Track: Mining and Geosciences
Integration of Real-Time Survey, Mine Planning Software, GIS, and Machine Control GPS for Mining Operations Management
Dr. Barry HillmanThe rapid evolution of computer and field sensor technology is now providing the ability to integrate mine and office operations. Digital maps and mine plans as well as CAD and GIS can be transferred to ruggedized field computers for development of real-time mine surveys and real-time GPS machine navigation and monitoring. Surveyors can ensure that their surveys are accurate before returning to the office. Engineers and surveyors are also able to upload field computer-based surveys to mine planning software and directly to mine equipment including shovels, drills, and dozers, providing the operator of the equipment with a real-time view of their workspace. Production information can be transmitted through dispatch and/or centralized mine servers to update mine plans with mining progress and production data. Static mine models then become a dynamic element of operations, providing greater use of information that emphasizes the spatial aspects of the mine by providing real-time maps, productivity charts, and graphs. This information can be disseminated through various mine communication systems to provide operators and management with real-time feedback as well as daily and weekly reports. Integrated systems now being used in extensive trials are reporting productivity increases of 4 to 7 percent or more, thereby providing rapid payback to the mine.
Dr. Barry Hillman
Condor Earth Technologies
P.O. Box 3905
Sonora, CA 95370
USA
Telephone: 209-532-0361
Fax: 209-532-0773
E-mail: bhillman@condorearth.com