In a significant advancement for the mining industry, the Chinese mainland has unveiled its first intelligent rock-drilling robot, marking a pivotal step towards automated mining operations.
This groundbreaking technology, developed by the Xingfa Group, was recently put into operation at the Shuangkouping Phosphate Mine in central China's Hubei Province.
With a few nudges on the joystick and a few clicks on the mouse, a worker controlled the robot to precisely drill 53 holes, making the process resemble playing a video game.
This drilling process is much simpler and safer compared to previous methods, according to Li Daoyong, an employee at the Shuangkouping Phosphate Mine with over a decade of experience. \"Initially, we had to drill manually, which was incredibly strenuous. We would sweat profusely, soaking our clothes,\" Li explained.
He continued, \"Then came the rock-drilling machines, which reduced physical exertion but demanded high concentration and precision to avoid errors. Now, with the introduction of the intelligent rock-drilling robot, we barely need to enter the mine. We can operate it remotely using a computer and a mouse, automating the entire process.\"
Reference(s):
Automated mining: China unveils first intelligent rock-drilling robot
cgtn.com
