TALPA Solutions is a software platform provider that aims to democratise the data dynamic in mining, building platforms that, it says, integrate data, decisions and operations effectively, making it easier for mining companies to bring together multiple datasets into one interface with actionable insights.
The ability to do this can set solution providers apart in the mining industry.
Another differentiator for TALPA in this space is its independence. As an entity backed by venture capitalists, it is not tied to one specific OEM or equipment provider. This allows it to look not only at maintenance-related data but also at information that impacts productivity, safety and other on-site considerations. It gives TALPA the freedom to work with raw data and apply various data models directly on its cloud platform.
TALPA’s approach to obtaining on-board machine data is also unique, it claims. Instead of using APIs for already processed signals, it connects directly to the machine’s ECU data via a data logging device and multiple CAN bus interfaces. This approach ensures integration is both quick and easy, and that no potential data points are left behind.
According to Alexey Shalashinski, Head of Business Development at TALPA, such an approach is starting to be recognised by both the mining company community and the OEMs themselves.
TALPA has already partnered with several companies, including GHH and SMAG, to create digital solutions for their end users. For example, the GHH inSiTE Digital analytics solution offered by GHH to various underground mine sites has allowed significant reductions in MTTR (mean time to repair) at several mines owned by GHH’s biggest client in Germany and is now being populated across further sites internationally.
Referencing a project in North America with one of the industry’s leading tyre manufacturers, TALPA’s industrial AI platform has identified productivity improvement opportunities at an open-pit mine site by analysing the carrying capacity of haul trucks in operation, merging it with the tyre diagnostics on these vehicles as well as spatial and other contextual data. On this particular project, TALPA identified there was a potential 5-10% opportunity to increase the average payload on these trucks based on what the sensor data from various systems was saying.
Many mining OEMs claim to provide software solutions with insights on maintenance and productivity, but these normally cover only the product range of particular manufacturers, according to TALPA.
Shalashinski says mine sites find it difficult to get “buy-in” for several systems in the case of running mixed fleets from respective companies and integrating them into the workflow. TALPA is looking to provide that connection to clients so they can leverage all the major benefits that come from pulling data off hundreds of sensors on multiple pieces of equipment.
He concluded: “TALPA Solutions’ unique approach to obtaining on-board machine data, and its partnerships with various companies, make it a valuable partner for the mining industry.”