OPENTECHNICAL PUBLICATION
OT-2026-000001939

Microwave-based mining systems and methods with robotic arm waveguide

Published: 2026-09-15T19:09:38.601554Z
Permanent URL: https://opentechnical.org/p/OT-2026-000001939
Categories: Robotics & Automation > Robot Architectures

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ABSTRACT

A system for excavating a rock face using microwaves. The system may include a
microwave generator, an articulable robotic arm with a plurality of rotatably
connected rigid waveguide segments, an applicator attached to a distal end of
the robotic arm, and a robotic control system. The system produces microwaves
with the microwave generator and moves the robotic arm such that the
applicator moves along the rock face as the microwaves exit the applicator to
precondition the rock face for excavation. Various patterns of microwave
treatment, and controls based on sensor feedback, may be implemented.

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OpenTechnical publication OT-2026-000001939
Published 2026-09-15T19:09:38.601554Z
https://opentechnical.org/p/OT-2026-000001939