Underground Mining Operations With Artificial Intelligence

Submitted by Kristian on Mon, 12/04/2023 - 13:37

Underground mining is an industry fraught with challenges and risks that demand innovative technologies to overcome. Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands out as one of the most promising solutions to elevate productivity and safety within underground mining operations.

AI, a branch of computer science, focuses on creating machines and systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as learning, reasoning, and decision-making. Its applications in underground mining are diverse, ranging from data analysis and equipment monitoring to process optimization and collision avoidance. This article explores how AI can complement the Internet of Things (IoT) system in underground mining, offering significant benefits to both workers and mining companies.

Mining Operations With Artificial Intelligence

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IoT is a network of physical devices and sensors capable of exchanging and processing data via the internet. It enables underground mining operations to gather real-time data about equipment, the environment, and personnel, thereby enhancing efficiency, safety, and quality. However, the full potential of collected data is not maximized by IoT alone; this is where AI comes into play.

Ai Can Aid Underground Mining Operations In Various Ways:

1. Predicting Future Events: AI algorithms, particularly those based on machine learning, can analyze data collected by IoT to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies. By leveraging historical data and context, AI can forecast future events, such as equipment failures and ore grades. This proactive approach helps mines plan ahead, minimizing downtime.

2. Measuring Unmeasurable Data: Utilizing computer vision and natural-language processing, AI can extract data from sources that are challenging to access or measure conventionally, including images, videos, and text. Cameras and sensors, guided by AI, can measure data such as temperature, humidity, and dust, providing valuable insights into the underground environment.

3. Standardizing Productivity Measurements: AI employs data analysis and benchmarking to compare and evaluate productivity and performance across different mining operations, sites, and teams. Dashboards and data visualization tools facilitate communication of results, aiding mining operations in identifying best practices, improving collaboration, and enhancing quality and consistency.

4. Optimizing the Entire Mining Process: AI algorithms can find optimal solutions for complex and dynamic issues like scheduling, routing, and resource allocation. Through simulations and modeling, AI evaluates and tests different scenarios, providing feedback and recommendations to enhance decision-making and reduce costs.

Newtrax Technologies, a Canadian company specializing in underground mining IoT, is a key player providing AI solutions for underground mines. Their network and fleet-agnostic solution contextualizes data collected by IoT from various vendors and sources. Newtrax Technologies has a substantial collection of anonymized data from underground mining clients, used to train and improve its machine-learning algorithm.

 

Mining Operations With Artificial Intelligence

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Newtrax Technologies Showcases The Power Of Ai Through Various Applications:

1. Monitoring and Maintaining Equipment: Newtrax Technologies' AI can monitor equipment, predict potential breakdowns, and detect subtle changes indicating problems. This proactive approach helps mines extend the life of their equipment and reduce maintenance costs.

2. Enhancing Safety and Avoiding Accidents: AI improves the visibility of workers and vehicles underground. Newtrax Technologies utilizes AI in proximity detection and prevention systems, alerting drivers and workers to potential hazards or obstacles. The technology can intervene to stop vehicles if necessary, contributing to asset and worker protection and compliance with safety regulations.

Conclusion

Becker Mining USA recognizes the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing underground mining operations. The synergy between AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) offers unprecedented opportunities to enhance productivity, safety, and efficiency in this challenging industry.

Becker Mining USA acknowledges the significant strides made in monitoring equipment, predicting breakdowns, and advancing safety measures. The demonstrated applications of AI in predicting future events, measuring previously unmeasurable data, standardizing productivity measurements, and optimizing the entire mining process underscore its pivotal role in shaping the future of mining operations.

 

Mining Operations With Artificial Intelligence

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In a hurry? Call us at 276-285-3841

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Becker Mining USA invites you to explore the possibilities of integrating these cutting-edge systems into your mining site. Contact us to learn more about how AI, in collaboration with IoT, can not only mitigate challenges but also drive innovation, collaboration, and sustained success in underground mining.

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