A finite element method (FEM) – Fuzzy logic (Soft Computing) – virtual reality model approach in a coalface longwall mining simulation

The modelling of the behaviour of a longwall coal mining installation is not an easy task, particularly when we deal with a coal seam exceeding 4 m of thickness. The variables playing a role on the performance of the shearer and powered roof support are both difficult to define and quantify and technologies involved belong to several different scientific areas: geology, rock mechanics, stress-deformation calculations and hydraulics. State of the art modelling tools, fuzzy logic, neural networks and three-dimensional (3D) finite element calculations are employed in order to develop a computerized model that will allow predicting the response of the installation against changing operation conditions. This response is checked against extensive data obtained from deep measurement campaigns and finally shown to the system user through Virtual Reality Modelling Language (VRML) tools.