Configure Shape Refinement Settings

An Advanced setting to improve the smoothness and regularity of the stope shapes generated by MSO. This is especially useful in cases where initial optimization creates jagged or irregular outlines that are often caused by block-to-block variability in grade or geometry.

This feature applies a post processing refinement (adjustments are made after processing initial shapes) to vertical stope boundaries by adjusting their concave and convex edges based on defined rules. Users can control the number of refinement points and how aggressive the smoothing is on both the footwall and hangingwall or near and far sides, depending on the selected application type.

For example, these settings may be useful if working on a narrow vein deposit where block model variability causes jagged outlines. You can use vertical shape refinement to smooth both stope walls evenly without drastically changing stope volume.

Activity steps

  1. Define an MSO scenario, block model, orientation, framework and shapes.

  2. Display the Advanced screen.

  3. Expand the Stope Shape Refinement command group.

  4. Check Use Vertical Shape Refinement.

  5. Choose the Number Of Points. This defines how many vertical segments MSO uses for refinement. More points = a smoother curve, but may slightly alter stope dimensions.

  6. Choose how values are applies to refine the vertical shape, using Application:

    • Geometric – Refines based on footwall and hangingwall geometry.

    • Geological – Uses near and far stope sides.

  7. For both hanging and footwall (Geometric) or near and far (Geological) positions, define the following distance values:

    • Concave Distance – Maximum allowed inward bending (concave) distance per segment (in meters).

    • Convex Distance – Maximum allowed outward bending (convex) distance per segment. Controls bulging shape limits.

    • Range Minimum – Minimum refinement adjustment allowed. This can be used to prevent tiny corrections that may not be worth processing.

    • Range Maximum – Maximum refinement adjustment allowed. This caps the influence per segment to maintain shape stability.

  8. Save your settings.

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