The need to constantly reinvent operations to optimize safety, sustainability and efficiency has made the case for the digital mine more compelling than ever. Mine operators have ramped up their investments in digital automation – or Mining 4.0 – solutions in recent years, putting themselves at the cutting edge of industrial innovation and transformation.
Mining is a volatile business. Shareholder expectations are high and maintaining investor credibility is key. Because labor and operating costs are proportionately high, there’s constant pressure on workforce to be more productive, efficient and effective. Mining companies often operate in remote and challenging environments, so they need to work hard to protect the terrain and keep workers safe and healthy.
Digital transformation and mine automation can support smart mining applications that deliver significant rewards. Advances in the industrial Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, machine learning and augmented and virtual reality make it possible to improve decision-making, drive autonomous trucks, track assets and monitor operations to ensure safe conditions.
