Augmented Reality Core Logging Takes a Major Step Forward with New Commercial Deal

A ground-breaking partnership between MinEx CRC and CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, is bringing Augmented Reality (AR) core logging technology closer to becoming a reality for the resources industry.

Core logging is a crucial process in mineral exploration, but it can be time-consuming, solitary, and subject to human error. Geologists often struggle to incorporate multiple data streams into the logging process, and they lack tools to efficiently analyse this complex information for fast, informed decision-making.

Enter the AR core logging technology developed by MinEx CRC in collaboration with the Australian Research Centre for Interactive and Virtual Environments (IVE) at the University of South Australia. Led by Professor Tom Raimondo, Dr. Andrew Cunningham, and Jack Fraser, the AR platform is designed to significantly improve the accuracy, speed, and accessibility of drill core logging.

This innovative platform integrates essential sample and contextual data, overlaying it on drill core trays during the logging process. By doing so, it offers geologists a fully interactive and digital work environment that multiple users, from anywhere in the world, can access. This collaborative setup enhances the quality of data collected and reduces the risk of subjective interpretations.

MinEx CRC CEO Andrew Bailey emphasised the transformative potential of this technology:

“This technology provides either an augmented or completely virtual core logging experience without physical access to borehole samples, enabling synchronous or asynchronous collaborative workflows for both in-person and remote users.”

“No equivalent logging platforms currently exist in the minerals industry to the best of our knowledge.”

“The sector as a whole is ripe for the introduction of this kind of disruptive technology.” he said.

MinEx CRC is the largest mineral exploration collaboration in the world, combining industry, government, and research organisations with over $220 million in funding. The introduction of AR core logging technology demonstrates how innovative solutions can enhance productivity and decision-making in the resources industry.

LogAR: Augmented Reality Core Logging – Development Snapshot
Related virtual and augmented reality research at MinEx CRC

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