Mine Automation

Purpose and goal

The objective of the project was to map on-going FoI activities in the industry, linking to the vision of the ZEPA (Zero Entry Production Area) Work Package in the SMIFU pre-study that ended 2012, as well as producing project proposals that descend with the goal achievement of ZEPA; the remote and autonomous mine. A number of highly relevant industrial national actors in the field have conducted constructive dialogues in the project and have been helpful in mapping out what happened after the SMIFE and participated in the project resulting in two recently launched preliminary studies.

Expected results and effects

Discussions with partners in the project, but also with an external party have resulted in two recently launched preliminary studies linking the vision of ZEPA. Partly a preliminary study aimed at finding a principle for integration of supplier systems into end user IT systems and control room environments that both suppliers and process industries feel comfortable with. Partly a preliminary study aimed at updating ProcessIT Innovation´s mining automation agenda (GRAM), supported by a larger Swedish company that was not a part of the project but participated in the closing workshop.

Planned approach and implementation

The implementation has been carried out by visiting industrial partners and have eye-to-eye discussions with a concluding workshop. The whole set-up is based on the fact that conversations can be conducted in confidence with parties that have the same target image (automation of working machines / increased automation of end plants/mines) and who believe that collaboration results in win-win situations for all parties.