Australian Droid + Robot (ADR) has announced a strategic collaboration with Intel Corporation to address the traditional trade-off between human safety and data collection in deep underground mining operations. By combining ADR’s robust robotics platform with Intel’s advanced edge computing technology, this partnership aims to minimise risk and enhance operational efficiency.
The Explora XL is described by ADR as an autonomous, mobile data centre, rather than merely a remote-controlled vehicle. Due to the challenges of unreliable cloud connectivity in subterranean environments, Intel’s onboard processing capabilities are a significant advancement. Integrating Intel® Xeon® processors and Intel Core™ Ultra processors directly into the robots enables real-time analysis of 3D LiDAR scans, thermal imaging, and gas levels within the mine.
Bhupesh Agrawal, General Manager for Enterprise Edge at Intel, commented, “Intel offers both the necessary technologies and innovative ideas. The robot’s ability to enter mines and process data onsite using Intel Xeon processors allows enterprises to make informed, timely decisions at the edge.”
Mathew Allan, CTO of ADR, further emphasised: “Personnel should not be exposed to hazardous environments when alternatives exist.”
With these enhanced capabilities, the Explora XL can navigate challenging terrain—including mud, water, and uneven surfaces—to inspect blast areas and unstable shafts. ADR states: “If equipment is lost, the consequence is financial; if a life is lost, the impact is immeasurable. This collaboration ensures that human safety remains paramount and is never compromised for data acquisition purposes.”
