The Queensland Centre for Advanced Technologies (QCAT) is the home of CSIRO's Mining ICT & Automation Research Theme. There are approximately 20 people at QCAT including students, researchers and technical people all focussed on mining ICT, automation and mine communicatins. QCAT provides considerable research & development facilities that allow us to model and mimic mining environments for the development of automation technology prior to installation at minesites.

The staff are able to solve technical problems within the Mining Industry that respond to the application of computers and other programmable devices (hardware & software), electronic communication, robotics and automatic control of all forms of mining equipment. In collaboration with other parties both internal and external, the group is able to develop new automated mining techniques. The work of the automation group spans metalliferous and coal, both surface and underground.

Staff have backgrounds from the mining industry, telecommunications, defence, process control, academia and private sector enterprises. Some have experience in both technical and management roles within the mining industry. They have a good understanding of the issues facing the industry and how technology from other industries can be transferred. Some research projects are also undertaken for other industrial sectors. One member of the group is also responsible for the Gold Commodity focus team.

While this "Industrial" research is applied and "in the field", there is significant ability to undertake theoretical work where required to solve industrial problems.

A range of projects is undertaken for and sometimes in collaboration with: Industry bodies, mining companies, contractors, equipment suppliers, universities and other government agencies. Strong links are maintained with local and international bodies.

Commercialisation of technology to ensure uptake is a key objective of the work and the staff have a good track record in this area.

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