Abstract:

Industry 4.0, characterized by advanced interconnectivity, automation, and digitalization, introduces digital twins as a cornerstone of cyber-physical systems. Digital twins offer comprehensive virtual models of physical processes, essential for agile and responsive operations in complex environments. While the manufacturing industry has gradually embraced these technologies, the mining sector predominantly remains in the preliminary stages of digital integration. The solutions are primarily adaptations of models developed for manufacturing, which do not adequately cater to the specific complexities and requirements of mining operations. This study introduces a modular, and dual-level digital twin architecture as an ecosystem of mining operational systems, and aims to comprehensively integrate and enhance operations throughout the mining value chain. It encompasses the entire mining process through a high-level architecture that systematically addresses lifecycle phases, physical assets, and operations across six distinct functional layers. This type of structured approach is instrumental in facilitating interoperability among Internet of Things (IoT) devices, data streams, and various modeling techniques to enable advanced planning and control solutions. The architecture adopts a service-oriented perspective, separating data and decision-making models for flexibility and expansion. Nine distinct service categories within the mining process are specified, each defined by its unique functions. This enhances modularity and addresses interoperability issues, while also provides insights into their interdependencies, technological specifications, and stakeholder considerations. This architecture is poised to significantly transform mining processes, elevating operational efficiency, safety, and adaptability to unprecedented levels. It signifies a pivotal strategic advancement in the mining sector, fostering the further development of decision support tools by augmenting their interoperability and integration within a comprehensive ecosystem. This aligns seamlessly with the digital transformation objectives of Mining 4.0, setting a new standard for innovation and efficiency in the industry.

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Mr. Mostafa Dadkhah K.