Mining and Minerals Today 102 December | Page 22

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If this complex network of information and vehicle systems is to operate effectively , it is vital that the sensors deployed are capable of operating at the highest levels of situational awareness , so that every possible hazard is identified at the earliest opportunity . How , therefore , is it possible to be at our most dynamic when sensors can ’ t see optimally underground , nor at night-time nor in extremely dusty environments ? AMTs need to work 24 / 7 / 365 . That ’ s where radar comes into its own .
Radar provides reliable performance even in the most adverse conditions , including rain , fog , dust , and dirt – even when other sensors fail . Moreover , high-resolution , 360 °, longrange radar builds a data-rich picture of its surroundings , working far beyond the limits of a person ’ s line of sight . Radar sees what humans can ’ t , adding that vital extra layer of safety to challenging environments .
Navtech Radar ’ s sensors are fully compatible with the open-source Robotic Operating System ( ROS ), quick to integrate , and give full access to the radar ’ s raw data . Radar works through extreme sunlight as well as through ‘ blind spots ’ where GPS can ’ t , meaning that assets can be tracked in literally all conceivable conditions . Moreover , radarbased solutions can be seamlessly integrated with LiDAR and GPS to deliver multi-sensor fusion applications at mine sites .
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