NPTEL Course

Jan -April 2025 Session

Mine Automation and Data Analytics

Course Outline

This course offers an in-depth exploration of mine automation and data analytics, specifically
tailored for application in modern mining systems. Students will develop a thorough
understanding of state-of-the-art automation technologies, including autonomous mining
systems, computer-controlled maintenance, and remote operations. Additionally, the course
provides experience with artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and other advanced
digital tools reshaping the mining industry.

As the mining sector increasingly embraces digital transformation, this course equips students
with the skills and knowledge to adapt to and thrive in this evolving landscape. They will learn
how to implement AI-driven solutions for optimising resource extraction, improving safety,
and enhancing overall operational efficiency. Moreover, they will explore how big data
analytics and predictive maintenance can reduce costs and extend the life of critical equipment,
making the entire mining process more efficient and sustainable.

The course is also particularly valuable for researchers integrating Industry 4.0 technologies
into mining operations. Concepts like the Internet of Things (IoT), advanced sensor systems,
and real-time data analytics will be explored, enabling researchers to develop innovative
solutions for more intelligent, more connected mining sites. This knowledge is vital for those
aiming to push the boundaries of current mining practices and bring forth new levels of
automation and control in the industry.

Structured lectures will guide students through the practical challenges and considerations of
implementing automation in various mining environments, including field sites and processing
plants. They will gain insight into the technical hurdles and solutions for automating tasks such
as drilling, hauling, and monitoring, along with strategies for integrating these technologies
into existing infrastructure.

To ensure that students can translate theory into practice, the course includes research case
studies that illustrate successful applications of automation in the field. These case studies
highlight real-world examples of how automation has improved productivity, reduced
operational risks, and transformed how mines are managed. Through these examples, students
will learn how to navigate the complexities of deploying automated systems, managing data
flows, and ensuring the interoperability of various digital tools within a mining ecosystem.

By the end of this course, students will have a comprehensive overview of the latest
advancements in mining automation and skills in applying these technologies to solve real-
world problems in the mining industry. This makes the course a valuable resource for aspiring
engineers, researchers, and industry professionals seeking to lead the next wave of
technological innovation in mining.

This course, "Mine Automation and Data Analytics", is crucial for several reasons,
particularly as the mining sector evolves to meet modern challenges and leverage technological
advancements.

Online Registration

Session: Jan-April 2025

Exam: Last week of April 2025

https://onlinecourses.nptel.ac.in/noc25_mm22/preview

Why You Need This Course

1) Adapting to Industry Transformation: The mining industry is significantly
transforming, with automation and digital technologies becoming central to operations.
Understanding automation principles, from autonomous machinery to computerized
maintenance, is critical for professionals who aim to stay relevant and effective in this
rapidly changing environment. This course provides the foundational knowledge to
adapt to and lead these changes.
2) Addressing Safety Concerns: Mining is inherently risky, and automation is crucial in
improving worker safety. By learning about proximity sensors, geofencing, and remote-
control technologies, students gain the skills to implement systems that keep personnel
out of hazards. This course equips you with the knowledge to create safer work
environments through technology, reducing the incidence of accidents and enhancing
emergency response.

3) Enhancing Productivity and Efficiency: As demand for raw materials increases, the
pressure to boost productivity while maintaining cost-efficiency grows. Automation
technologies like autonomous haulage systems, fleet management, and automated
drilling directly address this need by enabling continuous operations and minimising
human error. This course helps you understand how to implement and manage these
technologies, leading to significant productivity gains in mining operations.
 4) Keeping Up with Global Trends: With the global push towards automation and
digitalisation in industries, understanding technologies like GPS, RFID, and VR
simulations for training and equipment management is no longer optional—it is
essential. This course ensures that you stay at the forefront of these trends, making you
a valuable contributor to any organisation focused on modernising its mining practices.

5) Competence in Data-Driven Decision Making: The future of mining lies in the ability
to analyse and act on data, making knowledge of statistical analysis and machine
learning increasingly vital. This course teaches you how to leverage data for predictive
maintenance, optimisation of mining processes, and informed decision-making. As a
result, you will be better equipped to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs
through data analytics.

This Course Helps in

1) Building Technical Expertise: This course ensures you gain a robust technical
understanding of modern mining tools by covering a wide range of technologies, from
basic automation principles to complex machine learning models. This expertise
directly applies to mine planning, safety management, and operations optimisation
roles.
 2) Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills: The course emphasises practical application
examples, such as using VR for mining simulations and implementing SCADA for
communication and tracking. These scenarios develop your problem-solving skills,
allowing you to tackle real-world challenges in mining operations with innovative
solutions.
3) Contributing to Sustainable Mining: As the industry moves towards sustainable
practices, automation can reduce environmental impact through more precise resource
extraction and reduced energy consumption. This course helps you understand how to
implement automated solutions that align with sustainability goals, making you a part
of the industry’s effort to reduce its ecological footprint.

COURSE PLAN

Week Lecture Topic

1 Lecture 1 Introduction to Automation, Principles and Strategies of Automation and enhancement of

Productivity

Lecture 2 Essential Elements of an Automated System

2 Lecture 3 Autonomous Mining System I: Autonomous Haulage Systems

Lecture 4 Autonomous Mining System II: Automated Drilling System

Lecture 5 Autonomous Mining System III: Fleet Management System: TDS

3 Lecture 6 Computerised Maintenance Management System, ERP for Mining Industry

Lecture 7 Mine Robotics: Mining Remote Operations & Control

4 Lecture 8 Proximity Sensors and Control Systems

Lecture 9 Radar Systems, RFID in Mining Engineering

Lecture 10 Geo-fencing, CCD camera in Mining for safety and management

5 Lecture 11 Global Navigational Satellite System in Mining production planning and efficient control of
the machine

Lecture 12 Automated Communication and Tracking Technologies: Image Processing

6 Lecture 13 Automated Communication and Tracking Technologies: SCADA

 Lecture 14 Virtual Reality Applications: Mining Equipment Concept development, Mine Safety
Applications, Mining operation simulations – Part 1

Lecture 15 Virtual Reality Applications: Mining Equipment Concept development, Mine Safety
Applications, Mining operation simulations – Part 2

7 Lecture 16 Virtual Reality Applications: Mining Equipment Concept development, Mine Safety
Applications, Mining operation simulations – Part 3

Lecture 17 Descriptive Statistics: Introduction

8 Lecture 18 Probability Distributions and Inferential Statistics: Hypothesis tests – Part 1

Lecture 19 Probability Distributions and Inferential Statistics: Hypothesis tests – Part 2

Lecture 20 Probability Distributions and Inferential Statistics: Hypothesis tests – Part 3

9 Lecture 21 Probability Distributions and Inferential Statistics: Hypothesis tests – Part 4

Lecture 22 Regression & ANOVA

10 Lecture 23 Machine Learning: Introduction

Lecture 24 Perceptron: Linear Classifier

Lecture 25 Support Vector Machine

11 Lecture 26 Concepts of Supervised Learning: Neural Networks, Deep learning

Lecture 27 Unsupervised Learning and Challenges for Big Data Analytics: Clustering

12 Lecture 28 Application of Big Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Mining

Lecture 29 Case studies on Cognitive Maintenance of Mining Systems

Lecture 30 Case studies on Orebody modelling and Mine Design

Advantages of Attending This Course

a) Comprehensive Knowledge of Automation: Gain a deep understanding of the

principles, strategies, and technologies used in modern mining automation, providing a
solid foundation for advanced studies and professional application.
b) Advanced Technologies: Learn about cutting-edge tools such as AI, machine learning,
and virtual reality simulations, which are crucial for enhancing productivity and safety
in the mining industry.
 c) Exposure to Real-world Applications: Through case studies and practical examples,
understand the challenges and solutions involved in implementing automation in
mining.
d) Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: Develop skills to address complex challenges in
autonomous mining systems, from fleet management to remote operations.
e) Improved Career Prospects: Equip yourself with knowledge of Industry 4.0 and its
application in mining, a skill set that is in high demand in the evolving landscape of the
mining sector.
f) Research-oriented Learning: Ideal for researchers looking to explore areas like
machine learning, big data analytics, parallel mining and AI-driven maintenance
systems, providing a robust framework for academic research.
g) Practical Knowledge of Data Analytics: Gain insights into data processing, regression
analysis, and inferential statistics, which are essential for optimising mining processes
and decision-making.
h) Versatility in Application: The course covers various technologies, such as SCADA,
GNSS, and RFID, which are applicable across various facets of mining operations and
safety management.

Doubt-Clearing Session

As the course syllabus unfolded, the TAs facilitated interactive discussions, skillfully
addressing each student's questions with clear explanations and practical examples. Their deep
understanding of the subject matter provided immediate answers and inspired confidence in the
students, enriching the learning experience and empowering them.

About the Instructor: Prof. Radhakanta Koner

Prof. Radhakanta Koner has been an Associate Professor at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, working in
this institute since 2016, where he specialises in various aspects of mining and geomechanics.
His research expertise spans geomechanics, slope stability, the application of machine learning
in mining, and wireless sensor networks for geo-structure health monitoring. Prof. Koner’s
teaching portfolio includes courses like Mine Automation and Data Analytics, Mine
Simulation, Data Analytics and Remote Sensing, and Digital Image Processing during the
Winter Semester, and courses on Open-pit Slope Analysis and Design and Surface Mine Slope
Stability during the Monsoon Semester.

Contact Details:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +91-(0326) 2235739