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Last Updated on 16th June 2023

Underground 3D Mapping

Capture data with handheld SLAM scanners

With the recent introduction and constant evolution of handheld SLAM (Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping) underground 3D mapping and scanning have become safer, quicker, more automated, highly repeatable, and more effective.

Underground Mapping with a Terrestrial Laser Scanner (TLS)

Historically, to capture a 2D map, a TLS (terrestrial laser scanner) would be taken into a mine, carrying out data collection at known control points previously installed by surveyors.

Due to the complex nature and vastness of mine production, taking such bulky equipment into a mine is not only costly, due to the surveyor needed to utilise the equipment, but also ineffective when it comes to repeating scans. A surveyor could realistically enter a large mine on a weekly basis, with heavy equipment, taking them away from the analytical work that needs to be conducted.

In addition, a terrestrial laser scanner requires a tripod setup and the time to scan, therefore production can be hindered while a scan is being conducted, ultimately costing the mine money and time.

Underground 3D Scanning with SLAM

A GeoSLAM ZEB SLAM scanning device can map an accurate 3D model of a mine, without the need to be in the line of sight of a GPS. The ZEB SLAM scanners have their own internal coordinate system, so each scan starts at 0.0.0.

Using known control points throughout a mine, these scanners can automatically georeferenced using GeoSLAM’s Connect software. The results of this mean 3D scanning can be utilised in various solutions for the mining industry, providing operators with frequent high-quality datasets.

The ease of use and portability of the laser scanner means daily scans are no longer a wish, but a reality. Anybody can be trained to use a ZEB scanner so there is no longer the need to send surveyors into the mines, giving them more time to analyse the captured data.

Underground 3D mapping with handheld slam scanners in a mine.

Why is Georeferencing Important for Underground 3D Mobile Mapping?

Georeferencing is the process of relating a system’s own coordinate system (SOCS), of data and information objects (datasets, maps, photographs etc.), to a geographical location on the globe.

Using a known coordinate system, georeferenced data can be pinpointed to an exact location on the earth’s surface. There are many motivations for needing georeferenced data, and depending on the industry you work in, your needs could be different to others. Here are a few ways georeferenced data is practically used within the mining sector:

  • It is an essential way of overlapping simultaneous localisation data on top of previous maps/images, to precisely visualise the changes in an area over time.
  • Georeferenced data is useful for 3D mapping in complex environments because it explains how other data, such as GPS points, relate to the imagery.
  • Georeferencing point clouds can help scans suffering from drifting, helping to maintain the accuracy of a scan (especially on larger projects).

Why use GeoSLAM for Underground 3D Mapping?

Ease of capture
Ease of capture

A user only needs to walk and scan the area they’re mapping, to capture the data needed, stopping at control points to reference back to, for automatic georeferencing in GeoSLAM Connect. This can all be accomplished via mobile mapping.

Repeatability
Repeatability

The lightweight nature, portability and ease of use mean that 3D scanning can be repeated daily. This increase in datasets gives the mine operators more time to react to changes underground, making the mines safer and more cost-effective.

Speed
Speed

Without the need to stop and set up a tripod at every scan area, the process only requires an operator to walk around the scan area to capture it. In addition, the 3D scanner can be operated around people so there is no need to shut down operations whilst mobile mapping is being conducted.

Processing
Processing

Georeferencing scans using GeoSLAM Connect is automatic. Georeferenced data is more accurate and by using 3rd party software can be overlapped on top of plans or previous scans to show changes over time for improved accuracy – opening up the possibilities for new solutions to be developed.

One laser scanner, many solutions

Having a robust and innovative laser scanner, like those in the ZEB handheld device family, without the need for GPS to capture data of the surrounding environment, opens up the potential for solutions that can resolve issues that mines face today.

Quick data capture for stockpile volumes analysis using the ZEB Horizon mounted to a UAV

Scan difficult underground areas with the ZEB Pole
Scan difficult underground areas with the ZEB Cradle

Stockpile Volumes

Using GeoSLAM’s powerful mobile mapping technology, mining operators can easily calculate stockpile tonnages within a few minutes and see changes over time.

GeoSLAM scanners can determine accurate stockpile volumes, silo reserves or mining tempos, without the need for GPS. Walk and scan, or attach the scanner to a trolley, drone, pole, or vehicle for remote monitoring of hazardous environments.

GeoSLAM’s volumes software instantly turns data into actionable 3D information for rapid real-time decision-making. So now you can confidently verify volumes at all stages of the supply chain as frequently as necessary – train staff in minutes, slash survey times and drive down costs.

Convergence analysis

GeoSLAM Convergence Analysis provides rapid, regular, cost-effective ways of detecting the velocity of change in rock movement in underground environments. This is not only operationally important but can also be a critical indicator of potential slope/rockface instability.

With a greater amount of information available due to the easier, cheaper, and more frequent scanning, plus the lack of need for GPS, convergence analysis decisions can be made faster saving time, money and increasing safety.

Example of mine wall safety analysis of surrounding environment underground

Production Progress Mapping

GeoSLAM Production Progress Mapping provides an opportunity for mining companies to make short-term operational decisions on newly mined production areas, quickly.

Utilising the GeoSLAM ZEB 3D scanners, without the need for GPS, capturing data in mines is quick, safe, and highly repeatable. Rapid data capture means fewer hold-ups in production, saving time and money, plus the frequency of capture means companies can keep on track with targets and make necessary logistical changes when required.

Example of GeoSLAM 3D scanners in use

Shaft Inspection

GeoSLAM Shaft Inspection is a solution for collecting data, without the need for GPS, in hard-to-reach and dangerous vertical mine shafts, for inspection or analysis of change.

The mapping solution offers repeatable and frequent scanning, giving companies actionable information quickly. A solution for mining companies to be able to get actionable data for quick decision-making, saving time and money, whilst keeping personnel safe.

3D scanning example of a vertical shaft.

The data collected from convergence analysis, production progress mapping and shaft inspection can be processed using GeoSLAM Connect and exported into existing mining software such as Deswik and Micromine, meaning it can be analysed using software that is already familiar to the team.

Visual SLAM scanners for accurate mapping of underground environments

To conclude, the innovation of SLAM scanning has revolutionised the way in which data can be captured for underground 3D mapping, making it quicker, easier, safer, and highly repeatable. GeoSLAM’s automatic georeferencing provides accurate 3D data underground, that in turn unlocks the opportunities for new solutions to help mine operators be more cost-effective with their resources.

Forward-thinking mine operators that have already adopted these solutions are already seeing the benefits.

“Being able to scan a heading or area of concern, every week or every day over a period of time gives us a good insight on how the surrounding rock is behaving. We can scan all of our headings before the main mining crew even get underground. The speed and simplicity of the scanner makes it our go to tool for all our monthly production progress mapping, surface stockpiles and other various survey missions on the mine.”

Simon Pollitt

Deputy Chief Surveyor, Boulby Mine