The paper presents the result of studying the possibility of improving the existing technical systems in field of mining engineering. An appropriate methodology is proposed aimed to achieve new improved variants of existing technical solutions. The ∇-model of engineering design for the field of maintenance in mining machines was developed as a modified and improved variant of the V-model. A real process of innovative design was demonstrated through the example of the reconstruction of the belt conveyor drive as part of the SchRs 1400 rotary excavator working on an open-pit coal mine. The parameters for verifying the results achieved through the application of a new technical solution are also shown through the machine maintenance system of the excavator. The new proposed solution is reflected in the shortening of work downtime, increased system readiness, humanization of work, savings in the cost of tools, devices and worker hours, reducing the risk of damage to parts and equipment, reducing the risk of injury at work, reducing the risk of fire, etc. The authors of the paper, through an example attend to present that improved parameters contribute to faster and easier fulfillment of mining production plans, which was one of the main goals of the innovative process.