The Use of Stochastic Modeling and Simulation to Optimize the Mining Processes

Abstract

The article aims to study the possibilities and benefits of using the stochastic modeling and simulation method in the optimization of production processes. The article presents general characteristics of modelling and simulation and presents examples of stochastic models of selected production processes implemented in hard coal mines in Poland. The presented analysis led to the conclusion that the method of stochastic modelling and simulation is one of the methods worth using as a tool supporting process optimization. Its most important feature is enabling process analysis, which, regardless of the time range, can be verified within a few minutes. As a consequence, many variants of action can be analysed before their actual implementation in real conditions.