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Data Insights Internet of Things in mining: tunnel ventilation systems

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According to GlobalData’s Technology Foresights, which uses over 81,000 patents to analyze innovation intensity for the mining industry, there are 45+ innovation areas that will shape the future of the industry.

Tunnel ventilation systems is a key innovation area in Internet of Things

A tunnel ventilation system is a network of connected sensors to monitor mines and enhance operational safety and efficiency, and optimize mine productivity. Since ventilation systems are the largest consumers of power in underground mines, smart tunnel ventilation systems significantly improve miner working conditions, while also lowering mine energy consumption. Smart digital technologies are being used by companies all over the world to monitor and optimize ventilation systems and ensure a safe working environment.

GlobalData’s analysis also uncovers the companies at the forefront of each innovation area and assesses the potential reach and impact of their patenting activity across different applications and geographies. According to GlobalData, there are 310+ companies, spanning technology vendors, established mining companies, and up-and-coming start-ups engaged in the development and application of tunnel ventilation systems.

Key players in tunnel ventilation systems – a disruptive innovation in the mining industry

‘Application diversity’ measures the number of applications identified for each patent. It broadly splits companies into either ‘niche’ or ‘diversified’ innovators.   

‘Geographic reach’ refers to the number of countries each patent is registered in. It reflects the breadth of geographic application intended, ranging from ‘global’ to ‘local’.  

Patent volumes related to tunnel ventilation systems

Epiroc is one of the leading patent filers in tunnel ventilation systems, provides a complete ventilation solution for tunnelling and underground mining operations, including system design and installation of fan stations and ducting. The company’s Serpent ventilation system is made up of highly efficient, low-noise fans and long-lasting polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-coated ventilation ducting. Advanced sensors measure carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide levels on a regular basis to determine air quality, and then automatically adjust fan speed to maintain adequate air flow and a perfectly regulated underground work environment. The smart Serpent Automatic module reduces energy consumption, while adhering to all environmental requirements and regulations.

In terms of application diversity, China Railway Group leads the pack, while Jingying Shuzhi Technology Co and The Walt Disney Co stood in the second and third positions, respectively. By means of geographic reach, China National Coal Group held the top position, followed by China Railway Design and POSCO.

To further understand the key themes and technologies disrupting the mining industry, access GlobalData’s latest thematic research report on Internet of Things (IoT) in Mining.

GlobalData, the leading provider of industry intelligence, provided the underlying data, research, and analysis used to produce this article.

GlobalData’s Patent Analytics tracks patent filings and grants from official offices around the world. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.