Teleoperation User Interfaces for Mining Robotics

This paper describes the requirements for user interfaces for teleoperation of mining vehicles and systems. The current status of teleoperation in mining is outlined. Current commercial interfaces are relatively unsophisticated, evolving from line-of-sight remote control systems with the addition of video displays. The user interfaces for two experimental teleoperated systems, the Numbat emergency response vehicle and remote highwall mining systems are described. In both cases the purpose of the user interface is to provide efficient data presentation for the operator. The major client requirements for mining systems are robustness, reliability and ease of use by site operational and support personnel.