CET exSim: mineral exploration experience via simulation
Jason C. Wong 1 3 Eun-Jung Holden 1 Peter Kovesi 1 T. Campbell McCuaig 1 Jon Hronsky 21 Centre for Exploration Targeting, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia.
2 Western Mining Services (Australia) Pty Ltd, Suite 26, Kobold House, 17 Prowse Street, West Perth, WA 6005, Australia.
3 Corresponding author. Email: jason.wong@uwa.edu.au
Exploration Geophysics 44(4) 272-281 https://doi.org/10.1071/EG12067
Submitted: 29 October 2012 Accepted: 17 July 2013 Published: 21 August 2013
Abstract
Undercover mineral exploration is a challenging task as it requires understanding of subsurface geology by relying heavily on remotely sensed (i.e. geophysical) data. Cost-effective exploration is essential in order to increase the chance of success using finite budgets. This requires effective decision-making in both the process of selecting the optimum data collection methods and in the process of achieving accuracy during subsequent interpretation. Traditionally, developing the skills, behaviour and practices of exploration decision-making requires many years of experience through working on exploration projects under various geological settings, commodities and levels of available resources. This implies long periods of sub-optimal exploration decision-making, before the necessary experience has been successfully obtained.
To address this critical industry issue, our ongoing research focuses on the development of the unique and novel e-learning environment, exSim, which simulates exploration scenarios where users can test their strategies and learn the consequences of their choices. This simulator provides an engaging platform for self-learning and experimentation in exploration decision strategies, providing a means to build experience more effectively. The exSim environment also provides a unique platform on which numerous scenarios and situations (e.g. deposit styles) can be simulated, potentially allowing the user to become virtually familiarised with a broader scope of exploration practices.
Harnessing the power of computer simulation, visualisation and an intuitive graphical user interface, the simulator provides a way to assess the user’s exploration decisions and subsequent interpretations. In this paper, we present the prototype functionalities in exSim including: simulation of geophysical surveys, follow-up drill testing and interpretation assistive tools.
Key words: computer, drilling, experience, exploration, geophysics, interpretation, simulation.
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