Imagine a world where a computer could prevent your vehicle from colliding with another. In mining, this is a real development. Alliance Resource Partners subsidiary Matrix Design Group has developed a system that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to prevent collisions of mobile surface equipment, machines and workers. The system uses a network of rugged cameras paired with AI and computer vision technology to alert operators to blind spots and hazards. It’s an adaptable system, capable as a Collision Warning System or a Collision Avoidance System with controls to slow or stop the equipment in question.
In fact, this technology has been awarded the coal sector’s Mine Safety and Health Technology Innovations Award for 2019. This National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) award recognizes companies which have contributed significant advancements to enhance mine safety by applying technology or improved processes in innovative ways. Innovations in safety are critical to the mining industry and the aspirations to bring every miner safely home every day. AI is one of many technologies used to achieve this goal.