With the new operating system, a single operator can remotely control more machines from the same operator station in a central location at a mine site.

"It allows for an operator to send multiple machines to their destinations on ControlMaster Guidance Automation and concentrate on performing specific tasks with another machine," said RCT's automation and control product manager Brendon Cullen.

"For example, the operator can supervise digging, dumping and loading functions before sending the machine to its destination on auto tramming and taking control of the next machine."

RCT said MMC meets a need in the industry as it can help clients to safeguard operators by removing them from the cab of mobile machines and, in some instances, from the hazards at a mine site, as well as improve productivity and in turn profitability.

MMC can be implemented across surface and underground fleets and, according to RCT, differs from other solutions available on the market today in its usability and functionality.

"The system can integrate into any site's current operations and can be installed on any mobile machine, regardless of make or model. Being agnostic is a big advantage as mine sites utilise more than one brand of mobile machines in their fleet," Cullen said.

With MMC there is no need for mine sites to upload mine maps before utilising the technology.

"This further ensures fast deployment between work areas, as well as the opportunity to expand the system if and when required," he added.

While MMC operates on a digital network, RCT can provide technology—called RCT Bridge— that can interface with a mine site's analogue communications network.

"The MMC solution can be operated locally at the work area, at a central location such as the office buildings on a mine site or relocated to a central operating station location off-site to a city (near or far)," said Cullen.

"The system has the ability to change the way customers operate, some of the benefits associated with this change in mining practices include the possibility of introducing three eight-hour shifts from two 12-hour shifts."

RCT said MMC has already been deployed at several sites around the world.