UNDERGROUND MINE DESIGN AND PLANNING: COMPLEXITY AND INTERDEPENDENCIES

Abstract

Mine design and planning is a very complex, iterative process comprising several interrelated and interdependent factors and considerations. This paper examines visually some of the more important factors and considerations and how they can have a far-reaching influence on the mine design and planning process. Knowing these factors can lead to better decision-making by ensuring that all critical elements are considered. This can be especially important when transforming design and planning knowledge and experience into expert systems to aid mine designers and planners.