Computerized underground mine planning (Abstract)

Two major problems exist when applying computers to underground mine planning* The first is the design, display, and accurate calculation of tons and grade for three dimensional volumes such as stopes and production headings. The second problem is in calculating a realistic production schedule given the reserves within multiple operating areas with different constraints. Underground mines each tend to be unique in their layout and design, and so operating constraints can cover a wide range of possibilities. An enhancement of existing software has allowed Mintec Inc. to address both of the problems above, without introducing unnecessary complexity. Stopes are interactively designed on a graphics screen on a slice by slice basis. Only slices that represent major changes in geometry of the volume need be designed and intermediate slices are generated at a desired resolution. The volume is then superimposed over a computer model of reserves and information required for production scheduling is generated. The production scheduling allows for multiple operating areas, providing a preliminary sequence of mining has been manually imposed. Targets can be production rate, blend, or economics.