Next Generation Shovel Guidance System

Optimize mine operation with the dig3D terrain scanning system

What is dig3D? 

Dig3D combines patented load cell accuracy for shovel payload measurement with a real-time LiDAR-based 3D scanning platform. This advanced technology equips shovel operators with critical real-time data, enabling them to optimize performance and efficiency during operations. The system delivers an accurate, real-time view of the dig face and machine position directly to the operator. This eliminates the need for frequent machine repositioning, ensures precise grade control, and clearly presents pit limits. As a result, physical stakes for defining dig limits become unnecessary, streamlining operations and improving efficiency.

dig3D’s Key Features include:

• Accurate real-time display of the dig face and machine position, providing operators with essential data for precise operation. 

• Real-time pass-by-pass payload monitoring, delivering immediate dipper load feedback as soon as the swing starts.

• Fully modular, standalone design, eliminating the need to tie into OEM hardware.

• Load cell technology with inertial compensation, ensuring precise payload measurements.

• Real-time Point cloud data is accessible on-demand to off-shovel personnel for deeper analysis.

• Customizable operator display, allowing flexible visualization of key information.

• Integration with mine Dispatch and Fleet Management systems, enabling truck-by-truck payload targets and configurable compliance ranges.

• Agnostic to machine configurations, adaptable to all types of shovels. 

• AI and machine learning capabilities for enhanced operational insights and optimization. 

• Auto zero function, requiring no operator input, and stable calibration with minimal drift.

• Instrumentation positioned in low-risk areas, away from high-damage regions on the boom and dipper structures. 

• Rapid installation time, allowing for quick deployment

 

dig3D Mine Operation Optimization

Mine to plan and Prevent Lost Productivity

Dig3D provides operators with real-time data on digging progress relative to the mine plan, helping avoid over-excavation and unnecessary shovel repositioning. By preventing costly plan changes and rework, the system enhances efficiency. One client estimated an ROI in just 2 months due to these benefits. 

Optimized Truck Loading through Real-Time Payload Monitoring

Dig3D provides accurate, real-time payload feedback, empowering operators to optimize each truck load. Instant visibility as loading begins allows for precise decisions, ensuring target loads are consistently met while minimizing overloading or underloading. This enhances productivity, reduces equipment wear, and improves safety, resulting in smoother operations and fully optimized trucks for transport.

Maximize Ore Recovery with Selective Digging

Dig3D displays ore bodies from DXF files, allowing operators to adjust digging for selective loading. Trucks can be routed to either waste dumps or ore plants based on where they dig, improving ore body recovery.

Optimize Surveying and Enhance Safety

Dig3D minimizes the need for constant surveying to ensure compliance with the mine plan. By reducing reliance on inspection tools and drone scans, it not only saves costs but also improves safety by limiting personnel exposure to hazardous conditions near machinery and unstable rock formations. Point cloud data is also available for off-shovel personnel. This functionality limits survey work at the dig face.

Enhanced Operator Training through Digital Twin Playback

Dig3D creates a digital twin of the mine, capturing shovel movements and dig-face progress for playback and review. This historical data allows high-level staff to assess operator performance, replicate operations, and provide valuable feedback. By analyzing past actions, the system supports continuous improvement, optimizing operator training and overall performance. 

Comprehensive KPI Tracking for Enhanced Productivity

Dig3D provides key performance indicators (KPIs) such as total machine distance moved and total material moved per shift, offering valuable insights for productivity optimization. By building a 3D georeferenced model of the mining terrain, the system enables advanced database analysis to extract additional KPIs. Hummingbird Solutions collaborates with customers to develop tailored functionality based on their specific needs.

Point cloud data

Point cloud data is available for off-shovel personnel. This functionality limits survey work at the dig face. Users can replay shovel movement and dig face progress as required and point cloud data can be utilized for reconciliation.