Methodology for optimizing uncovering operations using the automated positioning system of the bulldozer

Abstract

The article discusses the development of methods for assessing mineral losses in the development of alluvial gold deposits as well as the optimization and reduction of their quantity. It is proposed to improve the quality of loss accounting by introducing a system of automated determination of the position of equipment during the development of the deposit. Statistical processing of the experimental data of the bulldozer positioning accuracy with the use of GNSS systems was carried out in the course of the research. Spatial positioning accuracy of the bulldozer blade was determined and was tested the hypothesis of subjecting the positioning errors to the normal law of distribution. Based on the results obtained a model of potential losses depending on the bulldozer's levelling and the thickness of the «protective jacket» - the unexcavated waste rock left over the expected boundary of the productive layer's roof was derived. Based on the generated model of losses, dependencies were derived to optimize the value of the "protective jacket" from the position of minimizing losses relative to the amount of potential gold losses and additional costs of transportation and flushing of waste rock.