In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, the mining industry is embracing digital transformation, leveraging the Internet of Things (IoT) to improve operational efficiency and decision-making processes. One company at the forefront of this revolution is LithologIQ, which is pioneering the use of hyperspectral imaging technology to provide faster, more detailed insights into geological formations.
This article captures the core insights from the interview with LithologIQ and highlights the innovative ways LithologIQ is revolutionizing the mining industry with cutting-edge technology.
You can watch the original video interview on our Practical IoT channel here.
The Traditional Challenges in Mining
Exploration in mining traditionally relies on drilling cores and analyzing geological samples. These cores, which are physical samples extracted from underground, are critical for understanding the geology and making informed decisions on where to drill next. However, as Simon Lessard, the CEO of LithologIQ explains, the tools available to geologists have limitations.
“Geologists typically use basic tools like measuring tapes and rely on their eyes to analyze cores,” Simon explains. “But many important layers and minerals are invisible to the human eye, especially those found in the infrared spectrum.”
This limitation often leads to delays in decision-making. Samples must be sent to laboratories for chemical analysis, which can take weeks or even months. During this time, mining operations may either halt or proceed with limited information, risking wasted resources if the drilling continues in the wrong area.
LithologIQ’s Solution: Hyperspectral Imaging
LithologIQ has developed a game-changing solution: an onsite hyperspectral imaging scanner designed to drastically reduce the time it takes to analyze cores. By utilizing advanced imaging devices that capture data across the visible and infrared spectrum, the solution can quickly identify mineral compositions that are invisible to the naked eye.
“Our system is housed in a mobile trailer and is capable of scanning up to 2,000 meters of core samples per day,” Simon explains. “The scanner uses multiple cameras to capture detailed images of the cores, and within 24 hours, we can provide actionable insights to geologists.”
This process contrasts sharply with the traditional method, which can take months. The immediate availability of this data allows geologists to make informed decisions about drilling direction and depth, ultimately saving time and reducing costs.
The Role of IoT and Edge Computing
A key element of LithologIQ’s solution is its integration with IoT and edge computing technologies. Since each scanner generates terabytes of data daily, it’s not feasible to upload all of that data to the cloud for processing. Instead, edge computing allows the initial processing to be done onsite, reducing the data to only the most relevant insights before uploading it to the cloud.
“We use edge computing to pre-process the data onsite and send only the final results to the cloud,” Simon says. “This allows us to overcome connectivity challenges, particularly in remote mining locations where bandwidth is limited.”
IoT also plays a critical role in the system’s remote management. LithologIQ can monitor the health of the scanners, ensuring that they function properly and troubleshooting issues remotely, reducing the need for onsite technicians.
Addressing the Data Overload in Mining
One of the biggest challenges in modern mining is the overwhelming amount of data generated by new sensors and equipment. While more data can lead to better insights, it can also overwhelm mining companies that are not equipped to process and interpret such vast amounts of information.
LithologIQ’s approach to this challenge is to focus on data reduction. Rather than flooding their clients with raw data, they distill it into actionable insights that geologists can use immediately.
“Geologists don’t need hyperspectral data—they need mineralogical data,” Simon explains. “By using AI and machine learning, we can generate synthetic indexes that highlight key parameters relevant to mining operations, such as mineral composition and rock hardness.”
The Importance of Collaboration in Digital Transformation
The success of LithologIQ’s solution is not just about the technology; it’s also about understanding the needs of their clients. Every mining operation is different, and the value created by digital transformation will vary depending on the mine’s specific challenges. Some operations may need better data to improve their exploration accuracy, while others might be more focused on optimizing metallurgical processes.
Simon highlights the importance of close collaboration with clients to ensure that their solution addresses the right problems. “It’s all about value creation,” he says. “We work closely with our clients to understand where they need improvements and tailor our solution accordingly.”
The Future of Mining: Faster, Smarter Decisions
As the mining industry continues to embrace digital transformation, solutions like LithologIQ’s hyperspectral imaging technology represent a significant step forward. By providing faster and more accurate insights into geological samples, mining companies can make smarter decisions, reduce costs, and improve operational efficiency.
LithologIQ’s integration of IoT, edge computing, and AI illustrates how innovative technologies can solve longstanding challenges in the industry, paving the way for a future where data-driven insights lead to faster, more efficient mining operations.
If you’re interested in learning more about IoT, or if you’re seeking a partner to help implement security solutions, you can reach out to us at https://axceta.com/contact/
We are specializing in end-to-end integration of IoT solutions in the agtech, mining, and energy industries. With deep expertise in IoT and a strong understanding of customer needs, we help design and implement IoT solutions, from sensors to data.
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