Nokia, Symboticware join forces on industrial IoT solutions for underground communication

Symboticware Inc., a supplier of real-time data management solutions for global mining operations, announces its collaboration with Nokia on private wireless and Industrial IoT (IIoT) to transform connectivity and improve communications and location services. The partnership is expected to bring forward a complete digital solution in real-time connectivity for the underground mining industry.

The solution combines Nokia’s industrial-grade wireless connectivity with machine health and productivity data for real-time analysis, using Symboticware’s telemetry technology. This collaboration enables artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning – both considered critical enablers for the future of underground mining.

“This is a solid development in the area of underground operations,” said Kirk Petroski, Symboticware founder and Chairman of the Board. “As pioneers in both our fields, the Nokia and Symboticware collaboration will help to move AI and machine learning forward, which are capabilities that will play a major role in the future of this industry.”

Historically, connectivity in underground mining has relied on Wi-Fi solutions which lack the low latency and reliability required for supporting next generation IIoT applications. With industrial-grade private wireless from Nokia, underground operations will now have access to improved communications, accurate location tracking of equipment and personnel, ultimately streamlining operations to improve productivity and safety.

“Having pioneered the patented store-and-forward technology, Symboticware is no stranger to solving challenges underground,” said Shawn Sparling, vice president of Enterprise and Public Sector, Nokia Canada. “This expertise, combined with our leadership in private wireless deployments, will bring best-of-breed data into the space of real-time mining operations. And it will let our customers benefit from immediate access to comprehensive information, even in the most challenging underground environments.”

A full implementation of Symboticware and Nokia LTE is currently underway at the NORCAT Underground Center in northern Ontario, Canada, and is expected to be available on the market this year.