By Aidoghie Paulinus
In a pristine control room, six high-definition screens display real-time images of coal-mining operations, with a huge excavator machine crunching its way through a coal seam and loading it onto a truck.
Measuring 20 meters high, the excavator is controlled by ‘driver’ Wang Yongsheng, who sits in a remote cab several kilometers from the coal face, in the city of Holingol, North China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
The introduction of remote mining technology has now transformed excavating-machine operators from ‘black-collar’ to ‘white-collar’ workers, allowing them to bid farewell to dusty work environments.
With advanced sensors and control systems, giant excavators can operate autonomously, performing complex tasks with precision. This minimizes human error and reduces the risks associated with manual operation.
“We’ve integrated a number of intelligent devices into traditional large excavators, enhancing interconnectivity among heavy machinery,” said Yue Haifeng, a senior researcher from the Taiyuan Heavy Machinery Group Co., Ltd., the giant excavators’ manufacturer.
Yue added that through continuous learning and performance improvement using data analysis and AI, these machines can adapt seamlessly to diverse operational scenarios and requirements.
Coal mining, coking, metallurgy and electricity are traditional pillar industries in many provinces of China. Guided by the country’s new development philosophy, numerous regions have steadfastly promoted the transformation and modernization of these traditional sectors.
Enterprises have been encouraged and supported to increase their investments in technological upgrades and new equipment, thereby revitalizing traditional industrial chains with cutting-edge technologies and innovative business models.