In the challenging world of mining, time is literally money. Unexpected blockages, partial collapses, and structural changes in tunnels pose significant risks to both safety and productivity. This is where the Elios 3 from Flyability, represented in Brazil by XD4Solutions, proves to be a true game-changer. Equipped with state-of-the-art sensing, navigation, and 3D mapping technology, the Elios 3 enables fast and precise blockage detection in mines without putting human lives at risk.
Why is fast blockage detection in mines so critical?
Imagine a collapsed tunnel over 1,000 meters deep in an underground mine. Human access can be slow, risky, and extremely costly. Moreover, time lost compromises the entire production chain. In this context, drone automation—especially with the Elios 3—becomes essential. The drone can enter narrow, dark, and collapsed spaces, mapping everything in real time.
Meet Elios 3: A Revolution in Underground Inspections
Developed by Flyability, the Elios 3 is the first indoor inspection drone equipped with the powerful FlyAware™ LiDAR sensor, combined with 4K cameras and high-performance LED lighting. What does that mean in practice? Instant detection, detailed mapping, and accurate decision-making in minutes—not days.
Some of the most impressive features of the Elios 3 include:
- 3D LiDAR Sensor: Creates accurate point cloud maps even in complete darkness.
- Drone with Spherical Protective Cage: Ideal for flights in confined spaces without damaging the equipment.
- Real-Time Streaming: Ground teams can monitor everything live.
- Exceptional Stabilization: Maintains image quality even in turbulent air conditions.
- Integration with software like GeoSLAM and Inspector 4.0: Simplifies post-processing and data analysis.
How does the Elios 3 quickly detect blockages in mines?
The key lies in SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) technology. This allows the drone to map its environment as it moves, creating a real-time 3D model. When it encounters a blockage—such as a debris pile, wall deformation, or a sinkhole—the system instantly identifies the anomaly.
Picture this scenario:
A mine operator receives an alert of a potential collapse in a gallery. Instead of sending a team into a dangerous area, they deploy the Elios 3. The drone flies to the area of interest, scans it using LiDAR, and within minutes generates a 3D visualization showing the exact location and size of the blockage.
It’s that simple. No risk. No wasted time.
Advantages of the Elios 3 in Underground Mining
- Reduced Human Risk: Remote inspections eliminate the need to enter unstable areas.
- Time and Cost Savings: Blockages are detected before they escalate.
- Faster Decision-Making: Real-time 3D data enables immediate response.
- Accurate Documentation: Ideal for audits and maintenance planning.
- Access to Inaccessible Areas: Reaches places no human or traditional equipment can.
Real Cases: Elios 3 in Action in the Mining Sector
The Elios 3 is already being used in mines across countries like Australia, Canada, South Africa, and Brazil. In a recent case in Minas Gerais, the drone was essential in mapping a collapsed area in under an hour, allowing structural engineers to design a reinforcement plan without endangering lives.
Another case in southern Brazil involved inspecting a 300-meter-deep exhaust shaft. The Elios 3 descended vertically, precisely mapping the interior and detecting structural deformations invisible to the naked eye.
The Future of Mining Starts with Drones Like the Elios 3
What was once a risky and time-consuming task is now made safe and efficient with real-time, rich visual, spatial, and structural data. The Elios 3 is not just a drone—it’s a strategic ally for any modern mining operation.
Curious to see the Elios 3 in action?
At XD4Solutions, we are the official Flyability representatives in Brazil and are ready to help your operation take a technological leap.
Get in touch with us now and request a quote.
