Real-Time-Mining

  This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 641989.  

Title

Real-time optimization of extraction and the logistic process in highly complex geological and selective mining settings

Concept

The overall aim of Real-Time-Mining is to develop a real-time framework to decrease environmental impact and increase resource efficiency in the European raw material extraction industry. The key concept of the proposed research promotes the change in paradigm from discontinuous intermittent process monitoring to a continuous process and quality management system in highly selective mining operations. Real-Time Mining will develop a real-time process-feedback control loop linking online data acquired during extraction at the mining face rapidly with an sequentially up-datable resource model associated with real-time optimization of long-term planning, short-term sequencing and production control decisions. The project will include research and demonstration activities integrating automated sensor based material characterization, online machine performance measurements, underground navigation and positioning, underground mining system simulation and optimization of planning decisions, state-of-the art updating techniques for resource/reserve models.

Success Story

Under the Horizon 2020 project Real-Time-Mining one innovation was developed and listed in the Innovation Radar: highly precise underground positioning system. The Innovation Radar is a European Commission initiative to identify high potential innovations and innovators in EU-funded research and innovation projects. It has the goal of creating a steady flow of promising tech companies that can scale up into future industrial champions.

Participants

• Technische Universiteit Delft, Netherlands (Coordinator)
• Imperial College of Science Technology and Medicine, United Kingdom
• Associação do Instituto Superior Técnico para a Investigação e Desenvolvimento, Portugal
• Nederlandse Organisatie voor toegepast-natuurwetenschappelijk onderzoek, Netherlands
• Geovariances SA, France
• Dassault Systèmes GEOVIA Ltd., United Kingdom
• LSA – Laser Analytical Systems & Automation GmbH, Germany
• XGraphic Ingenieursgesellschaft mbH, Germany
• Eijkelkamp SonicSampDrill B.V., Netherlands
• Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg, Germany
• SPECTRAL Industries B.V., Netherlands
• Ingenieurspartnerschaft für Bergbau, Wasser- und Deponietechnik Wilsnack & Partner, Germany