Optimisation of Three-Dimensional Stope Layouts Using a Dual Interchange Algorithm for Improved Value Creation

Optimisation of three-dimensional (3D) underground stope layouts is a computationally complex process since it involves the modelling many variables and constraints. As number constraints increases to reflect actual mining practice, model complexity solution time tend increase exponentially, making optimisation problem intractable. Metaheuristic approaches have therefore been used predominantly solve problem, but do not guarantee ‘true’ optimality. To minimise this limitation, dual interchange algorithm (DIA) was developed by combining strengths two metaheuristic generic algorithms, namely particle swarm (PSO) genetic (GA). The DIA performance compared that Mineable Shape Optimizer (MSO) on four different design scenarios. generated layout economic values (SLEV) for three scenarios which were 0.3%, 3.4%, 8.3% higher than MSO under fixed variable width conditions, while produced SLEV 9.7% width. This paper demonstrates novel way solving 3D widths as encountered in practice.