A stochastic integrated simulation and mixed integer linear programming optimisation framework for truck dispatching problem in surface mines

Making near optimal and close to reality decisions on the destination of trucks is vital for maximising the utilisation of truck and shovel fleets and subsequently minimising the operating costs in surface mines. We developed an integrated simulation and optimisation framework for solving truck dispatching problems in surface mines. The developed framework uses simulation modelling to imitate mining operations and capture technical uncertainties. It also applies uncertainty-based mixed integer linear optimisation modelling to dispatch trucks while capturing practical uncertainties. The developed optimisation model simultaneously optimises truck fleet utilisation, shovel fleet utilisation, and plant feed rate. The model considers the stochastic nature of the dispatching parameters and includes travel time uncertainties in the decision-making procedure. A comparison between the application of the developed optimisation model with a currently in the market optimisation model using the developed integrated simulation and optimisation framework showed 11% improvement in the production of the case study.