There's some kind of Control Panel here.

Hint 1 of 10:

Play with the panel to see what things you are able to control.

Hint 2 of 10:

The panel controls the automated ore processing.

Hint 3 of 10:

The icons show the various stages of the processing.

Hint 4 of 10:

Changing the settings will change the path of the automated mine car that
starts behind the gate next to the Control Panel.

Hint 5 of 10:

You'll want to take a ride in the mine car.

Hint 6 of 10:

But first make sure you know where you're going.

Hint 7 of 10:

SAVE YOUR GAME before any ride; many possible avenues are deadly.