Evaluation of shaft locations in underground mines: Fuzzy multiobjective optimization by ratio analysis with fuzzy cognitive map weights

Abstract

The determination of the location of production and ventilation shafts is one of the most important issues in underground mines from both a technical and an economic viewpoint. This study introduces an integrated approach using fuzzy cognitive map (FCM) and fuzzy multi-objective optimization by ratio analysis (FMOORA) to evaluate several candidate shaft locations and consequently increase ore production from underground mines. The FCM based on a hybrid learning algorithm was applied to analyse interactions and internal relationships between criteria and to find complex causal relationships between different factors. After importing the weights resulting from the FCM into the FMOORA, shaft alternatives were evaluated and prioritized. An iron ore case example was evaluated by the integrated approach. Results of the integrated approach were validated by the results obtained from fuzzy-TOPSIS and on-site evaluations by mining experts.