Nokia and Vale will deploy a cognitive monitoring network service to improve performance and safety across mining operations.
This collaboration builds on work already carried out at Vale’s autonomous iron ore operation in Carajás, the world’s largest open-pit iron ore mine. Technology trialled at Carajás aims to deliver a proactive network capable of sensing, analysing and acting to support mission-critical communications in the mine’s hazardous environment.
As industries plan for future mission-critical networks, there is growing emphasis on embedding cognitive services across operational layers. Nokia Bell Labs and Vale will investigate these systems to develop connectivity solutions that support and automate future mining workflows and improve operational planning intelligence.
Lelio Di Martino, GM of the Cognitive Digital Mine Venture at Nokia, said: “This collaboration between Nokia Bell Labs and Vale is the next step in making the mining industry safer and more productive. Mines are complex, multi-domain and multi-stakeholder environments where low agility and high uncertainty can significantly affect profitability.
“The outcomes of this work will enable cognitive services that optimise mining processes. Together, we will drive a transformation in how networks — and mines — are designed and controlled.”
A core element of the project is the development of a comprehensive digital twin for mission-critical mine operations. By integrating the cognitive monitoring network service, the initiative aims to combine data from various production systems — such as haul trucks and autonomous drillers — and correlate those data streams with network key performance indicators.
The effort is supported by Nokia Bell Labs’ NiX (Nokia Industrial eXperience) research platform, which helped create the Network Cognitive Digital Mine (CDM) venture inside Nokia’s Strategy and Technology organisation.
Mario Azevedo, GM of Engineering and Technology Projects at Vale, said: “By integrating advanced connectivity technologies with Nokia Bell Labs, we strengthen and standardise processes across IT and operations, enable real-time monitoring for a safer workplace, and optimise workflows to reduce downtime and boost efficiency.
“This strategic approach helps us achieve operational excellence while keeping our primary focus on safety and delivering value.”
The collaboration marks an important step in applying IoT and cognitive monitoring to an industry that faces complex, unpredictable challenges. Combining connectivity with intelligent monitoring showcases how digital innovation can deliver significant advancements in traditional sectors.
(Photo by Omid Roshan)
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