Automation and robotization of solid mineral mining

Improvement in competitiveness of mining clusters is inextricably linked with enhancement of labor safety and efficiency. Meeting these objectives is possible through wider implementation of robotic systems both at the stages of mining and transportation of minerals. The paper analyzes the current state, prospects and a general trend of development of robotic mining equipment. The advanced types of foreign and Russian automated equipment, and also the basic concepts and programs of robotization are considered. To date the areas of application of robotics in the mining industry include automated batching, rock excavation and transportation, mapping and geodesy, drilling and explosives processing. The introduction of robots in mining places special demands on their reliability and quality, and raises numerous problems and unresolved issues that both academia and industry must jointly identify and address. The widespread use of robotic technology in surface and underground mining can lead to significant changes in the design of quarries and mines, as well as in the safety regulations, and contribute to the development of new types of mining machinery and equipment, which will provide a significant increase in mining efficiency.