The integration of cutting-edge technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) is driving innovation across industries. In the mining sector, autonomous driving technology is revolutionizing operations, with high-precision positioning and navigation systems playing a crucial role in ensuring safety and operational efficiency. These systems deliver real-time position, attitude, velocity, and timing (PAVT) data—critical for autonomous systems operating in complex, dynamic environments.
Today, autonomous haul trucks are being deployed at scale, marking a significant milestone in the development of intelligent mining ecosystems. However, mining operations present distinct challenges, including harsh conditions, rugged terrain, and dense traffic. To overcome these, integrated GNSS + inertial navigation solutions are essential, offering the accuracy and reliability needed to support next-generation autonomous mining applications.
EACON unmanned mining truck fleet
Advancing Smart Mining through Collaborative Efforts
Precision Navigation for Autonomous Haul Trucks
In recent years, CHCNAV’s CGI-610 GNSS/INS sensor has emerged as a key innovation in the autonomous haul truck industry. Through its partnership with Eacon, a leader in unmanned mining vehicle technology, CHCNAV is supporting the transformation of intelligent mining operations.
One notable example is a large-scale mining site in the Zhundong region of Xinjiang, China. At this site, more than 200 autonomous haul trucks—each weighing over 100 tons—are equipped with the CGI-610 system. These vehicles perform tasks such as loading, transporting, and unloading with remarkable precision, significantly improving the efficiency of mining operations.
Unmanned trucks for highly automated transportation within the mine
CGI-610 Integrated Navigation System
Robust Performance in Extreme Environments
Mining environments such as those in the Zhundong region present many challenges, including extreme temperatures, high vibration levels, heavy traffic, and pervasive dust. The CGI-610 system is designed to address these conditions:
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Temperature Resistance: Operates reliably within a range of -40°C to 70°C, ensuring consistent performance in harsh seasonal climates.
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Shock and Vibration Resistance: Incorporates anti-vibration technology to maintain stability in high-impact conditions.
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Durability: Built to IP67 standards, providing rugged protection against dust and water ingress.
CHCNAV CGI-610
Enabling High-Precision Positioning for Reliable Operations
Mining sites are inherently complex environments for GNSS receivers due to factors such as:
- Signal Obstruction and Multipath Effects In open-pit mines, towering pit edges, steep walls within deep pits, and large equipment can significantly obstruct GNSS signals, preventing receivers from simultaneously capturing signals from enough satellites, thus reducing positioning accuracy. Additionally, multipath effects occur when GNSS signals reflect off pit edges, surface rocks, or metallic equipment, causing signal delays and direction errors that further compromise positioning precision.
- Limited Satellite Visibility The unique topography of mining pits, especially in deep or narrow operational areas, significantly limits visible sky regions, reducing the number of satellites that receivers can observe. GNSS positioning typically requires signals from at least four satellites, and in mines, low-elevation angle signals are more prone to obstruction and interference. This challenge becomes more pronounced in dynamically changing environments, such as as mining depth increases, where visibility may further decline.
To maintain precision in mining and other challenging environments, the CGI-610 employs several strategies:
- Tightly Coupled GNSS/INS Integration This approach deeply integrates GNSS and inertial measurement data, utilizing not only GNSS-derived position and velocity solutions but also raw observations (e.g., pseudorange and carrier phase) combined with accelerometer and gyroscope data from the INS. For instance, when a truck is operating at the bottom of an open-pit mine, it might receive both direct and reflected GNSS signals, potentially confusing the receiver and reducing accuracy. By incorporating INS data, the receiver can identify significant deviations between some GNSS signals and the expected position provided by the INS, thereby refining results to ensure precision. In reality, the process is more complex and involves addressing issues like INS sensor drift and mitigating vibration interference through advanced algorithms.
- Multi-Constellation GNSS Signal Reception The CGI-610 and its latest model, CGI-830, can receive signals from multiple bands and frequencies, applying tailored algorithms and antenna designs to minimize errors caused by reflections in mining environments. Signals from multiple constellations also enhance the robustness of GNSS positioning, especially when portions of the sky are obscured.
- Anti-Vibration Algorithms While the CGI-610 features physical anti-vibration designs, the challenging conditions in mining and the inherent vibrations of heavy trucks can still impact INS sensor outputs. The CGI-610 addresses this by analyzing INS sensor data in real-time, automatically identifying vibration levels and adaptively adjusting algorithm weights to achieve optimal accuracy under harsh conditions.
These features ensure uninterrupted navigation in the most demanding operating environments, supporting the safety and reliability of autonomous mining trucks.
Optimizing Transportation and Docking Efficiency
The CGI-610 system improves the operational accuracy of haul trucks during transport and docking activities. Its advanced navigation capabilities support key processes that drive efficient mining operations:
- Precise Docking The CGI-610 enables fast and accurate docking at dump sites and material processing stations, reducing cycle times and optimizing workflow efficiency.
- Orderly Transportation By facilitating streamlined navigation and coordination, the system supports efficient material transport in various mining scenarios, including coal and metal mining.
With centimeter-level positioning accuracy, the CGI-610 improves vehicle maneuverability. Trucks equipped with the system can navigate narrow paths, perform detour maneuvers, and execute complex driving tasks with precision. These capabilities help reduce road maintenance costs and expand the operational versatility of autonomous mining trucks, enabling them to operate in a variety of terrains and mine types.
Automated loading process
Driving the Future of Autonomous Mining
From rigorous testing to large-scale deployment, the CGI-610 GNSS/INS sensor consistently demonstrates its ability to meet the demanding requirements of autonomous haul trucks in mining operations. Its reliable performance ensures safe, efficient, and continuous operation, even in harsh conditions and complex terrain.
The system’s success in projects such as the Zhundong mining site underscores its value in advancing intelligent mining ecosystems. By providing precise navigation, adaptive control, and reliable performance, the CGI-610 has gained the trust of industry leaders and established itself as a cornerstone of smart mining operations.
Through continuous innovation, CHCNAV strives to meet the evolving needs of autonomous systems across multiple industries, enabling organizations to achieve smarter, safer, and more efficient operations.
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About CHC Navigation
CHC Navigation (CHCNAV) develops advanced mapping, navigation and positioning solutions designed to increase productivity and efficiency. Serving industries such as geospatial, agriculture, construction and autonomy, CHCNAV delivers innovative technologies that empower professionals and drive industry advancement. With a global presence spanning over 140 countries and a team of more than 2,000 professionals, CHC Navigation is recognized as a leader in the geospatial industry and beyond. For more information about CHC Navigation [Huace:300627.SZ], please visit: www.chcnav.com
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