At Vantaz, we see the challenge of initiating this transformation to autonomous operation not only as a technological change, but also as a new way of operating.
Mining is already well on its way to having its operations based on autonomous equipment. That is, in a system through the use of advanced technology and with the support of the global positioning system (G.N.N.S.) that allows for example a fleet of trucks to be able to:
• Navigate through routes and intersections using predefined courses.
• To move within loading areas and to acculturate to be loaded, by means of a course defined by the loading operator.
• Moving around inside dumps, cushioning and unloading.
• To carry out emptying processes in the crusher.
•Optimize fleet allocation by system.
The reasons for advancing in the incorporation of these technologies are of different origins, ranging from improving productivity, improving safety and reducing costs. An example of the latter is the redefinition of the designs of the mines of the future, where this equipment will operate. In fact, the business case is supported by the benefits obtained from the reduction of costs in the new mine designs and optimal circuits, increases in equipment productivity, improvements in maintenance and life cycle of assets, such as increased safety of people, sustainable processes with better control of consumption and emissions and obtaining real-time information of value for the development of predictive models to support continuous improvement.
At Vantaz, we see the challenge of initiating this transformation to an autonomous operation not only as a technological change, but also as a new way of operating. It has new processes, security protocols, ways of interacting, new roles, a broad and much more integrated governance and the adoption of a rigorous discipline. Autonomy impacts virtually all areas of the company, such as planning, mine operations, maintenance, technology, support areas, safety, and the relationship with suppliers and local authorities.
Therefore, we see this transformation starting with a deep work on the operational model that supports the change (including work processes and protocols). This is accompanied by a robust Change Management that must be incorporated from the beginning, involving stakeholders from the different impacted areas to work together with a business perspective. A third component, and very essential, is a complete technological architecture that ensures good control of all variables and a good data highway. For example, a wireless communications network is required to allow data transmission from the control center to the equipment within the autonomous operation zone.
