Simulation of MCDM Process—Stope and Fan Pattern Selection in an Underground Mine with Uncertainty

Abstract

Multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) refers to methods and processes used to evaluate and prioritize options when multiple criteria are involved. Extensive research conducted in the past has shown that uncertainty is a pervasive challenge in the decision-making process, particularly in complex and dynamic environments, such as mining. When making decisions under uncertainty, especially in stope and fan pattern selection for underground mining, it is crucial to consider various aspects, including economic and production factors. This paper presents an application of simulation combined with the ranking alternatives by perimeter similarity (RAPS) method for optimal stope and fan pattern selection in an underground mine. The results obtained were compared with existing MCDM methodology technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) and showed a very high correlation, which indicates the applicability of new methodology for decision making in mining industry problems.