Configure a Block Model

A block model is a critical component of the MSO Workflow. It determines what product to optimize and can either be used entirely or as a subset of data within a bounding wireframe.

Note: An MSO block model needs to contain the right information. See MSO Block Models for guidance on what MSO expects in a block model.

Activity steps

  1. Create or select an MSO scenario.

  2. Display the Block Model screen.

  3. Choose an Input Block Model. This can be a regular or rotated model.

  4. Define the Optimization Field. This is the primary field used to generate stope shapes that match the optimization objective.

    If the Optimization Field is a value field then the optimization objective is to maximise the total value of the stope above the cut-off, and a stope value less than the cut-off would be sub-economic. It is the maximization of the profitability of the stope relative to the cut-off.

    If the Optimization Field is a grade field, then the equivalent objective is to maximize the total metal above the cut-off. You can specify the default value to be used in case of absent data.

    Note: Define the optimization objective and field type using the Economics panel.

    • Set a Default value. This value is used where optimization field data cannot be found in the model.

  5. Define the Density Field. This is mandatory to ensure evaluations are accurate.

    • Ideally, Density Field will not contain absent data (such as "-" values). If absent values (and zero values, if Allow Zero Density Values in Block Model is checked) are found within the specified data column, the nominated Default value is substituted which could cause unexpected results.

      A Default override value is mandatory, and must be greater than zero. 

  6. If you plan to constrain your model data to that found within a particular structure, check Use Block Model Bounding Wireframe and define your constraining volume(s).

    If checked, a temporary block model file is created during processing that represents the constrained volume.

    1. Browse for a wireframe triangles file. This must represent an enclosed volume and should be verified in a Studio application to check for errors, which must also be fixed.

      The wireframe name (minus the "tr" and file extension) displays.

    2. To delete the temporary sub-model after processing, check Delete temporary model after use. If unchecked, the filtered model remains after processing.

  7. Save your settings.

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