Automation and optimization of drilling operations in open-pit mines

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

This research program proposes the use of analytical methods (machine learning, massive data and optimization) to automate the movements of drills used in open pit mines to drill blast holes. This program is done jointly with Peck Tech Consulting, ArcelorMittal Mining Canada G.P., and Teck Resources Ltd. The goal is to use the data collected by the various sensors developed and installed on the drills by Peck Tech to automate and optimize drilling operations, and to determine how this new information could help to locally update the geological model. The updated geological model will then be used to re-optimize the drilling and blasting patterns. Finally, optimization algorithms will be used to determine the optimal drilling sequence and how the drills should cooperate to perform the work on the same drill pattern. Peck Tech sensors are already installed on drills that are operating in open pit mines owned by ArcelorMittal Mining Canada G.P. and Teck Resources Ltd. These research projects will be carried out by five doctoral students and one postdoctoral fellow, and supervised by a team of six professors and nine professionals from the three industrial partners. The training of this highly skilled analytical staff is in high demand and is essential for the mining industry that seeks to make the transition to the digitization of their mines.