Introduction/Overview

A leading organization in the earth resources and mining sector sought to elevate operational efficiency and security by deploying AI-driven video analytics solutions. The initiative aimed to automate monitoring, enforce compliance, and harness data-driven insights across critical zones—from canteen access to crusher area supervision—to streamline operations and enhance overall performance.

Category:

IT, Technology

Date:

26 Feb, 2022

Client Overview

A prominent organization in the earth resources and mining sector is responsible for overseeing complex operational environments. With diverse facilities requiring round-the-clock monitoring, innovative solutions were needed to manage access, track vehicle movements, and ensure personnel safety.

Project Context

The initiative focused on deploying video AI solutions tailored to specific operational challenges. The goal was to reduce manual oversight, enhance security, and streamline processes by leveraging automated insights across various use cases.

Problem Statement

The client faced multiple monitoring challenges, including unauthorized access to sensitive areas, inefficient tracking of vehicle movements, and inadequate oversight of personnel in critical operational zones. These issues impacted safety compliance, operational efficiency, and overall site security

Key Obstacles

  • Canteen Accessibility: Monitoring and logging personnel accessing the canteen outside permitted hours.
  • Weigh Scale Truck Movements: Tracking truck movements based on license plates during each shift.
  • Fuel Station Operations: Recording truck entry, refueling duration, and exit times accurately.
  • Generator Room Security: Controlling access to the generator room and identifying unauthorized entries.
  • Crusher Area Supervision: Ensuring continuous operator presence during shift hours to maintain safety and productivity.

Solution Overview

Katomaran’s AI-powered video analytics solution was designed to address each operational challenge with specialized use cases:

  • Canteen Accessibility Monitoring: Utilizing high-definition cameras with real-time face recognition, the system automatically logs personnel entering the canteen. It cross-references captured timestamps with scheduled work hours to identify entries outside permitted periods.
  • Weigh Scale Truck Monitoring: Incorporating Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technologies, the solution captures and decodes license plate data. Advanced motion tracking algorithms generate detailed reports on truck movements per shift.
  • Fuel Station Access Tracking: Employing continuous video stream processing with ANPR, the system records truck entry and exit times, accurately timestamping events and generating comprehensive usage reports that include refueling durations.
  • Generator Room Access Control: The solution uses facial recognition and real-time intrusion detection models to monitor access at the generator room entrance, issuing automated alerts when unauthorized entries are detected.
  • Crusher Area Operator Availability: Leveraging continuous activity recognition and presence detection powered by deep learning models, the system tracks operator presence to ensure adherence to scheduled shifts, triggering notifications when gaps are identified.

Tools & Technologies

  • Camera Systems: High-resolution cameras, including ANPR-enabled units for vehicle tracking and face recognition cameras for personnel identification, equipped with IR and HD capabilities.
  • Networking & Storage: Robust network infrastructure featuring Gigabit routers, access points, and PoE switches, complemented by high-speed connectivity and a scalable NVR system for secure video storage.
  • AI Software: Custom-developed AI algorithms for face recognition, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), safety gear detection, heavy machinery tracking, intrusion detection, and progress monitoring.
  • Processing Infrastructure: Advanced rack servers powered by high-performance multi-core CPUs and GPUs (e.g., NVIDIA Tesla series), with ample memory and storage capacities to support real-time processing and analytics.

Implementation Process

Assessment and Planning

Katomaran evaluated EKAA HRIM’s operational needs and challenges, developing a detailed implementation plan with defined timelines and strategies tailored for each use case.

Deployment and Integration

The camera networks were strategically installed across critical areas, ensuring optimal coverage. AI algorithms were integrated into the existing infrastructure, with robust data communication protocols established to facilitate seamless operations.

Training and Optimization

Following deployment, the AI models were fine-tuned using real-world data and initial feedback. Comprehensive training sessions were held to equip the client’s staff with the skills needed to operate and maintain the system effectively.

Continuous Monitoring and Support

Katomaran provided ongoing support and performance reviews, ensuring continuous system optimization and proactive issue resolution across all monitoring solutions.

Key Actions & Milestones

  • Specialized Hardware Installation: Deploy ruggedized, weather-resistant cameras and networking equipment throughout the mining site in dense forest, ensuring reliable performance despite challenging terrain and environmental conditions.
  • Iterative AI Model Deployment: Roll out custom AI models designed for equipment tracking, worker safety, and environmental monitoring in phases, allowing for continuous refinement based on real-world feedback.
  • System Integration & Dashboard Development: Integrate diverse surveillance and analytics modules into a unified, user-friendly dashboard optimized for remote operations, providing real-time insights and alerts even in low-bandwidth settings.
  • Comprehensive Testing & Validation: Conduct rigorous testing, including on-site trials under various environmental conditions, to validate system performance, safety compliance, and operational efficiency, marking each milestone with successful pilot runs and performance benchmarks.

Quantitative Outcomes

  • Improved Compliance: Automated canteen and generator room monitoring ensured that access protocols were consistently enforced.
  • Enhanced Reporting: Detailed logs and real-time alerts for truck movements and fuel station activities streamlined operational oversight.
  • Increased Operational Efficiency: Continuous monitoring of crusher area operator availability reduced downtime and improved safety compliance.

Qualitative Impact

The integrated video AI solutions transformed operational management by reducing manual monitoring efforts, increasing security, and enabling data-driven decision-making. Client feedback highlighted improved situational awareness and faster response times across all critical zones.