Define Complex Stope Shape Framework

Complex Stope Shapeis one type of Advanced Slice Frameworks.

The Complex Stope Shape framework type gives you full control over how and where MSO generates stope shapes. It uses input strings to define both tube locations and spatial orientation, and lets you finely tune optimization constraints like width, corner angles, and IDs.

This method is ideal for advanced users who are dealing with complex orebodies (typical in Latin America and countries like Peru and Chile). It’s the most flexible and detailed approach to stope control in MSO.

Why Use This Mode?

Use Complex Stope Shape if:

  • You already have planned stope traces or development paths.

  • You need maximum control over stope geometry, dimensions, and alignment.

  • You’re working in highly structured or constrained geological settings.

It’s ideal for advanced operations where MSO needs to fit within a complex orebody geometry or predefined mine layout.

Activity steps:

  1. Display the Framework screen.

  2. Expand Framework Type to select Advanced Framework, if not already selected.

  3. Expand Advanced Type and select Complex Stope Shape.

  4. Select a String File containing the centrelines or seed traces of the stope tubes. This string drives the full layout of the tube framework. It's worth checking it carefully before you start.

    Tip: Prepare your string file using the Edge Editor to fine tune string segment lengths, azimuths and dips.

  5. Choose Stope Anneal Width settings, which define the Minimum and Maximum allowable widths of the stope shapes within each tube during optimization. These settings ensure stopes conform to mining or geotechnical constraints.

  6. Define the Stope Corner Angle. These settings control the allowed internal angles in the stope shapes.

    • Minimum ensures sharp turns are avoided.

    • Maximum limits curvature, helping to produce cleaner outlines.

  7. Choose your Definition Settings:

    • Choose Manual Definition to assign U and V identifiers below. These are used to assign group IDs for sections and levels and enables MSO to keep track of tube sequences and organize results. The tools for both axes are the same:

      • Field – A block model attribute where IDs are written obtained.

      • Default – The starting value used when the field is not available or not populated.

      • Start and End – Define the range of U and V identifiers to consider. This can be useful for limiting optimization to a subset of tubes.

    • Choose Section Definition to instruct MSO to build the tube framework from geometric rules and intervals, rather than from direct U/V identifiers. This approach is ideal if you want structured, parametric control over how tubes are segmented across strike and dip, while still taking advantage of advanced shape logic and annealing behaviour.

      1. Choose Section Controls, starting with Alignment Type. This defines how tubes are aligned and can be either Vertical (straight up/down tubes) or Non-Vertical (tubes can bend or change orientation based on angles and gradients.

      2. Select the Max Segment Angle Change to limit how sharply tube segments can turn or deviate between adjacent segments. Smaller values result in smoother tube paths.

      3. Set the Near Side Gradient Change to controls the gradient (dip) allowed on the near side of the tube, relative to the section origin.

      4. Similarly, define the Far Side Gradient Change. This applies to the far side of the tube, and can be useful for asymmetric or wedged tube designs.

      5. Specify the Tube Length. This defines the maximum extent of a tube in the stope propagation direction.

        Note: This can limit growth for practical or geometric constraints.

      6. Check Limit to Zone Surfaces to restrict tube creation to areas near a reference surface. MSO will only build tubes within a buffer distance from this surface.

        • Choose a Zone Surface – The triangulated surface file (...tr.dmx) used to define the reference geological boundary (say, hangingwall, ore top contact).

          Note: You can also pick a legacy .dm file.

        • Specify a value for Extend Past Surface. This is the distance (in meters) to extend tube generation beyond the surface on either side. Allows flexibility while still enforcing zone-specific stope development.

      7. Define U Identifier settings:

        • Source – This is either Single Value (and you define an Interval manually) or Block Model (and you define a model Field and Default).

        • Optionally, check Use Secondary Intervals and define a secondary interval. This allows alternating interval patterns (for example, 10m → 20m → 10m).

        • Optionally, check Use Radial Intervals. Specify the Source, which is either Single Value (and you define an Interval manually) or Block Model (and you define a model Field and Default).

          Note: Radial intervals can be useful for circular layouts (such as around a shaft). This divides tubes by angular interval instead of linear distance.

      8. Define V Identifier settings:

        • Source – This is either Fixed (and you define the Increment - spacing - between levels), Variable (and you define the Coordinates and increment Size at each position or Gradient Strings (where you specify a Level ID Field and Default Value.

  8. Save your settings!

Related topics and activities