Innovations in digital systems for modern mining excavators

Abstract

The mining industry is rapidly embracing digital technologies originally conceived in the late 20th and early 21st centuries to revolutionize equipment safety, reliability, and operator training. This paper reviews the latest on‑board diagnostic platforms, continuous vibration monitoring, centralized lubrication controls, geolocation systems, and advanced operator simulators that have transformed excavator operations. Empirical case studies demonstrate downtime reductions of up to 35 %, maintenance labor cuts of 80 %, and training error rates decreased by 80 %. We also examine software tools for excavator‑truck fleet sizing and structural life estimation, highlighting how these innovations optimize total cost of ownership (TCO) and extend machine life. Key implementation challenges—including network infrastructure, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance—are discussed, and best practices for scalable deployment are provided