Upgrading a Pipe Handler with the RodBot Automation System

Overview

Capital Limited, a drilling contractor with operations around the world, wanted to upgrade a brand-new pipe handler with the MEDATech RodBot Automation System. The goal was to adapt the machine for easier, safer and more efficient underground rod handling.

RodBot Automation System integration transformed the machine from a manually-operated pipe handler into a radio remote–controlled machine, reducing operator training time and physical / mental load, while improving safety and usability underground.

Challenge

Learning to operate standard pipe handlers’ telescopic manipulator arms takes hard work. Operators must manually coordinate six joints simultaneously to maneuver pipe precisely—a difficult and time-consuming skill to master. Since underground drifts offered limited clearance, skilled manipulation of the manual pipe handler is an absolute necessity. When skilled operators were unavailable, however, the machine remained idle. And without a dedicated platform for the operator to stand on when tramming the machine, it is not ideal from a safety perspective.

Solution

Once we received the pipe handler, we installed the RodBot Automation System that included a bespoke control panel, encoders along the manipulator arm, RodBot software and a radio remote for comprehensive machine operation. The OEM arm, grapple, hydraulics and structural hardware remained unchanged.

Results

This first retrofit has improved production for Capital Limited. It has reduced reliance on highly experienced operators, improved safety underground, and created a scalable solution for future rollouts. It shows how targeted automation—applied to proven mining hardware—can yield substantial gains in productivity, safety, and lifecycle value.

Specific benefits include:

Reduced operator training time. Since operators do not need to manually coordinate the six joints of the pipe handler arm, gaining proficiency in machine use is much quicker. Simplified commands will, for example, cause the arm to automatically move from pipe tub to drill along a pre-determined path.

Improved safety through remote operation.

The modified pipe handler can now be operated remotely, with the operator standing a safe distance away, including during tramming.

Lower operator cognitive & physical load. With the concentration required of manual manipulation and repetitive motion removed, operator fatigue is reduced and shift productivity improved.

Repeatable upgrade kit.

The combination of existing OEM hardware (arm, grapple, hydraulics) and MEDATech’s RodBot Automation System with custom control panel has resulted in a robust, repeatable, upgrade kit that is ready for integraRon on any rod handler or crane. It can also be retrofit on used equipment, bringing new technology and features to exisRng assets

Key features

● Radio remote control of tramming and rod handling

● Automated path planning reduces operator training time

● Retrofit kit available for existing equipment

● Handles rod diameters from 3.5” to 5”, up to 10 lbs, 6 ft long

● Crane instrumented with encoders

● Repeat with 3 operating modes:

● Manual: standard crane control

● Tip: gripper moves in straight line (up/down, in/out, left/right)

● Auto: automated path between operator-defined points