Introduction
Technological development has taken off in leaps and bounds in recent years, and the many innovations are proof of this. Technological progress is an important criterion for global economic development (Strzałkowski et al., 2024). Mining companies aware of the challenges of the modern world are using these innovative technologies not only to increase their performance and efficiency, but also to stand out from the competition. Drones, robots and virtual reality (VR) are among the technologies that are leaving a remarkable mark on the world today, enabling mining companies to carry out their operations with great precision. The aim of this article is to present virtual reality in its entirety, to outline its applications and advantages, and finally to discuss the challenges involved in putting it into practice.
What is virtual reality (VR)?
VR is defined as a collection of hardware and software that interactively engages users and stimulates their senses in a virtual environment (Bellanca et al., 2019). Virtual reality is futuristic. A number of researchers are carrying out studies to assess the benefits, the added value and, above all, the infleunce of combining it with the traditional approaches currently in use. In fact, Christiansson (Christiansson, 1993) predicted 30 years ago that in the future, which is happening before our eyes, it would be possible to develop models and/or systems to provide people with much better communication tools, such as communication rooms, personal “telescreens” and virtual reality.
Mining activities, whether open-pit or underground, pose numerous safety and environmental challenges. Virtual reality could help companies to minimise the risk of accidents, for example.
The application of virtual reality in mining (Brickle, 2023)
Virtual reality can be applied in several areas of mining sector including training, occupational safety and even simulation.
Training
Training in the mining industry has received a big boost thanks to reality. Not only does the implementation of Virtual Reality allow for more engaging and efficient training programs, but it makes the whole process safer.
Through Virtual Reality, staff can immerse themselves in realistic simulations to help prepare them for real-world mining environments. This allows staff to explore life-like mining scenarios without the safety risks. For example, instead of training new staff on how to operate heavy machinery within a mine, they first undergo VR training.
This can also be used to tackle emergency safety procedures, for example in the event that a fire breaks out underground. In this case, VR safety training programs give new staff a risk-free environment to navigate safety procedures.
Staff apply their headset and the simulation places them in a virtual mining site and operate the equipment as if they were physically there.
This immersion allows the user to understand more about the machinery, understand their surroundings and learn safety protocols before stepping foot in a mine.
It’s hands-on training without the real-world risks.
Planning
Traditional planning methods often grapple with remote-site challenges, intricate designs, and global team coordination.
The main challenge in traditional planning approaches is the complexity of mine infrastructure often located in remote and inaccessible sites. Coordinating various teams, including surveyors, designers, and engineers can become an organizational and logistical headache – especially if they’re dotted around the world (and most are).
Virtual Reality helps navigate the complexities that come with planning. Through it, companies can create immersive experiences that bypass the limitations of physical presence, allowing teams to collaborate seamlessly across from wherever they’re based.
Essentially, it becomes a bridge between distant 3D models and real-world planning, eliminating the reliance on conventional 2D drawings.
Design
Being able to design 3D models of mining sites, equipment, tools and machinery provides huge benefits for engineers, geologists and project managers.
The ability to visualize and understand the workings of a piece of equipment or mine allows for a safer environment and learning experience. Plus, VR can also be used to help plan designs and identify potential safety concerns before stepping foot in the physical mine.
All of this also greatly reduces the costs of transporting equipment and traveling to mining sites.
Simulation
As we briefly discussed, being able to simulate real-world mining scenarios for safety and training brings huge benefits.
However, Virtual Reality can also be used to create incredibly realistic virtual environments where operators can interact with mining equipment and experience various operational scenarios.
For example, simulators can be used to virtually explore and analyze potential mining sites. These simulations replicate the geological features and conditions of different locations, allowing teams to make informed decisions about the viability of a site before stepping foot in the actual location.
This not only saves time and resources but also enables more thorough and accurate assessments, contributing to smarter decision-making in the exploration phase of mining projects.
Onboarding
Welcoming new staff to your business with a virtual tour of your mining facilities not only allows them to explore the site and get familiar with the equipment but it allows them to make mistakes without worry.
These immersive onboarding experiences can simulate various scenarios, introducing employees to the intricate details of their roles. For example, a new technician can virtually troubleshoot equipment malfunctions or practice emergency response procedures.
Plus, VR facilitates collaborative training sessions. Employees, whether they’re in the same room or across continents, can undergo synchronized training, ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding specific mining processes.
Familiarization
In a similar vein to how it’s being used in training, vir allows staff to familiarize themselves with tools, equipment and mining sites before stepping foot physically.
This allows staff to better understand their surroundings and the tools they’ll be using to familiarize themselves faster and make processes more efficient. VR can also be used to help staff become acquainted with each other through immersive team-building experiences and exercises.
By staff being able to familiarize themselves with the layout of a site and the equipment used, they will be better prepared to carry out the tasks in a landscape they’ve already explored – digitally.
The benefits of using virtual reality in mining (Virtual Reality in Health and Safety Training in the Mining Industry, 2024)
The application of virtual reality in mining offers several advantages:
Risk reduction
- Safety: VR provides a safe environment for workers to practice high-risk tasks. You can simulate emergencies without actual danger, reducing the risk of accidents during training.
- Efficiency: By allowing for repeated practice in a controlled setting, VR ensures that workers master safety procedures. This reduces the likelihood of mistakes in real-life situations.
Immersive learning
- Engagement: VR training is interactive and engaging, leading to improved retention of safety protocols.
- Realism: VR can recreate realistic mining scenarios, allowing workers to familiarize themselves with the potential hazards and equipment commonly encountered in a particular mine setting.
Cost savings
- Training Costs: VR training is more cost-effective in the long run, as it reduces the need for physical resources.
- Downtime: VR training can be done off-site, reducing downtime in mining operations.
Challenges in implementing Virtual Reality
Virtual reality offers many advantages, but the challenges facing mining companies are a real barrier to its deployment.
The initial costs associated with setting up a virtual reality system are very high. These include software, hardware and labour costs. It is therefore clear that mining companies without a substantial portfolio are not concerned. Setting up such systems is sometimes complex, which can be a real difficulty if the company requesting the service does not have in-house expertise.
Integrating VR and AR with existing mining systems and processes can be intricate, necessitating investments in software and IT infrastructure for compatibility and data exchange. The sensitive data involved in mining operations requires robust data security and privacy measures to protect information held in VR and AR systems. In addition, limited internet connectivity in remote mining sites can hinder the implementation of VR technology, necessitating investments in alternative connectivity solutions. Content creation for VR and AR that accurately simulates mining environments and hazards can be time-consuming and costly, prompting some companies to consider outsourcing. It takes considerable time and company investment to ensure that subject matter experts are engaged to assist in the development of high quality and accurate training simulations (Journalist, 2024).
Implementing VR and AR on a larger scale can be challenging, making gradual scaling through pilot projects a viable strategy. Monitoring and assessing the effectiveness of VR and AR applications is crucial, involving regular assessments and user feedback for refinement (Journalist, 2024).
Conclusion
Virtual reality (VR) is transforming the mining industry by enhancing safety, training, and planning through immersive simulations and interactive tools. It reduces risks, improves efficiency, and lowers costs, offering significant benefits to companies. However, challenges such as high initial costs, technical complexities, and connectivity issues in remote areas limit its widespread adoption. Gradual implementation and ongoing refinement through pilot projects can help overcome these barriers. As technology advances, VR holds great potential to revolutionize mining operations globally.
Reference
Bellanca, J. L., Orr, T. J., Helfrich, W. J., Macdonald, B., Navoyski, J., & Demich, B. (2019). Developing a Virtual Reality Environment for Mining Research. Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration, 36(4), 597–606. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42461-018-0046-2
Brickle, T. (2023, December 10). 6 ways virtual reality is being used in the mining industry. 3D Walkabout. https://3dwalkabout.com.au/news/6-ways-virtual-reality-is-being-used-in-the-mining-industry/
Christiansson, P. (1993). Dynamic knowledge nets in a changing building process. Automation in Construction, 1(4), 307–322. https://doi.org/10.1016/0926-5805(93)90013-N
Journalist, M. (2024, March 17). A virtual mining world. Mining Magazine Australia. https://miningmagazine.com.au/a-virtual-mining-world/
Strzałkowski, P., Bęś, P., Szóstak, M., & Napiórkowski, M. (2024). Application of Virtual Reality (VR) Technology in Mining and Civil Engineering. Sustainability, 16(6), Article 6. https://doi.org/10.3390/su16062239
Virtual Reality in Health and Safety Training in the Mining Industry. (2024, February 29). https://www.imakerxr.com/blog/virtual-reality-health-and-safety-training/
