Frequently Asked Question

The LoopX SAS offers an integrated hardware and software solution — similar to an “iPhone on wheels” combined with “iCloud for mine sites.”
It delivers three core capabilities in a unified platform:

  • Collision Awareness: Real-time detection and proactive warning of personnel, vehicles, and hazards.
  • Geolocation Awareness: Tracking of equipment and personnel locations, including non-line-of-sight detection using Wi-Fi-based technology.
  • Productivity Awareness: Monitoring and analysis of haul cycles, bucket loads, payloads, and equipment utilization.

Unlike point solutions that operate in isolation, the SAS combines these features into a cohesive system, eliminating data silos and providing comprehensive situational intelligence for safer and more efficient operations.

The SAS fuses inputs from stereo thermal/infrared cameras, 3D LiDAR, a built-in IMU, and optional Wi-Fi-based proximity tags. Using AI-powered sensor fusion, the system detects and classifies personnel, vehicles, and hazards in real time — and predicts potential collisions before they occur. Proactive visual and audible alerts are provided to operators. The system also logs detection events and near-misses for trend analysis and reporting.

The SAS initially provides EMESRT Level 7 Awareness, offering real-time detection and proactive warnings to operators about potential collision risks.
The system is designed to be upgradable to EMESRT Level 9 Intervention Control through the LoopX Autopilot Control System. LoopX recommends starting with Level 7 to reduce risk, simplify deployment, and build operator trust before upgrading to Level 9 if needed. No significant hardware changes are required, as the SAS hardware platform is already designed to support Level 9 intervention capabilities.

Unlike traditional systems that rely on a single sensor type (e.g., RF, camera, or radar), the LoopX SAS combines multiple detection layers to eliminate single points of failure:

  • Tag-Based Detection (NLOS): Based on Wi-Fi RSSI filtering (optional).
  • AI Camera-Based Detection (LOS): Utilizes deep learning models trained with mining-specific datasets.
  • LiDAR-Based Proximity Detection (LOS): Provides precise depth measurements through 3D point cloud data.

This multi-layered approach ensures robust redundancy and enhanced detection reliability.

The Geolocation Awareness capability stands apart by not relying solely on GPS (surface) or underground anchors and beacons such as UWB or BLE.
Instead, it determines equipment location using a human-like approach — combining pre-scanned point cloud maps, real-time LiDAR scans, and proprietary SLAM-based algorithms. This method mimics how humans navigate environments, using both memory and perception, enabling accurate and resilient localization even where GPS or beacon-based systems are not feasible.

The SAS enables automated LHD bucket counting without the need for mechanical sensors or manual operator input. Using AI-based vision algorithms, real-time boom angle analysis, and machine movement patterns, the system tracks each loading and dumping event, mimicking an experienced operator’s observation. This allows consistent and accurate bucket counts across different equipment types and operational conditions, enabling precise productivity tracking without requiring additional hardware installation.

The SAS is built and tested for harsh mining environments:

  • Cold: Operates down to -40°C ambient temperature.
  • Heat: Operates up to +40°C ambient temperature.
  • Water/Dust: Sensors and compute modules are IP67/IP69K rated.
  • Durability: Components are ruggedized to withstand vibration, sand abrasion, and pressure washing.

Yes. Each SAS installation includes a touchscreen display:

  • Size Options: 7-inch (compact) or 10-inch (for larger cabins).
  • Display Information: Operators can switch between feature displays through an onboard application, similar to an iPhone interface.
    For collision awareness, the display provides real-time 360° situational awareness, proximity alerts, and color-coded risk indicators.

  • Primary Operation: Fully edge-based, with no network dependency for real-time collision detection.
  • Data Upload: Wi-Fi or LTE (optional) for uploading recorded data to servers.
  • Server Requirement: Not required unless centralized data aggregation and analytics are desired.

  • Yes. While the SAS operates independently, it can optionally be connected to:
    • LoopX Dashboard: For safety analytics (e.g., near-miss statistics) and productivity analytics (e.g., haul cycle analysis).
    • Third-Party FMS: Integration with fleet management systems is available if required.

For Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) detection, the SAS uses Wi-Fi-based personal tags and vehicle-mounted Wi-Fi access points integrated into the edge computer. The system enables effective detection around corners, with a typical range of 10 to 50 meters depending on site layout. LoopX has partnered with cap lamp manufacturers to integrate LoopX personal tags directly into cap lamps, providing seamless protection without requiring additional wearable devices.

Yes. The SAS rear camera can function as a primary backup camera. In addition, it features a unique self-heating function to prevent fogging, addressing common challenges faced by conventional backup cameras, especially where outdoor temperatures are below freezing while underground temperatures are elevated.

Yes. Data, including camera feeds and collision alerts, can be transmitted through the edge computer’s local Wi-Fi network to assist remote operation and teleoperation systems. This enables improved visibility, enhanced situational awareness, and safer remote mucking activities.

Yes. Equipped with a 2TB SSD, the SAS offers:

  • Continuous Recording: Captures approximately the last three days of operational video.
  • Event-Triggered Recording: Stores near-miss or non-compliance events, with data retention for up to one month or longer to support post-incident investigations.

Yes. The SAS is a modular, plug-and-play system designed for quick installation and removal:

  • Deployment Time: Initial installation typically completed within one shift (less than eight hours); removal within one hour.
  • Minimal Network Requirements: No server or real-time network connectivity needed for core safety functions.
  • Self-Contained Operation: Processing occurs onboard the equipment.
  • Cost-Effective: Designed as an all-in-one solution, the SAS delivers advanced safety and productivity capabilities in a single integrated system — eliminating the need to purchase separate backup camera systems, radio-based proximity detection systems, and telematics systems from multiple vendors.