Improving safety and health in mining through automation and robotics
Official title: Research and Technological Innovations in Automation, Robotics, and Intelligent Mining Systems for Transformative Improvements in Workplace Safety, Health, and Efficiencies
Funded at Missouri University of Science & Technology · NIH-10909777 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about making mining safer by using smart robots and technology to spot dangers and keep workers safe, so everyone can go home healthy at the end of the day.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Missouri University of Science & Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,000,000 |
| NIH project number | 5U60OH012685-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909777 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are workers in the mining industry who are at risk of accidents and injuries due to the hazardous nature of their work.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in the mining industry or who work in safer environments may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing workplace safety and health in the mining industry by developing advanced autonomous, robotic, and intelligent systems. The project aims to utilize artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze data, predict risks, and manage processes effectively. Additionally, it will address cybersecurity to protect these systems from potential threats and ensure smooth operations through human-centered design. By implementing these innovations, the research seeks to significantly reduce accidents and fatalities in mining environments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a dramatic reduction in workplace fatalities and injuries in the mining industry.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in implementing technological innovations in workplace safety, indicating a promising potential for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Missouri University of Science & Technology
Rolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Frimpong, Samuel — Missouri University of Science & Technology
- Study coordinator: Frimpong, Samuel
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.