Twenty-first-century mining is a complex pursuit. Stakeholders must manage many interconnected processes and data sets to ensure an operation is sustainable. Mixed Reality (MR) simulation may present an opportunity to improve knowledge and understanding of mine operations via a digital twin. Current and future personnel can model and make predictions using past, current and future data sets. However, MR is still an uncommon tool in the mining industry. This paper asks why that is the case, what some common barriers may be to MR adoption, and presents a possible collaborative solution to make MR sustainable as the technology gains hold and becomes commonplace in mine operations and elsewhere.

This is the second paper of a series authored by a collaboration of international researchers. It develops taxonomy for computer-based virtual reality simulators of relevance to the mining industry. A summary is presented of simulator types implemented in the industry, and continuums are used to explain concepts and issues that affect simulator development and integration. The paper classifies simulators and demonstrates that there are potentially many simulator formats still to be realised and implemented by the mining industry. Simulator issues that are often overlooked such as human factors, cognitive load and development costs and their impact on the development of sustainable simulator technologies are considered in some detail. Barriers to development and integration are mentioned, and the need for industry to engage with university-level research and develop a uniform and integrated approach are discussed. Finally, a brief case study is presented and conclusions are drawn about the current status and sustainability of simulator development in the mining industry.

Can large screen visualisation and simulation technology be utilised to depict Sustainable Mining Practices? The system described here provides an opportunity to experience a mine site and the surrounding area via visualisation and simulation. The system presents sustainable mining concepts that must be managed at a mine site surrounded by a national park. The system includes historic and current data and perspectives from mine site, environmental and local personnel. All information must be assessed against an original environmental impact statement and conclusions be drawn upon how the mine has developed. Knowledge gained is transferred to a new site and issues must be resolved to the satisfaction of all stakeholders. The paper summarises the system and reports outcomes of a trial deployment. The results are encouraging and the system may prove to be a useful tool for community engagement and mine planning on future projects.