A New Style of Simulation Model for Mining Systems

The algorithms for the mathematical modeling to predict productivity of underground room-and-pillar mining systems are well-known and documented. These algorithms consider the time-varying relationships between mining equipment for a given geometry of operations as well as other constraints. This study presents a newly developed, user-friendly visual simulation computer tool for the Windows environment. This tool can be easily customized and utilized by field engineers and will help mine operators plan the optimum mining sequence for different mine geometries and equipment layouts. Program output includes monitoring of shift data, equipment utilization indices, and so forth. The simulation technique can be used with any environment. Use of the system is demonstrated in different mining equipment configurations. Development and validation of the system was aided by the Peabody Group.