Ericsson has teamed up with a number of Swedish companies to launch 5G technology for the mining industry.
The pilot program is a joint initiative between Ericsson, ABB, Boliden, SICS Swedish ICT, and Volvo, and is focused on communications, automation, and remote control operations.
“The project is set to improve productivity and safety in the Swedish mining industry,” Ericsson said in a company statement.
“Its aim is to find solutions that can be applied in an industry that has traditionally been seen as having a hazardous and challenging operational environment.”
Dubbed the Pilot for Industrial Mobile Communication in Mining, first phases of the project will see a 5G development system consisting of new and existing technologies that will be utilised to remotely control a Volvo truck used for transporting ore in a mine operated by Boliden.
“The successful implementation of such technology could and should lead to improved safety,” Torbjörn Lundahl, Program Manager for 5G for Sweden, stated.
“More connected machines and devices mean fewer people will be required to work underground; the seamless integration of over- and underground activities will help improve safety and productivity, as well as enabling better monitoring and remote control.”
Boliden mine’s manager for system technology manager Mikael Walter said the mine is looking forward to implementing the technology.
“We are constantly seeking to refine and develop our work practices and processes, and we can clearly see the benefit of digital technology in the mining industry,” Walter said.
The 5G program is being rolled out throughout Sweden, and is focused on driving digitalisation and the integration of ICT solutions in to operations.