China has unveiled its first intelligent rock-drilling robot, marking a significant advancement in automated mining technology. Developed by the Xingfa Group, the innovative robot was recently deployed at the Shuangkouping Phosphate Mine in central China’s Hubei Province.
The introduction of this technology represents a pivotal step towards enhancing safety and efficiency in the mining industry. By using a simple joystick and mouse, workers can now remotely control the robot to perform precise drilling tasks, reducing the need for manual labor in hazardous environments.
Li Daoyong, an experienced employee at the Shuangkouping Phosphate Mine, operated the robot to drill 53 holes with remarkable precision. “It’s like playing a video game,” Li remarked. “In the past, we had to drill manually, which was incredibly strenuous. We would sweat profusely, soaking our clothes.”
Li noted that while traditional rock-drilling machines reduced physical exertion, they required high concentration and precision to avoid errors. “Now, with the intelligent rock-drilling robot, we hardly need to enter the mine. We can operate it remotely using a computer and a mouse, automating the entire process.”
The deployment of the intelligent rock-drilling robot not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances safety by minimizing workers’ exposure to dangerous mining conditions. This breakthrough is expected to pave the way for further advancements in automated mining operations across China and potentially globally.
Reference(s):
Automated mining: China unveils first intelligent rock-drilling robot
cgtn.com
