21st century mining requires 21st century solutions. The digital disruption in mining has turned the industry upside down and forced companies to adopt new strategies. For example, virtual reality (VR) allows for a first-person view of a mine site. Augmented reality (AR) uses an overlay of computer-generated imagery that shows information about a specific mine site or point of interest to the user. With this blog post, we’ll explore the use of augmented reality in mining and what that means for you as an end user or investor.
What is augmented reality in mining?
AR is a type of technology that allows you to view data like a map or diagram overlaid with visuals. In mining, you can overlay information like the timing of when certain elements are happening and where they are in the mine. You can also overlay information like a mine layout to help you better understand certain processes taking place. For example AR is best used when you have a lot of data, but don’t know how best to organize it. This includes data about the environment, equipment in use, and related events. Augmented reality can help you determine if the environment is safe and if equipment is running correctly.
How does augmented reality work in mining?
The first step for using AR in mining is collecting data about the environment as well as equipment in use. So you can overlay visuals such as a map of the mine or a layout of equipment. The next step is to collect data about events and equipment to build a data model. Then, you can use this data model to create a virtual environment. For example, let’s say you have a data model that looks like this: You can then create a virtual environment that shows the map from above, shows the layout of equipment, and attaches the data model to show when certain equipment is running. You can also use AR to overlay information like mine layouts to help you better understand certain processes taking place in the mine. For example, you can overlay the depth and grade of the ore, the location of the crusher, and the location of the loading dock. Check: https://nsflow.com/industries/augmented-reality-in-mining
Benefits of augmented reality in mining
– Better organization of data: With augmented reality, you can better organize data, find relevant information, and make more informed decisions. – Improved safety: Augmented reality can help you see if the environment is safe and if equipment is running correctly. – Increased efficiency: If you can see the equipment and the data on the ground, you can better direct people, such as a superintendent, and recognize when equipment is out of alignment. – Minimized risk and cost: With the use of virtual reality, you can see exactly where you are and potentially see things that are too dangerous or costly to see in real life. – Better collaboration and communication: By using the virtual model, you can communicate with other companies and partners to plan out the work at the mine site. – Easier procurement of materials and equipment: You can access the data model to see if materials are available to make repairs or if equipment is out of alignment. – Increase in efficiency with more people and machines: With virtual reality, you can access the same virtual model and see the same thing, but in a different angle that may give you a better view or access to something you missed before.
Disadvantages of augmented reality in mining
– Data collection is a challenge: You need to have access to data and know what to collect. – Data models are time consuming to create: They need to be accurate and detailed. – Virtual environment requires a lot of computing power: If you want it to be realistic, then it will also come with a hefty price tag. – Virtual environment isn’t real-time: It’s not like playing a video game where you can see things happen instantaneously. You will need to wait until data is processed. – You need to be onsite to use it: If you’re not at the mine site, then you won’t be able to use the technology. – Mining industry is still developing: It’s still developing. It’s in its infancy.
Future outlook for AR in mining
Augmented reality is beginning to gain traction in mining. There are a number of factors driving this trend including the growing need for accurate data, industry consolidation, and the use of AR in other sectors. With the growing need for accurate data, companies have begun to invest in AR technology. Here are a few examples: – Rockwell Automation is developing an AR tool to help its customers locate equipment on their sites. – German metal equipment manufacturer WOLF MINE is using AR to show the health and location of its equipment. – AAR’s new procurement and asset management software will help mine operators make better use of their resources and identify opportunities for cost savings. – While the use of AR in mining is still relatively new, it is expected that the trend will continue to grow.
Conclusion
In the age of digital disruption, companies must adapt to survive. Augmented reality offers a new way to view data, organize data, and make informed decisions. With this technology, you can see the equipment and the data on the ground and make more efficient use of equipment such as lighting and sensors as well as directing people such as a superintendent. With the use of virtual reality technology, you can see exactly where you are and potentially see things that are too dangerous or too costly to see in real life.