Cognitive monitoring network service to improve mine safety

Nokia Bell Labs has signed a research agreement with Vale, a Brazil-based global mining company, to implement a cognitive monitoring network service enabling performance, reliability and safety enhancements of mining operations.

The agreement builds on the already existing longstanding relationship at Vale’s autonomous iron ore mine in Carajás, Brazil, understood to be the largest iron ore open pit mine in the world. The technology tested there offers a solution for creating networks that can sense, think and act ahead of time to enable mission-critical communication in a risky environment.

Future mission-critical networks are expected to further enhance productivity and safety by including cognitive services in almost every layer. Nokia Bell Labs and Vale will collaborate to develop such systems for enabling future mining operations and to automate planning intelligence. The relationship aims to create a holistic digital twin for mission-critical connected operations in the mine.

The cognitive monitoring network service will enhance mining operations by utilising data from mine production systems, including hauling trucks, and autonomous drillers, relating them with network KPIs. The project leverages the Nokia Bell Labs NiX (Nokia Industrial eXperience) research platform, which led to the creation of the Network Cognitive Digital Mine (CDM) venture in Nokia’s Strategy and Technology organisation.

“This collaboration between Nokia Bell Labs and Vale is the next step in making the mining industry safer and more productive,” said Lelio Di Martino, General Manager, Cognitive Digital Mine Venture at Nokia. “Mines are complex, multi-domain and multi-stakeholder operations where low agility and high uncertainty can significantly impact profitability. The results of this collaboration will enable the creation of cognitive services that can optimise mining processes. Together, we will drive a revolution that will change the way we design and control networks — and mines.”

Mario Azevedo, Global Manager of Engineering and Technology Projects at Vale, added, “Connectivity is a key enabler for enhancing our operations at Vale, driving improvements in efficiency, safety and performance. By integrating advanced connectivity technologies with Nokia Bell Labs … we ensure more robust and consistent processes across IT and Operational groups, implement real-time monitoring for a safer working environment, and optimise processes to reduce downtime and increase efficiency.”

Image credit: iStock.com/agnormark