Digital Twin for Geomechanical Safety Monitoring

Case ID:
UA24-303
Invention:

This technology is a 3D digital twin of rock mass used by mining experts and companies to monitor rock mass conditions to ultimately enhance mine safety. This comprehensive framework incorporates various geotechnical parameters, scanning technologies, and data acquisition systems to manage, analyze, and interpret the data to generate up-to-date 3D visualizations of rock mass. By wirelessly transferring data to a cloud-based server, the technology allows for near-real-time data visualization through heat maps, which help identify potential safety hazards. The system is interactive, allowing users to manage and interpret geomechanical risks via a user interface that adheres to human-computer interaction (HCI) principles.  This innovative approach not only enhances the accuracy and efficiency of geotechnical assessments but also significantly contributes to the overall safety and operational effectiveness of mining activities.

Background: 
The problem this technology aims to address is the significant safety hazards present in mining operations due to the unpredictable nature of rock mass conditions. Current solutions often involve periodic manual inspections and the use of basic monitoring tools, which can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and prone to human error. These methods may not provide real-time data, leading to delays in identifying and addressing potential safety issues. Digital twins are increasingly being used across various industries to create virtual representations of physical systems, enabling real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance. In geomechanics, the monitoring of rock mass conditions is critical for ensuring safety in mining, tunneling, and other engineering projects involving rock structures.  Unlike traditional methods, it utilizes advanced scanning and data acquisition systems to create a comprehensive 3D digital model of the mine, which is constantly updated with the latest geotechnical data. This technology not only improves the accuracy and efficiency of safety assessments but also enhances the ability to predict and mitigate hazards before they become critical. The integration of cloud-based data management and user-friendly interfaces makes the digital twin a more effective and reliable tool for ensuring mine safety compared to existing technologies. 

Applications: 

  • Mining industry
  • Civil engineering
  • Environmental monitoring


Advantages: 

  • Improved safety
  • Real-time monitoring
  • Comprehensive, accurate modeling
  • Preventative approach mitigates hazards
Patent Information:
Contact For More Information:
Scott Zentack
Licensing Manager, College of Engr
The University of Arizona
szentack@arizona.edu
Lead Inventor(s):
Nilufer Blanche Akbulut
Angelina Anani
Leonard Brown
Keywords: