Optimization of reclaiming voxels for quality grade target with reclaimer minimum movement

This paper presents the first part of study on the proposed automatic optimal reclaiming system. The proposed system focuses on how the reclaimer reclaims iron ore from stockpiles to fulfill quality grade target aiming for minimum reclaimer overall movement. For example, iron ore can be excavated from open-cut pits, stacked onto stockpiles and reclaimed later using bucket wheel reclaimer (BWR) for export to customers. Stockpiles here are represented by combinations of voxels each possessing certain quality distribution. The supply of iron ore closest to the target grade with lower operation cost is the main concern for the ore producer. Currently, BWRs are operated manually to meet quality grade demand involving the checking of quality periodically during reclaiming operation. In result, there is excessive movement of the large machine leading to higher energy consumption. In this paper, the combination of voxels is identified from available stockpile voxels considering BWR minimum movement to fulfill quality and quantity demand of iron ore. Achieving the desired grade with maximum efficiency will result in increasing productive rates and less impact on global warming by significantly reducing energy consumption.