Sandvik has launched a new underground mining automation platform, which it says represents the most significant overhaul of its AutoMine system in more than two decades.
AutoMine Aura offers a redesigned architecture built on a new navigation system with 3D perception and adaptive intelligence for what the company calls “complete situational awareness with no blind spots.” Sandvik says the new system has already shown productivity gains of more than 15% in what he describes as one of the “toughest underground mines” in the world.
David Hallett, vice president of automation at Sandvik, said this technology is the first of its kind in the industry. “With AutoMine Aura, we’re not building the next version, we’re building an entirely new platform,” he said in a press release. “This underscores what this technology means for our customers and for the future of mining.”
Although clearly looking to the future, Sandvik said the updated platform is still fully compatible with existing operations – and is designed to work alongside existing mining networks and access control systems.
Safety remains a primary focus, according to the company. Aura technology allows operators to supervise and control multiple devices remotely, reducing exposure to dust, noise and vibration. Sandvik added that the intuitive nature of the new interface should improve operators’ awareness of the mining environment.
Aura will first be rolled out to underground loaders, with plans to expand later.
The platform will be on display at Sandvik’s upcoming “Future of Mining” event, taking place September 1-3 in Tampere, Finland.
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