The DrillX_Desert Elephant project was launched by SAR South Africa in 2019 with the aim of improving drilling safety and efficiency and developing an automated drilling rig. A key element of this project was the integration of a robotic loading system into existing drilling rigs to minimise the need for direct human intervention.
After intensive planning and extensive concept development, a compact, container-based platform (6.1 x 2.44 metres) was created, which is operated completely remotely. This innovative solution allows drill pipes to be loaded and unloaded without manual handling, significantly reducing the risk to operators. The core tasks included:
- Design of a drill pipe gripper,
- Development of magazines for storage,
- new electrical and software concepts,
- complete electrical system modernisation.
DrillX_Desert Elephant sets new standards for autonomous drilling technologies and occupational safety.
Further information can be found in this pdf and on the SAR South Africa page.
