A large number of metal deposits are initially extracted via surface methods, but then transition underground without necessarily ceasing to operate above ground. Currently, most mine operators schedule the open pit and underground operations independently and then merge the two, creating a myopic solution. We present a methodology to maximize the NPV for an entire metal deposit by determining ...

Environmental philosophers spend considerable time drawing the divide between humans and the rest of nature. Some argue that humans and our actions are unnatural. Others allow that humans are natural, but maintain that humans are nevertheless distinct. The motivation for distinguishing humans from the rest of nature is the desire to determine what aspects of the environment should be preserved....

Engineer 31 T.he protection of secure facilities such as forward operating bases (FOBs) and theater internment facilities (TIFs) is an emerging issue in light of the successful and nearly successful underground breaches at overseas bases, along our borders, and at prisons in foreign countries where suspected terrorists are held. The armed forces are now investigating sensor modalities to protec...

The foundation framework for underground spatial data aims to establish the platform for the underground spatial data sharing and integrating. The reasons lie in that: a) the long-term development of city construction has accumulated abundant underground spatial data and information; b) the development and utilization of city underground space demands for clear, detailed and visualized comprehe...

According to Dean1, the largest component of an underground mine’s operating expenses is the labour cost, typically from 40% to 50% with some as high as 60% of the total cost. Industrial managers know that the total cost will go down if they can accomplish the job with fewer people. Moreover, enhancing the productivity per man-hour is one of the greatest savings in manpower and that can be a po...