LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a powerful tool in mining, particularly in the Advanced Orebody Knowledge (AOK) Programme. Its primary role is to enhance geological mapping, safety, and operational efficiency by providing high-resolution 3D models of underground and surface environments
LiDAR is a game-changer in mining, offering faster, safer, and more accurate geological insights. While challenges exist, continued research, and integration with AI-driven mining solutions are making it a key component of modern, efficient, and sustainable mining practices.
The Stratafy Seeker, developed through Stratafy Solutions’ research and development efforts, is a cutting-edge solution aimed at enhancing mine safety and operational efficiency. By combining photogrammetry, real-time 3D modelling, and AI-driven analysis, it provides a proactive approach to fall of ground prevention and risk mitigation in underground mining.
The Stratafy Seeker is a geotechnical hazard detection system developed as part of the Advanced Orebody Knowledge (AOK) Programme. It was a finalist in the 2022 Fall of Ground (FOG) Challenge, aimed at improving rock hazard identification and visualisation in mining environments. The research and development of this technology is being conducted by Stratafy Solutions.
The Stratafy Seeker uses a three-pronged approach:
Currently in Development
The Integrated Thermal Acoustic Device (ITAD) was developed as part of the Advanced Orebody Knowledge (AOK) Programme, with research conducted by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). This technology aims to enhance underground safety by detecting potentially hazardous loose rocks.
LIBS is a spectroscopic analytical technique used to determine the elemental composition of materials. It involves focusing a high-energy laser pulse on a sample, creating a small plasma on its surface. As the plasma cools, it emits characteristic light wavelengths corresponding to the elements present in the sample.
Challenge
There is a need for Real-Time, On-Site Ore Analysis
Future efforts focus on AI integration, cost reduction, improved durability, and real-time processing to enhance safety and efficiency.
Global Positioning System (GPS) technology is widely used for navigation and location tracking. However, GPS signals cannot penetrate solid materials such as rock and soil, making it ineffective for underground mining and tunneling operations. To address this limitation, Reutech Mining has developed an Ultra-Wideband (UWB) location tracking system, which provides accurate real-time tracking in GPS-deprived environments.
This project aims to enhance the existing Reutech Mining Real-Time Location System (RTLS) to improve efficiency, user-friendliness, and industry-wide applicability. The enhancements will focus on three key objectives: auto-locating anchors, universal data export formats, and integrating server functionalities into tablet computers.
GPS signals cannot penetrate solid materials such as rock and soil, making them ineffective for underground mining operations.
Traditional location tracking methods are unreliable or require costly infrastructure.
To continue with the next phase of Hardware Development during the 2025/26 period:
The Advanced Orebody Knowledge (AOK) Programme, in collaboration with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), has conducted extensive research on Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to improve geological mapping, rock mass stability assessment, and hazard identification in underground mining. The research has focused on addressing technical limitations and refining applications to enhance mining efficiency and safety.
Work Package 2 (WP2): Technology Solutioning provides the essential “what” – the means and the tools necessary to bring these strategies to life.
This work package is the engineering backbone, focusing on the selection, effective implementation, verification, and integration of RTIMS technological components. It’s about designing and building the robust technical architecture that will underpin our ability to process and deliver real-time data effectively.
Within WP2, the scope encompasses a wide array of critical elements:
A crucial aspect of WP2 is the verification of Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs). This ensures that the chosen technologies are mature and proven enough to be reliably integrated into a complex operational environment like mining in South Africa, minimizing risks and ensuring the stability of the RTIMS ecosystem.
Ultimately, WP2 is dedicated to constructing the precise technical environment that enables real-time data processing and delivery, serving as the critical foundation upon which the strategic objectives defined in WP3 can be successfully realized and value extracted.
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