A Sandvik Automated Loader Proves its Precision in a Glass Labyrinth

SANDVIKEN, Sweden, Sept. 18, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- In recent years, self-driving vehicles have become a frequent discussion topic. Sandvik has had automated loaders and trucks working in mines for over 20 years — with zero accidents involving people. To prove its capabilities, Sandvik moved things above ground in a new film where they put their latest generation of automation to the test.

In the film, an 11-meter-long, 38-tonne Sandvik mining loader self-navigates through a labyrinth of glass. To prove the feat's realness, Sandvik Group CEO Björn Rosengren takes over the driving at the end and crashes into the glass labyrinth.

Click here to see the film: https://youtu.be/7B2s6C1lAoQ

Click here to see the documentary about the project: https://youtu.be/MdohlxevoT0 

"Some of today's most sophisticated technology is found within Sandvik's different business areas," Rosengren says. "We've always worked close to our customers developing new products and technologies. Going forward we clearly see automation and digitalization as key areas. It will help both Sandvik and our customers to be more productive, efficient and sustainable."

Sandvik´s AutoMine® system means that Sandvik loaders and trucks learn the safest and most efficient route the first time they enter a tunnel. Guided by a set of lasers, the equipment's intelligent system maps out and records a path. Sandvik's patented algorithms, together with its sensors and gyroscopes, ensure the machine knows where to go underground, where GPS is not possible.

"Sandvik automated loaders have been in use for more than 20 years, with over 2 million operating hours underground," says Jouni Koppanen, Senior Systems Engineer for Automation at Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology. "Autonomous systems improve safety and productivity for our customers. For the first time ever the entire cycle can be automated, from loading to hauling and dumping. Nobody has been able to do that before." 

Stockholm, 18 September 2018

Sandvik AB

For more information, please contact:
Martin Blomgren, Press and Media Relations Manager
email: [email protected]
phone: +46-70-577-0549

Press images: https://group.mediabank.sandvik

Facts and figures about the labyrinth: 

Size: 30 x 58 meters

No. of glass walls: 589 glass sheets, each 2.8 meters x 60 centimeters, all recycled after filming

Location: Arctech Helsinki Shipyard in Helsinki, Finland

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SOURCE Sandvik