APPLYING the VIKOR METHOD TO SELECT the OPTIMAL UNDERGROUND MINING TECHNOLOGY

Abstract

The selection of the most appropriate underground mining technology is not a simple process because it involves handling of a large amount of informa-tion about several potential methods. Multicriteria optimization approaches are proven useful tools for ranking alternatives, especially in cases where mul-tiple complex criteria have to be considered simultaneously. An ore deposit is a complex system because of its geology, physical and mechanical properties, and hydrogeological conditions. As such, problem solving requires a heuristic approach and includes tasks involving expert judgement, intuition, estimation, and experience. Using a heuristic strategy to state a problem means that the analyst is placed in a position to apply past experience to a future situation and existing knowledge to new circumstances, as well as discover new avenues to creative problem solving. A complex algorithm was developcyl to pave the way to quality management of mining, by using the V IKOR method to rank various mining technologies relative to a set of criteria and select the optimum mining method that will primarily ensure profitable and safe mining.