Drive-by-Wire in Mining: Machines Working Where No Human Can

Drive-by-Wire in Mining: Machines Working Where No Human Can

Mining is one of the most hazardous and resource-intensive industries, with operations in extreme temperatures, toxic gas zones, and unstable underground sites. NX NextMotion’s Drive-by-Wire and Safety-by-Wire® technologies enable autonomous and teleoperated mining equipment, allowing machines to operate where no human could safely work.

In the U.S., major mining corporations like Freeport-McMoRan, Peabody Energy, and Newmont are investing heavily in autonomous haulage and remote-controlled drilling operations. Globally, BHP (Australia), Rio Tinto (UK/Australia), and Glencore (Switzerland) are leading the push for full mining automation.

Where Automation is Transforming Mining

Autonomous Haulage in Large-Scale Mining

Major mining operators use autonomous haul trucks from Caterpillar, Komatsu, and Liebherr, which transport materials 24/7 without human drivers. In the U.S. coal and gold mining sectors, self-driving haul trucks have reduced accidents and improved fuel efficiency.

Teleoperated Drilling & Excavation in Extreme Conditions

Deep underground, where temperatures exceed 50°C (122°F) and toxic gases make human work impossible, remote-controlled drilling rigs and loaders from Epiroc (Sweden) and Sandvik (Finland) allow operators to work from control centers miles away.

Automated Stockpile & Ore Handling

In unstable stockpile areas, remote-controlled bulldozers and wheel loaders keep workers safe from sudden landslides. Komatsu and Hitachi (Japan) have developed teleoperated equipment to ensure material is moved efficiently without endangering operators.

Force Feedback: Bringing Human-Like Control to Remote Mining Machines

Mining terrain is constantly shifting, making real-time feedback essential for remote operators. Force Feedback technology enhances teleoperation by:

• Allowing operators to "feel" resistance when maneuvering heavy equipment
• Providing immediate force cues to warn of unstable ground conditions
• Reducing operator fatigue by creating a more natural remote driving experience

By integrating NX NextMotion with Force Feedback, mining companies can improve safety and efficiency while extending equipment lifespan.

U.S. & Global Mining Regulations: Why Drive-by-Wire is the Future

The U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is mandating increased use of automation to reduce worker exposure in hazardous zones. Regulations in Canada, Chile, and Australia are enforcing similar requirements, pushing companies to deploy Drive-by-Wire-controlled mining fleets.

With NX NextMotion’s Drive-by-Wire technology, mining companies can:

• Keep workers out of dangerous environments
• Comply with evolving U.S. and global mining safety standards
• Increase productivity with autonomous and teleoperated fleets

Ready to push mining automation beyond human limits? Let’s discuss your next step!