Cortex is an analytics and automation provider, engineering solutions for digital-forward drilling and mining operations. Cortex’s advanced analytics and automation systems automate data collection, analysis and reporting processes for all aspects of drilling systems, using machine learning and data analytics to improve drilling technologies and assist in real-time geological interpretation.

A standard reverse circulation (RC) rig uses up to 1300 litres of diesel in a 12-hour shift. This represents a huge cost, as well as poor sustainability outcomes.

Through simple optimisation control, Cortex aims to reduce fuel consumption of a standard RC rig by between 30 to 40 per cent.

The company also has designs that will eliminate the need for a fossil fuel power unit on the rig, replacing them with an entirely electronic power unit. This means zero C02 emissions in field deployment and in operation.

This is all part of Cortex’s sustainable mining technology pathway.

Cortex is an analytics and automation provider. It engineers solutions for digital-forward drilling and mining operations, providing market-ready and custom-configured technologies within the resources drilling industry.

Its advanced analytics and automation systems are designed alongside the latest technology to automate data collection, analysis and reporting processes for all aspects of drilling systems.

Using machine learning and data analytics, Cortex improves drilling technologies and assists in real-time geological interpretation.

Cortex-enabled rigs are designed to distance people from the most dangerous parts of drilling and eliminate human error. Key products include:

Machine Data Provider (MDP): A rig monitoring and telemetry system, live-streaming operations back to web-based control centre. The MDP is capable of streaming live video, production information, rig status, ground hardness and high-resolution log files from the field with minimal operator interaction.

Unmanned Drilling Vehicle (UDV): This allows local remote (line-of-sight), beyond visual range remote and global connection control all from the same platform. It offers fully manual to fully automated control options. Using custom built processing, telemetry, communications and advance machine learning control, it optimises drill rig performance. The UDV is applicable to almost all rig types and designed to be retrofittable.

The improvements in drilling efficiency with the UDV will demonstrate significant savings in fuel usage.

Web-Based Control interface (NURV): Data securely transferred from the rig site to Cortex systems is accessible through verified internet-connected devices. The remote-operating dash means operators and management can monitor at their chosen level - rig, fleet, mine site or region - to make improvements business-wide.

Exploration drilling remains a challenging environment to deliver safety and efficiency gains, while mining companies are pursuing aggressive technology roadmaps to deliver on safety and operational efficiencies.

Cortex's integrated suite of products provide the solution to the goals of both the drillers and miners.