Modern ICT and mechatronic systems in contemporary mining industry

Abstract

The paper deals with modern ICT techniques and systems, and mechatronic systems for mining industry, with particular attention paid to results achieved by the authors and their research groups. IT systems concern process and machinery monitoring, fault detection and isolation of processes and machinery, and assessment of risk and hazards in mining industry. Furthermore, innovative applications of AI methods are addressed, including pattern recognition and interpretation for process control, classification of seismic events, estimating loads of conveyors, and the others. Special attention is paid to applications of mechatronic solutions, such as: unmanned working machinery and longwalls in coal mines, and specialised robots for basic work. Mobile robots for inspecting areas of mines affected by catastrophes are presented, too. Moreover, recent communication solutions for collision avoidance, localisation of mining machinery, and wireless transmission are addressed. The paper concludes with most likely development of ICT and mechatronic systems for mining industry.