SE544562C2 - Integrated raise caving mining method for mining deposits - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an integrated raise caving mining method for mining deposits in rock mass comprising: developing at least one raise (102,102a-f,202,302a-g,402a-e) in the rock mass (10), developing a drawbell (100,100a-c, 200a-g,300a-f,400a-e) in the rock mass (10), wherein at least a portion of the drawbell is excavated from the at least one raise (102,102af,202,302a-g,402a-e), initiating caving through undercutting, wherein at least a part of an undercut is created by gradually expanding the drawbell (100,100a-c, 200a-g,300a-f,400a-e) in upwards direction by excavation, developing at least two drawpoints (106,206,406) into the drawbell (100,100a-c, 200a-g,300a-f,400a-e), wherein the drawpoints (106) are developed from drifts (115,207,407) arranged on different levels and progressively drawing fragmented rock (101) from the at least one drawbell through the drawpoints (106,206,406).The present invention also relates to use of an integrated raise caving mining method for mining deposits. The present invention also relates to an integrated raise caving mining infrastructure, a machinery, a control system of an integrated raise caving mining infrastructure, and a data medium.

Description

TITLE Eritfegrated Raise Cavyggja mining method for mining deposits TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to ar: integrated False cavigge mining method for mining depositsand the use thereof. The present invention also relates to an" _i_§tgg§_at_g_d__rai§g__cavinge mininginfrastructure, a machinery, a control system of a _r_a_§_s__g3__cav_i__r_1_ge mining infrastructure, and a data medium.

BACKGROUND ART Cave mining methods are applied for underground extraction of mineral deposits. Prior art cavemining methods (also referred to as caving methods) include block caving, panel caving, sublevelcaving, inclined caving and variations of these methods. The concept of cave mining relies onthat during the mining operation a part of the rock mass caves such as the ore body itself, therock formations near the ore body, the overlying hangingwall, or a combination thereof. Cavingis an engineered, natural failure process of rock mass. Particularly, cave mining methods areassociated with low extraction cost. Therefore, cave mining methods are suitable for mining low-grade mineral deposits, which are massive and have a large volumetric extent. ln prior art cave mining methods relying on caving of the ore body, the following main methodsteps can be distinguished: undercutting, production, and pre-conditioning. ln caving methodswhere the ore body is engineered to cave, such as block caving, inclined caving, or panel caving,caving of the ore body is typically achieved by undercutting the ore body. When undercutting,a void is created by drilling and blasting such that the void obtains a dimension, which is large enough to initiate caving.

After the ore body has been undercut and caving has been initiated, broken ore is drawnthrough drawbells accessed through drawpoints located at a single production level. As ore isdrawn, a void is formed and maintained above the broken, caved rock mass and caving canprogress upwards subsequently, whereby a caving stope is formed. The void has to be large enough to absorb the swell of caved rock. lf the ore body rock mass is too strong for enabling cave progression under prevailing stressconditions at an acceptable caving rate, or if no caving occurs at all or pre-conditioning methods may be implemented to decrease rock mass strength.

Each ofthe main method steps undercutting, production and pre-conditioning require typically different types of infrastructure and work processes.

Undercutting is commonly conducted from undercut drifts on a so-ca||ed undercut level wherethe undercut is created by means of drilling and blasting of pillars between neighboringundercut drifts on retreat. The production is normally conducted from production level driftson a so-ca||ed production level. Drifts, drawpoints, and drawbells have to be developed bymeans of drilling and blasting, whereby drawpoints and drawbells connect the production levelto the undercut area. Furthermore, pre-conditioning measures are typically applied from drifts at so-ca||ed pre-conditioning levels by for example hydraulicfracturing and/or confined blasting.

The requirements on the infrastructure and work processes are different for each of the mainmethod steps. Thus, in prior art caving methods the main method steps undercutting, production, and pre-conditioning must be implemented in a stepwise and subsequent manner.

Furthermore, in prior art cave mining methods such as block caving, the undercut andproduction levels must be proximal due to ore flow considerations. The spacing betweendrawpoints is dependent on the actual spacing of production and undercut level. The drawpoint spacing must not exceed certain distances to realize an acceptable ore flow in caving stopes. prior art caving methods such as block caving require numerous, smalldrawbells to implement an appropriate drawpoint spacing, implying that at the production levelthere are numerous, small drawbells and drawpoints which are separated by small pillars.Moreover, drawbell development is intense and difficult but it is crucial for ore flow andoperational performance. However, the small size of drawbells hinders proper stimulation ofthe ore flow and limits access. Frequent hang-up occurrences resulting from the small drawbellsizes negatively affect production, productivity, and ore flow. Hang-up clearance is difficult.Furthermore, the spacing varies between the drawpoints, and draw zones are not evenly distributed. Thereby, a non-uniform ore flow may result causing early dilution, poor ore recovery, and even rock mechanical problems at the production level. The close distancebetween the production level and undercut level also causes major rock mechanical problems.Significant stress changes in the rock mass from undercutting result in extreme stresses at the boundaries of the undercut area, referred to as abutment areas. ln block caving the undercut level and the production level are situated in and affected by theabutment area. Infrastructure at the undercut level and/or the production level may bedamaged because of the high stresses necessitating repair before production. Undercut drillingand blasting is complicated and hazardous as the undercut is in the abutment zone, prone tohigh stresses. At the production level, the small pillars separating drawpoints and drawbells areprone to stress damage. This rock mass damage is immanent and may cause ongoing, long-term, persistent stability problems during lifetime ofthe operation.

Furthermore, the ramp-up time of prior art cave mining methods is very long and may exceed10-15 years with considerably high associated cost. Rock mechanics and logistics issues hinderfaster ramp-up time. Additionally, financial returns are only generated after production hascommenced. Furthermore, design decisions need to usually be locked in an early stage, whenaccess to actual information related to deposit shape, rock mass properties etc. is still verylimited. This circumstance may result in incorrect decisions bearing considerable risks during the later run of operation.

Moreover, there is limited or no access to the ore body above the undercut. Thus, the possibilityto control the direction of cave progression is very limited. Furthermore, active control throughspecific and/or on demand rock breaking methods is very difficult and costly to implement inprior art cave mining methods. Hence, prior art cave mining methods require extensivemonitoring programs to follow the cave progress. ln case of cave stall or unwanted cave progression direction, access points are not readily available for instant remedies.

However, the application of cave mining methods remains attractive, mainly due to theprovided high productivity in combination with low extraction costs. Thus, there is a currenttrend to apply cave mining methods to deeper and more competent ore bodies and to orebodies with less favorable geometries for caving. These conditions intensify the above- mentioned rock mechanics and logistics issues. ln conclusion, prior art cave mining methods are associated with long development times,complex preparation plans, complex schedules, high development cost, very little flexibility,very little possibilities for adaptations, and high risks. ln addition, thereto, the trend to mine deeper, more competent, and lower grade ore bodies aggravates the risks significantly.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION ln view of prior art cave mining methods it is desirable to achieve a cave mining method formining ore from a deposit in rock mass which solves or at least alleviates some ofthe drawbacks of the prior art.

There is one object to provide a cave mining method for mining deposits which improves the safety when cave mining.

There is one object to provide a cave mining method for mining deposits which reduces the risks associated with cave mining.

There is one object to provide a cave mining method which reduces the ramp-up time for developing a cave mine.

There is one object to provide a cave mining method which reduces costs for developing the cave mine.

There is one object to provide a cave mining method which reduces the requirement for pre- development of infrastructure prior to production.

There is one object to provide a cave mining method which increases the profitability and enhances the applicability of cave mining.

There is one object to provide a cave mining method which provides improved stability of the infrastructure.

There is one object to provide a cave mining method which improves interactive draw over larger areas.

There is one object to provide a cave mining method which provides reduced risk of early dilution.

There is one object to provide a cave mining method which provides reduced probability of hang-ups.

There is one object to provide a cave mining method which reduces the infrastructure amount for undercutting.

There is one object to provide a cave mining method which provides that drilling and blasting work for drawbell development and undercutting can be remote controlled or automated.

These or at least one of said objects are achieved by an integrated raise caving mining method as claimed in claim 1, wherein further embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims.

Hence, according to one aspect the present invention relates to an integrated raise caving mining method for mining deposits in rock mass comprising: -developing at least one raise in the rock mass, -developing a drawbell in the rock mass, wherein at least a portion ofthe drawbell is excavated from the at least one raise, -initiating caving through undercutting, wherein at least a part of an undercut is created by gradually expanding the drawbell in upwards direction by excavation, -developing at least two drawpoints into the drawbell, wherein the drawpoints are arranged on different levels, -progressively drawing fragmented rock mass from the at least one drawbell through the drawpoints.

The integrated raise caving mining method advantageously combines and therefore integratesthe method steps drawbell development, undercutting, initiating of caving, caving andoptionally pre-conditioning and optionally pre-breaking in that all these method steps may be implemented from the same raise in parallel or within a short time frame.

The integrated raise cavinge mining method comprises that the at least one raise is developedin rock mass. A raise refers to a longitudinally extended vertical or inclined mine infrastructure opening. The raise is typically configured with a circular cross-section. The at least one raise mayfor example be developed from a tunnel, drift, level or other accessible infrastructure in therock mass. The raise may for example be developed between two levels arranged on differentelevations in the rock mass. The at least one raise may be developed in upwards direction byfor example raise boring techniques, or alternatively the at least one raise may be developed in downwards or upwards direction by other conventional methods.

Preferably, the raise is developed within an area in the rock mass where the drawbell is intended to be developed.

The orientation and/ or position of the raise may be adapted to local requirements in terms of ore body geometry and/ or stress situation and/ or rock mass properties. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the raise is vertical.

Alternatively, the raise may be inclined. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the at least one raise isdeveloped to extend over the full stope height. ln such case the raise may be developed to extend from the bottom of the drawbell to a level located at the top of the stope. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the at least one raise isdeveloped to extend over only a part of the stope height above the drawbell. ln such case theat least one raise is developed to extend from the bottom of the drawbell to an additional levelarranged between the drawbell and the ultimate top of the stope. However, the raise may alsobe developed between two levels, which are located above the drawbell, thereby the drawbell extends only over a part of the stope height. ln one embodiment ofthe invention, the method comprises that the at least one raise is located in rock mass within the perimeter ofthe drawbell roof.

The at least one raise may be located in the center of the drawbell roof. Alternatively, the atleast one raise may be located offset from the center of the drawbell roof. Thus, the raise ispositioned outside the center of the drawbell roof. ln one embodiment of the invention, themethod comprises that the at least one raise is located in rock mass outside the perimeter of the drawbell roof. ln one embodiment ofthe invention, the method comprises that the drawbell is excavated at least partially from a raise which is located in rock mass outside the perimeterof the drawbell roof. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that thedrawbell is excavated from more than one raise. Several raises may be developed in the rockmass within the region where the drawbell is intended to be constructed such that the drawbell is constructed by excavation from several raises.

Evidently, the integrated raise caving mining method may comprise that multiple drawbells are excavated in a mining area.

The integrated raise cavinge mining method comprises that a drawbell is developed in the rockmass. The drawbell is configured to receive fragmented rock material from a caving stopelocated above the drawbell. The drawbell comprises a drawbell bottom and a drawbell roof,which are joined by sidewalls. Preferably, the drawbell is configured with a drawbell roof areabeing larger than a bottom area ofthe drawbell. ln such case the drawbell widens in a directionupwards. The area ofthe horizontal cross-section ofthe drawbell may vary in upwards direction.Typicallyå the area ofthe horizontal cross-section ofthe drawbell gradually increases in upwardsdirection. The drawbell may for example be configured as an inverted pyramid, a trough or aninverted cone. Alternatively, the area of the horizontal cross-section may be constant, or nearlyconstant along a section of the drawbell. The drawbell may for example be configured as an inverted cone further provided with a cylindrical section adjacent the drawbell roof.

The integrated raise cavinge mining method comprises that at least a portion ofthe drawbell isexcavated from the at least one raise. For example. the lowermost portion of the drawbell mayfirst be excavated by drilling, charging and blasting operations conducted by conventionalmeans from »the production level or a drift located in the rock mass. Thereafter the remainingportion of the drawbell is developed by excavation from the at least one raise from inside theraise. Alternatively,. the complete drawbell is developed by excavation from the at least one raise. ln one embodiment of the invention, the portion of the drawbell is excavated by drilling blastholes into the rock mass around the raise by operating a machinery arranged inside the raise;and blasting the rock mass by charging and detonating explosives in those blast holes such that the portion of the drawbell is blasted.

The drawbell development from the at least one raise provides an advantageous synergizing potential. However, in order to benefit from this the drawbell must exceed a certain critical size. The drawbell must be of a sufficient size in order minimize the number of raises. ln such way the economy of the mining operation is acceptable from a cost perspective.

The combined application of using at least one raise for drawbell development and the provisionof a drawbell of considerable size drastically reduces the ramp-up time of a cave miningoperation, allowing using and sharing of the same infrastructure and similar work processesenabling parallel implementation of the method steps drawbell development, undercutting, initiating of caving, and, optionally, pre-conditioning and pre-breaking in the stope.

Accordingly, the drawbell is developed to obtain a considerable size which exceeds a criticalsize, otherwise the advantages regarding ramp-up time, parallelization, and synergizing effects do not materialize.

The development of the drawbell from the raise allows establishing a much larger drawbell.I\/|oreover, the drawbell can be utilized for undercutting as well. This is a major advantage overprior art cave mining methods where the undercut level usually is located close to theproduction level and the production level layout is configured with numerous small drawbellsto implement an appropriate drawpoint spacing, necessary to achieve an acceptable ore flowin a caving stope of prior art cave mining methods. Thus, the small sized drawbells of prior art production level layouts would not provide the same advantage.

For the purpose of constructing the drawbell by excavation, suitable machinery is arrangedinside the raise. Moreover, said machinery may also be used for stope excavation, such as for example pre-breaking.

The machinery comprises a drilling and/or charging machinery configured for drilling and/orcharging the rock mass from inside the raise, which machinery comprises a drilling bore and/orcharging equipment configured for initiating said caving. The machinery may also comprisehydraulic fracturing equipment. The machinery is arranged on a platform which is movable within the raise such that it can be hoisted down through the raise to a location of operation.

Preferably the machinery is configured to be operated by remote control. Alternatively, themachinery is configured for semiautomation or full automation. Thereby it is avoided thatmachine operators have to be present inside the raise. Since the raise is preferably configured with a circular cross-section remote control or automation of the machinery is facilitated The platform must be designed such that it can still be moved inside the raise, even in the case of rock mass deformations occurring in the raise.

The shaft hoist system is located in a specifically excavated infrastructure excavation, which sizeand shape is adapted to the requirements of the hoist system and/ or rock mechanicsconsiderations. ln order to keep the infrastructure excavation of the hoist system 104 small, amodular design of the platform and/ or machinery mounted on the platform is advantageous.A small infrastructure excavation provides an improved stability. The modular design allows changing of utilized machinery quickly.

The machinery mounted onto the platform is adapted to operational requirements. Possibletypes of machinery comprise amongst others machinery for drilling, machinery for charging, machinery for support installation or machinery for hydraulic fracturing. ln one form of the invention, the platform may also be stored by moving it aside from the topof the raise. Thus_._ the platform is configured to be moved to the side at the top of the raise to be stored in a storage position.

The blast initiation can be carried out with different options, which comprise amongst othersnon-electric detonators, detonators initiated through an electric signal transferred via cable or detonators initiated wirelessly by means of communication through rock mass. ln another form ofthe invention, more than one slice could be blasted in a single blast. Thereby an appropriate time delay between individual slices is required. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises that excavation of theportion of the drawbell is performed by blasting slices of rock mass. The shape of the slicesdepends on the inclination ofthe boreholes. Preferably, the portion of the drawbell is excavated by drilling blast holes into the rock mass around the raise by operating the machinery arranged inside the raise; and blasting the rock mass by charging and detonating explosive charges in those blast holes such that slices of rock mass are blasted.

The excavation and development of the drawbell commences at the bottom of the drawbell.Preferably, the blasting progresses in upwards direction by drilling and blasting slices of rock mass with the machinery arranged inside the raise.

Typically, blast holes are dri||ed to be straight by conventional techniques, which provide alimited control of drill precision and accordingly limit the maximum possible blast hole length.However, it may be advantageous to apply directional drilling. Directional drilling may beapplied for better control of drill precision and/or to accomplish very large drill- and blast design by drilling curved boreholes. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that blasting takes place in an unconfined environment by drawing previously blasted rock from the drawbell to create a void.

Blasting of the drawbell takes place in an unconfined environment -by gradually drawing rockmass from the drawbell thereby creating a void. Sufficient voids must exist to absorb the swellof fragmented rock resulting from blasting. Before the next blast holes can be fired, enoughbroken rock mass must be drawn from the drawbell. Due to unconfined blasting, rock breakageproblems leading to remnant pillars are not expected. However, in case a remnant pillar isformed, it can be detected and measures against the remnant pillar may be implemented.I\/|oreover, the availability of the raise improves the access and facilitates the applicability ofmeasures against remnant pillars. Furthermore, the blasted rock is thrown predominately in the direction of gravity, assisting the blasting process further.

Drilling, charging and blasting continues upwards along the raise. ln one embodiment of theinvention, the method comprises that excavation of the portion of the drawbell is performedby blasting slices of rock mass. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises thatthe shape of individual blast slices ;-_:~:~"§>.--_š_;\.___adapted to form a drawbell of a specific predeterminedshape.___|n one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the drawbell isconfigured as an inverted pyramid. Alternatively, the drawbell may be configured as an inverted cone or a trough. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the shape of the at least onedrawbell is configured to be adaptable according to the ore body geometry and/ or rock mass properties and/ or ore flow considerations and/ or stress situation. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the dimension of the at leastone drawbell is adapted to local requirements in terms of ore body geometry and/ or stress situation and/ or rock mass properties and/ or ore flow considerations. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the drawbell is configured to be oriented in a predetermined direction. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the drawbell is configured tobe oriented such that the production level infrastructure is positioned favorably related to the prevailing stresses. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the drawbell is configured to be oriented such that cave initiation is facilitated by the prevailing stresses.

A free surface for blasting is obtained and/ or maintained which coincides with the drawbellroof and provides a favorable condition for later cave initiation. Basically, blasting transforms into caving of the rock mass when the drawbell is excavated in upwards direction.

The integrated raise cavinge mining method comprises thatmcaving is initiated throughundercutting wherein at least a part of an undercut is created by gradually expanding the drawbell in upwards direction by excavation. ln such a way the area of the drawbell roof is increased, such that at least a part of the undercutis created by the drawbell. This is particularly advantageous in that a separate undercut level,which would otherwise have to be developed, is not required.__Thus by gradually expanding thedrawbell in upwards direction the drawbell roof becomes larger than the bottom of thedrawbell. However, the drawbell may also be gradually expanded in the upwards directionwithout increasing the length ofthe perimeter ofthe drawbell roof. ln such a way, a section ofthe drawbell may be provided with a horizontal cross-section having constant or nearly constant area in upwards direction.ln one embodiment ofthe invention, the method comprises that at least a part ofthe undercutis created by gradually expanding the drawbell in the upwards direction without increasing the length perimeter ofthe drawbell roof.

Alternatively, at least a part of the undercut is created by gradually expanding the drawbell upwards in vertical direction by excavation.

Preferably the rock mass located above the drawbell caves, thereby forming a stope. Caving isinitiated subsequently to creating the undercut. Thereby, caving is initiated when the area ofthe undercut exceeds a critical area, which is a function of rock mass properties, stress situation,and the shape of the undercut. The critical area for caving of different types of rock mass and different location is well researched in the field; and may be estimated by the skilled person. ln one embodiment ofthe invention, the method comprises performing drawbell developmentand undercutting simultaneously. The gradual expansion ofthe drawbell, whereby the drawbellroof area is gradually increased, is part ofthe undercutting process. ln such a way, the ramp-uptime can be shortened in comparison with prior art methods. Also, the drawbell serves as aninitial source of ore due to its size. Therefore, some ore can already be produced in the ramp- up stage ofthe operation. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that drawbell development and undercutting transitions seamlessly into caving of the rock mass located above the undercut.

The free surface obtained by blasting slices of rock mass promotes efficient blasting andseamless transition to subsequent caving. I\/|oreover, blasting of slices of rock mass in thedrawbell is performed in a preferred direction which corresponds to the later caving direction.ln such way a more stable initial production phase with a high caving rate is expected. Overall,the integrated development of drawbell and undercut can be regarded as simple and controllable.

Alternatively,. blasting takes place in a semi-confined environment by drawing previously blasted rock from the drawbell without creating a void.ln such case_there is not a void between the fragmented rock mass and the drawbell roof.Thereby, the fragmented rock mass provides support to the drawbell roof and enhances itsstability. lndeed, there is not a free surface for blasting of subsequent s|ices anymore. Blastingtakes now place against fragmented rock mass and the blast environment is therefore referredto as semi-confined. Such semi-confined blast conditions may be particularly advantageous atthe time shortly before the drawbell roof area exceeds the critical area for initiation of caving.ln this state, the additional support provided by the fragmented rock mass still provides a stable drawbell roof and enables blasting subsequent s|ices required for cave initiation. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the shape of individual blasts|ices is adapted to form a drawbell of a specific predetermined shape. By drilling the boreholesin different angles, charging and blasting the boreholes, different parts of the rock mass are blasted such that a specific shape of the drawbell may be obtained. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises blasting several s|ices in one blastshortly before cave initiation may be advantageous in this transformation stage. Blasting severals|ices in one blast requires appropriate timing between individual s|ices to achieve a satisfying blast result.

When the area of the undercut exceeds a critical area required for cave initiation, the caving process is initiated and progresses upwards.

When caving progresses further upwards a stope is formed above the drawbell. Typically, a zoneof fractured rock mass forms at the cave back. A part of rock mass detaches from the in-siturock mass and piles up in the caving stope. lt is important to keep a void between the cave backand the broken mass inside the caving stope. This void is required for cave progression.

Continuous draw of ore enables continuous cave progression.

To accomplish a sufficient void, a proper draw strategy must be implemented. However, the formation of excessive void leads to the risk of an air blast and must be avoided. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises scheduled switching from cavingto drilling and blasting in specific areas in a part of the stope for a limited time period byoperating the machinery arranged inside the raise located in the rock mass. Production bycaving is preferred from a cost perspective. However, intermittent drilling and blasting may be performed depending on the rock mass and the cave progression. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises switching from caving to drillingand blasting on demand. ln case the rock mass cannot be reliably and safely caved, or in casethe ore body geometry demands it, switching to drilling and blasting may be required during a period before continuation of caving. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises re-initiating caving of the stope isdone by pre-breaking by drilling, charging and blasting in a part of the stope in specific areasfrom inside the raise by operating the machinery arranged inside the raise in case caving has sta||ed. ln one embodiment of the invention the method comprises joining at least two drawbells andforming a coherent stope above the drawbells and caving the coherent stope. Thereby, theundercut of the at least two drawbells are joined such that a larger unsupported area is formed.By connecting at least two drawbells, a significantly larger stope can be formed which increases production. ln one embodiment ofthe invention, the method comprises enlarging a caving stope in lateraldirection by means of development of an additional drawbell located next to the caving stope.Preferably, the roof of the additional drawbell is connected to a caving stope, which has progressed further than said drawbell roof.

The integrated raise cavinge mining method comprises developing at least two drawpoints into the drawbell, wherein the drawpoints are arranged on different levels. ln particular, the levels are located on different elevations in relation to the drawbell. ln such way the drawbell may be configured with large dimensions. The at least two drawpoints are important for achieving a good ore flow in such a large scale drawbell.

The drawpoints may be arranged in a predetermined pattern for example staggered such thatthe material flow is stimulated to achieve an appropriate interactive draw zone. The levels may be productions levels, herein also referred to as draw levels.Preferably, the drawpoints are developed from drifts arranged on different levels.

Preferably, at least one drawpoint is developed from a drift located on a first production levellocated at the bottom of the drawbell and at least one drawpoint is developed on a differentproduction level, elevated above the first production level. Alternatively. at least one drawpointis developed from a drift arranged on a first production level located between the bottom ofthe drawbell and the roof ofthe drawbell and at least one drawpoint is developed on a differentproduction level, elevated above the first production level. Preferably, the drifts are developedadjacent to the drawbell however the location and configuration of the drifts may be adapted to the rock mass and/ or stress situation and/ or mining layout.

Due to the shape of the drawbell, only a few drawpoints are required at the drawbell prior toinitiation of caving. The blasted rock mass from drawbell development is drawn at thesedrawpoints. For this reason, the required infrastructure development at the production level(s)is limited in the ramp-up phase. After caving has been initiated, the remaining parts of theproduction level(s) are developed such as further production levels adjacent the drawbelland/or the caving stope. Thus, the requirement of infrastructure pre-development is reduced in comparison with prior art cave mining methods.

The integrated raise cavinge mining method comprises progressively drawing fragmented rock mass from the at least one drawbell through the drawpoints.

During production, caved fragmented rock mass falls into the drawbell and moves down to thedrawpoints where it is drawn by suitable machinery such as loaders or continuous draw machinery with conveyors. ln one form of the invention, the method comprises developing at least one additionaldrawpoint into the drawbell and developing said at least one additional draw point on the samelevel as pre-existing drawpoints or on a different level than pre-existing drawpoints to stimulate material flow in the drawbell.

The additional drawpoint(s) may be developed after completion of the drawbell developmentor after caving has been initiated. Such late development protects the additional drawpoint(s)from high stresses during drawbell development and corresponding undercutting as well.

Furthermore, the position of the drawpoints may be adapted to local rock mass conditions and/ or ore flow considerations. ln one embodiment ofthe invention, the method comprises developing at least one additionaldrawpoint into the stope arranged above the drawbell. To improve the ore flow, further drawpoints may be developed into the stope above the drawbell. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises adapting the position of thedrawpoint(s) relative to the drawbell and/ or stope. Preferably the drawpoint(s) is (are) positioned such that ore flow is improved. ln one embodiment ofthe invention, the method comprises providing the drawbell with at leastone additional production level having at least one drift. The additional production level may beprovided with one or more additional drawpoints with drifts providing access to the drawpoints.Thus, further production levels and drawpoints may be developed and added during the miningoperation, thereby reducing requirement for infrastructure pre-development and increasing flexibility. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises developing at least one rock passbetween at least two production levels. The rock pass is used for the transport of broken rockmass between the production levels. ln deep underground mines it is common practice totransport the broken rock mass by means ofgravity to the deepest level in the mine from where it is hoisted to surface. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises developing said additionaldrawpoints from one direction into the drawbell and /or stope. Thus, since the drifts provideaccess to drawpoints, the drifts of the production level may be developed and oriented inrequired direction. The additional drawpoint may also be arranged on the same production level as an earlier developed drawpoint to improve the ore flow.

Alternatively, in one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises developing saidadditional drawpoints from different directions into the drawbell and /or stope, for example in opposite directions. The drifts providing access to said drawpoints should thus be oriented indifferent directions. The additional drawpoints may be arranged on the different production levels located on different sides of the drawbell to improve the ore flow.

To achieve favorable interactive draw improving the ore flow, drawpoints may be developedinto the drawbell from different directions. Thus, the added drawpoints are then arranged on different sides of the drawbell. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises that the location and/ orshape of at least one drawpoint is adapted to local requirements during drawing fragmentedrock from the stope. Thus, the drawpoints may be moved or re-established to adapt to the situation when for examples problems with draw occur.

The application of a large sized drawbell is advantageous as it reduces the risk of hang-ups.I\/loreover, since at least two drawpoints which are arranged on different levels are developed into the drawbell, the drawbell is accessible which facilitates removal of hang-ups.

The large size ofthe drawbell and the arrangement of drawpoints on different levels enable anoptimized drawpoint positioning from an ore flow perspective. Thereby, the spacing of several neighboring drawpoints can be kept constant.

Drawing broken rock mass from a drawpoint maintains a specificflow of broken rock mass insidethe drawbell towards said drawpoint. However, every drawpoint maintains the flow of brokenrock mass only in a certain area. This area is commonly referred to as isolated draw zone.Correspondingly, a zone of relatively stationary material characterized by insignificant flow of rock mass remains between neighboring isolated draw zones. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises developing the drawpoints atselected positions into the drawbell such that isolated draw zones corresponding to thedrawpoints overlap at least in some areas. Thus, there is a smaller zone of relatively stationarymaterial between neighboring isolated draw zones. ln one embodiment of the invention, themethod comprises performing interactive drawing from drawpoints within an individualdrawbell. The interactive draw is realized by drawing broken rock mass concurrently from neighboring or adjacent drawpoints at the same time or within a short time interval. Interactivedraw has the benefit that width ofthe draw zone is increased. Thus, a more efficient production is achieved and dilution is delayed. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises providing the at least onedrawbell with multiple drawpoints distributed over at least two levels and distributing saiddrawpoints evenly such that a favorable drawpoint spacing is achieved and drawing saiddrawpoints interactively such that interaction between isolated draw zones is achieved.__Asdrawpoints are drawn interactively, isolated draw zones of individual drawpoints start tointeract. Consequently, broken rock mass between neighboring isolated draw zones starts tomove. Therefore, an interactive draw zone develops near isolated draw zones. Preferably auniform draw both temporarily and spatially from drawpoints is pursued to enlarge the interaction in the interactive draw zone. ln one embodiment ofthe invention, the method comprises performing drawing of broken rockmass interactively from at least two neighboring drawbells and forming an interactive drawzone across drawbells. Thereby, the interactive draw in each drawbell results in larger drawbell interactive zones which interact across the drawbells.

The development ofdrawpoints on more than one draw level provides the possibility to improve the drawpoint arrangement from an ore flow point of view. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises developing the drawpoints in a staggered, square or rectangular layout.

The layout refers to the position of isolated draw zone centers in the horizontal plane. Astaggered layout improves the volumetric coverage of the isolated draw zones.__The actualarrangement of drawpoints depends on local circumstances, such as the fragmentation of rockmass, the size and shape of drawpoints, the size and shape of drawbells, or the applied draw strategy.

The large size of the drawbell furthermore enables reduction of the number of neighboringdrawpoints, in particular where the drawpoint spacing is not ideal, i.e. too large, or too small.Due to the latter drawpoint positioning improvements, interactive draw is promoted andsignificantly improved. Accordingly, the risk of early dilution is reduced. Overall, the large sizeddrawbell provides improvements from an ore flow perspective, which enable a higher productivity in comparison with prior art cave mining methods. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises pre-conditioning of rockmass located above the drawbell roof by operating the machinery arranged inside the at least one raise. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises performing pre-conditioning of rock mass located where the stope is intended to be positioned by operatingthe machinery arranged inside the at least one raise located in the rock mass. Pre-conditioningis advantageous in that it improves caveability and fragmentation of the rock mass. Typical pre-conditioning methods include hydraulic fracturing and/or confined blasting. Pre-conditioning may be performed in a part ofthe rock mass located above the drawbell. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises performing pre-conditioning measures in specific areas above the drawbell roofand on-demand. The rock massmay contain particularly competent rock formations, which have to be pre-conditioned. Byperforming pre-conditioning from the raise, access to critical rock mass formations is improved.ln particular,-where the position of the competent rock mass formation is such that it is foreseento be a part of the stope under development as caving progresses. Preferably the at least oneraise intersects the ore body to be caved. Thus, the preconditioning measures may beconducted in regions where the ore body is more competent than in other regions intended tobe mined. The competent rock mass formation does not cave readily and easily due to itsstrength and caving may stall. The pre-conditioning measures creates a pre-conditioned zonewhich is characterized by artificial fractures inside the rock mass and/ or by a decreased strengthof natural discontinuities inside the rock mass. Accordingly, the strength ofthe rock mass in the pre-conditioned zone is reduced compared to its strength prior pre-conditioning.

Alternatively, pre-conditioning may be carried out by machinery arranged in a raise or a driftlocated outside the region intended to be mined. ln one embodiment of the invention themining method comprises performing pre-conditioning in at least some parts of the region intended to be mined.ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises operating the machinery arrangedinside the raise for improving caveability and fragmentation of the rock mass foreseen to be a part of the stope. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises performing pre-conditioning ofrock mass from the raise in parallel with drawbell excavation. This means that these methodsteps may be performed at the same time. Alternatively, pre-conditioning may be conducted from the raise prior to drawbell development. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises performing pre-conditioning ofrock mass from the raise in parallel with undercutting. This is particularly advantageous in that the ramp-up time for development and production and can be shortened. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises performing pre-conditioning in order to reduce the magnitude of mining-induced seismicity. This is very advantageous.

Preferably pre-conditioning and undercutting are then performed from the same raise andutilize same work processes namely machinery for drilling blast holes, charging and detonatingexplosive charges in those blast holes. Whilst undercutting is performed in a specific stope, pre-conditioning is conducted for the same stope at the same time. ln another alternative pre-conditioning and undercutting may be alternated and performed at two different locations in a short period of time. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises performing pre-conditioning ofrock mass from inside the raise in parallel with caving ofthe caving stope below the raise. Thenpre-conditioning and caving may be performed at two different locations in the stope at thesame time. Alternatively, the method steps may be alternated and performed at two differentlocations in a short period of time. Due to pre-conditioning can the caving stope progressthrough the competent rock mass formation without stalling. As a result ofthe pre-conditioningmeasures applied from machinery operating inside the at least one raise, the caving progression rate and the possible production rate from the stope may be improved.

At least one monitoring system is installed in the integrated raise caving mining infrastructure.The monitoring system comprises amongst others a plurality of monitoring means, central monitoring unit, data collection units, communication devices and data analysis tools. A controlsystem may also be installed. This control system utilizes the data and information generated by the monitoring system to control for example the machinery or production.

The at least on raise provides access into the drawbell and at later stage depending on the length of the raise the caving stope, the cave back and the rock mass above the cave back. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises monitoring of caved rock mass by using a ma;a=i:sqa:~asë~~~:zæz>s=: monitoring device arranged inside the raise.

Monitoring means can be arranged inside the raise to monitor the mining operation, and themonitoring means can also be lowered through the raise into the cave which enables improvedmonitoring of for example cave back, fragmentation, fracturing zone etc. Monitoring means arefor example seismic monitoring system, time domain reflectometry technology, open bore holes, cavity scanners, sensors, marker or geophones. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises drilling boreholes into therock mass from the raise and placing sensors in the boreholes-~. ln addition, monitoring meanscan be installed in the rock mass such as markers or geophones by use of machinery operatinginside the raise. This is advantageous as the raises provide improved accessibility to the rock mass of caving stopes being subsequently mined. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises monitoring cave progression and/ or direction of cave progression. ln one embodiment ofthe invention, the method comprises monitoring ofthe caving stope and/or the cave back and/ or the caved rock masses by remote controlled monitoring means which is lowered through the raise and into the caving stope. ln one embodiment ofthe invention, the mining method comprises monitoring of an advancingfracture and loosening zone located above the cave back, and registering monitoring data thereof.ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises using monitoring data from cave monitoring for draw management of the rock mass material. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises adjusting a draw strategyand/ or draw control and/ or caved rock masses at the production levels based on monitoring ofthe caving stope, the caved masses, and/ or cave back.

The registered monitoring data may be used for controlling and adjusting a draw strategy at theproduction level(s) on demand and/ or flexibly. A draw strategy is advantageous in that aformation ofa large void can be avoided and/ or in that extracted grades can be controlled and/ or in that the dilution can be delayed.

Additionally, the raise(s) provide a better knowledge regarding the prevailing geology and rockmass conditions. Specifically, the position and extent of certain geological formations or zones of certain and/ or similar rock mechanics behavior can be outlined.

Furthermore, monitoring and registered monitoring data allows improved understanding ofthe caving behavior and caveability of individual formations or zones. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises controlling cave progression byperforming controlling measuresmfrom inside the raise. ln such a way the rate of cave progression can be controlled and influenced. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises controlling the direction of caveprogression by performing controlling measures from inside the raise. ln such a way the direction of cave progression can be controlled and influenced. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises controlling cave progression by operating machinery arranged inside the raise and/ or by draw strategy and/ or draw control. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises controlling the direction of caveprogression by operating machinery arranged inside the raise and/ or by draw strategy and/ or draw control. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises controlling the direction of cave progression by pre-conditioning specifically selected volumes of rock mass.Preferably cave progression may be controlled by performing pre-conditioning measuresspecifically in critical parts of the rock mass by operation of machinery located inside the raiseand/ or the applied draw strategy. Preferably, pre-conditioning measures are applied on demand. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises determining of pre-condition measures based on monitoring of spatial distribution and/ or behavior of individual formations and zones.

Based on the registered monitoring data, information regarding spatial distribution, behavior offormations, and behavior of zones, pre-conditioning measures can be applied from raises at a safe distance above the actual position of the cave back. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises performing pre-conditioning measures during ongoing undercutting and/ or ongoing caving. ln such a way~~, there is no need to conduct the pre-conditioning before undercutting commences. ln case caving stalls, raises provide the possibility to observe the stalled area with remotecontrolled monitoring means. Thereby, the identification of the reasons of cave stall isfacilitated. Additionally, where caving stalled, the raise provides an access for remote controlledor automated machinery into the cave back in the zone. ln such a way cave stalling can be resolved by performing pre-breaking ofthe rock mass. ln one embodiment ofthe invention, the method comprises mitigating risk of air blast and/ orcave stall in the stope by using monitoring means arranged inside the raise. Preferably a remote-controlled monitoring device is lowered through the raise into the cave to directly monitor a potential cave stall and/ or air blast risk. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises mitigating risk of air blast and/ orcave stall in the stope by operating machinery arra nged inside the raise and /or by draw strategy and/ or by draw control. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises that the at least one raise may also be used for performing pre-breaking measures. Thus, based upon the informationfrom the monitoring means specific pre-breaking measures can be applied which aim for re- initiation of caving. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises re-initiation of the caving byoperating the machinery arranged inside the raise in case caving stalled. Preferably, re-initiation is performed by drilling and blasting ofthe cave back. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises that the cave progressiondirection is non-vertical. The cave progression direction depends on several parameters whichare, amongst others, the prevailing rock mass properties, their spatial distribution, theprevailing stress situation, the presence of large faults or shear zones, the presence of previously mined stopes, and the implemented draw strategy.

Different methods may be applied to control the direction of cave progression such as pre-conditioning, pre-breaking, and/ or draw strategies can be used to control the direction of cave progression. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises controlling the direction of cave progression. ln one embodiment, the draw strategy may be adapted in order to direct the cave progression in a preferred direction. ln one embodiment of the invention, the mining method comprises controlling the direction ofcave progression by pre-conditioning specifically selected volumes of rock mass. ln particular,pre-conditioning measures may be applied to control the direction of cave progression near a weak rock mass formation and/ or large faults and/ or shear zones.

Overall, the application of raises provides a better controllability and thereby improves theoperation. I\/|oreover, the integrated raise caving mining method may thus be applied to moredifficult mining environments for caving operations. Such mining environments comprise for example deep ore bodies, competent rock masses, or geometrically constrained ore bodies. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that a mining sequence is adapted to and determined by production and/ or ore body geometry and/ or rock mechanicsconsideration and/ or ore flow considerations. The mining sequence determines the order ofmining activities which should be followed to achieve the overall goals of mineral extraction ofthe ore body. The goals are an as complete extraction as possible, the safety and economy of the mining operation considering rock mechanical constraints, and other factors. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the mine layout andinfrastructure position are adapted to and determined by production and/ or ore body geometry and/ or rock mechanics consideration and/ or ore flow considerations. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the mine layout and/orinfrastructure position and/or mining sequence are adjusted on short notice. ln such case unforeseen circumstances can be taken into account. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises performing parallel infrastructuredevelopment and production ramp-up. This is advantageous in that mining layout and sequenceof the integrated mining method allow that production can be ramped-up simultaneously with the infrastructure development. This is cost efficient and shortens the time until production. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that after caving reached the orebody boundaries, waste rock mass from the surrounding and/ or overlying rock mass formations caves into the stope. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that in the process of drawing remaining ore from the stope, the stope is subsequently filled with waste rock mass. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises connecting the caving stope to aformerly mined out area. Alternatively, the caving stope may be connected to the surface which causes subsidence.

From a rock mechanics point of view, the development ofa drawbell from at least one raise andthe associated undercutting is particularly advantageous. The required infrastructure fordrawbell development and undercutting is limited. I\/loreover, infrastructure required forundercutting may be situated in a more favorable stress environment. Accordingly, possible damage to infrastructure can be limited. I\/loreover, personnel not need to work in high stress zones. As the drilling, charging and blasting work in the raise can easily be remote controlled, or automated, workforce may be removed from hazardous areas completely.

Another rock mechanics advantage is the improved strength of production level(s). Thepresence of the large drawbell and the arrangement of drawpoints on several levels enable thecreation of large pillars with considerable strength between neighboring drifts and drawpoints.I\/|oreover, due to the development of most of the production level infrastructure after drawbellconstruction and undercutting, production level infrastructure is developed delayed andcorresponding pillars are not exposed to high stresses during undercutting. Therefore, rock mass damage can be reduced, and stability be increased.

Overall, the integrated raise caving mining method offers significant advantages from a rockmechanics point of view. These advantages manifest themselves in an improved safety, a reduced risk and an improved stability. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the stope generates a stress-shadow at certain locations adjacent to the stope, wherein said stress-shadow de-stresses the rock mass thereby creating a favorable stress environment. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that the interaction between atleast two adjacent stopes generate a regional favorable stress environment for mining infrastructure. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises that raises, drifts, drawpoints andother infrastructure are developed in a favorable stress environment at locations adjacent to drawbells and/ or stopes. ln one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises repeating the steps of the method to a larger area.

These or at least one of said objects are achieved by use of the integrated raise caving miningmethod for mining of ore from a deposit where cave mining methods such as block caving, panel caving, inclined caving, or raise caving are applied as claimed in claimCertain elements ofthe integrated raise caving mining method according to the invention couldbe applied in prior art caving methods. For example, neighboring stopes mined by raises couldreplace a traditional flat undercut in block and panel caving. ln such way, the size of the stoperoof would be increased, until caving is initiated. I\/|oreover, raises equipped with appropriatemachinery above an active cave would provide possibilities for pre-conditioning, cave advance monitoring, facilitation of cave advance and control of caving front.

These or at least one of said objects are achieved by an integrated raise caving mininginfrastructure configured for mining deposits in a rock mass as claimed in claim 58 wherein further embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claim.

Hence, according to one aspect the present invention relates to an integrated raise cavingmining infrastructure that comprises: at least one raise developed in the rock mass; a drawbelldeveloped in the rock mass, wherein at least a portion of the drawbell is joined to the at leastone raise; an undercut being configured to initiate caving of rock mass located above theundercut, wherein at least a portion ofthe undercut is formed as a part ofthe drawbell; whereinsaid portion has been created by gradually expanding the drawbell in upward direction byexcavation; at least two drawpoints joined to the drawbell, wherein the drawpoints are joinedto drifts arranged on different levels; and a transport device configured to progressively draw fragmented rock from the drawbell.

Alternatively, the integrated cave mining infrastructure comprises a caving stope located above the drawbell. lt should be noted that more than one integrated raise caving mining infrastructures may be present in the same active mining area.

These or at least one of said objects are achieved by a monitoring system as claimed in claim 60, wherein further embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims.

Hence, according to one aspect the present invention relates to a monitoring system configuredfor monitoring an integrated raise caving mining infrastructure configured for mining depositsin rock mass, which monitoring system comprises monitoring means configured for monitoringdevelopment of at least one raise developed in the rock mass ; and/ or monitoring meansconfigured for monitoring development of a drawbell developed in the rock mass , wherein atleast a portion ofthe drawbell is joined to the at least one raise; monitoring means configuredfor monitoring development of an undercut being configured to initiate caving of rock masslocated above the undercut, wherein at least a portion of the undercut is formed as a part ofthe drawbell; wherein said portion has been created by gradually expanding the drawbell inupwards direction by excavation; and/ or monitoring means configured for monitoringdevelopment of at least two drawpoints joined to the drawbell, wherein the drawpoints arejoined to drifts arranged on different levels; and/ or monitoring means configured formonitoring the initiation of caving of the rock mass; and/or monitoring means configured formonitoring of a transport device configured to progressively draw fragmented rock from the drawbell; and/ or monitoring means configured for monitoring the rock mass in the active area; and/ or monitoring means configured for monitoring the caving stope Alternatively, the monitoring system is configured for monitoring cave progression and/ or direction of cave progression.

Alternatively, the monitoring system is configured for monitoring of caved rock mass by using a t... .-. a, ._ ~. i\>\~.\.~\>š\~.=šff:ë»æ:~ïš»w뻚~zè+ monitoring device arranged inside the raise.

Alternatively, the monitoring system is configured for remotely monitoring of the caving stope and/ or the cave back and/ or the caved rock masses.

Alternatively, the monitoring system is configured for monitoring an advancing fracture and loosening zone located above the cave back.

Alternatively, the monitoring system is configured for monitoring seismicity and/ or stress and/or deformations in the rock mass_,_ »wherein the integrated raise caving mining infrastructure is located.

Alternatively, the monitoring system is configured for collecting monitoring data, analysingmonitoring data, storing monitoring data and/or transmitting monitoring data via wirelessand/or wired communication means to an automatic or semi-automatic control system of an integrated raise caving mining infrastructure.The monitoring system comprises amongst others a plurality of monitoring means, a centralmonitoring unit, data collection units, data storage means, communication devices for wirelesscommunication of signals and monitoring data and/or data analysis tools. The monitoringsystem is configured to communicate with the automatic or semi-automatic control system andtransmits data and information generated by the monitoring system to the automatic or semi-automatic control system. The monitoring means comprises for example seismic monitoringsystem, time domain reflectometry technology, open bore holes, cavity scanners, sensors, marker or geophones.

These or at least one of said objects are achieved by a machinery as claimed in claim 64, wherein further embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims.

Hence, according to one aspect the present invention relates to a machinery comprising adrilling and/or charging device configured for; developing at least one raise in the rock mass;and/or developing a drawbell in the rock mass, wherein at least a portion of the drawbell isexcavated from the raise by drilling and/or charging by means of the machinery, therebyinitiating caving through undercutting; developing the drawbell by gradually expanding thedrawbell in upwards direction by excavation; and/ or developing at least two drawpoints intothe drawbell, wherein the drawpoints are developed from drifts arranged on different levels; and/or transporting fragmented rock from the drawbell through the drawpoints.

Alternatively, the machinery is configured for drilling and/or charging the rock mass from insidethe raise._Alternatively, the drilling and/or charging device comprises a drilling bore and/orcha rging equipment configu red for initiating said caving._Alternatively, the machinery comprisespre-conditioning equipment. Alternatively, the machinery comprises that the drilling and/orcharging device is arranged on a movable platform, which is movable within the raise for reaching a position for operation of the drilling and/or charging device.Alternatively, the machinery comprises that the platform is configured with a modular design.

Alternatively__._ the machinery and/or equipment arranged on the platform is configured with a modular design.Alternatively, the machinery comprises that the platform is configured to be moved to the side at the top ofthe raise to be stored in a storage position.

Alternatively, the machinery is configured for installing rock support from inside the raise, such as rock bolts, mesh, shotcrete or cable bolts.

Alternatively, the machinery is configured for hydrofracturing the rock mass from inside the raise.

Alternatively, the machinery is configured for performing directional drilling.

Alternatively, the machinery is configured for drilling curved boreholes by directional drilling.Alternatively, the machinery is configured for blast initiation of the charged boreholes.Alternatively, the machinery is configured for for-blast initiation from inside the raise.

Alternatively, the machinery is configured for blast initiation by wired detonators and/ or remote-controlled detonators and/ or non-electric detonators and/ or wireless detonators.

Alternatively, the machinery is configured for loading and transporting fragmented rock from the drawpoints by loaders and/ or trucks »and/ or continuous draw machinery with Alternatively, the machinery is configured to be operated by remote control and/ or by manual control.Alternatively, the machinery is configured for semi-automation or full automation.

Alternatively, the integrated raise caving mining infrastructure comprises the machinery according to any of claims 62 toAlternatively, the integrated raise caving mining infrastructure comprises the monitoring system according to any of claims 60 toThese or at least one of said objects are achieved by an automatic or semi-automatic controlsystem as claimed in claim 84, wherein further embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims.

Hence, according to one aspect the present invention relates to an automatic or semi-automaticcontrol system of an integrated raise caving mining infrastructure according to claim 58 or 59,wherein the automatic or semi-automatic control system is electrically coupled to a control circuitry configured to control the method according to any of claims 1 toAlternatively, the automatic or semi-automatic control system comprises said machineryaccording to any of claims 64 to 80, wherein the machinery is configured to be operated by theautomatic or semi-automatic control system in remote control mode and/or in automatic control mode and/or in semi-automatic control mode and/or manually controlled mode.

Alternatively the automatic or semi-automatic control j; the monitoring system (920) according to any of claims 60 to 63, wherein the monitoring system isconfigured to communicate with and be operated by the automatic or semi-automatic controlsystem in remote control mode and/or in automatic control mode and/or in semi-automatic control mode and/or manually controlled mode.

These or at least one of said objects are achieved by a data medium as claimed by claim 87, wherein further embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims.

Hence, according to one aspect the present invention relates to a data medium, configured forstoring a data program, configured for controlling the automatic or semi-automatic controlsystem according to claim 84 or 86 and/or configured for controlling the machinery accordingto any of claim 64 to 81, said data medium comprises a program code readable by the controlcircuitry for performing the method according to any of claims 1 to 56 when the data medium is run on the control circuitry.

Overall, the integrated raise caving mining method offers significant advantages from a rockmechanics point of view. These advantages manifest themselves in an improved safety, areduced risk, and an improved stability. The integrated raise caving mining method accordingto the invention offers considerable flexibility. The amount of infrastructure required fordevelopment of a caving stope and ramp-up of production is reduced. The combined use andsharing of infrastructure for the implementation of undercutting, production (caving), and pre- conditioning enables the latter circumstance. The remaining portions of the infrastructure canbe developed after drawbell development and undercutting are completed. The limited amountof infrastructure pre-development enables to decide on the position of subsequent drawbells,raises, drawpoints etc. on short notice, which contributes to the flexibility of the integrated raisecaving mining method significantly. I\/|oreover, the position, size, shape, and orientation ofdrawbells, drawpoints, raises, and other infrastructure can be adapted to local conditions and/ or requirements.

Overall, the flexibility of the integrated raise caving mining method offers considerableimprovements. The mine layout and mining sequence can be adopted to the prevailing miningenvironment, which comprises amongst others the prevailing stress situation, the prevailingrock mass formations, and the ore body shape on short notice. Thereby, the integrated raisecaving mining method enables the avoidance of critical situations and the relatively easyadaption to unforeseen circumstances. Moreover, possibly available favorable stressenvironments which are provided by caving stopes may be used for protection of infrastructure. ln summary, the available flexibility contributes to the reduction of risks considerably.

Above outlined technical advantages achieved by the integrated raise caving mining methodaccording to the present invention may result in some or all of the following overall improvements compared to prior art caving methods.Improved efficiency 0 removes the spatial and temporal dependency of undercut and production level0 enables shorter ramp-up time because of integrated cave development 0 reduces requirement for infrastructure pre-development 0 enables delayed development of production infrastructure 0 increases automation and remote-control potential 0 provides less infrastructure exposure to highly stressed rock mass 0 provides less workforce exposure to highly stressed areas 0 improves infrastructure stability 0 requires lower support and rehabilitation demand 0 improves functionality of the undercut0 improves drawpoint arrangement and thus ore flow 0 provides a lower risk of hang-ups and better ability to clear hang-ups Improved flexibility 0 enables easier adaption to local mining environment 0 enables easier adaption to ongoing mining experience 0 enables on demand pre-conditioning and pre-breaking 0 enables on demand and scheduled switching from caving to drilling and blasting insidestopes for a short period of time 0 provides improved access above caving stope Improved controllability 0 enables better and more efficient draw strategy and control (dilution, recovery etc.) 0 enables improved monitoring (cave back, fragmentation, fracturing zone etc.) 0 enables improved control of cave progression and direction 0 enables cave mining of geometrically constrained and/ or highly competent ore bodies 0 provides accessibility to the stopes (reduced risk for air blast, cave stall etc.) ln conclusion, these improvements facilitate the goals of mineral extraction, which are a safe,as complete as possible, and profitable extraction. ln some instances, this will also enable theextraction of mineral deposits by a caving method, which cannot be mined by a prior art caving method. ln this specification the following terms and expressions are defined as below and are used accordingly.

The term ”ore” refers to a mineral aggregate of sufficient value as to quality and quantity to bemined at a profit. The prevailing definition of ore does not only comprise metal ore, but any other mineral aggregates, for example industrial minerals etc.

The term ”ore body” refers to a volume of rock mass containing ore. ln this specification the term ”deposit” is used synonymously for ore body.The term ”stope” refers to the part ofthe ore body, from which ore is currently being mined orbroken by stoping. The term ”stoping” includes all operations of breaking rock or mineral forexample by drilling and blasting, mechanical excavation and/or caving, and extracting rock or mineral in stopes, after breaking.

The term ”caving stope" refers to a stope, which is excavated by means of caving. The term ”cave” is used synonymously for the term caving stope.

The term ”undercut” refers to a void created in the rock mass with the objective of caveinitiation. The term ”undercutting” refers to removal ofa section or kerf in a rock mass to initiate caving subsequently.

”Active mining areas” are areas of significant and ongoing stress changes resulting from miningactivities in the area. These are predominately but not exclusively the extraction (stoping) areas.The heading oftunnels under development are also active areas but on a localized scale. Activemining areas require ongoing supervision, monitoring of ground conditions and attention toexcavation support. As mining advances active areas change to passive areas which requirereduced levels of supervision and monitoring except for main transport and regularly used infrastructure excavations.

The expression ”mining sequence" refers to the sequence of mining activities which should befollowed to achieve the overall goals of extraction of the ore body as complete as possible, thesafety and economy of the mining operation, considering operational factors, rock mechanical constraints, and other factors.

The expression ”favourable stress environment” refers to a stress state which is controllableand which does not require extensive and expensive support measures for subsequentoperation in the respective mining area. A favourable stress environment could be either a de-stressed area in a rock mass, or an abutment area where abutment stresses are limited orrestricted to a controllable magnitude. The favourable stress environment serves the purposeto create a favourable environment for the subsequently establishment of raises and thesubsequent operation in the production stopes and where possible mine infrastructure with a long lifetime. The term ”favourable stress situation” is used synonymously. From the abovefollows that the term ”de-stressing” refers to the process of creating a de-stressed environment in the rock mass i.e. a stress-shadow.

The term ”stress-shadow” refers to a part of the rock mass where the stress is reduced in atleast one direction in comparison with the pre-mining rock stress in corresponding direction in the same part of the rock mass.

The term ”raise” refers to a longitudinally extended vertical or inc|ined mine infrastructure opening.

The term ”rock pass” refers to steeply inc|ined passage-ways used for the transfer of materialin underground mine workings. Rock passes are designed to utilize the gravitation potentialbetween levels to minimize haulage distances and facilitate a more convenient materialhandling system. The term ”ore pass" refers to rock passes that are solely used for the transportof ore. ln deep mines it is common practice to gravitate the ore to the deepest level in the mine from where it is hoisted to surface.

The terms ”tunnel” and ”drift” are herein used as synonyms and refer to same type of infrastructure.

The term ”pre-conditioning” refers to a technique to increase the in-situ fragmentation of the rock mass so that it will cave or fragment more readily.

The term ”pre-break” refers to a technique which may be specifically used in a competent zone to re-initiate caving to progress through this zone with the stope.

The term ”dilution” refers to a contamination or mixing of worthless rock mass with ore.

The term ”drawpoint” refers to an excavated structure through which the caved or broken rock mass is removed from the stope and/ or drawbell.

The term ”drawbell” refers to an excavated structure which channels caved or broken rock mass to at least one drawpoint.

The term ”draw zone” refers to the zone of caved or broken rock mass that will eventually report to a particular drawpoint during progressive draw. The ”isolated draw zone” refers to the draw zone isolated from other draw zones as a result of drawing from an isolated drawpoint. The”interactive draw zone" refers to the zone in-between isolated draw zones which are drawnconcurrently such that the rock mass flows towards drawpoints and leads to an enlargement ofisolated draw zones. The advantage with an ”interactive draw zone" is that the ore losses arereduced compared to isolated draw zones. The broken ore in adjacent draw zones may migrate from one draw zone to the other.

The term ”mass flow” refers to the mechanism by which a volume of broken or caved rock massmoves downwards uniformly during draw. The presence of interactive draw further fosters mass flow. Thereby the risk for dilution is reduced.

Caving operations require a ”draw strategy” in which the draw is spatially and temporallyplanned for the given drawpoints. This process needs to be controlled operationally and may bereferred to as ”draw control” for which the amount and properties of ore drawn from individualdrawpoints are registered. The observations from draw control can in turn be used again to adapt the applied draw strategy.

H ll lt should be noted that the :ëèë-sz-»expressions ”flow of ore , material flow", ”flow of fragmented rock” is used synonymously in this specification.

Additional objects, advantages, and novel features of the present invention will becomeapparent to one skilled in the art from the following details and through exercising theinvention. Whereas examples of the invention are described below, it should be noted that the invention may not be restricted to the specific details described.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS To fully understand the present invention and further objects and advantages of it, the detaileddescription set out below should be read together with the accompanying drawings, in which the same references denote similar features in the various figures, and in which: Figures 1a-c schematically illustrate in a vertical cross-section the basic principle of drawbell development according to the invention.

Figure la illustrates a platform lowered into a raise for drilling and charging activities,Figure lb illustrates the platform stored at top in hoist frame for blasting, Figure 1c illustrates excavation after blasting with void filled due to swell of blasted rock mass.

Figures 2a-2d schematically illustrate a vertical cross-section of one example of initiation ofcaving resulting from drawbell development as shown in Figures 1a-1c according to the invention.

Figures 3a-3d schematically illustrate a vertical cross-section of one example of initiation of caving resulting from development of more than one drawbell according to the invention.

Figures 4a-4d schematically illustrate a vertical cross-section of one example of enlarging of a caving stope in lateral direction according to the invention.

Figures 5a-5d schematically illustrate a vertical cross-section of one example of application of pre-conditioning measures according to the invention.

Figures 6a-6e schematically illustrate a vertical cross-section of one example of application of pre-breaking measures according to the invention.

Figure 7a-7d schematically illustrate a vertical cross-section of one example of application of pre-conditioning measures according to the invention.

Figure 8a-8c schematically illustrate isometric views of examples of alternatives of drawbell configurations according to the invention.

Figure 9a-9c schematically illustrate isometric views of examples of alternative drawbell development configurations according to the invention.

Figure 10 schematically illustrates a horizontal cross-section of one example of advancedprogress of mining a deposit with the integrated raise caving mining method according to the invention.

Figure 11a-11e schematically illustrate isometric views of one example of an implementation of the method according to the invention.Figure 12a-12c schematically illustrate vertical cross-sections of examples of drawpoints and draw zones during production of the method according to the invention.

Figure 13a-13b schematically illustrates an example of an arrangement of isolated andinteractive draw zones during production of the integrated raise caving mining method according to the invention.

Figure 14 schematically illustrates an integrated cave mining infrastructure comprising an automatic or semi-automatic apparatus electrically coupled to a control circuitry; Figure 15 illustrates a flowchart showing an example of an integrated raise caving mining method; Figure 16 illustrates a flowchart showing a further example of an integrated raise caving mining method; and Figure 17 illustrates a control circuitry adapted to operate an automatic or semi-automaticcontrol system of an integrated cave mining infrastructure, which automatic or semi-automatic control system is configured to perform any exemplary of the integrated raise caving mining method herein described.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS AND EXAMPLES OF THE INVENTION Examples and embodiments ofthe integrated raise caving mining method, the mine layout, andthe mining sequence according to the present invention, will be described in the following with references to the figures.

For purpose of simplicity the rock mass is not shown in the figures but rather the raises, drawbells and drawpoints developed in the rock mass.

One important feature of the integrated raise caving mining method is the development of atleast one drawbell from at least one raise and its successive transition to a caving process above the drawbell.

Figure 1a-1c schematically illustrate a vertical cross-section of a principle of drawbell development in a rock mass, herein also referred to as drawbell excavation, from a raise withmining equipment located inside the raise. Figure 1a illustrates schematically the developmentof a drawbell 100 by drilling and charging carried out from the mining equipment, machinery120, positioned on a platform 103, which is moved with a shaft hoist system 104 inside a raise102. The platform 103 must be designed such that it can still be moved inside the raise 102, even in the case of rock mass deformations occurring in the raise.

The shaft hoist system 104 is located in a specifically excavated infrastructure excavation, which size and shape adapted to the requirements of the hoist system and/ or rock mechanicsconsiderations. ln order to keep the infrastructure excavation of the hoist system 104 small, amodular design of the platform 103 and/ or machinery 120 mounted on the platform isadvantageous. A small infrastructure excavation provides an improved stability. The modular design allows changing of utilized machinery quickly.

The machinery 120 mounted onto the platform 103 is adapted to operational requirements.Possible types of machinery comprise amongst others machinery for drilling, machinery for charging, machinery for support installation or machinery for hydraulic fracturing.

As shown in Figure 1a, a raise 102 has already been developed from a drift in rock mass 10 byconventional techniques. The platform 103 and hoist system 104 are installed afterdevelopment of the raise 102 is finished. The drawbell is gradually expanded in upwardsdirection by excavation such that a drawbell roof area becomes larger than a drawbell bottomarea. The drawbell 100 is blasted in subsequent near horizontal slices of rock mass in upwardsdirection. The length, orientation, and inclination of drill holes 105 are adapted such that theshape of individual blast slices is adapted such that a drawbell of a specific predetermined shapecan be formed. Drill holes may be drilled horizontally or inclined downwards or upwards.Downward inclined drill holes may achieve a better toe breakage. The drill holes 105 are drilledat a specific distance from an existing drawbell roof 118. After drill holes 105 are drilled andcharged with explosives, the platform 103 is retracted to the top and stored in a safe positionso that damage to the platform 103 resulting from blasting is avoided. Figure 1b outlines the retracted and stored platformln another form ofthe invention, the platform 103 may also be stored by moving it aside fromthe top ofthe raise 102. Thus, the platform is configured to be moved to the side at the top of the raise to be stored in a storage position.

The blast initiation can be carried out with different options, which comprise amongst othersnon-electric detonators, detonators initiated through an electric signal transferred via cable or detonators initiated wirelessly by means of communication through rock mass. ln another form of the invention, more than one slice could be blasted in a single blast. Thereby an appropriate time delay between individual slices is required.

Figure 1c illustrates schematically that broken rock mass 101 falls into the drawbell100 due toblasting, and that there must be enough void to absorb the swell of fragmented rock resultingfrom blasting. Before the next blast holes can be fired, enough broken rock mass must be drawnfrom the drawbell accordingly. Broken rock mass 101 is drawn through drawpoint 106. Eitherone or several drawpoints may be used to draw the broken rock mass 101 from the drawbell100. However, only the swell is drawn out ofthe drawbell so that the formation ofan excessively large void is avoided.

Fig 1c further shows that drawbell 100 is expanded in the upwards direction without increasingthe length of the perimeter of the drawbell roof such that the drawbell obtains a section 125provided with a horizontal cross-section having constant or nearly constant area in upwardsdirection. Such section may for example serve as location for developing a drawpoint into the drawbell. ln the attached figures it should be noted that the shape of the drawbells and caving stopes are only schematic illustrations which are very much idealized for the purpose of simplification.

Furthermore, features like excavations, main infrastructure, hoist shafts, ore handling facility etc. which are required in all mining methods, are not shown.

Figure 2a-2d schematically illustrate a vertical cross-section of one example of initiation of caving resulting from drawbell development according to the invention.

Figure 2a shows a drawbell 100, which is developed in rock mass 10 by excavation by -~drillingblast holes into the rock mass around the raise by operating a machinery 120 arranged on aplatform (machinery and platform is not shown in figure) arranged inside the raise. The blastholes are charged by the machinery 120 and thereafter the rock mass is blasted by detonatingexplosives in those blast holes such that a portion of the draw bell is blasted. Excavation oftheportion ofthe drawbell is performed by blasting slices of rock mass. Fragmented rock mass 101is drawn at drawpoint 106 out ofthe drawbell 100. As drilling and blasting continues upwards,the shape of individual blast slices is adapted to form a drawbell 100 of specific shape. Localrock mass conditions, stress situation, ore flow considerations, as well as production demandsinfluence its shape. I\/|oreover, the area of the roof 118 of the drawbell 100 is graduallyincreased during drawbell development by means of drilling and blasting. Figure 2b illustratesthe increased drawbell roof area 118 in comparison with Figure 2a. Additionally the gradualincrease of the drawbell roof area is part of the undercutting process. At least a part of anundercut is created through gradually expanding the drawbell in upwards direction byexcavation and increasing the roof area of the drawbell. This undercutting process initiatescaving in the rock mass, after the area of the undercut rock mass exceeds a critical area. Thecritical area required for cave initiation is a function of rock mass properties, stress situationand the shape ofthe undercut area. Figure 2b shows a drawbell 100, in which the drawbell roofarea, which corresponds to the undercut area in the provided example, has not exceeded thecritical area required for cave initiation yet. However, first fractures 107 developed and/ ordiscontinuities opened above the roof of the drawbell 100. Therefore, rock mass within theregion of fractures 107 enters a yield state and rock mass properties deteriorate subsequently.The drill and blast design may be adjusted in this phase to adapt to the additional requirements caused by the yielding rock mass. ln Figure 2c the roof area of the drawbell 100 has increased and exceeded the critical arearequired for cave initiation. Thus, caving process was initiated and progresses upwards. The rockmass located above the drawbell caves and a caving stope having a zone of fractured rock massabove the caving stope 108 forms. This zone of fractured rock mass 108 is characterized bydevelopment of fractures and/ or opening of discontinuities in the rock mass. The prevailing rock mass properties, stress conditions, and mine layout influence the extent and degree offracturing inside the zone of fractured rock mass 108 significantly. The rock mass yields in thezone of fractured rock mass 108, finally detaches, and falls as broken rock mass 101 into thedrawbell 100. The drawbell is provided with at least two drawpoints 106, which are developedon two different levels into the drawbell. Broken rock mass 101 is drawn from the drawbell through the drawpointsConsequently, a void 109 is created above the broken rock mass 101. This void 109 is requiredfor cave progression. Rock mass from the zone of fractured rock mass 108 detaches and fallsinto the void. Broken rock mass 101 is finer than the in-situ rock mass and/ or rock mass in thefractured zone 108. I\/|oreover, further comminution processes occur in the broken rock mass 101 which reduces particle size as broken rock mass flows towards the drawpointsPreferably, the drawbell 100 is configured to be oriented such that the infrastructure ispositioned favorably related to the prevailing stress situation. However, in another alternative,the drawbell 100 is configured to be oriented such that cave initiation is facilitated by the prevailing stress situation.

Figure 2c outlines one possible caving mechanisms. The shown caving mechanism is driven bystresses and a zone of fractured rock mass forms therefore above the caving stope. However,other caving mechanism may be active as well. Caving mechanisms may also occur in combination.

Figure 2d illustrates that caving has progressed further upwards and thereby formed a stope110 above the drawbell 100. The drawbell has been provided with tunnels on additional levelsarranged on opposite sides ofthe drawbell. The additional levels are elevated above the bottomof the drawbell. Each level provides additional drawpoints 106 which are developed into thedrawbell 100. Subsequent drawing of ore from the stope 110 through the drawbell 100 atdrawpoints 106 increases the size of the void 109. To achieve a continuous caving process andfor reasons of ore flow optimization the position of drawpoints 106 is critical. Thus, additionaldrawpoints 106 have been developed into the drawbell 100 and into the stope 110 above thedrawbell to stimulate material flow in the drawbell and the caving stope. As shown, theadditional drawpoints are developed from different directions into the drawbell, in this case on opposite sides of the drawbell. A sufficiently large void 109 must be formed below the stoperoof, which corresponds to the cave back 119, so that further rock mass can detach from thezone of fractured rock mass 108. The zone of fractured rock mass 108 is now situated above theroof of the stope 110. However, the void 109 must also be kept to reasonable size to avoid therisk of an air blast. The size of the void 109, the broken rock mass 101 and/ or the zone offractured rock mass may be monitored using the raise 102. Also, the cave progression and/ ordirection of cave progression and the caving stope and/ or the cave back 119 may be monitoredby monitoring means arranged inside the raise. The monitoring means may also be loweredthrough the raise into the caving stope which is advantageous._Due to continued draw of brokenrock mass from the stope the cave continues to progress upwards. After caving reached the orebody boundaries, waste rock mass from the surrounding and/ or overlying rock mass formationsstarts caving into the stope. ln the process of drawing the remaining ore from the stope, the stope is subsequently filled with waste rock mass. ln another embodiment of the invention, a caving stope may also be connected to a formerly mined out area or to the surface, which causes subsidence.

Figure 3a-3d schematically illustrate in a vertical cross-section one example of initiation of caving resulting from development of more than one drawbell.

Figure 3a shows a developed drawbell 100a in rock mass 10. I\/|achinery 120 (machinery notshown in figure) operating inside a raise 102a is used for development of drawbell 100a, which is filled with broken rock mass 101. Caving did not start above drawbell 100a.Figure 3b illustrates the development of a second drawbell 100b from raise 102b. ln Figure 3c drawbell 100b is fully developed. Drawbells 100a and 100b are developed adjacentto each other. Drawbells 100a,b are used for undercutting. At least a part of an undercut iscreated through gradually expanding of the drawbells upwards in the vertical direction. Thedrawbells are excavated in height and width. The roofs of drawbells 100a,b are joined in orderto form a large unsupported area, an undercut, which is larger than the critical area requiredfor cave initiation. Consequently, a zone of fractured rock mass 108 forms above the roof ofdrawbells 100a,b and caving is initiated through undercutting. Rock mass detaches from the zone of fractured rock mass 108 and falls onto the broken rock mass 101, which is located indrawbells 100a,b. A void 109 must be present below the zone of fractured rock mass 108 toallow detachment of rock mass from the zone of fractured rock mass 108 and subsequent caveprogression. Broken rock mass 101 is drawn at drawpoints 106 from drawbells 100a,b. Drifts 115,116 are oriented in different directions and provide access to drawpointsFigure 3d shows the subsequent cave progression following cave initiation, which is outlined in Figure 3c. ln Figure 3d caving progressed in upwards direction and thereby forms a coherent stope 110,which is located above drawbells 100a and 100b. To enable cave progression, broken rock massis drawn at drawpoints 106 developed into drawbells 100a,b. Drifts 115,116 are oriented indifferent directions and provide access to drawpoints 106. Thereby a void 109 is formed on topof the broken rock mass 101 in the stope 110 below the cave back 119. Thus, rock mass candetach from the zone of fractured rock mass 108 and can fall into the stope 110; and cavingprogresses in an upwards direction. Raises 102a,b may be used for monitoring purposes or cave inducement measures, for example different methods of pre-conditioning, or pre-breaking.

Figure 4a-4c schematically illustrate a vertical cross-section of one example of enlarging of thecaving stope in lateral direction by means of developing of an additional drawbell next to the caving stope.

Figure 4a shows a caving stope 110, which is filled with broken rock mass 101 and which hastwo drawbells 100a and 100b. Caving is progressing in upwards direction due to subsequentdraw of broken rock mass through drawpoints 106 developed into drawbells 100a,b and due tosubsequent detachment of rock mass 10 falling into the void 109 from the zone of fractured rock mass 108. Drifts 115,116 are oriented in different ešßnxx. < provide access to drawpoints 106. Depending on availability, all drawpoints 106 are in operation tofacilitate drawing of rock mass from the drawbells. To increase the lateral extension ofthe stope110 a drawbell 100c is developed next to the stope 110 by means of drilling and blastingconducted with machinery 120 (not shown in figure) operating in raise 102c. ln Figure 4a development has started of drawbell 100c.ln Figure 4b drawbell 100c is fully developed. Caving is initiated above drawbell 100c and a zoneof fractured rock mass 108 forms above drawbell 100c accordingly. Moreover, drawbell 100c is connected to the adjacent drawbell 100b.

Figure 4c shows a more advanced stage of cave progression. The existing undercut establishedfrom drawbell 100a,b is widened in lateral direction as drawbell 100c is joined to the cavingstope. Caving progresses in vertical direction above drawbells 100a,b,c, due to continuing drawof broken rock mass 101 at drawpoints 106. Drifts 115,116 are oriented in different directionsand provide access to drawpoints 106. As drawbells 100a,b,c are adjacent and connected, thecoherent stope 110 forms above drawbells 100a,b,c. Raises 102a,b,c may be used for monitoring or cave inducement measures.

As drawing of rock mass through drawbells continues, caving progresses into the waste rockmass, which starts to fill up the stope. Drawpoints and the corresponding drawbell are put outof operation and abandoned, after an unacceptable content of waste rock mass reports to the drawpoint. Accordingly, the affected drawbell is said to be depleted. ln another embodiment of the invention, adjacent drawbells may be configured such that they are of different shape and/ or size and/ or such that they are situated at different elevations.

The direction of cave progression as shown in Figures 2c,2d,3c,3d,4a,4b,4c is vertical. However,the cave progression direction depends on several parameters, which are amongst others theprevailing rock mass properties, their spatial distribution, the prevailing stress situation, thepresence of large faults or shear zones, the presence of previously mined stopes and the implemented draw strategy.

Figure 5a-5d schematically illustrate a vertical cross-section of one example of the application of pre-conditioning measures to cave a competent rock mass formation.

Figure 5a shows a developed drawbell 100 filled with broken rock mass 101. Caving is initiatedand progresses upwards in vertical direction. A zone of fractured rock mass 108 is located abovethe stope 110. At some distance above the drawbell a competent rock mass formation 111 isprevailing. The position ofthis competent rock mass formation 111 is such that it will be part ofthe stope 110 as caving progresses further. This competent rock mass formation 111 does not cave readily due to its strength and caving may stall. To reduce the risk of a cave stall, pre-conditioning measures may be applied selectively in the rock mass above the stope roofand on-demand. Figure 5a illustrates the application of such pre-conditioning measures. Drillholes 105are drilled from machinery 120 (not shown in figure) operating inside the raise 102d into thecompetent rock mass formation 111 in the region, which should be caved afterwards. Thesedrill holes 105 are subsequently used for application of pre-conditioning measures, such as forexample hydraulic fracturing and/ or confined blasting. These pre-conditioning measures may be conducted from machinery situated on a platform inside the raise 102d.

Figure 5b illustrates that caving progressed further and the stope 110 grew in a verticaldirection. I\/|oreover, the pre-conditioning measures were applied and created a pre-conditioned zone 112. lt should be noted that pre-conditioning measures and caving of thecaving stope 110 below the raise 102d can be performed in parallel. By the term ”in parallel" ismeant that the pre-conditioning measures may be carried out from the raise, whilst cavingprogresses in the stope underneath. Then pre-conditioning and caving may be performed attwo different locations in the stope at the same time. Alternatively, the method steps may bealternated and performed at two different locations in a short period of time. This pre-conditioned zone 112 is characterized by artificial fractures inside the rock mass and/ or by adecreased strength of natural discontinuities inside the rock mass. Accordingly, the strength ofthe rock mass in the pre-conditioned zone 112 is reduced compared to its strength prior pre-conditioning. ln Figure 5b the competent rock mass formation 111 was pre-conditioned to facilitate its further caving.

Figure 5c shows that caving has progressed into the previously competent rock mass formation111. The zone of pre-conditioning 112 and the zone of fractured rock mass 108 overlap and are referred to as a zone of pre-conditioned and fractured rock massDue to the pre-conditioning of specifically selected volumes of rock mass the rate of caveprogression can be maintained and/ or increased in the competent zone, and caving is able to progress through the competent rock mass formation 111 without stalling.Figure 5d outlines that caving progressed completely through the competent rock massformation 111. A zone of fractured rock mass 108 is situated above the stope 110 and caving continues to progress further.

The drawbell 100 and stope 110 illustrated in Figure 5b-5d are also provided with additional drawpoints arranged on different levels, however these are not shown in the figures.

Observations during development and operation inside raises in the present cave miningmethod according to the invention may be used for identification of competent rock massformation requiring pre-conditioning. I\/loreover, raises enable to access critical rock massformations to apply pre-conditioning measures selectively and on-demand. Due to theavailability of raises pre-conditioning measures may be applied at the same time to drawbell development from said raise and/ or to caving of corresponding stope.

However, in another embodiment of the invention, pre-conditioning measures applied frommachinery operating inside raises may be used to improve caving rate and thus the possible production rate from a stope.

Figure 6a-6e illustrate a vertical cross-section of one example of application of pre-breakingmeasures to advance a caving stope through a highly competent rock mass formation locatedin a specific area in the rock mass. Figure 6a shows that caving of a stope 110 progresses belowa highly competent rock mass formation 150. A zone of fractured rock mass 108 is located above the roof ofthe stopeln Figure 6b the roof of stope 110 reached the highly competent rock mass formation 150. Thezone of fractured rock mass 108 above the roof of stope 110 has caved and fallen into the stopebelow the rock mass formation 150. Due to the strength of the highly competent rock mass formation 150, caving has stalled and the size ofthe void 109 has increased significantly.

Figure 6c outlines the application of pre-breaking methods to advance the stope 110 throughthe highly competent rock mass formation 150. Pre-breaking methods may be performed byswitching from caving to drilling and blasting for a limited time period by operating themachinery arranged inside the raise. Therefore, near horizontal drill holes 105 are drilled intothe highly competent rock mass formation in a part of the stope from inside the raise by themachinery 120 (not shown in figure) Operating inside the raise 102e. These drill ho|es aresubsequently blasted slice by slice. Figure 6d shows a situation, where some of the drill ho|es105 have been blasted and the stope 110 has partially advanced through the highly competentrock mass formation 150. The size ofthe void 109 has decreased again. Finally, Figure 6e showsthat all drill ho|es 105 have been blasted and the stope 110 has been advanced through thehighly competent rock mass formation 150 completely. I\/|oreover, caving was re-initiated. Azone offractured rock mass 108 is located above the roof ofthe stope 110 and caving progressesfurther. The drawbell 100 and stope 110 illustrated in Figure 6a-6e are also provided with additional drawpoints arranged on different levels, however these are not shown in the figures.

However, in another embodiment of the invention other pre-breaking measures than drilling and blasting may be applied.

Figure 7a-7d illustrate a vertical cross-section of one example ofapplication of pre-conditioning measures to control the direction of cave progression near a weak rock mass formation.

Figure 7a illustrates a stope 110, which is progresses upwards in vertical direction by means ofcaving. A zone of fractured rock mass 108 is prevailing above the roof of the stope 110.Moreover, a weak rock mass formation 114 is located above the roof of the stope 110. Thisweak rock mass formation 114 is characterized by a lower strength than its surrounding rockmass formations. Accordingly, caving progresses more easily in and along this weak rock massformation 114. Thus, caving direction deviates from its planned direction as shown in the figure.

The zone of fractured rock mass 108 already extends into the weak rock formationFigure 7b shows the application of pre-conditioning measures to avoid significant deviation ofthe direction of cave progression. Therefore, near horizontal drill ho|es 105 are drilled frommachinery operating inside the raise 102f. These drill ho|es 105 are subsequently used forapplication of pre-conditioning measures, for example hydraulic fracturing and/ or confinedblasting. These pre-conditioning measures may be conducted from machinery 120 (not shown in this figure) situated on a platform 103 arranged inside the raise 102f.

Figure 7c shows that pre-conditioning measures were applied and formed a zone of pre- conditioned rock mass 112. This zone of pre-conditioned rock mass 112 has a reduced strengthas either artificial fractures were created, or natural discontinuities were weakened. Thereduced rock mass strength in the pre-conditioned zone 112 facilitates caving in the planned direction.

Figure 7d outlines that caving has progressed through the weak rock mass formation 114without significant deviations into said weak rock mass formation. A suitable draw strategy isapplied for drawing broken rock mass from the drawpoints. The draw strategy is critical forcontro||ing direction of cave progression. The presence and arrangement of multiple drawpoints 106 located on several levels also facilitates the implementation of specific draw strategies.

Figure 8a-8c illustrate isometric views of different drawbell shapes. The integrated raise cavingmining method according to the invention relies on the development of drawbells from raises.Thereby, drawbell shapes may be chosen flexibly in order to meet requirements and prevailing mining environment.

Figure 8a shows a drawbell 200a configured as an inverted pyramid such that the sidewalls ofthe drawbell have different inclinations. The drawbell 200a is developed from a vertical raise202 and has a drawbell roof 201 which is inclined. The drawbell comprises a drawbell bottomand a drawbell roof which are joined by inclined sidewalls. The drawbell is configured with adrawbell roof area being larger than a bottom area ofthe drawbell, providing that the drawbellwidens in a direction upwards. Thus__._ the area of the horizontal cross-section of the drawbellincreases in upwards direction. The inverted pyramid shape of the drawbell 200a may beadopted flexibly to local requirements, such as rock mass properties, stress situation, or oreflow considerations. For example, the outlined pyramid shaped drawbell 200a in Figure 8a hasa footprint of 68m x 68m, a height of 50m, and a wall inclination of 60°. ln one embodiment ofthe invention, the upper end of the drawbell, adjacent the undercut may be expanded only inupwards direction. ln such a way the section of the draw bell just below the undercut obtains nearly vertical walls (not shown in the figures).

Figure 8b shows a drawbell 200b designed like a trough with inclined sidewalls, which may havedifferent inclinations, and a drawbell roof area being larger than a bottom area ofthe drawbell,providing that the drawbell widens in a direction upwards. The drawbell 200b is developed from a vertical raise 202 and the drawbell roof 201 is flat. The trough shape ofthe drawbell 200b maybe adopted flexibly to local requirements, such as rock mass properties, stress situation, or oreflow considerations. For example, the outlined trough shaped drawbell 200 in Figure 8b has a footprint of 70m x 40m, a height of 40m, and a wall inclination of 70°.

Figure 8c shows a drawbell 200c configured as an inverted cone, where the narrow cone end isdirected downwards. The inverted cone has inclined sidewalls, which may have differentinclinations. The drawbell 200c is developed from a vertical raise 202 and its drawbell roof 201is flat. The cone shape of the drawbell 200c may be adopted flexibly to local requirements, suchas rock mass properties, stress situation, or ore flow considerations. For example, the outlinedcone shaped drawbell 200 in Figure 8c has a footprint diameter of 60m, a height of 50m, and a wall inclination of 65°.

However, in other embodiments of the invention, the drawbells may be of other shape.

Figure 9a,9c illustrate isometric views of drawbell development from inclined raises and morethan one raises, respectively. Figure 9b illustrates a vertical cross-section of drawbell development from a raise.

Figure 9a shows a drawbell 200d formed as an inverted pyramid. The drawbell 200d isdeveloped from an inclined raise 202a and the drawbell roof 201 is inclined. The inclination ofroof areas may be different for individual parts ofthe roof. For example, the raise inclination is70° from the horizontal. The inclined raise 202a is positioned offset from the center of thedrawbell roof 201. Alternatively, the inclined raise may be positioned in or near the center ofthe drawbell roof. ln another embodiment of the invention, a vertical raise may also bepositioned offset from the center of the drawbell roof. Alternatively, the vertical raise is positioned in or near the center ofthe drawbell roof.

Figure 9b shows two drawbells 200e,200f. Drawpoints 206 are developed into drawbells200e,200f. Drifts 204,207 are oriented in different directions and provide access to thedrawpoints. The raise 202 is positioned inside the perimeter ofthe roof of drawbell 200f and isused for development of drawbell 200f by means of drilling and blasting performed frommachinery operating inside the raise 202. I\/|oreover, raise 202 is also »used for development of drawbell 200e. Therefore, drill holes 205 are drilled from raise 202 above the drawbell roof 201band subsequently blasted. Thus, drawbell 200e is developed by the raise located in rock mass outside the perimeter of the drawbell roof 201b.

Figure 9c shows a drawbell 200g designed like a trough with inclined sidewalls. The drawbell200g is developed, excavated, from two vertical raises 202 and the drawbell roof 201 is flat.Figure 10 schematically illustrates a horizontal cross-section of the cave mining method according to the invention in an advanced progress of mining.

As caving progresses, the mined-out caving stopes may provide a stress shadow and, in specificparts of the rock mass, a favourable stress environment. Infrastructure for further drawbell andstope development, such as for example raises, drifts, or drawpoints may be positioned in these stress shadows, thereby protected from high stresses.

Stopes 310a,310b,310c,310d have been undercut and caving progresses. The stopes are filledwith broken rock mass 301. ln parallel, drawbells 300e,300f are developed from raises302e,302f. The drawbells are shown as hatched lines, as drawbells are not visible in the showncross-section, but rather located at predefined elevation below the shown cross-section. Thus,the hatched lines indicate the development and position of drawbells 300e,300f. Another raise302g has also been developed for subsequent development of the corresponding drawbell.Figure 10 further shows a stress shadow 320, thus a favorable stress environment formed nearmined stopes 310a,310b,310c,310d. The actual distribution of the stress-shadow 320 and thefavorable stress environment depend also on the prevailing rock mass conditions, primary stressmagnitudes and directions as well as the mine layout and mining sequence. This stress shadow320 protects raises 302e,302g from potentially high stresses, which may be present at theposition of raises 302e,302g, in case no stress shadow would be provided. This circumstanceconcerns raise 302f, which is located at a position, where no stress shadow is present. However,raise 302f may be protected from high stresses by specifically designed de-stress excavations(not shown in Figure 10), which have the function of providing a stress shadow, thus favorablestress environment for specific infrastructure. ln summary, ongoing mining may provide stressshadows at specific locations. The delayed infrastructure development in the present cave mining method according to the invention allows use of these stress shadows for infrastructure protection strategically. Thereby, infrastructure sta bility is improved, which in turn affects the safety, economics, and extraction of the deposit positively.

Figure 11a-11e schematically illustrate isometric views of one example of an implementation ofthe integrated raise caving mining method according to the invention. The figures show oneexample of the integration of the individual steps of the method as described herein. Thedevelopment of drawbells from raises and development of infrastructure, such as drifts anddrawpoints are shown. I\/|oreover, undercutting, cave initiation, and cave progression, therebymining of caving stopes are outlined. lt should be noted that the mining layout of the example of the integrated raise caving mining method as illustrated in the figures is very flexible.

Finally, the Figures 11a-11e illustrate an example of a mining sequence ofthe integrated raise caving mining method.

Figure 11a provides an isometric view of the initial stages of the integrated raise caving miningmethod and shows the development of the infrastructure required for the first drawbells as wellas the development of the first drawbell. Infrastructure comprises drifts 407, drawpoints 406and raises 402a,402b. Drifts 407 have been developed at a production level 431 and at a raise |H level 441. lt should be noted that the terms ”production leve and ”draw level" are synonyms.Afterwards raises 402a,402b have been developed between the production level 431 and theraise level 441. Thus, the raises 402a,402b are developed to extend over only a part ofthe stopeheight above the drawbell. Raises may be developed by means of raise boring method or bymeans of other methods. The distance between the production level 431 and the raise level 441is influenced amongst others by the final drawbell height, the prevailing rock mass and stressconditions and the applied mining sequence. Raise 402a is used for the development of the firstdrawbell 400a by means of drilling and charging. At least a part of an undercut is created through gradually expanding the n upwards direction by excavation, and increasing the roof area of the drawbell. Therefore, machinery 120 suitable for drilling andblasting (not shown in figure) operating inside the raise is used. The drawbell 400a has not beendeveloped to the final size and shape yet. The latter circumstance implies that the roof area ofthe flat drawbell roof 401a is still smaller than the final drawbell roof size. Accordingly, caving has not been initiated yet. After every blast, blasted rock mass falls from the drawbell roof 401a into the drawbell 400a. The blasted rock mass is loaded at drawpoints 406 out of the drawbell400a. Thereby, a void is formed below the drawbell roof 401a. This void is required forsubsequent blasts, to accommodate the swell of the »blasted rock mass. Due to the inverted-pyramid shape of the drawbell 400a, blasted material inside the drawbell flows to the bottomof the drawbell, where it is loaded at drawpoints 406. The number, size, and spacing ofdrawpoints 406 depends on prevailing rock mass and stress conditions as well as on ore flowaspects, for example the fragmentation of the broken rock mass inside the drawbell, or theapplied draw strategy. However, in another embodiment of the invention, the drawbell mayalso be of other shape, for example a trough shape, or inverse cone shape. After loadingmaterial at drawpoints 406, the material is transported in drifts 407 to the ore handling system,which may be located inside or outside the active mining area (the ore handling system is notshown in the Figure). Figure 11a shows besides development of the first drawbell 400a the infrastructure required for the development of the second drawbell.

Figure 11b provides an isometric view of one example of a more advanced stage of drawbelland infrastructure development ofthe method according to the invention, than Figure 11a. Thedrawbell 400a has been developed to its predefined height. Thus, the roof 401a ofthe drawbellreached its final size. Thus, raise 402a is not required for further drilling and charging activitiesof the drawbell 400a. However, the raise 402a may still be used for monitoring purposes, forexample the drawbell roof 401a, or the broken rock mass inside the drawbell 400a. I\/|oreover,the raise 402a may still be used for additional pre-conditioning methods and/ or pre-breakingmethods in specific locations in the rock mass above the drawbell roof 401a on demand. Thesize of the drawbell roof 401a is still too small to initiate caving. To increase the size of theundercut and to initiate caving subsequently, drawbell 400b is under development. Therefore,drilling and blasting in raise 402b is used. Blasted rock mass from drawbell development isdrawn from drawbell 400b at drawpoints 406 situated at the production level 431. The drawbell 400b has not reached its final size and shape yet.

Moreover, Figure 11b shows that a second production level 432, which is located at apredetermined distance above the first draw level 431, has been developed. Drifts 407 weredeveloped. Some of these drifts are located near the drawbell 400a. ln a later stage, further drawpoints will be developed from said drifts 407 into the drawbell 400a.

Figure 11b outlines the further extension of the method according to the invention. Drifts 407have been developed at a second raise level 442 and drifts 407 have been extended or newlydeveloped at draw level 431. Additionally, a third raise 402c has been developed between drifts407 at the draw level 431 and drifts 407 at the raise level 442. The raise level 442 is located at ahigher elevation than raise level 441. The reason, therefore, is that a zone of competent rockmass 411 is present near raise 402c and between raise levels 441 and 442. This zone ofcompetent rock mass requires pre-conditioning. The pre-conditioning measures may beconducted from machinery 120 (not shown in figure) operating inside the raise 402c beforedrawbell development from raise 402c starts. However, in another embodiment of theinvention, said pre-conditioning measures and drawbell development may be conducted fromthe same raise in parallel. This means that these method steps may be performed at the sametime. Alternatively, pre-conditioning may be conducted during cave progression below thecompetent rock mass zone. Figure 11b shows further that pre-conditioning measures can beapplied in the competent zone selectively, because the raise 402c intersects the competent ZOne.

The zone of competent rock mass 411 does not extend in the area above raise level 441. Therewas no requirement for pre-conditioning in the area above raise level 441. For this reason, raiselevel 441 is located closer to the draw level 431, which is used for drawbell development, sothat costs for infrastructure development can be reduced. Consequently, the position of raiselevels and infrastructure in the integrated raise caving mining method can be adapted to local conditions.

Figure 11c provides an isometric view of one example ofthe method according to the inventionof a stage, where caving has been initiated through undercutting. Further infrastructure wasdeveloped for additional drawbells and caving stopes. Drawbell 400b is completely developed.Accordingly, drawbell roofs 401a,401b ofdrawbells 400a,400b have been joined and connected.The connected roof area of drawbells 400a,400b exceeded the critical unsupported arearequired for cave initiation. Thus, caving has been initiated and progresses upwards. As cavingprogresses upwards the volume of the caving stopes 410a,410b increases. As caving stopes410a,410b are adjacent to each other they form a larger coherent caving stope. Caved rock mass in stopes 410a,410b is drawn through drawbells 400a,400b at drawpoints 406. Consequently, a void forms on top of the caved rock mass in stopes 410a,410b, which allows further detachmentof rock mass from the cave back, as loading of the broken rock mass is performed throughdrawpoints 406, thereby caving progresses. Caving in stopes 410a,410b progressed above raiselevel 441. Accordingly, there are no further raises above the caving stopes 410a,410b available for monitoring, pre-conditioning or pre-breaking measures.

Drawpoints 406 are located at the production levels 431,432. Drawpoints situated at productionlevel 432 located above level 431 were developed delayed. This means that drawpoints 406 atthe production level 432 were developed into the drawbells 400a,400b after drawbelldevelopment was completed and after caving was initiated. This delayed drawpointdevelopment enables to protect drawpoints from high stresses during drawbell developmentand associated undercutting as well as to position the drawpoints 406 according local rock massconditions and ore flow considerations. I\/|oreover, drawpoints 406 were developed intodrawbells 400a,400b in different directions. Overall, the development of drawpoints 406 onmore than one draw levels provides the possibility to improve the drawpoints arrangement from an ore flow point of view.

Figure 11c outlines that infrastructure on raise levels 441,442 and production levels 431,432have been extended to prepare further parts of the ore body for extraction. Drawbell 400c isfully developed. The drawbell roof 401c is connected to the caving stope 410b. Consequently,the undercut area has been increased and a zone of fractured rock mass isjust about to developin the rock mass 10 above the drawbell roof 401c. However, caving has not progressed yet abovedrawbell roof 401c. ln addition to drawbell 400c, drawbell 400e is under development.Therefore, a raise 402e has been developed between the production level 431 and the raiselevel 441. Said raise 402e may benefit from a stress shadow. Thus, a favorable stressenvironment is provided by caving stopes 410a, 410b. The extent of this stress shadow and thebenefit of raise 402e of the stress shadow depend amongst others on the prevailing stress and rock mass conditions and on the position of raise 402e in respect to stopes 410a, 410b.

Figure 11c highlights that the infrastructure, required for increasing the production area, may be developed shortly before production commences in respective areas. I\/|oreover, the mining layout ofthe integrated raise caving mining method, according to the invention, allows parallel infrastructure development and production ramp-up.

Figure 11d provides an isometric view of one example of a stage of the method according to theinvention, where several drawbells are fully developed and where caving progressed in severalstopes. Drawbells 400a,400b,400c,400e are fully developed and caving in stopes410a,410b,410c progressed. So far, caving has not progressed above drawbell 400e. However,the drawbell roof 401e ofdrawbell 400e has already been connected to the stope 410a. Therebythe size of the undercut area has increased further. I\/|oreover, further infrastructure has beendeveloped. Raise 402d is developed between raise level 442 and the production level 431. Raise402d intersects the strong competent zone and enables the planned application of pre-conditioning measures in the competent zone 411. Additionally, new drifts 407 have been developed on production levels 431,Figure 11e provides an isometric view ofone example of continuing infrastructure developmentand cave progression in the method according to the invention. The volume of caving stopes 410a,410b,410c,410e has increased and development of drawbell 400d started.

The example of the invention as shown in Figure 11e, further comprises infrastructure anddrawbells for two additional stopes arranged to the left of stope 410e, but to avoid further complexity of figure 11e those features are not shown.

Overall, Figures 11a,11b,11c,11d,11e illustrate the steps of the integrated raise caving mining method according to the invention. The actual mine layout and miningsequence depend on several parameters, such as the ore body geometry, the ore body size, thegrade distribution, the prevailing rock mass properties, the prevailing stress situation, and theproduction. I\/|oreover, the mine layout and mining sequence may be adapted flexibly and on short notice to encountered conditions and circumstances.

Figure 12a-12c schematically illustrate vertical cross-sections of examples of the methodaccording to the invention. Figures 12a-c show the draw zones of individual drawpoints and the development of an interactive draw zone.

Figure 12a provides a vertical cross-section of one example of a drawbell 500 and shows theeffect of drawing drawpoints in isolation. Drawpoints 506 are developed into the drawbell 500.Access tunnels 507 and 508 are used as an access to the drawpoints 506. Drawing broken rockmass from drawpoints 506 maintains the flow of broken rock mass inside the drawbell towardsthe drawpoints 506. However, every drawpoint 506 maintains the flow of broken rock mass onlyin a certain area. This area is commonly referred to as isolated draw zone 501. Drawpoints 506are drawn in isolation, which means that one drawpoint is drawn at a time, and drawing from aneighboring drawpoint commences only after a considerable time period. Thus, the draw isconsidered to be not uniform, both temporarily and spatially. Drawpoints 506 are arranged suchthat their isolated draw zones 501 do not touch or intersect each other. Correspondingly, a zoneof relatively stationary material 504 remains between neighboring draw zones 501. This zone ofrelatively stationary material 504 is characterized by broken rock mass, which is either notflowing at all or which is flowing at a very slow rate compared to the material inside the isolateddraw zone 501. The size and shape of the isolated draw zone 501 depend on several parameters,which comprise amongst others the fragmentation ofthe broken rock mass, the size and shape of the drawpoint and the prevailing stress situation inside the broken rock mass.

However, in another embodiment of the invention drawpoints may be arranged such that theirisolated draw zones overlap at least in some areas. Thus, there is smaller zone of relatively stationary material between neighboring isolated draw zones.

Figure 12b shows a vertical cross-section of one example ofa drawbell 500 with four drawpoints506 and illustrates the effects of drawing drawpoints interactively. Drawpoints are accessedfrom access tunnels 507. |solated draw zones 501 develop above corresponding drawpoints 506due to draw of rock mass. However, in contrast to Figure 12a drawing from drawpoints 506 iscarried out in Figure 12b interactively. This interactive draw is realized by drawing broken rockmass from neighboring drawpoints at the same time or within a short time interval. Asdrawpoints 506 are drawn interactively, isolated draw zones of individual drawpoints start tointeract. Consequently, broken rock mass between neighboring isolated draw zones 501 startsto move as well. Therefore, an interactive draw zone 502 develops near isolated draw zones501. The size and shape of this interactive draw zone 502 depend on several parameters, for example the applied draw strategy, the arrangement of drawpoints, or the fragmentation of the broken rock mass. A uniform draw both temporarily and spatially from drawpoints is pursuedto enlarge the interaction in the interactive draw zone. Overall, the interactive draw zone 502effect is that the flow of broken rock mass is maintained in a larger volume of broken rock masscompared to the volume of isolated draw zone 501. I\/|oreover, raises 102 (not shown in thisfigure) used for development of the drawbell may be used for monitoring the fragmentation,the lowering of broken rock mass inside a caving stope, the cave and/or cave back. Thismonitoring information/ data may then be used for draw control and eventually to adapt thedraw strategy such that a better interactive draw can be achieved. A zone of relatively stationa ry material 504 may still be present, especially near the sidewalls of the drawbell.

Figure 12c provides a vertical cross-section of one example of two drawbells 500a,500b andillustrates the effect of drawing broken rock mass from neighboring drawbells interactively.Drawpoints 506 developed from access tunnels 507 are used for drawing broken rock mass fromdrawbells. Drawpoints 506 of individual drawbells 500a,500b are drawn interactively. Thereby,the isolated draw zones 501 of corresponding drawpoints form an interactive draw zone 502 inevery drawbell 500a,500b. Interactive draw zones 502 of drawbell 500a and 500b do notintersect or touch each other. Due to the draw of broken rock mass from neighboring drawbells500a,500b in the same time period, interactive draw zones 502 start to interact, therebyforming an interactive draw zone across drawbells 503. I\/|oreover, the inclined sidewalls ofdrawbells further assist latter interaction. Thus, the interactive draw in each drawbell results inlarger drawbell interactive zones, which interact across the drawbells. The size and shape ofthisinteractive draw zone across drawbells 503 depends on several parameters, for example theapplied draw strategy, the size and shape of neighboring drawbells, or the arrangement ofdrawpoints. Due to the development of the interactive draw zone across drawbells 503, auniform mass flow of broken rock mass is implemented across the drawbells. A zone of relatively stationary material 504 may still be present, especially near the sidewalls ofthe drawbell.

However, in another embodiment of the invention, drawbells may be arranged such that the interactive draw zones from drawbells overlap at least in some areas.

Figure 13a schematically illustrates a horizontal cross-section of an example of the methodaccording to the invention and shows the arrangement of isolated and interactive draw zones.

Figure 13b schematically illustrates a vertical section along line A-A of figure 13a.

Figure 13a provides a horizontal cross-section of a coherent caving stope located aboveneighboring drawbells 500a, 500b. The drawbells are indicated by dashed lines, whereas lines511 indicate the bottom of the drawbells and lines 512 indicate the top of the drawbells. Thedrawbells 500a,500b have a trough shape and the drawpoints are developed into the drawbells.The position of the drawpoint centers shown by a cross-symbol 510. All drawpoints inFigure 13a are drawn interactively. For this reason, an interactive draw zone 502 is createdsurrounding the isolated draw zones 501 of each drawpoint. I\/|oreover, an interactive drawzone 503 across drawbells is established, because drawpoints from the neighboring drawbellsare drawn in the same time period. The drawpoints in Figure 13a are arranged in a square layoutFigure 13b shows the drawbells 500a,500b and the arrangement of isolated and interactive draw zones as illustrated in figure 13a.

However, in another embodiment of the invention, the drawpoints may be arranged in otherlayouts, for example a staggered or rectangular layout. The actual arrangement of drawpointsdepends on local circumstances, for example the fragmentation of rock mass, the size and shape of drawpoints, the size and shape of drawbells, or the applied draw strategy.

Draw strategy is considered important for controlling the cave progression and direction,because it governs the development of the void below the zone of fractured rock mass and thebroken rock mass inside the stope. I\/|oreover, information gained from monitoring the caveback and broken rock mass pile from raises may be used to adopt the draw strategy appropriately, flexibly, and on short notice.

Fig. 14 schematically illustrates an integrated raise caving mining infrastructure 902 comprisingan automatic or semi-automatic control system 901 electrically coupled to a control circuitry900. The integrated raise caving mining infrastructure 902 is configured for mining deposits in a rock mass 10 and comprises at least one raise 102 developed in a direction upwardly from a drift 115 located in the rock mass 10. A drawbell 100 is developed in the rock mass 10, whereinat least a portion of the drawbell is joined to the at least one raise 102. The integrated raisecaving mining infrastructure 902 comprises an undercut UC, wherein at least a portion of theundercut UC is formed as a drawbell roof of the drawbell 100, and wherein said portion hasbeen created by gradually expanding the drawbell in upward direction by excavation. Theintegrated raise caving mining infrastructure 902 further comprises at least two drawpoints 106joined to the drawbell 100, wherein the drawpoints 106 are joined to drifts arranged ondifferent levels, and comprises a transport device 904 configured to progressively draw fragmented rock from the drawbellAlternatively, a caving stope (not shown) is located above the drawbell 100. The drawbell of theintegrated raise caving mining infrastructure 902 may have other shapes than that shown in the figure.

The integrated raise caving mining infrastructure 902 further comprises a machinery 910 thatmay comprise a drilling and/or charging device (not shown) configured for developing the raise102 in the rock mass 10. The machinery 910 is configured for developing the drawbell 100 inthe rock mass 10, wherein at least a portion of the drawbell is excavated from the raise bydrilling,»_and/ or charging by means of the machinery 910, thereby initiating caving throughundercutting. The machinery 910 is configured for developing the drawbell by graduallyexpanding the drawbell in upwards direction by excavation and for developing the at least twodrawpoints 106 into the drawbell 100, wherein the drawpoints 106 are developed from driftsarranged on different levels. The machinery 910 may comprise the transport device 904configured for transporting fragmented rock from the drawbell 100 through the drawpointsThe machinery 910 may be configured to be operated by the automatic or semi-automaticcontrol system 901 in remote control mode and/or in automatic control mode and/or in semi- automatic control mode.

The machinery 910 may be configured for drilling and/or charging the rock mass from inside theraise 102. The machinery 910 may comprise a drilling bore and/or charging equipment configured for initiating said caving. The machinery 910 may comprise pre-conditioning equipment. The machinery 910 may comprise that the drilling and/or charging device isarranged on a movable platform, which is movable within the raise 102 for reaching a positionfor operation of the drilling and/or charging device. The machinery 910 may comprise that theplatform is configured with a modular design. The machinery 910 may comprise that theplatform is configured to be stored by moving it aside from the top of the raise. The machinery910 and/or equipment arranged on the platform may be configured with a modular design. Themachinery 910 may be configured for installing rock support and/or rock reinforcement frominside the raise 102, such as rock bolts, mesh, shotcrete, cable bolts. The machinery 910 may beconfigured for hydrofracturing the rock mass from inside the raise 102. The machinery 910 maybe configured for performing directional drilling. The machinery 910 may be configured fordrilling curved boreholes by directional drilling. The machinery 910 may be configured for blastinitiation of the charged boreholes. The machinery 910 may be configured for blast initiationfrom inside the raise 102. The machinery 910 may be configured for blast initiation by wireddetonators and/ or remote-controlled detonators and/ or non-electric detonators and/ orwireless detonators. The machinery 910 may be configured for transporting fragmented rock101 continuous draw machinery with conveyors and/or trucks and/ or loaders. The machinery910 may be configured to be operated by remote control. The machinery 910 may be configured fo r s;<2:al;:såaasšlfasslælefaatèer _ f: n o r fu I I a uto m a t i o n .

The integrated raise caving mining infrastructure 902 further comprises a monitoring system920 configured for monitoring an integrated raise caving mining infrastructure 902 configured for mining deposits in rock mass.

The monitoring system 920 is configured for monitoring development of at least one raise 102,102a-f, 202, 302a-g, 402a-e developed in the rock mass 10. The monitoring system 920 isconfigured for monitoring development of a drawbell 100, 100a-c, 200a-g, 300a-f, 400a-e in therock mass 10, wherein at least a portion of the drawbell is joined to the at least one raise 102,102a-f, 202, 302a-g, 402a-e. The monitoring system 920 is configured for monitoringdevelopment ofan undercut (UC) being configured to initiate caving of rock mass located abovethe undercut, wherein said portion has been created by gradually expanding the drawbell inupward direction by excavation. The monitoring system 920 is configured for monitoring initiation of caving. The monitoring system 920 is configured for monitoring development of atleast two drawpoints 106, 206, 406 wherein the drawpoints 106 are joined to drifts 115,207,407arranged on different levels. The monitoring system 920 may be configured for monitoring of atransport device 904 configured to progressively draw fragmented rock (101) from the drawbell.The monitoring system 920 may be configured for monitoring cave progression and/ ordirection of cave progression.__The monitoring system 920 may be configured for monitoring ofcaved rock mass by using a remote controlled monitoring device arranged inside the raise. Themonitoring system 920 may be configured for remotely monitoring of the caving stope and/ orthe cave back (119) and/ or the caved rock masses (101). The monitoring system 920 may beconfigured for monitoring an advancing fracture and loosening zone located above the caveback. The monitoring system 920 may be configured for monitoring seismicity and/ or stress inthe deposit wherein the integrated raise caving mining infrastructure 902 is located. Themonitoring system 920 may be configured for collecting monitoring data, analysing monitoringdata, storing of monitoring data, and/or transmitting monitoring data via wirelesscommunication means to an automatic or semi-automatic control system 901 of an integrated cave mining infrastructureThe monitoring system 920 comprises amongst others a plurality of monitoring means, a central monitoring unit, data collection units, data storage means, communication devices and/or data analysis tools. The monitoring system 920 is configured to <§=;-s~_<:=:~_<:=:u-sæaïaëeastegg gg with the automatic or semi-automatic control system 901 and transmits data and information generatedby the monitoring system to the automatic or semi-automatic control system 901. Themonitoring means comprises for example seismic monitoring system, time domain reflectometry technology, open bore holes, cavity scanners, sensors, marker or geophones.

Figure 15 illustrates a flowchart showing an example of an integrated raise caving miningmethod. The method comprises a first step 701 starting the method. A second step 702comprises the performance of the exemplary method. A third step 703 comprises stopping themethod. The second step 702 may comprise developing at least one raise in the rock mass,developing a drawbell in the rock mass, wherein at least a portion of the drawbell is excavatedfrom the at least one raise by drilling, charging and blasting by operating a machinery arrangedinside the at least one raise, initiating caving through undercutting, wherein at least a part of an undercut is created by gradually expanding the drawbell in upwards direction by excavation,developing at least two drawpoints into the drawbell, wherein the drawpoints are developedfrom drifts arranged on different levels, progressively drawing fragmented rock from the at least one drawbell through the drawpoints.

Figure 16 illustrates a flowchart showing a further example of an integrated raise caving mining method. The indicated method steps in the example may be performed in a different order.

The method comprises a first step 801 starting the method. A second step 802 comprisesdeveloping at least one raise in the rock mass. A third step 803 comprises developing a drawbellin the rock mass, wherein at least a portion of the drawbell is excavated from the at least oneraise by drilling and charging by operating a machinery arranged inside the at least one raiseand thereafter blasting. A fourth step 804 comprises excavation for developing a roof area ofthe drawbell being larger than a bottom area of the drawbell. A fifth step 805 comprisesinitiating caving through undercutting, wherein at least a part of an undercut is created bygradually expanding the drawbell in upwa rds direction by excavation. A sixth step 806 comprisesdeveloping at least two drawpoints into the drawbell, wherein the drawpoints are developedfrom drifts arranged on different levels. A seventh step 807 comprises progressively drawingfragmented rock from the at least one drawbell through the drawpoints. An eight step 808comprises initiating caving when the undercut area exceeds a critical area. A ninth step 809comprises caving the rock mass located above the drawbell, thereby forming a caving stope. Atenth step 810 may comprise pre-conditioning of rock mass located above the drawbell roof byoperating a machinery arranged inside the at least one raise. An eleventh step 811 maycomprise pre-breaking of rock mass located above the drawbell roof by operating a machineryarranged inside the at least one raise. A twelfth step 812 may comprise a switching from cavingto drill and blast for a specific area in the stope. A thirteens step 813 comprises stopping the method.

Figure 17 illustrates a control circuitry 900 (such as a central control processor or othercomputer device) adapted to operate an automatic or semi-automatic control system 901 ofanintegrated cave mining infrastructure 902, which automatic or semi-automatic control system901 is configured to perform any exemplary integrated raise caving mining method herein described. The control circuitry 900 is configured to control any exemplary method or methodsdisclosed herein. The control circuitry 900 comprises a data medium, configured for storing adata program P. The data program P is configured (programmed) for controlling the automaticor semi-automatic control system 901 and/or for controlling the machinery and/or forcommunicating with the monitoring system 920 in Fig. 14. The data medium comprises aprogram code readable by the control circuitry 900 for performing any of the exemplary methods herein described, when the data medium is run on the control circuitryThe control circuitry 900 is electrically coupled to a machinery (not shown) comprising a drillingand/or charging device (not shown). The control circuitry 900 is further communicating with themonitoring system 920 via wireless communication system by transmitting and/or receivingmonitoring data. The control circuitry 900 is configured to provide that the automatic or semi-automatic control system 901 and/or machinery each performs the method of developing atleast one raise in the rock mass, developing a drawbell in the rock mass, wherein at least aportion of the drawbell is excavated from the at least one raise by drilling, charging and blastingby operating a machinery arranged inside the at least one raise, initiating caving throughundercutting, wherein at least a part of an undercut is created by gradually expanding thedrawbell in upwards direction by excavation, developing at least two drawpoints into thedrawbell, wherein the drawpoints are developed from drifts arranged on different levels, progressively drawing fragmented rock from the at least one drawbell through the drawpoints.

The control circuitry 900 may thus also be configured for manoeuvring a transport device, suchas a remote-controlled loading device, or continuous draw machinery with conveyors in a drift(not shown). The control circuitry 900 comprises a computer and a non-volatile memory NVM1320, which is a computer memory that can retain stored information even when the computer is not powered.

The control circuitry 900 further comprises a processing unit 1310 and a read/write memory1350. The NVM 1320 comprises a first memory unit 1330. A computer program (which can beof any type suitable for any operational data) is stored in the first memory unit 1330 forcontrolling the functionality of the control circuitry 900. Furthermore, the control circuitry 900comprises a bus controller (not shown), a serial communication unit (not shown) providing a physical interface, through which information transfers separately in two directions.The control circuitry 900 may comprise any suitable type of I/O module (not shown) providinginput/output signal transfer, an A/D converter (not shown) for converting continuously varyingsignals from a sensor arrangement (not shown) of the control circuitry 900 configured todetermine actual status of the machinery and/or the automatic or semi-automatic controlsystem 901. The control circuitry 900 is configured to, from received control signals, determinethe positions of the machinery regarding drilling and operation of the explosive material charging into binary code suitable for the computer, and from other operational data.

The control circuitry 900 also comprises an input/output unit (not shown) for adaptation to timeand date. The control circuitry 900 comprises an event counter (not shown) for counting thenumber of event multiples that occur from independent events in operation of the machinery and/or the automatic or semi-automatic control systemFurthermore, the control circuitry 900 includes interrupt units (not shown) associated with thecomputer for providing a multi-tasking performance and real time computing. The NVMalso includes a second memory unit 1340 for external sensor check of the sensor arrangement.

A data medium for storing a program P may comprise program routines for automaticallyadapting the operation of the machinery and/or the automatic or semi-automatic controlsystem 901 in accordance with operational data regarding e.g. the actual status of gradually expanding the drawbell in upward direction by excavation.

The data medium for storing the program P comprises a program code stored on a medium,which is readable on the computer, for causing the control circuitry 900 to perform the method and/or method steps described herein.

The program P further may be stored in a separate memory 1360 and/or in the read/writememory 1350. The program P, in this embodiment, is stored in executable or compressed data format. lt is to be understood that when the processing unit 1310 is described to execute a specificfunction that involves that the processing unit 1310 may execute a certain part of the programstored in the separate memory 1360 or a certain part of the program stored in the read/writememoryThe processing unit 1310 is associated with a data port 1399 adapted for electrical data signalcommunication via a first data bus 1315 provided to be coupled to the machinery and/or theautomatic or semi-automatic control system 901 for performing any of the exemplary method steps herein described.

The non-volatile memory NVM 1320 is adapted for communication with the processing unit1310 via a second data bus 1312. The separate memory 1360 is adapted for communicationwith the processing unit 610 via a third data bus 1311. The read/write memory 1350 is adaptedto communicate with the processing unit 1310 via a fourth data bus 1314. After that thereceived data is temporary stored, the processing unit 1310 will be ready to execute the program code, according to the above-mentioned method.

Preferably, signals (received by the data port 1399) comprise information about operational status of the machinery and/or the automatic or semi-automatic control systemInformation and data may be manually fed, by an operator, to the control circuitry 900 via asuitable communication device, such as a computer display or a touchscreen. The exemplarymethods herein described may also be partially executed by the control circuitry 900 by meansof the processing unit 1310, which processing unit 1310 runs the program P being stored in theseparate memory 1360 or the read/write memory 1350. When the control circuitry 900 runs the program P, anyone ofthe exemplary methods disclosed herein will be executed.

The present invention is of course not in any way restricted to the examples described above,but many possibilities to modifications, or combinations of the described embodiments thereofshould be apparent to a person with ordinary skill in the art without departing from the basic idea of the invention as defined in the appended claims. 66

Claims (85)

1. An integrated raise caving mining method for mining deposits in rock mass comprising:-developing at least one raise (102,102a-f,202,202a,202b,302e-g,402a-e) in the rock mass (10),-developing a drawbell (100,100a-c,200a-g,300a-f,400a-e) in the rock mass (10), wherein atleast a portion of the drawbell is excavated from the at least one raise (102,102a-f,202,202a,202b,302e-g,402a-e), -initiating caving through undercutting, wherein at least a part of an undercut is created bygradually expanding the drawbell (100,100a-c,200a-g,300a-f,400a-e) in upwards direction byexcavation, -developing at least two drawpoints (106,206,406) into the drawbell (100,100a-c,200a-g,300a-f,400a-e), wherein the drawpoints (106,206,406) are arranged on different levels,-progressively drawing fragmented rock (101) from the at least one drawbell through the drawpoints (106,206,406).

2. The integrated raise cave mining method according to claim 1 comprising caving the rockmass located above the drawbell (100,100a-c,200a-g,300a-f,400a-e), thereby forming a cavingstope (110,310a-e,410a-e).

3. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims wherein theportion of the drawbell (100,100a-c, 200a-g,300a-f,400a-e) is excavated by drilling blast holes(105, 205) into the rock mass (10) around the raise (102,102a-f,202,302a-g,402a-e) by operatinga machinery (120) arranged inside the raise, and blasting the rock mass by charging anddetonating explosives in those blast holes (105, 205) such that the portion of the drawbell is blasted.

4. The integrated raise cave mining method according to claim 1 or 2 comprising pre- conditioning of rock mass located above the drawbell roof (118) by operating the machinery (120) arranged inside the at least one raise (102,102a-f,202a-g,302a-g,402a-e).

5. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims comprisingdeveloping a drawbell (100,100a-c, 200a-g,300a-f,400a-e) configured with a drawbell roof area being larger than a drawbell bottom area.

6. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims wherein at leasta part of the undercut is created by gradually expanding the drawbell in the upwards direction without increasing the length ofthe perimeter of the drawbell roof--.

7. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims wherein excavation of the portion ofthe drawbell is performed by blasting slices of rock mass.

8. The integrated raise cave mining method according to claim»3___2___wwherein the shape ofindividual blast slices is adapted in order to form a drawbell (100,100a-c,200a-g,300a-f,400a-e) of a specific shape.

9. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims wherein thecomplete drawbell (100,100a-c, 200a-g,300a-f,400a-e) is developed by excavation from the atleast one raise (102,102a-f,202,302a-g,402a-e).

10. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims wherein thedrawbell is configured as an inverted pyramid (200a), a trough (200b) or an inverted cone (200c).

11. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims wherein the method further ctorrzprâses; - atiaptiawg the shape of the at least one drawbell (100,100a-c,200a-g,300a-f,400a-e) is , according to the ore body geometry and/ or rock mass properties and/ or ore flow considerations and/ or stress situation.

12. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims wherein the rnetliod further corrapršses" ~ orientirigi ithe drawbell (100,100a-c,200a-g,300a-f,400a-e) I that the production level infrastructure is favorably related to the prevailing stresses.

13. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims wherein the method further ctorrzprâses; - orieratšrig* tšie drawbell (100,100a-c, 200a-g,300a-f, 400a-e) I . that cave initiation is facilitated by the prevailing stresses.

14. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims wherein the drawbell (200g) is excavated from more than one raise (202a,202b).

15. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims wherein the atleast one raise (102, 102a-f,202a-b, 402a-e), is located in rock mass within the perimeter ofthe drawbell roof (118,201).

16. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims wherein the at least one raise (102, 102a-f,202, 402a-e) is located in the center of the drawbell roof (118,201).

17. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous-claims 1- 15 wherein the at least one raise is developed offset from the center of the drawbell roof (201a).

18. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of mevšeas-claims 145 whereinthe drawbell is excavated at least partially from a raise (202) which is located in rock massoutside the perimeter of the drawbell roof (201b).

19. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims wherein the at least one raise is vertical (202) or inclined (202a).

20. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims wherein the atleast one raise (402a,402b,402e) is developed to extend over only a part of the stope heightabove the drawbell (400a,400b,400e).

21. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of peeväeueclaims _1_-_-___1Q__wherein the at least one raise is developed to extend over the full stope height.

22. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims whereinblasting takes place in an unconfined environment by drawing previously blasted rock (101) from the drawbell to create a void (109).

23. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any ofpreßæieæfr-"fclaims 1 to 21 whereinblasting takes place in a semi-confined environment by drawing previously blasted rock (101) from the drawbell without creating a void.

24. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims comprisingperforming pre-conditioning in specific areas (150,411) above the drawbell roof and on- demand.

25. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims comprising switching from caving to drilling and blasting on demand.

26. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims comprisingscheduled switching from caving to drilling and blasting in specific areas in a part of the stope for a limited period by operating the machinery arranged inside the raise.

27. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims comprising re-initiating caving ofthe stope pre-breaking by drilling, charging and blasting in a part ofthe stopein specific areas (150) from inside the raise by operating the machinery arranged inside the raise in case caving has stalled.

28. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous c|aims comprising performing pre-conditioning of rock mass from the raise in parallel with drawbell excavation.

29. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous c|aims comprisingperforming pre-conditioning of rock mass from inside the raise in parallel with caving of the caving stope below the raise.

30. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous c|aims comprisingcontro||ing the cave progression by performing contro||ing measures means arranged from inside the raise.

31. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous c|aims comprisingcontro||ing the direction of cave progression by performing contro||ing measures means arranged from inside the raise.

32. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous c|aims comprisingcontro||ing cave progression by operating machinery arranged inside the raise and/ or by draw strategy and/ or draw control.

33. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous c|aims comprisingcontro||ing the direction of cave progression by operating machinery arranged inside the raise and/ or by draw strategy and/ or draw control.

34. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous c|aims comprisingcontro||ing the direction of cave progression by pre-conditioning specifically selected volumes of rock mass.

35. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any ofthe previous c|aims comprisingdeveloping at least one additional drawpoint (106,406) into the drawbell (100,400a-e) anddeveloping said at least one additional drawpoint on the same level as pre-existing drawpoints or on a different level than pre-existing drawpoints to stimulate material flow in the drawbell.

36. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims comprisingdeveloping at least one drawpoint (106,406) into the stope (110, 410a-e) arranged above the drawbell.

37. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims comprisingdeveloping said additional drawpoints (106,406) from one direction into the drawbell (100, 400a-e) and/ or stope. 38. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims comprisingdeveloping said additional drawpoints (106,406) from different directions into the drawbell(100, 400a-e) and/ or stope. 39. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims comprisingproviding the at least one drawbell with multiple drawpoints distributed over at least two levelsand distributing said drawpoints evenly such that a favourable drawpoint spacing is achievedand drawing said drawpoints interactively such that interaction between isolated draw zones is achieved. 40. The integrated raise cave mining method comprising developing the drawpoints (106,406) in a staggered, square or rectangular layout. 41. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims comprisingjoining at least two drawbells and forming a coherent stope above the drawbells, and caving the coherent stope. 42. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims comprisingenlarging the caving stope in lateral direction by developing an additional drawbell at a location next to the caving stope and joining the additional drawbell to the caving stope. 43. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous claims comprising monitoring cave progression and/ or direction of cave progression.44. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous c|aims comprising monitoring of caved rock mass by using a ~:I-'~.ë\.<:1:~\à=r~>»+@enär: monitoring device arranged inside the raise (102,102a-f,202,302a-g,402a-e). 45. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous c|aims comprisingmonitoring ofthe caving stope and/ or the cave back (119) and/ or the caved rock masses (101)by remote controlled monitoring means which is lowered through the raise (102,102a- f,202,302a-g,402a-e) and into the caving stope. 46. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of previous c|aims comprisingdri||ing boreho|es into the rock mass from the raise (102,102a-f,202,302a-g,402a-e) and placing sensors in the boreho|es. 47. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any ofthe previous c|aims comprisingadjusting a draw strategy and/ or draw control and/ or caved rock masses at the production level based on monitoring of the caving stope and/ or cave back and/ or caved rock masses. 48. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any ofthe previous c|aims comprisingmitigating risk of air blast and/ or cave stall in the stope (110) by using monitoring means arranged inside the raise and loaveršng a remoteæorrtrolled rrrrpnitfaring device through the raise into itšie cave to dirrzctfiy fiworaštor a potential cave stall and! or air bâast risk. .-49. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of the previous c|aims comprisingmitigating risk of air blast and/ or cave stall in the stope (110) by operating machinery (120)arranged inside the raise (102,102a-f,202,302a-g,402a-e) and /or by draw strategy and/ or by draw control. 50. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any ofthe previous c|aims comprisingdetermining of pre-conditioning needs based on monitoring of spatial distribution and/ or behavior of individual formations and zones.51. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of the previous claims whereinthe mining sequence is adapted to and determined by production and/or ore body geometry and/or rock mechanics consideration and/ or ore flow considerations. 52. The integrated raise cave mining methodmaccording to any of the previous claims whereinthe mine layout and infrastructure position are adapted to and determined by productionand/or ore body geometry and/or rock mechanics consideration and/ or ore flow considerations. 53. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of the previous claims whereinthe mine layout and/or infrastructure position and/or mining sequence are adjusted on short notice. 54. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of the previous claims whereinthe stope (310a-d) generates a stress-shadow (320) at certain locations adjacent the stope(310a-d,410a-e), wherein said stress-shadow de-stresses the rock mass, thereby creating a favourable stress environment. 55. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of the previous claims whereinthe interaction between at least two adjacent stopes (310a-d, 410a-e) generate a regional favourable stress environment for mining infrastructure. 56. The integrated raise cave mining method according to any of the previous claims whereinraises (102,102a-f,202,302a-g,402a-e), drifts___(115,207,407), drawpoints (106,206,406), andother infrastructure are developed in the favourable stress environment at certain locations adjacent to drawbells and/ or stopes. 57. Use of the integrated raise caving mining method according to any of the previous claimsfor mining of ore from a deposit where cave mining methods such as block caving, panel caving, inclined caving, or raise caving are applied.58. An integrated raise caving mining infrastructure (902) configured for mining deposits in a rock mass (10), which integrated raise caving mining infrastructure (902) comprises;-at least one raise (102, 102a-f, 202, 302a-g, 402a-e) developed in the rock mass (10); -a drawbell (100, 100a-c, 200a-g, 300a-f, 400a-e) developed in the rock mass (10), wherein atleast a portion of the drawbell is joined to the at least one raise (102, 102a-f, 202, 302a-g,402a-e); -an undercut (UC) being configured to initiate caving of rock mass located above the undercut,wherein at least a portion ofthe undercut is formed as a part (201,401a-e,118) of thedrawbell; wherein said portion has been created by gradually expanding the drawbell in upward direction by excavation; -at least two drawpoints (106, 206, 406) joined to the drawbell (100, 100a-c, 200a-g, 300a-f,400a-e), wherein the drawpoints (106) are joined to drifts (115,207,407) arranged on different levels; and -a transport device (904) configured to progressively draw fragmented rock (101) from the drawbell. 59. The integrated raise caving mining infrastructure (902) according to claim 58, wherein a caving stope is located above the drawbell (100, 100a-c, 200a-g, 300a-f, 400a-e). 60. A monitoring system (920) configured for monitoring an integrated raise caving mining infrastructure (902) configured for mining deposits in rock mass according to claim 58 or 59, which monitoring system comprises: ' QVIITÉ* ”ififia *F (YW ÛÛÛ ns at; t. a.. s, h; f i E” - monitoring means for monitoring development of a drawbell (100, 100a-c, 200a-g, 300a-f,400a-e) developed in the rock mass (10), wherein at least a portion ofthe drawbell is joined to the at least one raise (102, 102a-f, 202, 302a-g, 402a-e); - monitoring means for monitoring development ofan undercut (UC) being configured to initiatecaving of rock mass located above the undercut, wherein at least a portion of the undercut is formed as a part of the drawbell; wherein said portion has been created by gradually expanding the drawbell in upward direction by excavation; -a-r-teiå-rar- -monitoring means configured for monitoring the initiation of caving of the rock mass;_ ~-m-ereiteri-ag-ef-a--terarespart-det*iee-éâäâfiå--eeafiga-eeeš-te-gaifog-r-essšveiv-aie:aw--íea-g-meateti--Faeiæ-itiïi-í-i -monitoring means configured for monitoring a caving stope;__a__r_1_ç_:l vxfherešra tne rnonitoring stfsterr: šs contietired tor renioteiæi wjtmtroišed rnonitorinfl of 'the caving stone artci/ or a back forrriing a zone of fraaïttirefí rock mass artd! or caveci rc-ci: rnasses; and tvherešft the rnoitštoršng sgfsteni šs ttoitfigttred to etarnnturtšttate vrith and be onerated by an automatic or serniautraniatit: tt-:mtrol stfsteni accttwrciirta to rgšašm 81 in remote controš rnode andfor in autornatic control rnode andfor in serni--siutornatic controi rnode; and »vxfiwereiiw the nwonitoring systern Es configured ---for collectine, nwnitoring data, anašysingrnoititoring tiata storing ftionitrariitae data, and transrnitting rnonittariite data via tvirešess andf' or vxfireci cornrnuifiicatiort devices to an autornatit: or sernßazitorrzatic ctwntrtü systern of the integrated Cave rninšn infrastructure.61. The monitoring system (920) according to claim 60 wherein the monitoring system isconfigured for monitoring of caved rock mass by using a ifeiilitlsšlieieaiai monitoring device arranged inside the raise. 62. The monitoring system (920) according to claim 60 or 61 wherein the monitoring system isconfigured for monitoring seismicity and/ or stress and/ or deformations in the rock i=i=eiæsas~sz the integrated raise caving mining infrastructure (902) is located. 63. The nioriitiorinw system (920) according to any of ciaims 6G to 62 wiiereiii the monitoring means is arranged inside the raise to monitor the niininw operation and being iowered tiiroueii the raise into the Cave to eriabie :monitoring of for exampie Cave tjack, fragirieiitatioii, fraigturirig ZOfiíë. 64. A machinery (910) comprising »a movabie platform (103), :a dri||ing a nd/or cha rgi ng device~_co nfigu red fo r;»ai-exileioeing--at--i-east--ene--:faifie-(ê-Gåi-š-Gåa»fi--šlëi2y-šGEa-»gï-~4i02a»ei-iifi-the-fee-k--iff-i-a-se-(ifiši--enei-fo-r -developing a drawbell (100,100a-c, 200a-g,300a-f,400a-e) in the rock mass (10),wherein at least a portion of the drawbell is excavated from the raise by dri||ingand/or charging by means of the machinery, thereby initiating caving through undercutting;-developing the drawbell by gradually expanding the drawbell in upwardsdirection by excavation; aadyïw wherein the machinery (910) is configured for drilling and/or charging the rock mass from inside the raise (102) and the drilling and/or charging device is arranged on the movable platform(103), which is movable within the raise (102) for reaching a position for operation ofthe drillingand/or charging device, and the platform is movable within the raise by being hoisted down to the position of operation. -êå=-llae--m-aebâ-n-e:fy-åQí-Gå-acef;:fä-in-g-to--elaim--ššéfq- --täne--Fria-chinew-4;910)--is--eeefefâ-gueflefiå--fefaf êêšffö5l The machinery according to claim 64+9AL%?», wherein the drilling and/or charging device comprises a drilling bore and/or charging equipment configured for initiating said caving. êïšf-äThe machinery according to any of claims E54 to E55, wherein the machinery further comprises pre-conditioning equipment. 58=-ïhe-maebâ-n-e:fy-(få1S)-acec»reå-š-ng-t<3-a-fw-ef-elaš-mæ-ëšáf»to-#331;--ævhee:eän-tla»a-äräl»ëš-ng-aafeešfiar-charg-iaag device»-ia-a-rra-:agefiå--en--a--mevable-påatferan;avla-ieh--š-s--:fa-evašale-w-ithi-:fe-the--ra-šse-åiiä-E-š--fefr--efieaehâra-g 69. §_?;._The machinery (910) according to any of claims šäl--t-eæ--š-å 611 to 56, wherein the platform is configured with a modular design. ¥Q.~_§'§_.__The machinery (910) according to any of claims êßftaêà__§çš¿_fç_çg_§2f, wherein the machinery and/or equipment arranged on the platform is configured with a modular design.l1o lzo lšfäThe machinery (910) according to any of claims 611 to 63, wherein the platform is configured to be moved to the side at the top ofthe raise to be stored in a storage position. åêfïThe machinery (910) according to any of claims 64 to wherein machinery is configured to be operated by remote control and/ or by manual control. šïš-ffjïjhe machinery (910) according to any of claimsêfäf-to--ífïšl- 611 to ?0, wherein the machinery is configured for semi-automation or full automation. ~?-11.«§_1_;2__.__The machinery (910) according to any of claims wherein the machinery(910) is configured for installing rock support from inside the raise (102), such as rock bolts, mesh, shotcrete or cable bolts. ïšfifåThe machinery (910) according to any of claims 611-1~o¥11__í_š__1§§__tçg_2_2_ wherein the machinery (910) is configured for hydrofracturing the rock mass from inside the raise (102). ïêffièThe machinery (910) according to any of claims 6411946234 to 73 wherein the machinery for drilling (910) is configured for performing directional drilling. lïfåThe machinery (910) according to any of claims 611 to 214 wherein the machinery for drilling (910) is configured for drilling curved boreholes by directional drilling.

38. }_'_6.mThe machinery (910) according to any of claims 64-tal? 611 to ïš, wherein the machinery (910) is configured for blast initiation ofthe charged boreholes. ¥9-.--2_?:._The machinery (910) according to any of claims êfäf-to--ï-ä 611 to ?6, wherein the machinery (910) is configured for blast initiation from inside the raise (102). êQ.~__íf'_§_.__The machinery (910) according to a__rj;_\¿__<_ç_ff_claimfs_6ßf~1ta¥~9=__611_fço__§jfl2f, wherein the machinery(910) is configured for blast initiation by wired detonators and/ or remote-controlled detonators and/ or non-electric detonators and/ or wireless detonators. ååfjâjhe machinery (910) according to any ofclaim§6<=14eèšëš 611 to ïâš, wherein the machineryis configured for loading and transporting fragmented rock (101) from the drawpoints by loaders and/ or trucks loaders and/ or continuous draw machinery with conveyors.åšêf-ïThe integrated raise caving mining infrastructure (902) according to any of claimg 58 to59, wherein the integrated cave mining infrastructure (902) comprises the machinery (910) according to any of claims»62~te»~šï- ååfåThe integrated raise caving mining infrastructure (902) according to any of claims 58 to59, wherein the integrated cave mining infrastructure (902) comprises the monitoring system (920) according to any of claims 60 tošš-åfåAn automatic or semi-automatic control system (901) of an integrated raícaviggemining infrastructure according to c|aim 58 to 59, wherein the automatic or semi-automaticcontrol system (901) is electrically coupled to a control circuitry (900) configured to control theintegrated raise caving mining method according to any of claims 1 to 56 wšiereir: :the contrzëi circuitry (900) comprizses a ciata rnedium, confiaïzrred for' srruring a data program P xærhicši is programmed for controiišng the automatic or sernš--srutornatic control system (901) and/or for controâišng the nwachšnery andior for cornmunicatšnfl with the monitoring system (920). åššffäThe automatic or semi-automatic control system (901) according to claiméšëfi, whereinthe automatic or semi-automatic control system (901) comprises the machinery (910) accordingto any of claims 64 to ?9, wherein the machinery (910) is configured to be operated bythe automatic or semi-automatic control system (901) in remote control mode and/or inautomatic control mode and/or in semi-automatic control mode and/or manually controlled mode. ëfiijhe automatic or semi-automatic control system (901) according to grggiclaimgëéai-er85432 or 83 , wherein the automatic or semi-automatic control system (901) comprises themonitoring system (920) according to any of claims 60 to 63, wherein the monitoring system(920) is configured to communicate with and be operated by the automatic or semi-automaticcontrol system (901) in remote control mode and/or in automatic control mode and/or in semi- automatic control mode and/or manually controlled mode. åïfšåäimA data medium, configured for storing a data program (P), configured for controlling theautomatic or semi-a utomatic control system (901) according to any of c|aim; iâÅ-te»%~__š_š_2__fçg>__8_¿§and/or configured for controlling the machinery (910) according to any of claimgê-Maâšš 64 toIQ, said data medium comprises a program code readable by the control circuitry (900) forperforming the integrated raise caving mining method according to any of claims 1 to 56 when the data medium is run on the control circuitry (900). 81