Mining is one of the most hazardous and resource-intensive industries, with operations in extreme temperatures, toxic gas zones, and unstable underground sites. NX NextMotion’s Drive-by-Wire and Safety-by-Wire® technologies enable autonomous and teleoperated mining equipment, allowing machines to operate where no human could safely work.
In the U.S., major mining corporations like Freeport-McMoRan, Peabody Energy, and Newmont are investing heavily in autonomous haulage and remote-controlled drilling operations. Globally, BHP (Australia), Rio Tinto (UK/Australia), and Glencore (Switzerland) are leading the push for full mining automation.
Where Automation is Transforming Mining
Autonomous Haulage in Large-Scale Mining
Major mining operators use autonomous haul trucks from Caterpillar, Komatsu, and Liebherr, which transport materials 24/7 without human drivers. In the U.S. coal and gold mining sectors, self-driving haul trucks have reduced accidents and improved fuel efficiency.
Teleoperated Drilling & Excavation in Extreme Conditions
Deep underground, where temperatures exceed 50°C (122°F) and toxic gases make human work impossible, remote-controlled drilling rigs and loaders from Epiroc (Sweden) and Sandvik (Finland) allow operators to work from control centers miles away.
Automated Stockpile & Ore Handling
In unstable stockpile areas, remote-controlled bulldozers and wheel loaders keep workers safe from sudden landslides. Komatsu and Hitachi (Japan) have developed teleoperated equipment to ensure material is moved efficiently without endangering operators.
Force Feedback: Bringing Human-Like Control to Remote Mining Machines
Mining terrain is constantly shifting, making real-time feedback essential for remote operators. Force Feedback technology enhances teleoperation by:
U.S. & Global Mining Regulations: Why Drive-by-Wire is the Future
The U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is mandating increased use of automation to reduce worker exposure in hazardous zones. Regulations in Canada, Chile, and Australia are enforcing similar requirements, pushing companies to deploy Drive-by-Wire-controlled mining fleets.
With NX NextMotion’s Drive-by-Wire technology, mining companies can:
In the U.S., major mining corporations like Freeport-McMoRan, Peabody Energy, and Newmont are investing heavily in autonomous haulage and remote-controlled drilling operations. Globally, BHP (Australia), Rio Tinto (UK/Australia), and Glencore (Switzerland) are leading the push for full mining automation.
Where Automation is Transforming Mining
Autonomous Haulage in Large-Scale Mining
Major mining operators use autonomous haul trucks from Caterpillar, Komatsu, and Liebherr, which transport materials 24/7 without human drivers. In the U.S. coal and gold mining sectors, self-driving haul trucks have reduced accidents and improved fuel efficiency.
Teleoperated Drilling & Excavation in Extreme Conditions
Deep underground, where temperatures exceed 50°C (122°F) and toxic gases make human work impossible, remote-controlled drilling rigs and loaders from Epiroc (Sweden) and Sandvik (Finland) allow operators to work from control centers miles away.
Automated Stockpile & Ore Handling
In unstable stockpile areas, remote-controlled bulldozers and wheel loaders keep workers safe from sudden landslides. Komatsu and Hitachi (Japan) have developed teleoperated equipment to ensure material is moved efficiently without endangering operators.
Force Feedback: Bringing Human-Like Control to Remote Mining Machines
Mining terrain is constantly shifting, making real-time feedback essential for remote operators. Force Feedback technology enhances teleoperation by:
- Allowing operators to "feel" resistance when maneuvering heavy equipment
- Providing immediate force cues to warn of unstable ground conditions
- Reducing operator fatigue by creating a more natural remote driving experience
U.S. & Global Mining Regulations: Why Drive-by-Wire is the Future
The U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is mandating increased use of automation to reduce worker exposure in hazardous zones. Regulations in Canada, Chile, and Australia are enforcing similar requirements, pushing companies to deploy Drive-by-Wire-controlled mining fleets.
With NX NextMotion’s Drive-by-Wire technology, mining companies can:
- Keep workers out of dangerous environments
- Comply with evolving U.S. and global mining safety standards
- Increase productivity with autonomous and teleoperated fleets
