The technology, called the RTVis 3D software is part of the next phase of the company’s “mines of the future” program.

It will let Rio Tinto precisely identify the size, location and quality of ore in real terms by retrieving data from automated trucks and drills operating in its mines.

The software provides accurate mapping that improves the efficiency of mining activity by ensuring it is focused on removing high value ore and thus reducing waste and operational costs.

RTVis creates 3D images of mine pit activities that could not previously be measured.

The software has led to greater ore recovery through sharper boundary identification, more accurate drilling and blasting, reduced explosives, improved waste classification and enhanced dig rates.

Rio Tinto head of innovation John McGagh said the technology allowed the company to quickly and easily view, compare and evaluate data to paint a picture of what was under the ground.

He likened it to an ultrasound image of the deposit delivered in real time, “something we could never do before”

“RTVis is a low cost application that complements existing group-wide data technology in a way previously never available to enhance our mining operations,” McGagh said.

“It quickly brings information to a much broader audience – from a single operator in the field to an expert team in the Rio Tinto operations centre in Perth.

“Armed with this detailed information our operations to recover the ore bodies will be significantly more efficient and effective.”

The 3D technology has been deployed at Rio Tinto’s West Angelas iron ore mine in Western Australia.

Trials are also underway in other Rio Tinto product groups including copper, energy and diamonds.

RTVis can also provide rapid feedback on the impact to equipment.

Another important benefit is in the area of mining planning because it provides more certainty about the nature of the ore deposit at an earlier stage in the process.

RTVis will be on show at the International Mining and Resource Conference in Melbourne from September 22-26.