Canadian-based ARLYX Technologies has released what is says is the first complete autonomous solution for material handling in underground operations, and one which can operate continuously, even during blasting periods.
The fully electric solution was developed over two years in Quebec and tested under real conditions at a Tier 1 mine. Its utility vehicle and AutoLatch module handle transport, loading, and unloading of up to 4,500 kg remotely and without interruption, even during blasting periods.
Turning downtime into productivity
Post‑blast ventilation represents one of the most significant productivity losses in underground mining. ARLYX turns these interruptions into working hours by delivering consumables — rock bolts, pipes, concrete, and more — while workers are evacuated. Materials are in place when crews return.
By shifting material handling to blasting periods, ARLYX frees up the ramp during production shifts, allowing ore trucks to move without slowdown. The result: one additional ore load per day, worth up to $27M in estimated annual gains.
“Ramp congestion is the bottleneck of every underground mine. Every day, hours and thousands of dollars are left on the table. ARLYX is the first to tackle the problem at its source by clearing the ramp,” said Michael Simard, founder and CEO.
Toward the mine of the future: zero‑entry and electric
As extraction goes deeper and conditions grow more demanding, underground mine automation reduces miners’ exposure to on‑site hazards. An ARLYX autonomous vehicle helps reduce incidents and production downtime, as well as addressing labour shortages. A single teleoperator can oversee up to ten ARLYX vehicles simultaneously.
As the price of diesel fuel continues to rise, electric vehicles like ARLYX’s offer a clear economic advantage. Its zero emissions reduce the need for underground ventilation — the largest operating expense in a mine. Its simplified mechanics reduce maintenance needs while supporting decarbonization goals.
ARLYX can integrate seamlessly into existing mine infrastructure (LTE, 5G, Wi‑Fi, or radio) in a fully agnostic manner. From connectivity and software to on‑the‑ground support, the solution is backed by specialists in both robotics and IoT.
Multiple patents are pending for ARLYX’s autonomous transport solution, whose modular architecture is designed to evolve. The engineering team is already at work on additional modules: fire suppression, dust control, and ore transport.
Source: arlyx.com