The Tungsten Mining Area faces challenging environmental conditions, including typhoons, heavy rainfall, and cold, damp winters. To optimize operations and navigate these conditions, the mine has implemented smart mining practices, including the collaborative operation of autonomous mining trucks and excavators. In 2023, the mine invested in upgrading its equipment, including the retrofit of CAT336 Backhoe Excavators equipped with advanced AI functions, to further enhance efficiency and productivity.
Challenges
The mining area faces several challenges due to its harsh environmental conditions:
- Weather Impact: Typhoons, heavy rainfall, and cold, damp winters disrupt operations and pose safety risks.
- Operational Efficiency: Slopes of approximately 6 meters in height require specialized equipment and efficient loading processes.
- Productivity Demands: Meeting production demands while ensuring safety and operational efficiency is essential for the mine's success.
Solution
To address these challenges, the mine upgraded its equipment and implemented advanced AI functions:
- Equipment: CAT336 Backhoe Excavator.
- Network: 5G Private.
- AI Functions: Pedestrian Detection, Posture Monitoring, Asynchronous Operation. These features enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity in mining operations.
Implementation
The implementation of the upgraded equipment and AI functions involved:
- Training: Two weeks of comprehensive system training provided by Builder[X] Robotics to familiarize operators with the new technology and optimize loading processes.
- Integration: Seamless integration of the CAT336 Backhoe Excavator with the mine's existing infrastructure and operational processes.
- Customization: Tailoring the AI functions to suit the specific needs and challenges of the Tungsten Mining Area.
Results
The implementation of the upgraded equipment and AI functions yielded significant results:
- Increased Efficiency: Loading time per vehicle reduced from an average of 27 minutes to within 10 minutes, with the quickest time achieved being 7 minutes per vehicle. This effectively tripled productivity within two weeks.
- Operational Capability: The CAT336 Backhoe Excavator effortlessly handles slopes of approximately 6 meters in height, meeting all production demands with ease.
- Safety Enhancement: AI functions such as pedestrian detection and posture monitoring enhance safety for both operators and personnel working in the mining area.
Conclusion
The adoption of advanced equipment and AI technology has transformed operations in the Tungsten Mining Area, enabling the mine to meet production demands efficiently and safely despite challenging environmental conditions. By investing in innovation and collaboration, the mine continues to drive progress in the mining industry.
