Epiroc said it is bringing autonomous truck haulage into 3D, enabling advanced fleet control across multi-level ramps, with the introduction of 3D capability to Epiroc’s Deep Automation.
The capability is for underground operations, enabling orchestration of autonomous truck haulage across complex ramp designs. This breakthrough enhances fleet visualization and traffic coordination, paving the way for safer, more efficient operations at depths previously considered challenging.
The technology was developed and tested at Agnico Eagle’s Odyssey mine in Canada. Johannes Mutamba, global product manager, Deep Automation – Trucks, said the testing at Odyssey demonstrated tangible progress and confirm that the solution is moving in the right direction.
“This innovation paves the way for more efficient and safer operations, and it is encouraging to see the trials progressing successfully,” added Ghislain Couture, superintendent, Automation at Agnico Eagle Odyssey.
With intelligent traffic management logic, deadlocks and delays are eliminated by orchestrating meet-and-pass at predefined meeting points. Automated mine trucks now proactively avoid encounters in narrow drifts where passing is impossible – ensuring smoother traffic flow and uninterrupted operations.
In parallel with this advancement, Epiroc’s Minetruck MT54 S and MT65 S are now also automation-ready, forming a powerful combination for mines looking to automate their underground fleet. The recent upgrades to Deep Automation are also applicable for all underground Scooptram loaders compatible with the system.
Source: Epiroc