GNSS RTK Enhances Mining Safety: Intelligent Monitoring and Protection for Open-Pit Operations

Open-pit mining operations enhanced by GNSS RTK technology for real-time safety monitoring and precision positioning.

With the continuous expansion of mining activities, open-pit operations face growing challenges related to geological stability, equipment coordination, and personnel safety. Complex terrain, frequent equipment movement, and large operational areas demand higher levels of positioning accuracy and real-time visibility.

GNSS RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) positioning technology has emerged as a key enabler for intelligent mining systems. By providing high-precision positioning and continuous data output, GNSS RTK supports systematic risk prevention and refined operational management throughout the mining lifecycle.

GNSS-Based Slope Monitoring for Geological Risk Control

Limitations of Traditional Monitoring Approaches

In open-pit mines, slope stability is influenced by geological structure, excavation depth, and environmental conditions. Conventional monitoring methods rely heavily on manual inspection or periodic measurements, which often lack continuity and struggle to capture early-stage deformation.

These limitations increase the risk of delayed response to slope instability.

RTK-Enabled Continuous Slope Monitoring

By deploying GNSS RTK antennas and positioning terminals at key monitoring points, mining operators can establish a continuous slope monitoring system capable of detecting small-scale displacement over time.

Key characteristics include:

● High-precision GNSS antennas providing stable signal reception

● RTK positioning terminals enabling continuous displacement measurement

● Centralized platforms for real-time data visualization and alerts

This configuration allows early identification of abnormal slope movement and supports timely preventive action, improving overall geological risk control.

Intelligent Equipment and Vehicle Management Using GNSS RTK

Real-Time Location Awareness Across the Mining Area

Mining equipment and transport vehicles operate across wide and often complex areas. Without precise positioning, blind spots and inefficient dispatching can compromise both productivity and safety.

By integrating vehicle-mounted GNSS RTK positioning terminals, operators can obtain accurate, real-time location data for each piece of equipment, supporting:

● Centralized dispatch and route optimization

● Monitoring of operational status and utilization

● Reduction of unnecessary idle time

Collision Prevention and Distance Monitoring

GNSS RTK positioning enables real-time distance calculation between vehicles and equipment. When predefined safety thresholds are exceeded, warning mechanisms can be triggered to reduce collision risk and prevent operational accidents.

Fuel and Operational Efficiency Monitoring

When combined with onboard sensors, GNSS RTK terminals support fuel consumption monitoring and operational analysis. This allows managers to identify abnormal usage patterns, improve task planning, and enhance overall equipment efficiency.

Strengthening Personnel Safety with GNSS Wearable Devices

Accurate Personnel Positioning in High-Risk Areas

Personnel safety is a critical component of mining operations. GNSS RTK wearable devices—such as GNSS-enabled safety helmets or compact personal terminals—allow real-time positioning of workers within the mining area.

This supports:

● Access control in hazardous zones

● Real-time visibility of personnel distribution

● Improved compliance with safety procedures

Emergency Alerts and SOS Capabilities

GNSS wearable devices can integrate emergency alert functions. In the event of an incident, personnel can transmit precise location information to the control center, improving response speed and coordination during emergency situations.

Integrated GNSS Product Solutions for Mining Applications

The images illustrate a complete GNSS RTK solution portfolio tailored for mining environments, including:

● High-precision GNSS antennas for fixed-point monitoring

● RTK positioning terminals for vehicles and equipment

● Multi-constellation GNSS modules designed for harsh conditions

● GNSS-enabled wearable devices for personnel safety

These components form a unified GNSS-based monitoring and management system, enabling consistent data flow from the field to centralized control platforms.

GNSS RTK: Building a Robust Safety Framework for Modern Open-Pit Mining

GNSS-Based Slope Monitoring for Geological Risk Control

Intelligent Equipment and Vehicle Management Using GNSS RTK

Strengthening Personnel Safety with GNSS Wearable Devices

Integrated GNSS Product Solutions for Mining Applications