Investigation of factors affecting functionality and usability of teleoperated mobile equipment in underground mines

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Teleoperation and automation of mobile underground mining equipment has a potential to enable ore extraction in difficult and hazardous conditions, extend operation time, limit equipment abuse, drive maintenance cost down, reduce man-labour and, eventually, cut production cost. The fact that only a limited amount of research has been done to investigate different aspects of equipment effectiveness may be one of the reasons behind some failed automation attempts. In this context, the main long term objective of this research is to develop models enabling precise quantitative and qualitative assessment of the factors affecting functionality and usability of teleoperated equipment and processes. These are related mainly to reliability, maintainability, availability, utilization, productivity and effectiveness. The approach is based on a holistic view of teleoperated equipment and process operation under the unique conditions of underground mining environment seen from a broader perspective than in previous research. The above mentioned factors will be identified, classified and their criticality will be investigated. The studies will be done first at the individual piece of equipment (for example LHD) level and then at the process (loading, haulage, drilling) level. Subsequently, it will become possible to develop a simulation model (or models), test and validate it. This will enable a detailed analysis, sensitivity studies and assessment of teleoperated equipment/system functionality and usability in a given operational environment. The model(s) and guidelines to be developed will assist mine operators, equipment manufacturers and other parties in their decision making and finding optimal solutions through better anticipation, prevention and/or mitigation of potential risks to the teleoperation projects. This will increase a competitiveness of Canadian metal mines. The proposed work will also pave the way for next ones aimed at the investigation of functionality and usability at higher levels of the control hierarchy, i.e. whole mine operations based on the teleoperated /telerobotized equipment and, ultimately, at the enterprise level. These projects will also include an investigation of cost effectiveness aspects.