Define Slice Orientation

The Slice Orientation group defines how the block model is sliced during optimization when using the Slice method. You choose both the slicing geometry (vertical, horizontal, transverse) and the orientation of the generated stopes within those slices. These settings are critical for aligning stope generation with geological structures and mining directions, ensuring realistic and mineable outputs.

The steps described here are specific to the Slice Optimization method.

For steps relating to the Prism method, see Prism Orientation Settings.
For steps relating to the Boundary method, see Define Boundary Orientation.

Activity steps

Create or select an MSO scenario.
If not already defined, specify a block model.
Set up the run economics.
Display the Orientation screen.
Expand Optimization Method and select Slice.
Expand the Slice Orientation command group.

Consult the following table to pick the most appropriate Geometry and Orientation for your framework:

Geometry	Orientation	Description	Typical Use Case
Vertical	Stopes Along Framework X Axis (XZ)	Slices are aligned along the X-axis, slicing the model in Y.	Vertical veins striking north-south, mined in east-west-oriented stopes.
	Stopes Along Framework Y Axis (YZ)	Slices are aligned along the Y-axis, slicing the model in X.	Vertical veins striking east-west, mined in north-south-oriented stopes.
Horizontal	Stopes Along Framework X Axis (XY)	Slices are aligned horizontally in Z direction, model is sliced vertically.	Flat-lying deposits like coal seams or horizontal tabular orebodies.
	Stopes Along Framework Y Axis (YX)	Similar to XY but driven by the Y axis frame orientation.	Stratiform or bedded ore zones requiring Y-axis referencing for stope layout.
Transverse	Transverse Stopes Along Framework X Axis (XZ)	Stopes are generated across the orebody (perpendicular to strike), aligned to X.	Sublevel transverse stoping across steep ore zones; common in mechanized mining.
	Transverse Stopes Along Framework Y Axis (YZ)	Similar to above but aligned to Y.	Used in situations where mining cuts across east-west striking steep deposits.

Choose a Default Dip. This is The angle between the horizontal plane and the slicing plane (0° = flat; 90° = vertical). For example, for a steeply dipping vein at 80°, use 80.
Define the Default Strike. This is the compass direction of the horizontal trace of the plane, measured clockwise from the north (0° to 360°). For example, a north-south striking orebody would use 0 or 180.
Check Dynamic for local control of slice orientation. When checked, MSO overrides the default dip/strike using one of these values:
- Source – The source of the value to use, which can be either:
  - Control Surface – Use the orientation of a surface wireframe to define local dip and strike across slices. This is also referred to as "using a control surface".
    - Select a Wireframe triangles file.
  - Model Fields – Use specific fields in the block model containing dip and strike values per block. This could be useful if your model has already been estimated using a slope model to include anisotropic values.
    - Select the Dip Column in the block model, and the Strike Column. You can only select numeric attributes.
For this optimization method you have the option to Preanneal. This is enabled by default, which enables a pre-processing step that smooths the optimization space before the main algorithm runs. This helps prevent local traps and improves convergence, especially in complex geometries or dynamic orientations.

Note: If Preanneal is selected,

Note: In the majority of cases, preannealing significantly improves solution quality and stability in most scenarios. It’s especially important when using dynamic dip/strike or wireframe-constrained orientations. This is why it is enabled by default.
Save your settings.

More Information

For background information on the MSO slice optimization method, refer to:

AMS MSO Manual – Section 4.1.1: Slice Optimization Method

This manual details how slice-based stopes are generated using slice thickness, orientation, and framework controls. It also explains the impact of slicing plane on stope output.

Note: The MSO manual is installed with each copy of Studio UG. If you are using a different Studio product and require a copy of the MSO operating manual, please contact your local Datamine office.