Conference Proceedings
Application of Computers & Operations Research in the Minerals Industry (APCOM) Proceeding 2025
Conference Proceedings
Application of Computers & Operations Research in the Minerals Industry (APCOM) Proceeding 2025
Improving underground mobile mechanised mining productivity with safety in mind
Historically, adverse vehicle interactions have disproportionately contributed to fatalities in mining, with underground operations being particularly affected. Underground mining presents unique challenges for collision avoidance due to global navigation satellite system (GNSS) denial, limited infrastructure, and confined tunnels and junctions. These constraints reduce the effectiveness of traditional surface solutions, which often rely on line-of-sight (LOS) technologies. In response, underground operations have implemented Collision Warning Systems (CWS) and collision avoidance systems (CAS) for low-speed, short-range interactions. However, their performance in high-speed, long-range, non-line-of-sight (NLOS) scenarios is limited and poses significant safety concerns. This paper evaluates the potential of vehicle-to-everything (V2X) and dedicated short-range communication (DSRC) systems (adapted from the automotive industry) for improving underground safety and productivity. A scenario-based model aligned with ISO 21815-3 (2023) and ISO 19296 (2018) standards is used to calculate minimum safe stopping distances. At 20 km/h, a detection range of at least 80 m is required to allow for hazard recognition, operator reaction, braking, and safety margin. This far exceeds the 50 m range provided by many legacy systems currently in use but is comfortably covered by V2X technology. The model was validated using data from a mid-sized underground mine. Over 40 per cent of empty haul trips exceeded the safe speed for 50 m NLOS detection, highlighting the operational risk. Additionally, modern underground haul trucks such as the Caterpillar AD30 and Sandvik TH320 are capable of reaching or exceeding 25 km/h, reinforcing the need for extended detection capabilities that reflect real-world vehicle performance. An illustrative productivity calculation shows that increasing empty travel speed by 2 km/h across 80 per cent of the travel segment can enable one additional trip per vehicle per shift (equating to a ~10 per cent productivity gain). In addition to improved safety outcomes, benefits may include enhanced travel consistency, reduced congestion, and greater operator confidence. This study demonstrates that standards-aligned, real-time NLOS detection technologies have the potential to significantly enhance both the safety and operational efficiency of underground mobile mechanised mining operations.
Contributor(s):
C Domoney
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- Published: 2025
- Unique ID: P-04762-P8L7C4