the first step in mining activities is rock excavation in both mine development and production. constant pressure for cost reduction and creating an improved/safe work environment for personnel has naturally resulted in increased use of mechanical excavation systems in many mining operations. also, mechanical excavation and mining is more compatible with automation, meaning possibility of reduc...

Towards Autonomous Excavation of Fragmented Rock: Experiments, Modelling, Identification and Control Joshua Alexander Marshall Master of Science (Engineering) Department of Mechanical Engineering Queen’s University August, 2001 Increased competition and recent globalization in the minerals industry has resulted in further demands for advanced mining equipment technology. The autonomous excavati...