Patents shape the future of mining

At Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions, a team of patent professionals across eight countries works to protect groundbreaking mining technology. Leading this specialized group is Kim Simelius, Head of Patents for Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions and Sandvik Rock Processing Solutions, who sees each patent as a story of innovation shaping the industry’s future. The two business areas represent a significant part of the total portfolio.

The diversity within the team, which comprises patent team members from Canada to China, sparks innovation. "For us, diversity isn't just talk – it's a necessity," emphasizes Simelius. "A good environment for collaboration, different competencies, cultural perspectives, and experiences, enable the team to be successful. We work with Sandvik inventors and businesses globally."

This international collaboration creates tangible results. "Almost every day we work on patent cases in an international setting," Simelius explains. "For example, there can be a patent matter in India and people with the right expertise from India, Sweden and the UK collaborate to win. None of us could do it alone. It's very inspiring to work together like that."

8,000 active patents and counting

This collaborative approach has contributed to Sandvik maintaining an impressive portfolio of more than 8,000 active patents globally. Within the mining business, patents cover technologies from autonomous mining vehicles to advanced drilling technologies. Each invention represents a step forward in making mining operations safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.

Patents that improve safety

The impact of patented technologies extends far beyond protection of the intellectual property. "Take our safety solutions for autonomous mining vehicles," Simelius illustrates. "When we develop and patent technology that enables autonomous vehicles to operate safely in mining environments, we're not just improving safety – we're enabling increased productivity and efficiency."

Collaboration is essential in today's fast-paced technological landscape, Simelius adds. "While individual thinking has its place and value, the real power comes through teamwork." This philosophy creates an environment where psychological safety and mutual appreciation enable teams to build on each other's ideas without fear.

The results speak for themselves. The patent portfolio continues to grow, driven by inventions in areas like mining automation, electrification, rock tools, and digital solutions. "Each of these technologies evolves on its own," explains Simelius, "but the magic happens when we combine them, creating integrated solutions that push the boundaries of what's possible in mining."

Future-focused innovation Transforming mining

As the pace of technological development accelerates, the patent strategy follows shifts in business and technology, focusing on future opportunities. With artificial intelligence and digitalization reshaping the industry, the diverse, collaborative approach to innovation ensures that Sandvik is well-positioned to continue leading the transformation of mining technology.

The things we create at Sandvik are exciting. What makes them special is the variety of technologies we develop and build in, and that our products are also very concrete and visual.

Simelius highlights several key examples: "We've developed a cool solution to easily swap the battery of a battery electric mining vehicle; a crusher mantel for the crushing of rocks; methods for automated and safe drilling; and many others. When I see our machines leaving the factory, equipped with multiple patented inventions, it fills me with pride. These innovations represent what we can achieve when we bring together different perspectives and expertise in pursuit of a common goal: shaping the future of mining."