Localization for autonomous UAVs in underground mining
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | AGIO SYSTEM OCH KOMPETENS I SKANDINAVIEN AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 348 000 |
| Project duration | August 2015 - December 2015 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | The strategic innovation programme for Swedish mining and metal producing industry - SIP Swedish Mining Innovation |
Purpose and goal
The goal of the pre study was to identify and analyze existing technologies for localization, as well as identifying which further developments are needed in order to develop autonomous UAV solutions for underground mining. The goal has been met.
Results and expected effects
From the obtained results, the project team has decided that the project goals and results have been all in line with the aim of this pre study, which was to perform an initial study of the existing localization techniques in a demanding environment, as the production areas in the mines. In fact, the project team, instead of only surveying and theoretical studying this problem has utilized the existing pre study to also perform field trials where the most common utilized sensors in robotics for navigation purposes, have been evaluated and analyzed.
Approach and implementation
The approach used in the project has worked well. Agio has made use of their knowledge of LKABs production process in the mine and LTU has provided knowledge and research for UAV technologies. LKAB has been an important part of the process in order to provide facts about the mine environment and possible scenarios for UAVs in the production process. The field trials were important in order to identify practical limitations and to evaluate the sensors for localization.