Inventory Management
Client: Thomas Engineering
Dynascan Mobile LIDAR System
Quarry mapping using the Dynascan
Surveyed Stockpiles
Face Profile Data
Project: Inventory Management and Site Planning
Laser System: Dynascan
Accurate, regular, and quick stockpile measurements
are a must for effective inventory control and
planning within the mining and aggregates industry.
The latest mobile laser scanning technology is now
enabling service providers such as Thomas
Engineering to offer a more efficient, safe, and cost
effective solution.
Thomas Engineering (TEC) has been providing specialised laser
scanning services to the mining and aggregates industry in Canada
since 1994. After pioneering with the Quarryman® Autoscanning
Laser System, TEC were quick to put the new MDL Dynascan mobile
mapping system to the test following its release in 2009. With tripod
mounted laser systems now accepted in the industry, TEC were
seeking a new, more efficient, and accurate approach to stockpile
measurements.
Mobile Mapping
The Dynascan is a light-weight mobile mapping system that can be
mounted on a vehicle and used to acquire accurate 3D topographical
data. The system consists of a high speed laser scanner, high
accuracy GNSS positioning and Inertial Navigation System mounted
in a single pod that is ruggedised and easily portable.
Stockpile Surveys
Mobile mapping offers a number of benefits over traditional survey
techniques with stockpiles being able to be measured quicker, safer,
and more accurately. The system collects survey points numbering in
the millions allowing for highly accurate models and volumes to be
calculated. The accuracy and speed of surveys gives managers and
engineers greater confidence in their results with stockpiles being
measured to +/-2% of the actual volume. The Dynascan provides real
time data acquisition enabling values to be interrogated and volumes
calculated in the field. Through regular surveys and year end audits
the Dynascan can accurately monitor inventory allowing for optimised
production and better operational planning leading to increased
efficiency throughout the overall mining cycle. The reduced number of
surveyors on site also provides significant health and safety benefits.
Inventory Management
Site Mapping

The speed of the Dynascan system allows for rapid surveys of entire
sites from boundary to boundary. The data is then converted into
graphical images and CAD topographical drawings providing clear as-
built documentation of the current status of the site at the time of
survey. This data can then be used for planning and design purposes
and to comply with regulatory requirements. Regular surveys can also
be used for bench profiling to calculate pre and post blast volumes.
For mine pits and excavation sites repeat surveys allow accurate cut
and fill calculations to be determined. Once initial plans are
established updates can be done quickly and easily. Entire sites can
be mapped within hours with all data geo-referenced to national or
local co-ordinate systems allowing repeat surveys and quick change
detection.

Reserve Calculations

The Dynascan can be used to survey the topography of unmined

areas and the results combined with drill core samples to calculate
accurate estimates of unmined reserves, enabling better financial
forecasting.

Verification of Quantities

By creating a detailed digital terrain model of the ground surface

before overburden stripping starts and after stripping operations are
complete, it is possible to very accurately calculate the in-bank volume
of material removed. If payment for stripping is by the cubic metre,
independent and accurate calculations of payment quantities can be
determined using the Dynascan.

TEC Engineering have now used the Dynascan in hundreds of sites

across Canada with regular clients such as Lafarge Dufferin
Aggregates, The Miller Group, St. Lawrence Cement, OMYA, Stelco,
Dofasco, Ontario Power Generation, Bowater, Fraser Paper, Essroc
Italcementi, Graymont, Sintra, Continental et Pavage, and many
others reaping the benefits of the services on offer.

Cam Thomas, President Thomas Engineering