Ausdrill deploys HALO to WA

Drilling and blasting services provider Ausdrill has deployed its innovative HALO virtual reality and rock scaling robotic system into Western Australia ahead of site trials slated for next year.

HALO (High Access Localised Operations) allows Rope Access Technicians to move to a safe distance where they can visualise the robot’s sensor data via video, and remotely control the robot to safely perform clearing operations.

Walls of open pit and underground mines are regularly scaled to remove loose or unstable rock preventing rock falls and mine rooves from collapsing.

Traditionally, this work has been done by specialised teams who abseil along a rock surface to clear away loose rock.

This investment in safety and innovation is the result of a two-year collaboration between Ausdrill, University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and the Innovative Manufacturing CRC (IMCRC).

IMCRC provided $74,945 in funding for HALO’s development in 2021-22.

HALO Project Chair and Manager of Technology Projects Surface Clint Ricetti said: “By working Smarter together with both UTS and the IMCRC, we are not only enabling tomorrow in terms of mining technology but also in mine safety and future opportunities for tertiary students.” .

The project will culminate with HALO added to Ausdrill’s range of deployable products that are manufactured in-house.

Further reading:
ROBOT COULD REPLACE MINE ROCK SCALING

Picture: HALO