Overview
As part of its ongoing digital transformation, Hancock Iron Ore, owned by Hancock Prospecting, launched an automation initiative to improve efficiency and safety across one of Australia’s largest iron ore mining operations.
To power this transition, Roaming Technologies partnered with Epiroc Australia. Utilising our extensive product experience we recommended the Implmentation of Industry leading products from Panasonic, Trimble, PMT, and Lind Electronics. This enabled us to build and deliver a complete rugged computing solution built for the harsh realities of the Pilbara. The project saw the integration of Panasonic Toughpad FZ-G2 tablets across a fleet of more than 350 vehicles, creating a reliable and scalable platform for autonomous operations.
By designing and manufacturing custom mounts, wiring harnesses, and installation kits, Roaming Technologies provided a local, end-to-end service that supported every stage of deployment and continues to maintain fleet performance today.
The Challenge
Hancock Iron Ore required a rugged computing platform capable of operating continuously in extreme heat, dust, and vibration. The system also needed to connect seamlessly with Epiroc's autonomous control software (Link OA) and Trimble’s precision GPS, while meeting strict ADR and mine-site safety standards.
The scale of the project added further complexity. With more than 350 mixed vehicles including Toyota LandCruisers, Toyota Hilux, Caterpiller and Hitachi haul trucks, excavators, and dozers, consistency and reliability were essential to ensure smooth deployment and long-term uptime.
The Solution
Roaming Technologies delivered a turnkey rugged computing ecosystem centered on the Panasonic Toughpad FZ-G2, a fully rugged Windows tablet designed for high-performance industrial applications.
Each vehicle was equipped with:
- Panasonic Toughpad FZ-G2 tablet for in-vehicle computing and control
- PMT vehicle dock for secure mounting and shock protection
- Lind Electronics power management system for stable voltage and reliable operation
- Trimble precision GPS for real-time location and navigation
- Develop and manufacture custom brackets
- Supply and manufacture vehicle specific wiring harnesses
This combination created a durable, mine-ready platform that could withstand demanding field conditions while supporting fully autonomous operation.
Engineering and Implementation
To ensure consistent rollout across the entire fleet, Roaming Technologies managed every stage of the process, from design through to delivery.
The team:
- Engineered vehicle-specific brackets and wiring harnesses for seamless installation
- Prepared and fulfilled over 50 individual line items per vehicle kit
- Standardised configurations across all vehicle types to simplify maintenance
- Coordinated logistics, warehousing, and distribution for large-scale deployment
- Provided ongoing support, spare parts, and replacement kits as fleet upgrades occur
This structured approach ensured rapid installation, reduced downtime, and long-term reliability across Hancock’s autonomous fleet.
The Hancock Iron Ore Project
Located in Western Australia’s Pilbara region, Hancock Iron Ore is one of the world’s most advanced iron ore operations. The automation project required a standardised computing solution capable of supporting mixed-vehicle integration, real-time data exchange, and safe on-site performance.
Roaming Technologies collaborated closely with Epiroc's technical team who was the primary project owner, and Trimble to integrate all components into a unified ecosystem. The Panasonic Toughpad FZ-G2 served as the central interface, connecting to Trimble GPS and ASI Mining’s control software for autonomous fleet management.
Local support and lifecycle management were handled through Roaming Technologies’ Western Australian facility, ensuring quick turnaround times for parts and service.
Results and Benefits
The project successfully delivered a rugged, reliable, and compliant computing system that enables Hancock’s autonomous operations to perform at scale.
Key outcomes include:
- Autonomous capability powered by reliable, high-performance computing hardware
- Fleet standardisation across more than 350 vehicles
- Precision tracking through Trimble GPS integration
- Improved operational efficiency with real-time data and diagnostics
- Safety compliance through ADR-approved mounts and power systems
- Long-term lifecycle support with local supply, maintenance, and technical assistance
Driving the Future of Autonomous Mining
The Hancock Automation Project highlights the value of collaboration between Australian engineering and global technology partners.
Through its continued partnerships with Epiroc, Trimble, PMT, and Lind Electronics, Roaming Technologies continues to provide rugged computing and integration services that keep autonomous mining fleets operating safely, efficiently, and reliably in the world’s toughest environments.
Looking for rugged mining technology that performs where it matters most?
Talk to our team about custom in-vehicle computing solutions, autonomous fleet integration, and Panasonic Toughpad FZ-G2 systems built for Australian conditions.
📞 1300 131 933 | ✉️ sales@roamingtech.com.au