Selection of Mine Acess for Underground Mining

A web-based decision-support tool for mining engineers to evaluate and select underground access and ore transport systems (shaft, ramp & trucks, inclined belt conveyor) based on three established methodologies. Developed with Java Script and Vue.js.

Features

• Methodology Comparison:
  Evaluate systems using Cardozo (2023), La Vergne (2003), or Moser (1996) methodologies. Cardozo's method combines and modernizes La Vergne's flowchart layout with Moser's parameters.
• Interactive Flowcharts:
  Color-coded flowcharts update in real-time as users input deposit characteristics (depth, production rate, rock mass quality).
• Dynamic System Visualization:
  Illustrates access/transport systems (shaft, ramp, conveyor) based on selected parameters.
• Early-Phase Decision Support:
  Designed for conceptual mining projects with limited geological data. Part of the Mafmine software suite for economic evaluation.
• Preliminary Guidance:
  Streamlines initial planning efforts but does not replace detailed feasibility studies.

Technologies Used

• Vue.js (State management: Vuex | Routing: Vue Router)
• JavaScript (ES6+)
• CSS3

How to Use

1. Access the Application:
   Deploy locally or visit the mafmine tools website.

2. Select Methodology:
   Choose between Cardozo (2023), La Vergne (2003), or Moser (1996) from the dropdown.

3. Input Parameters:
   Complete forms with:

   • Deposit depth
   • Annual production rate
   • Rock mass quality (RMR)
   • Geotechnical constraints

4. Analyze Results:

   • Observe color changes in the flowchart indicating recommended systems.
   • View dynamic illustrations of suggested access/transport configurations.

5. Export/Compare:
   Export results or compare outcomes across methodologies.

Note: This tool provides preliminary guidance. Always conduct detailed feasibility studies for final decisions.

Architecture

The application is designed to be modular and scalable, ensuring that new features can be easily added.

• State Management:
  Vuex stores methodology rules, user inputs, and flowchart logic.
• Responsive Design:
  CSS media queries for cross-device compatibility.

Contributions

This project is continuously evolving, and contributions to improvement are welcome.

Institutional Support

This work was developed with the support of:
- Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq): For funding and fostering scientific research in Brazil.

- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS): For providing academic infrastructure and resources.

How to Contribute

We welcome contributions from the community! Here’s how you can help:
1. Report Bugs: Open an issue on GitHub to document problems or suggestions.
2. Improve Code: Fork the repository, make changes, and submit a pull request.
3. Enhance Documentation: Help improve user guides or translate content.

License

This project is licensed under the MIT License - see the LICENSE file for more details.

References

Methodologies

1. Cardozo (2023):
   Combines La Vergne's flowchart structure with Moser's parameters, updated for 2023 mining realities.

   • Reference: CARDOZO, F. A. C. et al. Choice of access for underground mining for feasibility studies. REM-International Engineering Journal, 2023.

2. La Vergne (2003):
   "Superficial guide" with rules-of-thumb for preliminary analysis. Depth/production limits reflect 2003 tech.

   • Reference: LA VERGNE, J. Hard rock miner's handbook. McIntosh Engineering, 2003.

3. Moser (1996):
   Hard-rock focused model excluding belt conveyors. Limits outdated but useful for early screening.

   • Reference: MOSER, P. Primary development of underground hard rock mines. Symposium On Mine Planning And Equipment Selection, 1996.

Related Research:
- CARDOZO, F. A. C. Modelagem de Escavações Subterrâneas: Contribuições para Escolha de Acessos de Mina. PhD Thesis, UFRGS, 2023.
- Mafmine Software Suite: Economic evaluation tools for early-stage mining projects.