System and method for controlling a mining machine using identifying characteristics

A system for controlling a mining machine comprises a co-ordinate position determining device, at least one co-ordinate reference point, one or more sensors for collecting seam data and a processor. At least one secondary reference point is generated through an 5 identifying characteristic detected from the one or more sensors in combination with the position determining means. The processor is connected to receive data relating to an absolute co-ordinate position determined by the position determining device, the at least one reference point and the at least one secondary reference point. Data relating to the determined absolute co-ordinate position is corrected by reference to the at least one 0 secondary reference point. The processor is connected to generate further signals to activate a mining machine actuator, rail actuator and/or extraction device actuator based on the corrected absolute co-ordinate position, the processor operating with at least one of the actuators such that the extraction device will cut, or attempt to cut to an intended cut profile.