by Mosima Rafapa
The Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE) at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) has secured more than R4 million in funding from the National Research Foundation (NRF). This grant, secured through its National Equipment Programme (NEP), will support the development of a multimodal feedback teleoperation and telemanipulation system designed to enhance safety and efficiency in underground mining operations.
The innovative system enables miners to remotely operate underground machinery from secure, off-site locations, reducing their exposure to hazardous environments. The equipment will simulate actual mining machines, allowing for realistic training and operation without the associated risks of underground work.
Prof Shengzhi Du, the project’s lead researcher from TUT’s Department of Electrical Engineering, emphasised the technology's broader impact.
Prof Shengzhi Du
“This innovation thrives on the premise that workers are no longer needed on the site, which relieves them from the danger of the prevalent workplace hazards. With this technology, workers no longer have to go to the sites but can be in safe off-site locations and control the mining operations,” said Prof Du.
He added that the system is expected to improve operational efficiency, safety and productivity, which will contribute significantly to the national economy. Additionally, by fostering skills development and providing advanced training, it aims to enhance the quality of human resources and align local practices with international standards.
“Implementing this platform is also anticipated to create more employment opportunities. By eliminating the need for human presence on-site, the costs associated with making underground environments safe for workers are reduced. This cost-saving allows additional machinery to be added to the same workspace, potentially increasing operational capacity,” Prof Du added.
Prof Brendon Shongwe, FEBE’s Assistant Dean for Postgraduate Studies, Research and Innovation, highlighted the significance of this project in positioning TUT at the forefront of mining research and innovation. He expressed optimism that the initiative would advance mining safety and contribute to the University’s mission of driving technological progress in South Africa.
The project’s lead researcher, Prof Shengzhi Du, said the more than R4 million grant will advance mining safety and create employment.