IMDEX Blast DOG is a semi-autonomously deployed system for logging material properties and blast hole characteristics at high spatial density across the bench and mine and is commodity agnostic. IMDEX claims that no other technology has the capacity to produce the same data and provide as large an impact on downstream processes including enhancing productivity.

The judges said Universal Field Robots and IMDEX conquered the challenge of logging blast holes, while removing operators from harm's way.

IMDEX CEO, Paul House, said: "To be the winner among such esteemed competition is a testament to the team and our collaboration partners, Universal Field Robots, Anglo American, Teck Resources Limited, and Orica supported by METS Ignited.

"IMDEX has a passion to provide the mining industry with purpose-built solutions. IMDEX Blast DOG is no exception and we are investing heavily in solutions that provide significant benefit to our customers."

The IMDEX Blast DOG solution moved from concept to prototype in just four months which provided the platform and justification to develop a commercial version.

The innovation category was hotly debated, with judges looking at all five finalists as addressing the industry's big issues.

Judge Sharna Glover said IMDEX Blast DOG was "a great innovation that shows the power of partnering. A robotics platform that is able to be exported makes a very commendable entry".

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