The Mining Automation people at QCAT 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.

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

Some of the particular skill areas are:

• Electronic circuit design and assembly,
• Electronic communication techniques of many kinds and in many media,
• Radio technology and circuit design & testing,
• Design and control of hydraulic and electric powered equipment,
• Navigation and guidance techniques for mobile equipment,
• Robotic technology,
• Design and production of systems containing a range of programmable devices (software and hardware),
• Mining engineering and
• Mechanical engineering.

The research facilities at QCAT allow some mining environments to be simulated and process bays are set-up to allow mining equipment and automation components to be assembled and tested.

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. Research focus areas include:

• Dragline automation
• Truck & shovel
• Digital terrain mapping for automation (including underground openings)
• Robotic functions: ground support, explosive placement
• Coal longwall automation
• Coal roadway & ground support automation,
• Coal highwall machine guidance and control,
• Automated vehicles and fleets,
• Mine communications (including tracking and emergency)
• Automation mining techniques (Horadiam stoping)
• Demonstration and student projects (automated underwater vehicle, tractor and model helicopter)

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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