It is not always easy to compare a 3D model with what you see in front of you. Maptek PerfectDig overcomes this by capturing a scene in 3D with the Maptek I-Site 8810 laser scanner, overlaying a design and then presenting the information as an interactive photograph so that you can relate it to the real world.
PerfectDig is easily controlled with a stylus on a rugged field tablet. Field users can distribute data online without having to return to the office or process data. Spatial data can be interrogated on mobile devices, for example for creating cross-sections to identify over or under-dig and safety issues.
During a recent PerfectDig trial a dragline pit was scanned to review the low wall compliance.
Within 10 minutes, engineers in the pit were viewing scan data with existing models and comparing these against the projected design.
It was immediately apparent that the low wall had been dug to a batter angle of 35° while the design was 45°. With 2 clicks a cross-section was generated to interrogate the scene further.
This revealed that the toe of the ramp, while shallow, did not protrude beyond the previous coal line indicated in the design.
It was a simple matter to derive a typical ramp angle of 5° and investigate areas of non-conformance along the constructed ramp.
PerfectDig now displays blocklines, allowing non-compliance volumes to be reported against blocks.
Scanning a shovel excavation of a presplit area revealed that floor level conformed reasonably well to design. The wall however was mostly over-dug; since it was a presplit wall this presented potential drill and blast issues.
Cross-sections quickly determined the distance from the active face to the designed end wall. Using previous blast scan data, the conformance report generated volumes and automated cross-sections for further analysis.
At another location in the pit, a preparation pad was surveyed with 4 scans. The floor at the northern extent was too high, but moved toward design RL further south. A conformance report was quickly generated from various scans of the area.
To scan the area, compare digging to design and generate a report in PerfectDig would take about 30 minutes. No additional work is required back in the office.
A single site visit demonstrated the measurable benefits of using PerfectDig to convey hard evidence of digging conformance. Communication of designs is clear and concise.
Safety and efficiency can be enhanced through digital exploitation of as-built data.
PerfectDig presents data in a way that supports engineers and management to make the call to adjust digging before problems arise, ensuring a safer pit and maximum mineral recovery.
Rapid data processing and the applicability of that data for checking factors such as hardcap, batter angles, distances to face, over and under-dig, makes PerfectDig the ideal partner for productive and efficient mining.
Find out more by emailing isite.sales@maptek.com.au
