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Autonomous fleet tech company EACON collaborates with LiDAR supplier Innovusion

Posted on 21 Mar 2023

Founded in 2016 in Sunnyvale, California, Innovusion is a leading global provider of LiDAR sensor systems. As part of a new strategic cooperation agreement, Innovusion is to provide its image-grade ultra long-range Falcon LiDAR system to the growing Chinese automonous mine haulage technology company, EACON. The deal was signed by EACON VP Lin Qiao and Innovusion Senior Director Business Development, Pang Long.

Falcon will be integrated into EACON’s autonomous haulage solution, it says providing high-performing and state-of-the-art sensing features. EACON states: “Both trendsetters will give full play to their respective advantages to build a safer, more efficient future in open-pit mines.”

As a provider of sustainable autonomous haulage solutions, EACON has successfully completed the stages of prototype development and field proving testing in 2019, and is running three commercial projects at two mines and a quarry in China. “EACON has now progressed to the stage of large-scale deployment and operation. With a proven track record of delivering quality services to our customers, we ensure that their mining operations are more efficient and safe. We are proud to be at the forefront of this innovative technology and look forward to continuing to push the boundaries of what is possible.”

The mining industry faces unique challenges, including safety concerns and difficulties in recruiting and retaining skilled workers. To address these challenges, it is crucial to accelerate the development of intelligent and unmanned mining technologies. EACON says it provides a cutting-edge solution for autonomous haulage algorithms and systems in mining operations. “Through real-world operational experience, we have continuously improved the detection capabilities of our technology solutions.”

Innovusion’s Falcon LiDAR system is an image-grade long-range LiDAR system that uses a 1,550 nm laser wavelength. EACON says it has excellent penetration ability and is not affected by dust or direct sunlight in mining areas, providing high-quality structured point-cloud data for algorithms. “With its high-precision long-range detection capabilities, the Falcon significantly enhances the detection range of unmanned fleets. This helps improve operational efficiency while also detecting various risks early on to ensure safety.”

The Falcon has undergone rigorous testing and validation, including exposure to high temperatures of +85°C, rapid freezing at -40°C, and withstanding 50G shock tests, rendering it well-suited for deployment in arduous mining environments. Its durable design reduces the risk of maintenance or replacement due to product durability issues, improving the long-term stability of fleet operations.