While drones have become a common tool for mapping open-pit mines, exploring underground environments remains a significant challenge. The Elios 2 is designed to overcome these obstacles, offering a cutting-edge solution that brings photogrammetric capabilities into the dark, GPS-denied spaces of underground mines. Safety By capturing visual data from hard-to-reach areas, the Elios 2 allows for safety assessments that were once impossible, reducing risks for workers in dangerous underground zones. High-Quality Data The drone provides high-definition video and images, giving teams across operations, engineering, and safety departments detailed insights that help guide mine development and decision-making. Ease of Use Its stable flight and durable caged design make it ideal for thorough inspections without the risk of damage or crashes in tight spaces. For three days, the Elios 2, a specialized drone for confined space inspections, was tested at the Golden Sunlight Mine in Montana, owned by Barrick Gold Corporation. Matt Mackinnon, founder of UAS Inc., worked closely with Flyability to demonstrate the potential of the Elios 2 in improving safety and access to critical visual data in underground mining environments. The results exceeded expectations. “The Elios 2 checks nearly every box for what we need to conduct safe and effective underground inspections,†said Matt. Using the drone’s data, his team created a 3D photogrammetric model of a stope, helping engineers assess its condition, identify loose material, and plan future operations more effectively. After blasting, large rocks can become unstable inside a stope, posing serious risks to both workers and equipment. Traditional methods like lowering cameras or using poles offer limited visibility, leaving gaps in safety and operational planning. This lack of information can lead to costly mistakes, such as damaging expensive machinery or missing valuable ore. Barrick needed a reliable way to gather accurate visual data to improve safety, protect equipment, and optimize mining efficiency. [Related read: What is a LiDAR drone?] Ryan Turner, a geotechnical engineer at Barrick, oversaw multiple inspection missions using the Elios 2. He praised the drone’s ease of use, stability, and durability in harsh conditions. “It's safe to interact with, and the cage protects it from collisions without causing damage,†he noted. The Elios 2 successfully navigated both large spaces and tight shafts, collecting highly accurate and comprehensive data. Its powerful lighting system and protective cage allowed it to operate safely even in challenging conditions. Engineers used the data to create detailed 3D models, identifying loose material, fractures, and other geological features. This helped in assessing risks and making informed decisions about future operations. Even first-time users found the Elios 2 easy to fly, which is rare in underground mining. Unlike previous attempts where drones often crashed, the Elios 2 performed flawlessly over three days, with no losses reported. Using data from four flights, the team created a 3D photogrammetric model of a stope with Pix4D Mapper. These models provide a snapshot of the site’s condition and help engineers analyze changes over time. Inspectors can click on specific points in the model to view original images and identify geological features. This level of detail supports better planning, risk assessment, and design decisions. The Elios 2 has transformed how Barrick Gold and UAS Inc. approach underground inspections. With its ability to collect high-quality data and create detailed 3D models, it enhances safety, reduces risks, and improves operational efficiency. This technology helps ensure that mining operations are not only safer but also more productive, ultimately saving millions in potential losses and increasing output. As part of a series on photogrammetry, this article explores how drones like the Elios 2 are changing the mining industry for the better. This article belongs to a series about photogrammetry:
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Key Benefits at a Glance
Introduction
Customer Needs
Solution
Results
Photogrammetric Mapping—In Testing And Development
Conclusion