing liquid (e.g. water) into the pipeline system 207. Additionally or alternatively, the material is self/spontaneously drained out by gravity. [050] In other embodiments, the at least one drain valve 205 may be manually configured to open and/or close. [051] In some embodiments, the feeding system 200, in particular the pipeline system 207, may also include a maintenance valve 208 or blind plate 210 for terminating or blocking the pipeline system 207. In some examples, the control system 201 may be also configured to send the third signal 2003 to the maintenance valve 208. Upon receiving the third signal 2003, the maintenance valve 208 is configured to open so that the feeding material in the pipeline system 207 can be drained out through the maintenance valve 208 to the storage unit 110 or other places (not shown). In other embodiments, the maintenance valve 208 or the blind plate 210 may be omitted. In other embodiments, the maintenance valve 208 or the blind plate 210 may be configured to operate as the drain valve 205 positioned after the pump 203. [052] In some embodiments, the control system 201 may be configured to control operations of one or more of the input valves 202, the one or more pressure sensors 204 and the associated separation device 100A. For example, the control system 201 may be configured to send an input valve signal (e.g. a fourth signal 2004 and/or other control signals) to the input valve 202 for controlling its open and/or close operations. For example, for terminating the feeding process, the control system 201 is configured to send the second signal 2002 to the input valve 202 and the pump 203. Upon receiving the second signal 2002, the input valve 202 is configured to close while the pump 203 is configured to operate with the motor input frequency at the second predetermined frequency value. In another example, the control system 201 may be configured to send a pressure sensor signal (e.g. a fifth signal 2005) to the one or more pressure sensors 204 to activate the one or more pressure sensors 204 and/or to read the pressure results measured by the one or more pressure sensors 204. Additionally or alternatively, the pressure sensor 204 may be configured to provide a feedback signal (not shown) to the pump 203. [053] Figure 2 also illustrates an exemplary configuration that each separation/filtration device (e.g.100A, …, or 100N) is equipment with a feeding system in the form of the feeding system 200. For example, the feeding system 200 as illustrated in Figure 2 is responsible for controlling the feeding process for the separation/filtration device 100A while a feeding system 200N is responsible for controlling the feeding process for the separation/filtration device 100N. The feeding system 200N has the same arrangement as the feeding system 200. In this regard, each separation/filtration device (i.e.100A, …, 100N) is individually controlled by its own feeding system without any interference with other separation/filtration device. Materials in the storage unit 110 are transported to each separation/filtration device in parallel. The exemplary configuration as shown in Figure 2 allows multiple separation/filtration device to be fed simultaneously. Feeding System – One or More Separation Devices [054] Figure 3 illustrates a schematic diagram of a feeding system 300. In Figure 3, like components and features to those described with reference to Figure 2 are shown with like reference numerals. Similarly, the blocks represent functional components of the feeding system 300. It will be appreciated that functionality may be provided by distinct or integrated physical components. The feeding system 300 as illustrated in Figure 3 may allow multiple separation/filtration devices to be fed simultaneously or in a sequential manner (i.e. only one separation/filtration device to be fed at a time). [055] As shown in Figure 3, the feeding system 300 for feeding material into one or more separation/filtration devices 100A, …, 100N (e.g. each in the form of the filter press 100) includes a control system 201 for controlling the operation of the feeding system 300, an input valve 202 followed by a pump 203, and one or more feeding valves (i.e.206A, …, 206N) following the pump 203 in parallel. Each of the one or more feeding valves (206A, …, 206N) is followed by a corresponding separation/filtration device (i.e.100A, …, 100N). The control system 201 is in communication with the pump 203 and is configured to control the pump 203 based on one or more requirements of the one or more separation/filtration devices 100A, …, 100N. [056] When any one of the one or more separation/filtration devices 100A, …, 100N is in operation, the input valve 202 to the pump 203 remains open. In some configurations (e.g. when the pump 203 in under maintenance or testing), the input valve 202 may be closed, preventing the feeding material from flowing into the pump 203 and/or flowing back to the unit 110. In some embodiments, when at least one separation/filtration device of the one or more of the separation/filtration devices 100A, …, 100N needs to be fed, the control system 201 is configured to send a sixth signal 2006 (i.e. a feeding signal) to the pump 203 and at least one feeding valve of the one or more feeding valves 206A, …, 206N corresponding to the at least one separation/filtration device. The sixth signal 2006 may indicate one or more feeding requirements of the feeding process. For example, the one or more feeding requirements of the feeding process include which separation/filtration device(s) needing to be fed, the number of the separation/filtration devices needing to be fed, and/or a feeding pressure required for the feeding process. In one example, when the separation/filtration device 100N needs to be fed, the control system 201 is configured to send the sixth signal 2006 to the pump 203 indicating that only one separation/filtration device needs to be fed and to the feeding valve 206N. In another example, when both of the separation/filtration devices 100A and 100N need to be fed, the control system 201 is configured to send the sixth signal 2006 to the pump 203 indicating that two separation/filtration devices, which are devices 100A and 100N, need to be fed and to the feeding valves 206A and 206N. [057] Upon receiving the sixth signal 2006, the corresponding at least one feeding valve 206A, …, 206N is configured to open, and the pump 203 is configured to operate with the motor input frequency at a fourth predetermined frequency value. The fourth predetermined value for the motor input frequency of the pump 203 corresponds to a feed pressure required and predetermined for the feeding process, which may be dependent on the one or more feeding requirements of the feeding process (e.g. which and/or the number of separation devices needing to be fed). In this regard, as the first predetermined frequency/pressure value(s) and the fourth frequency/pressure predetermined value(s) are both associated with feeding signal(s), the first and/or fourth frequency/pressure predetermined value(s) may be considered a first-type (feeding-type) predetermined frequency/pressure value(s) and vice versa. Similarly, the pump 203 is performing a first operation in the form of feeding. In some embodiments, one or more pressure sensors 204 are used to measure and/or monitor the feed pressure. In these instances, the pump 203, upon receiving the sixth signal 2006, is configured to operate with its motor until the feed pressure reaches a fourth predetermined pressure value, wherein the feed pressure is monitored and indicated by the one or more pressure sensors 204. The feed pressure or the motor input frequency of the pump 203 may be maintained stable, allowing feeding at a constant pressure. In other embodiments, the pump 203 may be configured to receive a feedback signal for adjusting its motor frequency so that a required pressure is provided. For example, the pressure sensor 204 may be configured to provide a feedback signal (not shown) to the pump 203 for adjusting the motor frequency of the pump 203 to a required frequency value based on a predetermined/required pressure for feeding the material into the one or more separation/filtration devices 100A, …, 100N. It will be understood that the pressure sensor 204 may facilitate in determining the feeding-type predetermined/required frequency value for the pump 203. Further, with the assistance of the pressure sensor 204, the required pressure for the feeding process may be used even when the motor frequency of the pump 203 is not accurate in indicating the corresponding pressure, e.g. due to wear and tear of the pump 203. [058] As a result, the material in the storage unit 110 is transported to the at least one separation/filtration device in the interconnect pipeline system 207 in the indicated direction in Figure 3. It will be understood that the control system 201 may be configured to send different signals to the pump 203 and the corresponding feeding valves to perform the operations as discussed above. In this regard, the sixth signal 2006 may comprise a first pump signal and/or a first feeding valve signal that may form one signal or separate signals. In the examples where separate signals are used, the control system is configured to send the first pump signal to the pump 203 to provide flow to the at least one separation/filtration device and/or to send the first feeding valve signal to the corresponding at least one feeding valve. [059] In another embodiment, only one separation/filtration device is allowed to be fed. The control system 201 is configured to determine whether there are any separation/filtration devices being fed before sending a feeding signal. In some examples, such determination is based on the pressure in the pipeline system. In other examples, such determination is based on feeding signal sending history. In other examples, the plurality of separation/filtration devices 100A, …, 100N may communicate to each other indicating their operation status (e.g. feeding/operating, compressing, air drying, standby, etc.). In some embodiments, one of the plurality of separation/filtration devices 100A, …, 100N may be configured to control the operation of another separation/filtration device. For example, when the separation/filtrating device 100A is being fed with the material, the separation/filtration device 100A may be configured to terminate the feeding process for the separation/filtration device 100A. If it is determined that there are no separation/filtration devices being fed, the control system 201 is then configured to send a feeding signal to the pump 203 and the feeding valve corresponding to the separation/filtration device allowed to be fed; otherwise, the feeding signal is not sent. The feeding signal may indicate which separation/filtration device needing to be fed so that the pump may be configured to operate with a motor input frequency at a predetermined frequency value for that separation/filtration device or until a pressure reaches a predetermined pressure value. As discussed above, as the predetermined frequency/pressure value(s) are associated with feeding signal(s), the frequency/pressure predetermined value(s) may be considered the first-type (feeding-type) predetermined frequency/pressure value(s) and vice versa. It will be understood that the control system 201 may be configured to send different signals to the pump 203 and the feeding valve corresponding to the separation/filtration device allowed to be fed to perform the operations as discussed above. In this regard, the feeding signal (e.g. sixth signal 2006) may comprise a first pump signal and/or a first feeding valve signal that may form one signal or separate signals. In the examples where separate signals are used, the control system 201 is configured to send the first pump signal to the pump 203 to provide flow to the separation/filtration device allowed to be fed and/or to send the first feeding valve signal to the corresponding feeding valve. [060] For terminating the feeding process, the control system 201 is configured to send a seventh signal 2007 (i.e. a terminating signal) to the pump 203 and at least one feeding valve corresponding to at least one separation/filtration device that the feeding process needs to be stopped for. The seventh signal 2007 may indicate one or more termination requirements for the termination process. For example, the one or more termination requirements include which separation/filtration device(s) that the feeding process needs to be stopped for, the number of the separation/filtration devices that the feeding process needs to be stopped for, and/or a termination pressure required for the termination process. Upon receiving the seventh signal 2007, the corresponding feeding valve(s) (206A, …, and/or 206N) is configured to close, and the pump 203 is configured to operate with the motor input frequency at a fifth predetermined frequency value and/or until the pressure reaches a corresponding fifth predetermined pressure value (e.g. the termination pressure required for the termination process), which may be dependent on the one or more termination requirements (e.g. which and/or the number of separation devices that the feeding process needs to be stopped for), and maintained stable. In this regard, as the second predetermined frequency/pressure value(s) and the fifth frequency/pressure predetermined value(s) are both associated with terminating signal(s), the second and/or fifth frequency/pressure predetermined value(s) may be considered a second- type (terminating-type) predetermined frequency/pressure value(s) and vice versa. Similarly, the pump 203 may be considered to be performing a second operation. It will be understood that the pump 203 may be configured to receive a feedback signal for adjusting its motor frequency so that a required pressure is provided. For example, the pressure sensor 204 may be configured to provide a feedback signal (not shown) to the pump 203 for adjusting the motor frequency of the pump 203 to a required frequency value based on a predetermined/required pressure for terminating the feeding process for at least one separation/filtration device. It will be understood that the pressure sensor 204 may facilitate in determining the terminating-type predetermined/required frequency value for the pump 203. Further, with the assistance of the pressure sensor 204, the required pressure for terminating the feeding process for one or more separation/filtration device may be used even when the motor frequency of the pump 203 is not accurate in indicating the corresponding pressure, e.g. due to wear and tear of the pump 203. The pump 203 may be configured to stay in a standby mode with the motor input frequency at a sixth predetermined frequency value when no separation/filtration devices need to be fed. The sixth predetermined frequency value is smaller than the fourth predetermined frequency value. Correspondingly, the sixth predetermined pressure value is smaller than the fourth predetermined pressure value. It will be understood that the control system 201 may be configured to send different signals to the pump 203 and the corresponding feeding valves to perform the operations as discussed above. In this regard, the seventh signal 2007 may comprise a second pump signal and/or a second feeding valve signal that may form one signal or separate signals. In the examples where separate signals are used, the control system 201 is configured to send the second pump signal to the pump 203 to terminate flow to the at least one separation/filtration device and/or to send the second feeding valve signal to the corresponding at least one feeding valve. [061] In some embodiments, the feeding system 300 may also include at least one drain valve 205 positioned before and/or after the pump 203at a location different from where the input valve 202 and the one or more feeding valves 206A, …, 206N are connected to the pump 203. [062] When no separation/filtration devices are fed with the feeding material and/or when one or more of the separation/filtration devices 100A, …, 100N needs to be maintained, the control system 201 is configured to send an eighth signal 2008 (i.e. a draining signal) to the pump 203 and the at least one drain valve 205. Upon receiving the eighth signal 2008, the at least one drain valve 205 is configured to open and the pump 203 is configured to operate with the motor input frequency at a seventh predetermined frequency value or until the pressure reaches a seventh predetermined pressure value so that the feeding material is drained out of the feeding system 300 and/or the one or more separation/filtration devices 100A, …, 100N to the storage unit 110 or other places (not shown). In this regard, as the third predetermined frequency/pressure value(s) and the seventh frequency/pressure predetermined value(s) are both associated with draining signal(s), the third and/or seventh frequency/pressure predetermined value(s) may be considered a third-type (draining-type) predetermined frequency/pressure value(s) and vice versa. For example, whilst the pump 203 is performing a third operation, the feeding material within the pipeline system 207 is discharged or drained back to the storge tank 110 or to other places (not shown). In some embodiments, the pump is not in operation (e.g. stops working) in the third operation in response to the third-type frequency value. In this case, the material may be drained out by flushing liquid (e.g. water) into the pipeline system 207 and/or may be self/spontaneously drained out by gravity. It will be understood that the control system 201 may be configured to send different signals to the pump 203 and the at least one drain valve 205 to perform the operations as discussed above. In this regard, the eighth signal 2008 may comprise a third pump signal and/or a drain valve signal that may form one signal or separate signals. In the examples where separate signals are used, the control system 201 is configured to send the third pump signal to the pump 203 and/or to send the drain valve signal to the at least one drain valve 205. [063] In some embodiments, when one or more of the separation/filtration devices 100A, …, 100N is not fed with the feeding material and/or when one or more of the separation/filtration devices 100A, …, 100N are under maintenance (i.e. the pump 203 is not in operation), the control system 201 is configured to send the draining signal to the at least one drain valve 205. Upon receiving the draining signal, the at least one drain valve 205 is configured to open so that the feeding material is drained out of the feeding system 300 and/or the one or more separation/filtration device 100A, …, 100N to the storage unit 110 or other places (not shown). In some examples, the material is drained out by lushing liquid (e.g. water) into the pipeline system 207. Additionally or alternatively, the material is self/spontaneously drained out by gravity. [064] In other embodiments, the at least one drain valve 205 may be manually configured to open and/or close. [065] In some embodiments, the feeding system 300, in particular the pipeline system 207, may also include a maintenance valve 208 or blind plate 210 for terminating or blocking the pipeline system 207. In some examples, the control system 201 may be also configured to send the eighth signal 2008 to the maintenance valve 208. Upon receiving the eighth signal 2008, the maintenance valve 208 is configured to open so that the feeding material in the pipeline system 207 can be drained out through the maintenance valve 208 to the storage unit 110 or other places (not shown). In other embodiments, the maintenance valve 208 or the blind plate 210 may be omitted. In other embodiments, the maintenance valve 208 or the blind plate 210 may be configured to operate as the drain valve 205 positioned after the pump 203. [066] In some embodiments, the control system 201 may be configured to control operations of one or more of the input valve 202, the one or more pressure sensors 204 and the associated separation devices 100A, …, 100N. [067] It will be understood that Figures 2 and 3 only schematically illustrates the exemplary feeding systems and that the number of the separation/filtration devices is not limited in actual application and may be depending on processing capacity requirements. [068] The pump 203 in the disclosed feeding systems 200, 300 can be effectively automated to operate with different motor input frequencies or different pressure based on one or more requirements of the one or more associated separation/filtration devices 100. The different motor input frequencies or different pressure provided by the controlled pump do not only achieve ON and/or OFF states of the pump, together with other modes including standby modes, but also facilitate to provide an automated (including a partially or semi-automated) control system for controlling the feeding process for the one or more associated separation/filtration devices. It should also be appreciated by the skilled person in the art that at least one of the described arrangements may have one or more of the following advantages: a) improved operation efficiency; b) reduced time for the pump 203 operating in full speed (providing reduced energy consumption and extended service life of the pump 203 and/or pipeline system 207, including when material feed having magnetite is used); c) simultaneously feeding multiple separation devices (providing reduced time for feeding multiple separation devices; minimised required components; reduced energy consumption; and/or reduced costs); and d) avoiding the use of dumping valve(s), which is otherwise required in a conventional feeding system, for introducing the material back to the storage tank when the separation device is not fed (providing increased feeding speed by using a feeding pipe with a larger size without the limitation of the dumping valve size; and/or reduced costs for repairing and replacing the dumping valve, which may have an increased wear due to frequent open and close actions in the conventional feeding system). [069] In this specification, adjectives such as left and right, top and bottom, hot and cold, first, first-type, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth, and the like may be used to distinguish one element or action from another element or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order. Where context permits, reference to a component, an integer or step (or the alike) is not to be construed as being limited to only one of that component, integer, or step, but rather could be one or more of that component, integer or step. [070] In this specification, the terms ‘comprises’, ‘comprising’, ‘includes’, ‘including’, or similar terms are intended to mean a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a method, system or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include those elements solely, but may well include other elements not listed. [071] The above description relating to embodiments of the present disclosure is provided for purposes of description to one of ordinary skill in the related art. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to a single disclosed embodiment. As mentioned above, numerous alternatives and variations to the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the above teaching. Accordingly, while some alternative embodiments have been discussed specifically, other embodiments will be apparent or relatively easily developed by those of ordinary skill in the art. The present disclosure is intended to embrace all modifications, alternatives, and variations that have been discussed herein, and other embodiments that fall within the spirit and scope of the above description.