Sandvik auto loader conquers glass labyrinth

While driverless systems have only been deployed in mines in the past decade or so, global engineering group Sandvik claims it has had automated loaders and trucks working in mines for over 20 years and has had zero accidents involving people.

Most recently, the company has taken its autonomous technology to the next level by designing machines which are capable of loading material, transporting and emptying all by themselves.

“Years before the automotive industry was even talking about concept vehicles, Sandvik’s self-driving loaders and trucks were already successfully working underground,” said Jouni Koppanen, Senior Systems Engineer for Automation at Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology.

“Sandvik’s self-driving loaders have been in use for more than 20 years, with over two million operating hours underground.

“A benefit with autonomous systems is that we can move people from the environment underground, that can be hazardous, to safe control rooms above ground, improving safety and productivity for our customers.”

To prove the new machines’ mind-blowing capabilities, Sandvik moved things above ground and put its next generation of automation to the test.

In a spectacular film, an 11-meter, 38-tonne Sandvik mining loader navigates through a labyrinth of glass, all by itself. While glass is clearly a different material to the rock walls the loader’s laser sensors are designed for, the loader detects the fragile labyrinth and manoeuvres through its narrow aisles with ease.

Sandvik’s smart loaders are loaded with a plethora of intelligent technology to ensure they learn the safest and most efficient route once they enter a tunnel. Guided by a set of lasers, the vehicle’s intelligent system maps out and records a path.

Sandvik’s patented algorithms, together with the loader’s sensors and gyroscopes, ensure the loader knows where to go underground where GPS is not possible.

“Some of today’s most sophisticated technology is found within Sandvik’s different business areas,” Rosengren said.

“We’ve always worked close to our customers developing new products and technologies. Going forward, we clearly see digitalisation as a key area.

“It will help both us and our customers to be more productive, efficient and sustainable.”

Dimension (L-W-H): 11 x 3 x 3 m

Loading capacity: 14 metric tons

Total operating weight: 38,100 kg

Sensors: Laser scanners, odometers, gyroscopes and angle sensors.

Speed (loaded): 32.7 km/h