Robotic systems development for mining automation

Abstract

Progress is reported on the mine automation plan (MAP) that utilizes an underground communications infrastructure to develop applications, using artificial intelligence and robotics, for mining automation. To develop MAP, experimentation is needed with real time monitoring and robot control in the mining environment. Interfaces to artificial intelligence based models are required to automate the mining processes. The process to identify, design, develop, and experiment with methods that fit an overall mine automation strategy are considered in detail. A final feasibility study is underway to define a national research program leading toward the future automated hardrock mine. 2 refs., 13 figs., 1 tab.