Practical Aspects of Using Modern Laser Scanning Techniques for Measuring Mine Excavations

For more than a dozen or so years now, there has been growing interest in the use of modern laser scanning measurement methods in numerous mining operations engaged in underground excavation. However, the simple possession of a scanner does not guarantee satisfactory measurement results. This study sets out the results of scanning mine excavations in an active mine and describes the current guidelines on various aspects of the measurement process. These guidelines were developed on the basis of several hundred measurements carried out over the last dozen or so years.

This study also outlines the typical measurements errors observed over the course of many years. These errors, resulting partly from hardware limitations and partly from human error when planning or actually performing measurements, were an important factor behind the introduction of standards regulating underground measurements.

This study discusses in detail not only scanning that utilises traditional stationary laser scanners but also scanning based on mobile scanners. It also presents possible areas of future technological development in line with global trends.