Tag: AI

The ‘Robotics & Automation in Mining’ conference ran over the 12th and 13th of October at Joondalup Resort in Perth. Speakers gave presentations on how automation in the resources sector will innovate practices and keep Australia a world leader in mining, while reducing harm and waste. The conference opened with a welcome to country from Shaun Nannup and addresses from WA’s Minister for Mines and Petroleum, Bill Johnston and conference chairperson, Dave Stevenson. The City of Joondalup was the proud official host of the event, with James Pearson the chief executive of the city delivering an address. The city recently announced that it is a significant step closer to its Urban Robotics and Automation Precinct, which will further its position...

A team of researchers at James Cook University, led by Dr Bithin Datta, have successfully used an AI-based tool to analyse existing meteorological and hydrological data related to the Ross River basin area, near Townsville in Queensland. The results of the Artificial Neural Network’s (ANN) analysis found patterns that may correspond to an impending drought in the region. According to Dr Datta, ANNs are known for their exceptional pattern recognition capabilities which mimic the complex recognition and decision-making traits of the human brain. “Once trained and validated, it is capable of establishing the relationship between apparently related variables and identifies less relevant variables. These are then used to make a prediction.” This AI shows great promise for farmers, who may...

RIO Tinto (ASX: RIO) chief executive J-S Jacques waxed philosophical to investors in London on Monday speaking of his vision of the company’s future. He spoke about the ‘deeper world’ awaiting the mining industry in the 2020s, and the importance of recognising the finite nature of the resources being mined. As Rio Tinto moves into the next decade, the shift from excess to discipline will be emphasised. Mr Jacques said that as the world becomes faster, so it becomes deeper too – meaning AI and big data present an opportunity to transform mining majors’ business models toward circular economies. “The world will not wait for us,” he said. “The time for change is now.” China’s insatiable appetite for resources in...