Autonomous ADT pilot scheme launched

Four companies have worked together to produce an autonomous Bell B40E dump truck (Pic: CPI)

The project was initially conceptualised by Chepstow Plant International (CPI) and Bell Equipment following long-term trials between Bell Equipment and technology platform specialist, xtonomy.

CPI identified Sibelco as the ideal partner to bring the project to reality in a live-working quarry environment. Collectively, the four key stakeholders have collaborated to develop and launch the autonomous machine.

The launch event for the venture was held at Sibelco’s quarry in Devon, UK, with a full demonstration of the new autonomous solution within a working quarry setting.

Interactive presentations highlighted on-board hardware and software technologies, including radar sensors, high-precision GPS, multi-channel communication systems and on-board processing hardware. They have been incorporated by xtonomy into a standard B40E dump truck to create an Autonomous-Ready drive by wire B40E solution.

The combination is said to offer true and safe autonomy with a resilient navigation system that plans ADT paths and predictively controls the vehicle around the entire quarry site.

Among the key objectives with this pilot scheme will be to demonstrate the potential to reduce vehicular incidents and subsequent accidents as well as upskilling then the existing workforce to further support the future of quarry operations.

Operational efficiencies will be enhanced as the autonomous ADTs are able to operate for longer periods during the working day, deliver highly accurate tipping results, and ensure that the existing quarry shift patterns can be tailored to improve productivity. Further benefits will be available thanks to improved component life and reduced wear and tear on the Bell B40E dump truck, leading to improved asset availability for the quarry.

Autonomy supporting sustainability

Environmental advantages will also be leveraged through the AI-enabled transformation. With enhanced driving accuracy and efficiency across the quarry, less fuel will be consumed, helping to ensure reductions in carbon emissions damage because of a quarry’s daily activities.

To further enhance the autonomous ADTs impact on the environment, the Bell B40E uses HVO instead of diesel.

Ben Uphill, Director Operations, Kingsteignton Cluster at quarry-owner, Sibelco, said, “We envisage many benefits from having access to this sector-first autonomous ADT solution. The minerals & aggregates sector must embrace technology as a way of continually delivering improvements across our daily operations and cost base.”