The mining industry, a sector with a strong traditional profile, is now ushering in a new era driven by the prospering technology of IoT, AI, and autonomous robots. According to Cámara Rascón, Ph.D. in Mine Engineering and Professor, the key technologies for achieving an authentic “Mining 4.0” world are “automation and robotics, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, sensors specifically designed for the sector, the use of drones, digital twins and virtual reality, and taking advantage of mining cavities for energy transmission and storage.” These technologies are poised to make mining safer, more efficient, sustainable, and less labor-intensive.
Autonomous robots and IoT can be integrated into every stage of mineral extraction, including drilling, blasting, loading, and transportation. Our high-performance edge AI AMR controllers, the ROBOX500 and AIE510-ONX, are engineered to excel in rugged terrain and hazardous mining conditions. With their rugged design, rich I/O interfaces, and superior expandability, they can seamlessly connect to sensors and operate efficiently in mining environments.
Autonomous Haulers
Autonomous haulers are revolutionizing open-pit mining operations by transporting ore and waste material without human intervention. Equipped with advanced sensors for path planning, obstacle avoidance, and GPS tracking, these automated units navigate mining sites safely and efficiently. Unlike human drivers, autonomous trucks can operate 24/7, reduce the risk of accidents, and optimize routes to minimize fuel consumption and boost productivity.
AIE510-ONX: High-performance Edge-AI Platform Designed for AMR and Robotics in Harsh Environments
NVIDIA® Jetson Orin™ NX
Powered by NVIDIA® Jetson Orin™ NX, the AIE510-ONX boasts up to 100 TOPS of AI computing power, enabling it to analyze vast amounts of images. It also supports the NVIDIA Isaac™ Robot Operating System (ROS) SDK for AI-enabled robot development.
Rich I/O Interfaces for Sensors
For seamless integration with numerous sensors on the hauler, the AIE510-ONX features a rich I/O interface. Customers may opt for the GMSL version for long-distance, low-latency connections to cameras and sensors.
Perfect for In-Vehicle Use
The AIE510-ONX is market-ready with the E-mark certificate, making it ideal for in-vehicle use. It supports a wide voltage range from 9 to 36 VDC and features ignition power control, ensuring optimal power efficiency and reliable operation. To withstand harsh outdoor environments, the AIE510-ONX supports a wide operating temperature range of -25°C to +60°C.
Future Autonomous Drilling and Blasting Robots
Drilling and blasting in mining are inherently dangerous activities. By deploying autonomous robots, workers can operate safely from a distance. These robots are equipped with numerous sensors such as GPS and vision systems to aid navigation and path planning. The data generated by these sensors is sent back to the control center, allowing for precise operation and optimization of drilling accuracy and speed.
Future Exploration Robots
Traditional exploration methods are time-consuming, costly, dangerous, and environmentally unfriendly. With the rise of sustainability and labor shortage, robots have become crucial. They can safely explore unstable and flooded tunnels, protecting workers from life-threatening dangers. These exploration robots come in various forms, such as rover-type robots, drones, and submarine robots, all equipped with sensors and cameras and wireless connectivity to transmit data to control centers.
ROBOX500: AMR Controller for Heavy-Duty Industries with M12 Connectors and GMSL Interface
12th Gen Intel® Core™ & AI Module
The ROBOX500 is powered by high-performance 13th/12th Gen Intel® Core™ i7 processors, featuring a low-power design with a TDP of 15W/28W. It supports a scalable AI module with an M.2 Key M 2242 slot, making it ideal for autonomous robots. Engineered to handle intricate data processing, it excels in environment sensing and real-time decision-making.
4-ch GMSL for Sensors & Cameras
GMSL enables high-speed, low-latency data transmission, allowing robots to perceive real-time environmental change. The system’s comprehensive I/O features an M12 lockable design, ensuring secure and reliable connections to external devices such as 3D Lidar sensors, GPS modules, odometers, and emergency brakes.
Rugged Design with 9-60 VDC Input
Every detail on the ROBOX500 is engineered for heavy-duty performance, including longer and thicker cooling fins, 5G anti-vibration capability, and M12-type lockable connectors. To ensure smooth operation in diverse environments, the ROBOX500 supports a wide power input range of 9 to 60 VDC and operates efficiently in temperatures from -40°C to +70°C.
AMR Builder Package: A Full Package to Accelerate Your Time-to-Market
Our AMR Builder Package aims to accelerate time-to-market through a complete support program. It includes an AMR controller, ROS 2 software package, sensor kits, and development support services including reference design and design guide, providing easy system development and deployment to our customers.
