PROJECT

Low-Profile Robotic Rod Handling for Underground Drilling

Customer: Drilling Contractor – Canada

About This Project

MEDATech responded to repeated requests from underground drilling contractors with a new low-profile (LP) RodBot. The project targets a clear gap in the market: existing underground rod handlers are large and poorly suited to confined production headings. Each joint needs to be controlled individually, which requires skilled operators. The LP RodBot is a user-friendly, compact robotic solution that delivers full rod-handling capability without the operational constraints of conventional OEM systems.

Challenge

Underground equipment that doesn’t fit underground
Currently available underground rod handling systems are sub-optimal for tight headings. There are two main varieties: diesel-powered tracked handlers that are almost as big as the drills they work with; and drill-mounted systems, which reduces clearance to the drift wall and requires the operator to manually place rods into the handler.

Lack of an adequate contractor solution
Because of their size and weight, OEM rod handlers must be towed by scoop trams or other mine-owned equipment when relocated. This limits contractor self-sufficiency and creates scheduling dependencies. The result is often production slowdowns. Despite their bulk, these systems use light-duty cranes that lack the stiffness and durability required for continuous rod handling. They require frequent maintenance and component replacement.

A steep operator learning curve
Manual rod manipulation in confined underground spaces demands a high level of operator skill. Contractors report that productivity often depends on a small number of experienced individuals, creating training bottlenecks and operational risk when those operators are not available.

Solution

A purpose-built low-profile platform
The Low Profile RodBot for underground use combines onboard rod storage with a compact, low-profile design, providing the strength and reach required for underground drill rod handling in tight headings.. At about 8,000 lbs it can be moved by forklift, enabling fast redeployment between drifts. As the LP RodBot is tethered to the drill, it draws hydraulic and electrical power from the rig, eliminating emissions and simplifying maintenance. Optional low-profile rubber tracks can move RodBot at walking speed, following the drill.

A robotic arm built for production duty
LP RodBot’s purpose-built robotic arm delivers the stiffness and durability required for repetitive rod handling, with 300lb+ lift capacity. The compact gripper uses a magnet to isolate and lift a single rod, allowing the gripper to close cleanly around it. The gripper is mounted on an integrated slew drive routes hoses and cables internally to reduce snagging, streamlining operation in tight headings.

Equipment that’s easy to use
PATH semi-autonomous rod handling allows operators to save positions and supervise rod movements while focusing on drill operation. Intuitive controls eliminate the need to manually control each movement, allowing operators to gain confidence and accuracy quickly when using LP RodBot. This short learning curve enables more operators to become proficient in rod-handling, reducing personnel bottlenecks.

Results

The low-profile RodBot delivers OEM-level robust rod handling capability at a fraction of the size and weight of conventional underground systems. Designed to work with any drill, the system supports gripper configurations for ITH and diamond core drilling. LP RodBot gives contractors greater autonomy, reduced reliance on mine infrastructure, and enables them to quickly train more operators.

The LP RodBot platform has already generated strong interest from multiple underground drilling contractors, with the first unit scheduled for delivery to a central-Canada DTH production drilling operation in Q2 2026. Its low-profile design also establishes a scalable foundation for future configurations, for both underground and surface applications.