Purpose To propose an integrative framework that combines the technical perspective of RAMI 4.0 and the managerial perspective, expressed by the integration between technologies, principles and organizational dimensions, in order to guide the transition toward smart mining company. Design/methodology/approach A case study was carried out in a large mining company with operations in several countries. As analysis units, three mine operation projects (off-road truck, drilling rig and tractors) and a strategic project in the value chain (the Integrated Operations Center – IOC) were analyzed. Data were collected through observation, analysis of company records, field reports and semi-structured interviews. From these sources of evidence, it was possible to establish the necessary triangulation for data analysis and validation. Findings The proposed integrative framework expands the scope of RAMI 4.0 by combining its technical dimensions with a managerial perspective, providing a more systemic and comprehensive understanding of digital transformation in mining. To this end, the model's life cycle axis was adapted to the context of smart mining, the process life cycle, enabling an analysis of how technologies are articulated throughout the production stages. It was observed that digitalization in mining is more advanced in the smart work, process and supply chain dimensions, while the smart product dimension remains underexplored. Regarding the principles, the projects analyzed share those of transparency of information and virtualization, which foster the integration between the physical and digital levels of operations, whereas the technical assistance principle highlights the advancement of automation in mine operations. Practical implications The research provides a conceptual and practical pathway to guide the transformation toward smart mining, contributing to the understanding of the relationships among technologies, principles and Industry 4.0 dimensions in contexts characterized by high capital intensity, legacy infrastructure and challenging operational conditions. Originality/value This research stands out by proposing a framework that integrates the technical and managerial perspectives within the RAMI 4.0 architecture in the context of mining. Unlike most studies on Mining 4.0, which address technologies in a fragmented manner, this study offers a systemic view of digital transformation. Furthermore, the application of the RAMI 4.0 model to the mining sector is unprecedented, expanding its use beyond manufacturing and establishing both a conceptual and empirical reference for smart mining.
Reis et al. (Thu,) studied this question.