Simulation in dynamic environments: optimization of transportation inside a coal mine

In some operational environments, the infrastructure changes continuously, which makes the data collection for a simulation more difficult. This is the case for the daily operation of a coal mine, where the continuous production flow is highly dependent on the transportation system, and where the transportation network changes as the coal extraction moves forward. We introduce a methodology for the automation of this entire process, from importing the data to the simulation and the optimization modules. We test its applicability with a specific coal mine. Using this methodology, good operational and strategic policies can be identified for the dispatcher who controls the transportation inside the mine.

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