Taxonomy of interactive computer-based visualisation systems and content for the mining industry – part 2

Abstract

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.

Application of a large-screen immersive visualisation system to demonstrate sustainable mining practices principles

“…The power of the system is that users can interrogate different datasets, media and scenarios simultaneously and with the aid of modern computer graphics and modern display screen technologies ranging from Class 1 through to Class 10 systems (Stothard et al, 2008), almost any type of media can be displayed interactively in real time to any audience. A large screen Class 7 system is shown in Figure 5a to c. The system utilises, digital 360 degree panoramas, 360 degree video, computer generated 3D models, accesses a database of chemical data, video interviews and other directly related and peripheral information.…”

A Virtual Education: Guidelines for Using Games Technology

“…There are also specific examples in the fields of mining engineering (Stothard et al, 2008), construction engineering (Messner, Yerrapathruni, Baratta, & Whisker, 2003) and manufacturing (Fernandesa, Rajaa, & Eyreb, 2003;Mujber, Szecsi, & Hashmi, 2004). Of particular interests is the Pharmatopia project run by the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at Monash University in Australia.…”

Enhancing Mining Education through the use of a Scenario-based Virtual Reality Simulation

“…Therefore the 'look' and 'feel' of the simulation needs to be as close to reality as possible so as to suspend disbelief and allow the user react to the VE as they would in reality. Stothard et al (2008) state that in the case of mine training simulators for group based training, the image resolution plays a major role, particularly where subtle details need to be demonstrated. For example, in the case of gas outbursts in underground mines, the geological indicators are so subtle that only a trained and experienced geologist would recognise them easily.…”

“…Stothard et al (2008) define Virtual Reality as "a technology that allows a user to interact with a purely computer-simulated environment." They go on to describe virtual reality environments as primarily visual experiences that can be similar to the real world, such as simulated aircraft pilot or combat training, or it could be expressively different from reality, e.g.…”

“…For example, in the case of gas outbursts in underground mines, the geological indicators are so subtle that only a trained and experienced geologist would recognise them easily. In order for mine workers to gain the required experience and recognise these indicators from simulation training, the image resolution and detail of the simulation need to be high and realistic (Stothard et al, 2008).…”