Application of fuzzy analytic hierarchy process to underground mining method selection

Abstract

The paper proposes a problem-solving approach in the area of underground mining, related to the evaluation and selection of the optimal mining method, employing fuzzy multiple-criteria optimization. The application of fuzzy logic to decision-making in multiple-criteria optimization is particularly useful in cases where not enough information is available about a given system, and where expert knowledge and experience are an important aspect. With a straightforward objective, multiple-criteria decision-making is used to rank various mining methods relative to a set of criteria and to select the optimal solution. The considered mining methods represent possible alternatives. In addition, various criteria and subcriteria that influence the selection of the best available solution are defined and analyzed. The final decision concerning the selection of the optimal mining method is made based on mathematical optimization calculations. The paper demonstrates the proposed approach as applied in a case study.