Author 1:
Name & Surname: Zimin A. V.
Company: RIVS Science and Production Association (Saint-Petersburg, Russia)
Work Position: General Director
Scientific Degree: Candidate of Engineering Sciences
Contacts: e-mail: A_Zimin@rivs.ru

Author 2:
Name & Surname: Trushin A. A.
Company: RIVS Science and Production Association (Saint-Petersburg, Russia)
Work Position: Director of Automation Office
Scientific Degree: Candidate of Engineering Sciences

Author 3:
Name & Surname: Bondarenko A. V.
Company: RIVS Science and Production Association (Saint-Petersburg, Russia)
Work Position: Head of Analytical Center (AC), Deputy General Director
Scientific Degree: Candidate of Engineering Sciences

The article gives a review of the key research findings gained by RIVS in the sphere of development of equipment and systems for automation of mining and processing operations, and outlines conceptual courses of further improvement. The authors present in brief the composition of the new automation system for pulp sampling, being one of the key elements in the automated analytical control over flotation process, which is under development by RIVS. The concept of the automated control over flotation process considering ore grade is discussed, and a version of the related algorithm is performed. It is regarded promising to use provisions of the theory on statistical control based on Shewhart charts to meet the challenges of monitor and control in mining and processing. The capabilities of automated quality control of recycling water, which is an influential factor in terms of the flotation process output, are assessed. The authors come to a conclusion on the need to pursue development of local automation and integration of the devices in the uniform mining and processing control.

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