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Geometric and Combinatorial Optimisation in access design of underground mines

Student-Run Geometry/Topology Seminar

Speaker: Hyam Rubinstein, University of Melbourne
Location: 2112 MSB
Start time: Tue, Oct 20 2009, 12:10PM

Underground mining requires a complex network of access, consisting of ramps, tunnels, declines, shafts, ore passes etc. There are various constraints which must be met for navigability of equipment. Traditionally, mine planners have had sophisticated 3d visualisation tools to assist in their design tasks. However optimisation has been limited to trying to minimize length. I am part of a group of mathematicians and engineers working on new algorithms to optimize development and haulage over the life time of a mine. Some very nice elementary and not so elementary mathematics is involved.