| Evaluation and reporting of operator line-of-sight (LOS) of mobile mining equipment is important to identify blind areas, justify vehicle modification, and promote awareness of LOS impairments. Current methods of LOS assessment exist, however, they are seen as unrealistic for application in the confinements of an underground mine drift. This thesis investigates the application of a laser scan and computer simulation method for LOS evaluation of mobile vehicles modeled in a virtual environment. Results indicated that the outputs were quantitatively comparable and representative of the operator's LOS while operating a vehicle. These findings resulted in the development of an assessment method through the use of computer simulation that would appropriately represent the underground mining environment. The creation of the computer simulation line-of-sight evaluation (CLOSE) method utilized common dimensions and characteristics encountered in a mine drift, in addition to common vehicle design and operation procedures in order to define the methodology. In preliminary trials the CLOSE method proved to be successful in evaluating LOS for virtual LHD vehicles. The method was also applied to an original and modified LHD vehicle design to illustrate and verify the ability to differentiate and quantify visibility profile changes based on design modifications. |
