3D Block Modeling With Minesight 3D

3D Block Modeling
with MineSight 3D
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3D Block Modeling with MineSight 3D. V3. February 4, 2016
c
2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009 by Mintec Inc. and Leica Geosystems AG. All rights reserved. No part of this document shall be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means, electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written
permission from Mintec Inc. All terms mentioned in this document that are known to be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respec-
tive companies have been appropriately identified. MineSight is R a registered trademark of Leica Geosystems AG. This material is subject
to the terms in the Hexagon Mining Terms and Conditions (available at www.hexagonmining.com).
3D Block
Modeling
with
MineSight 3D
MineSight: Exploration to Production
MineSight software is a comprehensive mine planning platform offering integrated solutions for
exploration, modeling, design, scheduling and production. It uses raw data — from drillholes,
blastholes, underground samples and other sources — to derive 2D and 3D models essential to
mine design and planning. Below the ground or at the surface, from precious metals to base
metals, for coal, oil sands and industrial minerals, MineSight software tackles geomodeling mining
applications to improve productivity at every stage of a mine’s life.
GEOMETRIES
Use digitized data to define geologic information in section or plan; define topography contours;
and define structural information, such as mine designs, important in the evaluation of an ore
body. Virtually every phase of a project, from drillholes to production scheduling, either uses or
derives geometric data. MineSight software lets you create, manipulate, triangulate and view
any geometric data as 2D or 3D elements.
DRILLHOLES
Manage drillhole, blasthole and other
sample data in a Microsoft SQL Server
database. The data can be validated,
manipulated and reported; and it is
fully integrated with other MineSight
products for coding, spearing, com-
positing, interpolation, statistics and
display. Some of the types of data
you can store are drillhole collar infor-
mation (location, length and more),
down-hole survey data (orientation),
assays, lithology, geology, geotechni-
cal data and quality parameters for
coal.
COMPOSITING
Calculate composites by several methods, including bench, fixed length, honoring geology and
economic factors. These composites are fully integrated with other MineSight products for statistics
and geostatistics, interpolation and display.
c 2015 Mintec Inc. and Leica Geosystems AG

3D BLOCK MODEL (3DBM) STRATIGRAPHIC MODEL
Used to model base metal deposits such as por- Used to model layered deposits, such as coal and
phyry copper, non-layered deposits, and most oil sands. Although they are normally oriented hor-
complex coal and oil sands projects. izontally, they can be oriented vertically for steeply
dipping ore bodies.
Vertical dimensions are typically a function of the Vertical dimensions are a function of the seam
mining bench height. (or other layered structures) and interburden thick-
nesses.
Contains grade items, geological codes and a to- Contains elevations and thickness of seams (or
pography percent among other qualities and mea- other layered structures), as well as grade items, ge-
surements. ological codes, a topography percent, and other
qualities and measurements.
MODELING
Build and manage 3D block, stratigraphic and surface models to define your deposit. Populate
your models through: geometries (polygons, solids or surfaces) coded into the model; calculations
on model items; text files loaded into the model; and interpolation through techniques such as in-
verse distance weighting, kriging or polygonal assignment. As you design and evaluate your mine
project, you can update your model, summarize resources and reserves, calculate and report
statistics, display in plots or view in 2D and 3D.
ECONOMIC PIT LIMITS & PIT OPTIMIZATION

Generate pit shells to reflect economic designs. Using floating cone or Lerchs-Grossmann tech-
niques, work on whole blocks from the 3D block model to find economic pit limits for economic
assumptions such as costs, net value, cutoff grades and pit wall slope. Economic material is usually
one grade or an equivalent grade item. You can view the results in 2D or 3D, use the results to
guide your phase design, plot your design in plan or section, calculate reserves and run simple
production scheduling on your reserves.
vi
3D Block Modeling with MineSight 3D
PIT & UNDERGROUND DESIGN

Accurately design detailed open pit geometry, in- Support & Services
cluding ramps and pushbacks with variable wall
Client service and satisfaction is our
slopes, and display your pit designs in plan or section, first priority. Boasting a multilingual
clipped against topography or in 3D. You can eval- group of geologists and engineers
uate reserves for pit designs based on a partial block stationed worldwide, the MineSight
basis and calculate production schedules from the re- team has years of hands-on, real-world
serves. Create and manipulate underground design experience.
through CAD functions and from survey information.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
No matter your location or the time of

LONG TERM PLANNING
day, MineSight Technical Support is at
Generate schedules for long term planning based on your service. The company’s offices
pushback designs, or phases, and reserves computed in the United States, Canada, Mexico,
by the mine-planning programs. The basic input pa- Peru, Chile, Brazil, South Africa, Australia
rameters for each production period include mill ca- and the United Kingdom all offer techni-
pacity, mine capacity and cutoff grades. cal support via phone and email.
TRAINING
SHORT TERM PLANNING MineSight software is always improving

in response to our clients’ needs. It
Generate schedules for short term planning based on
doesn’t take long to fall behind. That’s
cuts or solids in interactive planning modules. A large why we’re committed to helping you
selection of parameters and flexible configurations let get the most from MineSight software.
you control daily, weekly or monthly production. Take advantage of our regularly sched-
uled training courses or create a cus-
tomized curriculum that best suits your
needs.
CONSULTING
MineSight Consulting Services offers

mine planning studies, mineral resource
studies and project assistance to help
you get the most from your mine and
from MineSight. From scoping studies to
final feasibility studies, depend on our
multilingual MineSight specialists.
SOLUTIONS
The Solutions Group specializes in cus-

tom software development, operations
management, and system configura-
tion of MineSight to help you manage
workflow and streamline the mining op-
eration. No matter the challenge, you’ll
find the Solutions Group well equipped
to resolve the issues unique to your mine.
vii
Contents
The MineSight Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Geo Copper Data Set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
The Model Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
The Compass Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
The Torque Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Backing Up the Torque Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Drillhole Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Surface Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Surface Model Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
3D Block Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Adding Topography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Coding Model Blocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Interpolating the Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Block Model Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Calculating Model Item Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Quick Model Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Initializing MSDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Model Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Reporting Model Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Conclusion & Future Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
The MineSight Project

MineSight training courses typically cover several
programs that work together in the MineSight sys- LEARNING OBJECTIVE
tem. Each program has a project folder (created
upon initialization) that stores its subfolders and Make a root folder to store your MineSight
files. For example, MineSight 3D (MS3D) stores its project data.
data in a folder called “_msresources.”
For this course, create a master folder called
“MineSight Project,” or use a descriptive name, to house the project folders. MineSight Project
is the project location you should specify when you initialize each program. Project folders do not
need to exist in one location, but keeping them together is a common set up for ease of sharing
and data organization.
Store project folders created MineSight

within different programs Project
in a master folder
MS3D Torque MSDA

_msresources _mstresources MSDA Resources
MSDA_charts
The MineSight Project | 1


NOTES
2 | The MineSight Project

Geo Copper Data Set

The Geo Copper Data Set comes from a multi-metallic porphyry deposit with copper as the main
ore of interest. Molybdenum and zinc data have also been collected. The mineralization type of
the deposit (oxide, primary sulfides and secondary sulfides) most strongly controls the distribution
of grade. Sulfide mineralization consists mainly of pyrite and chalcopyrite. The deposit occurs in
felsic to intermediate intrusive igneous rocks and associated breccias. Alteration zones outward
from the center — from a phyllic zone to a propylitic halo.
ALTERATION ZONES
Phyllic 1
Potassic 2
Propylitic 3
LITHOLOGY CODES
Diorite 1
Granodiorite 2
Quartz Feldspar 3
Intermediate Breccia 4
Late Breccia 5
Country Rock 6
MINERALOGY CODES
PROJECT BOUNDARY COORDINATES (in metric units)
Oxides 1
Min Max Cell Size Block
Primary Sulfides 2
Count
Secondary Sulfides 3
Easting: 3500 8500 (DX=25) 200
Outside(default code) 4
Northing: 4500 9500 (DY=25) 200
Elevation: 705 1965 (DZ=15) 84
Geologists have collected and logged information from 287 drillholes at the site over the course of
two drilling campaigns (one on the northwest side of the deposit and the other on the southeast).
Drillhole types include diamond, reverse circulation, hammer, and mixed hammer and diamond.
Samples were collected at various lengths — from 1-meter to 15-meter intervals. Element sample
analysis included total copper, acid soluble copper, molybdenum and zinc.
Geo Copper Data Set | 3


NOTES
4 | Geo Copper Data Set

The Model Manager

The Model Manager lets you create or edit project
control files (PCF), 3D block models (3DBM), grid- LEARNING OBJECTIVE
ded surface files (GSF) and gridded seam models
(GSM) from within MineSight 3D (MS3D). It can be Create, edit and clone PCFs, gridded sur-
used to start a new project and add models, or to face files and 3D block model files.
manage an existing project with existing models.
To access Model Manager: MS3D Desktop Menu → Model → Model Manager or select icon from
the Model Toolbar
THE PROJECT CONTROL FILE (PCF)

The PCF is essential to working in MineSight — it contains the data the system draws from to perform
its operations. The PCF appears as “****10.dat” in your project folder and includes:
• Project and company identification.
• A geometric description of the project — the coordinates entered into the PCF will be used
for the block model.
• The type of model (stratigraphic or 3D).
• The units (imperial or metric).
• A table of file names for the project (maximum of 125 files).
• Descriptors for each item stored in a MineSight file.
The Model Manager | 5


EXERCISE: Create a New PCF

Create a new PCF file using the following parameters: PCF ID = GEO (for example), Folder = the project direc-
tory you are working in, Description = a general description of the project. Input the column, row and bench
limits from the project data set overview. Click to save the changes you have made to the PCF.
New PCF MS3D Desktop Menu → Model → Model Manager → Project → New PCF
Model Files
Model Manager lets you create model views for two types of model files — File 15 (3DBM or GSM)
and File 13 (GSF) — in the currently loaded project. You can also:
• Add and edit items to an existing model in a one-step process, without renaming or cloning
the model.
• Use the Clone function to copy an existing project file from the current working project or
from another project, which can be located in a different directory, to a file that you specify.
Item labels, minimum, maximum, precision and the data are all copied.
• Rename a MineSight project file. The file will be renamed in the project directory as well as in
the PCF.
• Sub-block items within your model to enhance their resolution.
In the same way that you can create new model files,
you can modify existing model files. This comes in handy Fields in the model files cannot begin
when you have a model file already created and you with a number. You will see a warn-
need to add an item. In the Model Manager you can ing message if you choose this nam-
ing convention.
edit the files “on the fly.”
EXERCISE: Create and Edit a Model File

Create a new model file. Add required model items. Clone the model file and rename it. Then add an item
and delete an item.
New Model File Model Manager → Model → 3DBM—File 15 or GSF—File 13
Clone Model Manager → Model → Clone
Rename Model Manager → Model → Rename → enter new name → OK
Add Model Item choose the existing model file → Edit → Add → add item
Delete Model Item red X adjacent to the Add → remove unwanted fields
6 | The Model Manager

Import/Export a Model Item List

In the same way that you can add and delete single fields or a group of added fields, you can
also import fields from an ASCII text file or from an existing model file. This is done under the same
menu with which you add a singular field. Choose the option to Import items from an ASCII file or
Import items from a model file. Choose the correct corresponding file, and your items will appear.
In reverse, if you have a model file and you want to share the items with others, you can export
the items to a text file. This functionality is found under the Model → Export item definitions menu.
EXERCISE: Import Model Items

Import the items from modelitems.txt into the new model file.
Import Items choose your model file → Edit → Add → Import Items from an ASCII File → open
modelitems.txt → select the items you want to import → Import
The Model Manager | 7


NOTES
8 | The Model Manager

The Compass Interface

MineSight Compass acts as the menu interface for running calculations and evaluations on im-
ported data using MineSight Basis, which works in the background and is never “seen.” The Menu
tab helps you navigate hundreds of Basis procedures. You can use a filter to view procedures
organized by group (i.e. 5a-3D Modeling) and operation (i.e. Data Convert), or you can search
for specific procedures.
COMPASS TABS
Setup: Displays the current project control file

(PCF), pre-selected project data files and cur-
rent operating modes. You can connect to a Mi-
neSight Torque project through the icons next to
the MSTorque Database field. The first icon allows
you to select your server and project; the sec-
ond icon allows you to refresh the connection;
the third icon allows you to remove the connec-
tion.
Menu: Controls the display and selection of

menus, filters the procedure list by “group” and
“operation,” and provides a search engine for a
desired procedure.
Options: Contains multi-run options and the pro-

cedure Response Editor, and houses user assign-
ments. Create new multi-run packages and ac-
cess existing multi-run packages through this tab.
Project: Controls project parameters, and cre-

ation or editing of project files.
Extent: Controls editing and viewing of the PCF

model limits and project boundaries. Model lim-
its define model ranges and block sizes. Ro-
tated models are defined in model coordinates;
project bounds are defined in project coordinates. The project bounds are used as defaults for bound-
ary checking and plot limits. Changes made here do not translate to MS3D settings.
Rotation: Controls viewing of the current PCF rotation parameters. The fields on this page are not avail-
able for editing. Use the model rotation dialog in MS3D to change the rotation origin and rotation angles.
The Compass Interface | 9


The Project Response File (PRJ)

The project response file (PRJ) contains recorded procedure responses and is essential to Com-
pass. Along with the project control file (PCF), it contains the data the system draws from to per-
form its operations. The PRJ appears as “****.prj” in your project folder.
EXERCISE: Initialize a New PRJ
Start Compass Windows Start Menu → MSCompass → specify project directory → OK

MS3D Desktop Menu → MineSight Compass
New PRJ MSCompass Menu → File → New → Project → select PCF in MineSight PCF
dialog → Open
Defining Project Files

Project files store information such as intervals for drillholes, drillhole locations, composites and
model information. Initialize these files through Compass.
Project file Items are the “spaces” available in project files to

store information. The following provides a brief description of TYPES OF PROJECT FILES
the types of Items and their characteristics. Composite (File 9)
Assay (File 11)
Survey (File 12)
Numeric Items (e.g., assays, geologic codes, interval length)
Surface Model (File 13)
• Label: one to five alphanumeric characters; no special 3D Block Model (File 15)
characters (/ * . _ -); no embedded blanks
• Minimum value: minimum numeric value of item (often ASSAY FILE 11 ITEMS
0); negative and positive values allowed; values below Item Min Max Precision
minimum considered “missing” TCU 0 10 0.001
ASCU 0 10 0.001
• Maximum value: maximum numeric value of item; values
MO 0 5 0.001
above maximum are reduced to maximum; maximum of
ZINC 0 5 0.001
0 is used for full word data
ALTER 0 10 1.000
• Precision: the least significant digit honored; defaults to LITO 0 10 1.000
1.0 (integer precision) MINRL 0 10 1.000
• Roundoff = (Precision/2) - .0001
Alphanumeric strings (e.g. drillhole labels, geologic codes, property ownership)
• Item label: one to five alphanumeric characters; no special characters (/ * . _ -) ; no embed-

ded blanks
• Minimum value = 0; maximum value = 0; Precision = -1
• Value limited to four alphanumeric characters
• Multiple alphanumeric items allowed
• Not allowed in model files
10 | The Compass Interface

EXERCISE: Create Project Files

Create an assay file (File 11) called “geo11.dat” using the Assay File 11 Items table, and a survey file (File 12)
called “geo12.dat.”
Assay File Compass → Project tab → Open Project File Editor button → File → New →
11-Assay → enter new items, interval coordinates and precision → Save
Survey File Compass → Project tab → Open Project File Editor button → File → New → 12-
Survey → use default items → Save → set normalization constants to project
center or zero
The Compass Interface | 11


NOTES
12 | The Compass Interface

The Torque Database

MineSight Torque manages drillhole and blasthole
data in an SQL database. It provides a platform for LEARNING OBJECTIVE
running procedures and calculations on your data
as well as creating composites. Starting Torque Set up a Torque database for managing
opens the Data Source dialog, through which you drillhole and blasthole data.
can either create a new project or connect to an
existing project. Windows or SQL handles the au-
thentication, depending on the server configura-
tion.
The project folder contains subfolders that help
you organize the input and output files that Torque
uses and generates. The drillhole database itself is
stored in a location based on the SQL settings.
When reopening Torque from a recent session, no-
tice that the existing server and project display in
the Data Source dialog. You can also connect to
a different existing project. Filters allow you to con-
nect to an existing project without loading all the data from that project. Sample sites, sample
attributes, fields and measurements can be filtered using the Selection and Filtering dialog. You
can also save the filter definitions for future use.
EXERCISE: Open a Torque Project

Initialize a new project called “GeoMST” located in your project folder.
Initialize a Project start Torque → Data Source dialog → enter server, project name and folder
location → New Project dialog → OK → Create Directory
Open an Existing Project start Torque → Data Source dialog → select server, project and folder from
dropdown menu
Project Menu → Connect → Data Source dialog → select server, project and
folder from dropdown menu
The Torque Database | 13


NOTES
14 | The Torque Database

Backing Up the Torque Database

Backing up the MineSight Torque database is sim-
ple and important. It is an easy way to share data LEARNING OBJECTIVE
with colleagues or restore your data to a previous
state, if necessary. Protect and share your Torque project by
backing up and restoring the database.
EXERCISE: Back Up and Restore Files

Back up your Torque database. Then restore it.
Back Up a File Torque Menu → Project → Backup
Restore a Backup File Torque Menu → Project → Restore → MSTorque Data Source dialog
Backing Up the Torque Database | 15


NOTES
16 | Backing Up the Torque Database

Drillhole Views
Viewing drillholes in MineSight 3D (MS3D) is a pow-
erful tool for visual analysis. The data object, called LEARNING OBJECTIVE
a drillhole view, depicts your drillhole data in 3D
or 2D. Drillhole views must be linked with a data Display drillholes in 3D and 2D for analysis.
source, such as a MineSight project file (the appro-
priate PCF, assay and survey file), MineSight Torque
or acQuire. You can view multiple drillhole views at
once. The drillholes seen while in section are the
ones within the current projection volume.
All saved filters for Torque drillhole views are

available for use. You can rename, delete or load
filters by highlighting the individual filter in Filter
Manager dialog.
Drillhole View
in MS3D
EXERCISE: Create and Query Drillhole Views

Create a folder called “DH Views.” If you do not already have a section grid set, import EW Grid.msr. Create
drillhole views from Torque, experimenting with different options. Save a final drillhole view for each coverage
and the bench composite.
Create a Drillhole View Data Manager → select and right-click destination folder → New → DH View
From Torque → MineSight Torque → name drillhole view → OK → select your Torque
database → MSTorque-Selection and Filtering Wizard
View in 3D Data Manager → double-click drillhole view name → Drillhole View Properties
→ Barrels tab → show barrels in 3D → enter Barrel width → select pattern and
size items → Apply
View in 2D attach the section grid set → select desired plane → put Viewer in 2D mode
Query Drillhole Data Desktop Menu → Query → Query Element

Function Tool Bar → Element Toolbar → Query Element
Selecting drillholes in the drillhole view list of the Drillhole View Properties window (Selection Tab) will
highlight those drillholes in the viewer
Drillhole Views | 17

Editing Drillhole Data in MS3D

Editing drillhole data is interactive in MS3D, but note that you are directly editing the values in
your Torque database. As such, it is a good idea to first create a backup of your database.
Drillhole properties, including strings, can be edited manually by right-clicking on a drillhole view
and selecting Edit.
EXERCISE: Edit Drillhole Data in MS3D
Edit Interval Data Data Manager → select and right-click drillhole view → Edit → click desired
drillhole interval in Browse: Drillhole View dialog or in Viewer → Edit → Edit
Drillhole → Apply
Displaying Survey & Interval Labels

Activate drillhole survey and interval labels using Drill-
hole View Properties. Survey labels include the drillhole
ID, Total Depth, Offsection Distance and values for ad-
ditional survey file items. You can display interval la-
bels for any assay or composite item, styled by a color
or cutoffs. Labels work in both 2D and 3D.
Make sure the color of your labels is different than the

background color of the Viewer.
2D Node-style Label (left) and
2D Single-line Label
EXERCISE: Create Drillhole Labels

Activate survey and interval labels for viewing in 2D.
Display Survey Labels Data Manager → double-click drillhole view name → Drillhole View Properties
→ Survey tab → Labels area → Show Text in 3D or Show Text in 2D → select
label layout → enter labels (Item: DHID) → Apply
Display Interval Labels Data Manager → double-click drillhole view name → Drillhole View Properties
→ Interval tab → Show Labels in 3D or Show Labels in 2D → select label layout
→ click “+” to add labels → Apply
BARRELS
Barrels can be used to display assays in MineSight 3D (MS3D) instead of
polylines. Size, color and pattern can be set by individual cutoff items.
Adjust the properties of barrels from the Barrels tab in Drillhole View Prop-
erties.
18 | Drillhole Views
Creating Points from Drillholes

Point Geometry Objects can be created through Drillhole View Properties to mark drillhole/blasthole
collars; top and bottom sample item occurrences; and the start of intervals, sample item se-
quences and contacts between particular data values. The points can then be used for Fence
Grid Sets, Implicit Modeler and other MineSight tools and functions.
Drillhole view showing collars (left) and collar points generated from a drillhole view.
EXERCISE: Generate Marker Points from a Drillhole View

Create new point geometry objects from drillhole sample site and sample data. Use the Selection tab to
display the drillholes needed to create points.
Collar Points Data Manager → double-click drillhole view name → Drillhole View Properties
→ Points tab → Options area → select Collar → Preview → Attribute points
with DH ID → Apply → open geometry file to save points → viewer displays
drillhole collar points → double-click new points geometry object name →
Geometry Properties → Node Labels tab → Element Name → viewer dis-
plays drillhole ID collar point labels
Top and Bottom Most Data Manager → double-click drillhole view name → Drillhole View Properties
Occurrence Points → Points tab → Options area → select Top Most Occurrence → use edit grid
to specify direction to determine top and bottom → Parameters area →
specify Item → specify Min value → option to Filter intervals → Preview →
Apply → Options area → select Bottom Most Occurrence → Apply → save
points to same points geometry object → viewer displays first and last occur-
rence points of selected item values for each drillhole
Contact Between Data Manager → double-click drillhole view name → Drillhole View Properties
Values Points → Points tab → Options area → select Contact Between Values → Param-
eters area → specify Item → specify Value → specify Contact with value →
option to Filter intervals → Preview → Apply → open geometry file to save
points → viewer displays contact points between item values such as lithol-
ogy or mineralogy codes
Drillhole Views | 19

Contouring Grade Items from Drillholes

Contouring grade items at specific ele-
vations can be advantageous for eval-
uating grade distribution. Contour
grade values from drillhole intervals us-
ing the Contour Tool.
Copper grade contours

colored using materials.
EXERCISE: Contouring Grade Items

Contour the total copper grade item for a single elevation (1425 m intervals of copper from 0% to 5% at 0.1%
intervals). Attribute the contours with names and materials (using the $value wildcard), and use these mate-
rials to create a nice color display as shown in the image.
Contour Tool Desktop Menu → Polyline → Contour Tool → select parameters → Naming tab
→ select and enter parameters → Apply
Polyline Toolbar → Contour Tool → select parameters → Naming tab → select
and enter parameters → Apply
20 | Drillhole Views
Surface Models
A surface model stores values (typically elevation)
in 2D surfaces called grids. Two examples are “un- LEARNING OBJECTIVE
consolidated overburden” and “topsoil thickness,”
which are useful for calculating future stockpiles or Create surface models to assist in visual
for reclamation work. and statistical analysis.
Surface models are stored as a File 13, also called
a gridded surface file (GSF), and viewable in Mine-
Sight 3D (MS3D) using model views. Each grid in a model file typically contains several items of
information (i.e. different geology surface elevations). Before you can store any surfaces, you must
initialize the model.
Surface models showing a triangulated surface (left) and colored to show elevation.
Surface Models | 21

NOTES
22 | Surface Models
Surface Model Views

Creating a model view allows you to interact with
the model file, visualize model data as contoured LEARNING OBJECTIVE
surfaces or polygons, and store data in the surface
model. You can also code a model directly from Create a model view of a gridded sur-
a MineSight 3D (MS3D) solid or polygon. Model face file.
views show items from a model at different spatial
regions, but they require a 2x2 block configuration.
When creating a model view from a Special Pit Optimization GSF (File 13), you can create multiple
model views for each of the gridded surfaces contained in that File 13 using one dialog. If the File
13 contains more than 50 items, multiple model views can be created in one step.
EXERCISE: Create Model Views

Create a File 13 model view in a folder named “Model Views.” The first view will be displaying TOPOG be-
cause topography will be gridded first.
GSF Model View Data Manager → select and right-click destination folder → New → Model
View → New Model dialog → choose name and location for new model
view (this will be used as a prefix) → select the PCF and File 13
Gridding
To grid a surface is to overlay the
model grid on a surface geometry
object; calculate the surface value
(usually elevation) over each model
block; and store the resulting values
to a selected item in the gridded sur-
face file. After you have gridded
a surface, the grids (size defined by
the PCF) will show elevation values
based on average calculations done
for each grid cell. The topography
should fully cover the project bounds
before gridding in order for all the
grids to receive a value.
EXERCISE: Grid a Surface

In the Data Manager, open the topography surface. Grid the surface to the TOPOG item in the surface
model. Create a geometry set to contain the topo surface.
Gridding Data Manager → double-click model view → Geometry tab → Geometry Set
Editor (blue cube) → browse to surface → save geometry set → OK → Grid
tab → choose item to store values to (i.e. TOPOG) → click Grid at bottom
right of panel
Surface Model Views | 23


NOTES
24 | Surface Model Views

3D Block Models
The 3D block model (3DBM) is the basis for resource
evaluation and mine design. It commonly repre- LEARNING OBJECTIVE
sents large, disseminated deposits such as base
metals and uranium. Geologists often use the Understand the concept behind a 3D
3DBM to interpolate composite samples and store block model.
geologic codes.
The 3DBM is a three-dimensional grid of blocks that all have the same dimensions. Block height
usually conforms to the proposed bench height in an open pit operation. The lateral block dimen-
sions are often dependent on the deposit, spacing and resolution needs. In general, these lateral
dimensions must adequately represent the grade distribution. Storing a topography is critical in a
3DBM for showing a grade item and the percent of material below the surface.
The File 15 model view displays the 3DBM but can also be used to code and run calculations.
A 3DBM
EXERCISE: Create Block Model Views

Create File 15 model views in MS3D in the “Model Views” folder. Use your PCF and your File 15 (3DBM) to
create your model view.
MS3D Model View highlight and right-click destination folder → New → Model View → name the
Model View → OK → browse to PCF → select sub-block model file
3D Block Models | 25

NOTES
26 | 3D Block Models
Adding Topography
Add topography to your 3D block model (3DBM) to
ensure that resource calculations do not include LEARNING OBJECTIVE
areas that are not below the surface (in the air).
Each block stores a percent value to show how Clip the 3DBM to account for data that
much of that block is below the surface. Coding extends above the surface (in the air).
the topography to the model is essential. If done
as the first step when building the model, the to-
pography percent can be used in different calculations.
Topography separates data above and below the surface
EXERCISE: Add Topography to the 3DBM

Use a geometry set containing the topography surface to code the topography percent. Set the default to
0 percent.
TOPO% Data Manager → double-click model view → Model View Editor → Geometry
tab → select the surface for coding → Code tab → Code from Surfaces op-
tion → set the storing option as Code Total PERCENT between/below surface
→ Choose TOPO item as the Ore Percent Item → Code
EXERCISE: Sub-block Topography

If you are planning to use MineSight Reserve to generate a resource report on your sub-blocked model, you
will need to sub-block the topography. Since sub-blocks do not store block percentages, it will not be possible
to use the existing TOPO item. Instead, a new item will need to be added to the model. The item will store
a flag value indicating whether each sub-block is below the topography or not. To add the item, open the
Model Manager and create a new item called TOPOS with a Min of 0, Max of 1, and Precision of 1. Then
code the surface to TOPOS using the Model View Editor.
Sub-block Model Manager → click on geo15.dat → Edit → Add (Add Item) → Name Item
→ enter min, max, precision → check Sub-block → Save
Code Surface Model View Editor → Geometry Tab → select Topography Surface geometry set
→ set the code value for the surface to 1 → Save Geometry Set → Code tab
→ Select From Surfaces → Code by Majority → set the minimum percentage
to code block to 50% → set Reset Item Before Coding to 0 → select TOPOS
item → Code
Adding Topography | 27

AVAILABLE STORING OPTIONS
CODE by Codes individual intervals with the material codes of the geometry objects
majority code in order of the largest percentage of a geometry object inside the interval.
The result is stored into a single item. For example, geometry objects C and
D have material codes 3 and 4 respectively. Inside a DH interval, geometry
object C fills 30% of the length, while geometry object D fills 40% of the length.
The first block item selected will be coded 4, because object D is the majority
code inside interval A. If a second interval code item is selected, it will be
coded 3, because object C is the second majority code.
CODEs and PERCENTs Like the CODE by majority code option above, with the addition of a per-
in majority order centage item. With this option, the interval will code the interval code item
selected, and the percentage of the interval that the geometry object oc-
cupies. For example, geometry object C has a model code of 3. Inside a
DH interval, geometry object C occupies 23% of the interval. Therefore, the
selected Code Item will be assigned a code of 3, and the Ore Percent Item
will be assigned 23%.
CODEs and major PER- This option is similar to the ’Codes and Percents in majority order’ option
CENTs in priority order above, except that the codes are arranged by code priority order instead of
by majority order. Use the button labeled Prioritize Model Codes... to change
the code priority order. This button is found at the lower left-hand corner of
the dialog.
All PERCENTs This option only codes the percentage of each object contained inside a
in codes order DH interval. They are arranged in code priority order.
Total PERCENT within Only one model item may be updated with this option. The result is the per-
solid(s) or polygon(s) centage of a drillhole interval within all selected geometry objects.
CODE at interval This option is only available for use when coding From Polygons. The coding
centers (from option is the same as CODE by majority order, except the only code applied
polygons only) to DH intervals is the code of the object that is positioned at the interval
center. The result is stored into a single item.
28 | Adding Topography
Coding Model Blocks

Model coding can be performed from closed
solids, surfaces or polygons. If solids overlap, in LEARNING OBJECTIVE
which case the sum of the partial percents will be
greater than 100 percent, you may run into incor- Code the 3D block model from geology
rect resource estimations later. If the overlap is polygons and geology solids.
small, normalizing the total partials to the topog-
raphy percent in each block will help resolves this
issue. If the overlap is significant, use the Intersect Solid tool prior to coding.
As with drillhole interval coding, material type controls the value coded to the model blocks. You
should assign a material to each geologic solid before coding. Otherwise, you can use the over-
ride option when you create the geometry set.
Coding above or below a single surface is also possible with the Code from Surface option. You
can store the accompanying percent values at the same time.
Coding from Geology Polygons

Coding from polygons involves projecting
the polygons onto orthogonal planes and
assigning a volume of influence to each
polygon. Default coding expands from
the projected polygon to halfway between
planes on either side. However, you can
also expand from the projected polygon to
another plane (in the direction of increasing
coordinate value). You should create poly-
gons based on an existing grid set and use
that grid set as the reference plane list.
EXERCISE: Code from Mineralogy Polygons

Create a folder in the Data Manager called “Geology” and import the mineralogy polygons. Create a ge-
ometry set with the polygons and the EW Grid grid set.
Code from Polygons Data Manager → double-click sub-block model view → Code Model tab →
From Polygons option → Geometry tab → create Mineralogy Polygons ge-
ometry set → Code Model tab → Polygons tab → Grid Set button → choose
a grid set (planes) → extrude the projected polygons to solids (polygon cod-
ing options) Coding Options tab: CODE by Majority Code (Storing Options),
0% (Min Value), Ore (Code As), default value to reset=4 → choose Zone
Code item MNLRP → Code
Coding Model Blocks | 29


Coding the Model from Geology Solids

Coding the model from geology solids is performed through the Model View Properties dialog
using at least one solid. You can store majority codes only, or you can store majority code and the
accompanying percent. The two items to which you store these codes are the zone code item
and the ORE% item.
EXERCISE: Code from Geology Solids

Import the lithology and mineralogy solids into the Geology folder. Code the lithology solids to the LITO item
(majority code only), and code the mineralogy solids to the MNRLS item along with the total percent within
the mineralogy solids to the ORE% item.
Code from Solids double-click sub-block model view → Code Model tab → Code from Solids
option → Geometry tab → select geometry set (lithology or mineralogy
solids)Code Model tab: (see below) → choose Zone Code item (and Per-
cent item for Run 3) → Code
→ Run 1 (Lithology Solids): Code Model tab: CODE by Majority Code (Storing Options), 0% ( Min Value), Ore
(Code As) , default value to reset=6, Code Item = LITO
→ Run 2 (Mineralogy Solids): Code Model tab: CODE by Majority Code (Storing Options), 0% ( Min Value),
Ore (Code As) , default value to reset=4, Code Item = MNLRS
→ Run 3 (Total Ore % Inside Mineralogy Solids): Code Model tab: Total Percent with Solids(s), Ore (Code As) ,
default value to reset=0, Ore Percent Item = ORE%
30 | Coding Model Blocks

Interpolating the Model

Interpolation is the only way to transfer composite
grades or qualities into a model. Different types LEARNING OBJECTIVE
of interpolation routines are available in MineSight.
This course will cover inverse distance weighting Add composited data to a model using
(IDW). the inverse distance weighting interpola-
Interpolating the model requires the MineSight Ba- tion method.
sis procedure pintrpq.dat. One way to verify the in-
terpolation is to create a model view for the main PROCEDURE pintrpq.dat
interpolation control item in MineSight 3D (MS3D) Group 5A-3D Modeling
and compare it with a drillhole view of the com- Operation Calculation
posite file. Description Various interpolation routines
to store grades to the model
Below are the input, calculations and output con-
siderations for pintrpq.dat.
Input Calculation Output

• PCF • Locate composites • Updated mine
• Mine model file (File within search window model file with
13, 14 or 15) ⇒ • Match block/geology ⇒ interpolated grades
• Geology codes codes (required for
• MineSight Torque sub-blocking)
composite set • Apply limiting factors
• Determine nearest
composites
• Compute weights
• Calculate and store
grades
Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW)

IDW is done through the procedure pintrpq.dat. The influence, or weight, given to a composite
varies inversely with the distance separating the composite and the block center. You can set the
power of the IDW (2 Square, 3 Cube, -1 to average or other higher powers). Geological matching
between codes from composites and blocks is also available.
G = estimated value of block
V = value of sample
D = distance of sample to center of block
n = power (or exponent ) of D (distance)
k = No. of samples
Interpolating the Model | 31


EXERCISE: Run pintrpq.dat

Run the interpolation for total copper and molybdenum with a 180-meter search distance and default op-
tions (and the bench composite set). Store the results to CUI and MOI. At the same time, run the polygonal
interpolation and store to CUPLY and MOPLY. Store back to the AVDST, CLDST, NCOMP and NDHS items. At-
tach the Torque database to the Compass setup panel first. Under Geologic Matching, choose LITO or MNRLS
as the model item and Lith Code or Min Code for the composite item.
pintrpq.dat Compass → open procedure pintrpq.dat → enter the data into the panels →
Save responses → run the procedure
Interpolation Options
DEBUG ELLIPSOID
In this option, only one specified block is interpo-
lated. It can be used with kriging and inverse
distance weighting methods. An ellipsoid will be
generated for viewing in MS3D — which includes
tie lines to composites used and a list of weights.
Using this option can be very helpful when trou-
bleshooting an interpolation run.
Debug ellipsoid with model block and
composites shown in MS3D
OCTANT/QUADRANT OPTIONS
Useful when dealing with clustered data. Several op-
tions are available to choose from for restricting how
much data is used from each sector. This allows for
better use of clustered data.
Split quadrant option — the sphere represents the

search area and the planes show the search split into
sectors
32 | Interpolating the Model

ANISOTROPIC DISTANCE OPTION

This option can be used to further reduce the in-
fluence of composites along the minor axis. This
is an important option while doing an inverse dis-
tance interpolation as it will influence the weight
of each composite. It is less important in a kriging
interpolation because variograms handle sample
weighting. The ellipse can also be rotated. (The
Two composite locations sharing differences
rotation conventions are described in the proce-
between true and anisotropic distances
dure.)
BASIC SEARCH PARAMETERS
The first three parameters (PAR1, PAR2 and PAR3) de-
fine a general search box around each block. The
search will be refined further in a later panel in the pro-
cedure. The fourth parameter (PAR4), the “Max 3D dis-
tance,” should match the major axis of the ellipsoidal
search for the interpolation to work properly (if using
ellipsoid search).
Basic search parameters
BLOCK LIMITING & GEOLOGIC MATCHING OPTION

The Block Limiting option will restrict the
interpolation calculations to only those
blocks containing specific codes (such as
for a particular geologic unit). This ap-
proach is practical when you want to use
different interpolation parameters for dif-
ferent geologic domains in the project.
The Code Matching option uses only
those composites for the interpolation
calculations that have the same code as
the model blocks. This method is com-
monly used for hard boundaries, such as
in a particular geologic domain, and pre-
vents a composite value from a different Composites and block model showing code values.
domain from influencing the block being With geomatching activated, blue composites are
calculated. Geologic matching or block used for blue blocks, red for red blocks and so on.
limiting must be used to interpolate to
sub-blocked items. Otherwise, interpola-
tion will only consider the parent block.
Interpolating the Model | 33


NOTES
34 | Interpolating the Model

Block Model Views

Attaching a model view to a MineSight 3D (MS3D)
project allows you to visualize model data as sur- LEARNING OBJECTIVE
face/slab, contours, filled polygons, blocks, or
block grade shells. Create model views to see se- Attach a model stored in a project file to
lected items from a model, different spatial regions MS3D for viewing.
of a model and, in the case of 3D block mod-
els, grade shells from which you can create a ge-
ometry object. You can restrict what region of Create views for each item as it is loaded; for
the model to view, and specify primary and sec- example, the first view will be TOPO because
ondary display items. The Model View Editor lets topography will be coded first. That way, you
you change display properties, create grade shells can return to the model view and see your
and code the model. coding setup still intact.
Creating a model view also allows you to interact

with the model file. You can code a model directly from an MS3D solid or polygon. Each grid in a
model file typically contains several items of information (i.e. different geology surface elevations).
Before you can store any surfaces, you must initialize the model.
Two model files may be used to create a model view: File 15—3D block model (3DBM) or gridded
seam model (GSM); and File 14—GSM summary file (GSM projects only).
Model Display Styles

The Model View Editor controls display options, which differ for 3D and 2D modes. Displaying the
model in 2D is a good way to explore model cross sections of data.
The Display tab allows independent control of the
model display extents for 3D and 2D viewing. You can
use it to show 3D display limits and boundary lines. It
also has an optional Immediate Refresh check box,
which will refresh the limits as you change them with-
out having to click Apply. Note that displaying your
entire model view at once will slow performance.
3D Mode
Displaying item labels for blocks is only possible in 2D
mode. You can choose from existing items in the
File 15 and display five labels at once. Each label can
be offset horizontally and vertically. The default label
color is white; however, you can choose to set the la-
bel color based on the item’s cutoff value.
2D Mode
It can be more convenient to view polygons (or blocks) while they are unfilled (highlight the desired
buttons → Properties → Surfaces tab → choose to show lines and not show faces).
Block Model Views | 35


EXERCISE: Change Display and Query

Experiment with the various 3D and 2D options.
Display Type and Style double-click model view → Display tab → activate display type and option →
Apply → Cutoffs button → select the cells for the cutoff values for which you
would like to show polygons unfilled → Properties button → Surfaces tab →
check and uncheck Show Faces and Show Lines options → OK
Display Range double-click model view → Range tab → slide the limit bars to the desired mini-
mum and maximum; each end of the limit bars gives the number/coordinate
value → Apply
Display in 2D Mode Viewer Tool Bar → Set a Grid Set to the Viewer → browse to a grid set → choose
a plane or section → put Viewer in 2D mode
Display Labels in 2D double-click model view → Labels tab → select the item whose label you want
Mode displayed and any accompanying parameters for that row → Apply
QUERYING A SUB-BLOCKED MODEL

Sub-blocking comes with a modified query window capable of displaying both parent and sub-
block information. Item values appear in the sub-block section of the query window; the SB column
indicates if the values are from a sub-block or parent block,allowing the user to easily distinguish
the different types of data. Three different display options also let you customize how the sub-
blocks are visualized in the viewer.
Displaying sub-blocked zones (left) and individual sub-blocks (right) using query.
EXERCISE: Querying a sub-blocked model
Query Sub-block Model Desktop Menu → Query → Query Element → select 3DBM block
View Sub-blocks by Query Window → View → Display Sub-blocks As → Zone → Query window →
Zone Sub-blocks section → use arrows to toggle through zones or select in viewer
Display Block Statistics display sub-block zones → Query window → View → Show Sub-block Stats op-
tion
View Sub-blocks Query Window → View → Display Sub-blocks As → Zone → Query window →
Individually Sub-blocks section → use sub-level, sub-row, sub-column arrows or click in
viewer to view individual sub-blocks
36 | Block Model Views

3D VIEW DISPLAY TYPES
Standard View Displays the portion of the model requested on the Range tab of the
Model View Editor, with the requested view style applied.
Level/Bench Plans Displays the model as horizontal sections. Filled polygons are the only view
style that can be used with this 3D display type.
EW Sections Displays the model as vertical East-West sections. Filled polygons are the
only view style that can be used with this 3D display type.
NS Sections Displays the model as vertical North-South sections. Filled polygons are the
only view style that can be used with this 3D display type.
3D AND 2D VIEWING STYLES
Contours Displays contours of the selected model item on the spatial extent of
the defined model region. This is the fastest and least memory intensive
method of viewing the model. Smooth Contours displays contours with a
gradual change in the contour colors on the spatial extent of the defined
model region.
Filled Polygons Displays individual model blocks as polygons.
3D Blocks Displays the model as individual blocks. Blocks are displayed at 90% of their
size. WARNING: Viewing a large region as 3D blocks is a memory intensive
operation. It is not recommended on machines with limited RAM.
Surface/Slab Available for more efficient display of the model. In both cases, a “mesh”
is used instead of a triangulated “shell.” A mesh is just a grid, and is more
efficiently displayed in MineSight than a shell. Slab rendering, the style
used with a 3D block model, displays only the bounding of two rows, two
columns and two benches of the model; the interior blocks are not dis-
played. Surface rendering, the style used with gridded model files, displays
a mesh that connects all of the midpoints of the grid.
SUB-BLOCK DISPLAY STYLES
Block Grade Shell Displays grade shells following block outlines defined by the cutoff table of
the primary display item.
Filled block contours This is the 2D equivalent to the "Block Grade Shell" in 3D styles.
Block Model Views | 37


LIMITING BLOCKS
Using the Options tab of the Model View Editor, you can limit the blocks viewed based on a range
of values in an item. Item Limiting and Item Filtering are two different ways to limit blocks. Item Lim-
iting lets you enter the range of values while Item Filtering lets you type in your own filter expression.
Block size is set to be shown at 90% scale in all three dimensions (x, y and z). In the Options tab,
you can set block size and opt to Scale by Block Percent or Scale by Percent Item.
EXERCISE: Limit Blocks Based on Item Value

Limit the view to show only blocks above a cutoff of 0.3% copper (CUI). Reduce block size by the Ore% item.
Item Limiting Option double-click model view → Options tab → Limit By box → Select item → set
range of values → Apply
Item Filtering Option double-click model view → Options tab → Filter By box → enter filter expressions
→ Apply
Control Block Size by double-click model view → Options tab → Scale by Block Percent → enter x, y
Block Percent and z percents → Apply
Scale by Percent Item double-click model view → Options tab → Scale by Percent Item → choose
the item to scale by (usually a TOPO% or ORE% item) → Apply
Grade Shells
A grade shell is a solid representation of a code or real
value retrieved directly from the 3DBM. It is intended
to provide an indication of where the blocks with cer-
tain geologic codes or grade values are located in the
model.
Grade shells can be created for a grade item be-
tween a minimum and maximum value, and can be
further limited by a secondary item, such as a TOPO%
or geologic code. A grade shell is created primarily for
Grade shell with a
visualization purposes, and not for volume or reserves
cutoff value of .3% copper
calculations.
EXERCISE: Create a Grade Shell of Mineralized Zones

Create a grade shell with a cutoff value of 0.3% copper (CUI). Save the shell as a geometry object in the
Model Views folder.
Grade Shell highlight the _msresources folder → create or select a folder for the grade shell
→ create a model view (for any display item) and open its properties →
Grade Shell tab → select the desired grade shell item → enter a minimum
and optional maximum → turn on block outlines → Make Shell → Save
38 | Block Model Views

Calculating Model Item Values

You can calculate item values based on existing
model item values. In these calculations, you can LEARNING OBJECTIVE
use existing items directly in the desired calcula-
tion or as a filter for calculations. Model calcula- Calculate model item values.
tions that do not need to be performed on the en-
tire model can be limited based on existing items,
model area and geometric boundaries. The Help doc is a great resource for syntax.
The Model Calculation Tool can be found under
the Model menu in MineSight 3D (MS3D). The Setup section features four sub-sections:
• Item Selection: Choose which items from the block model that you want to use in the calcu-
lations, which items you will store data into, and set the desired undefined default.
• Global Variables: Allows you to set a temporary variable that can be used in all calculations.
They can also be used and varied in conjunction with multi-runs.
• Report Setup: Allows you to decide if you only want a summary of the results, or if you want to
display records of some of the calculations. The details display can also be controlled if you
only want to see blocks that are outside of the item ranges, calculation errors or calculations
with missing values.
• Advanced Options: Set the partial percent and resolution of the calculations. In this section
you also decide if you are using a second model.
In the Filter section you select how to restrict the calculations in your model – by geometric limits,
model item criteria and geometry objects. The Limits filter is a simple set of sliders to decide which
columns, rows and benches will be included in the calculations. In the Criteria filter, you can
restrict the calculations based on item values in the model. For example, only run the calculations
on blocks where TOPO > 50%. With the Geometry filter you select a MineSight geometry object
and the calculations will be restricted to by that object. For this option, you can use solids, surfaces
and polygons.
In the Calculation section, you will either enter a QuickCalc formula using tokens or a Python
script. You can switch which type of calculation that you want by clicking QuickCalc or Python in
the Calculation Type section.
EXERCISE: Calculate Equivalent Copper

Use QuickCalc and save the setup as “EQCU.”
QuickCalc MS3D → Model Menu → Model Calc Tool → New Calculation → navigate to
PCF → select model file → select QuickCalc → Item Selection → check CUI,
MOI and EQCU → check Write Items for EQCU → Calculation → QuickCalc
→ Type = Standard → Expression = $(CUI)+($(MOI)*99.23/19.733) → OK → test
one block → spot check values calculated → Run
Calculating Model Item Values | 39


EXERCISE: Calculate SG
Calculate SG based on lithology codes. Save the setup as “SG.” Remember to store back to the SG item.
Python MS3D → Model Menu → Model Calc Tool → New Calculation → navigate to
PCF → select model file → select Python → Item Selection → check LITO and
SG → check Write Items for SG → add a criteria filter on block below topog-
raphy → Calculation → Main Script section → use syntax provided below →
test one block → spot check values calculated → Run
SYNTAX:
if $(LITO)==1:
$(SG) = 2.9;
elif $(LITO)==2:
$(SG) = 2.8;
elif $(LITO)==3:
$(SG) = 2.7;
elif $(LITO)==6:
$(SG) = 2.7;
else: $(SG) = 2.7
EXERCISE: Calculate a Classification Code

Calculate a classification code based on distance to the closest composite number of drillholes used. Save
the setup as “CLASSIFICATION.”
QuickCalc MS3D → Model Menu → Model Calc Tool → New Calculation → navigate to
PCF → select model file → select Python → Item Selection → check CLASS,
CLDST and NDHS → check Write Items for CLASS → Calculation → Main Script
section → use syntax provided below → test one block → spot check values
calculated → Run
SYNTAX:
if (0 <= $(CLDST) <= 80) and $(NDHS) > 2 :
$(CLASS)= 1
elif (0 <= $(CLDST) <= 30) and $(NDHS) == 1 :
$(CLASS)= 1
$(CLASS)= 2
$(CLASS)= 2
elif (80 <= $(CLDST) <= 180) and $(NDHS) > 1:
$(CLASS)= 3
else: $(CLASS)= $(undefined)
EXERCISE: Create a Multi-run

Make multi-run procedures for the three exercises above. Reload the saved setup for each Python exercise
and click on the Multi-run button. Save the procedures as EQCUMCT, SGMCT and CLASSMCT respectively.
40 | Calculating Model Item Values

Quick Model Statistics

Once you’ve interpolated your model, you should
produce quick statistics for checking purposes. LEARNING OBJECTIVE
Statistics quantitatively explain the model. They
are useful for analyzing aspects such as total ton- Produce quick model statistics for verifica-
nages in each cutoff grade, grade distribution and tion purposes.
probability.
The Quick Model Stats Tool in MineSight 3D (MS3D) lets you quickly validate and examine changes
in the model by modifying interpolation parameters. Using quick statistics, you can identify gross
discrepancies before generating more detailed model statistics and graphs.
Cutoff chart from the Model Quick Stats Tool
EXERCISE: Calculate Quick Stats for Grade Based on Cutoffs

Calculate stats for the CUI item based on cutoffs.
Quick Stats Desktop Menu → Model → Quick Model Stats
Model Setup select PCF and model → click on items to use → pick CUI → set CUI as the
primary item → Show Model Data → set up custom cutoffs (0 to 1.2 with an
increment 0.05)
Optional Limits Weight section → select SG and TOPO items (use a default value of 2.5 for SG)
→ TOPO = percent item → Run
Quick Model Stats view the stats per cutoff (tonnage, percent, mean and standard deviation) →
Reporter Chart → AccumCutoff → view the Grade Tonnage Curves for this distribution
After you have arranged the tables or the graphs in your desired format, save the templates for future
use.
Quick Model Statistics | 41


Cutoff chart from the Model Quick Stats Tool
EXERCISE: Calculate Quick Stats for Grade Based on CODES

Calculate quick stats for CUI based on the classification codes.
Quick Stats Desktop Menu → Model → Quick Model Stats
Model Setup select PCF and model → click on items to use → pick CUI and CLASS → set
CLASS as the primary control item → Show Model Data → set up three cus-
tom cutoffs (1, 2 and 3)
Optional Limits Weight section → select SG and TOPO items (use a default value of 2.5 for SG)
→ TOPO item = percent item → Run
Quick Model Stats open field list → leave only Class-Number and Mean CUI in the Data area sec-
Reporter tion → Accumulate → uncheck the cutoff option → view the stats table in
the PivotChart per cutoff (tonnage and CUI mean value per CLASS code)
42 | Quick Model Statistics

Grade tonnage curve for the CUI distribution
Model Quick Stats table by CLASS
Quick Model Statistics | 43


NOTES
44 | Quick Model Statistics

Initializing MSDA
MineSight Data Analyst (MSDA) offers a package
of statistical and geostatistical tools. It is a stand- LEARNING OBJECTIVE
alone application, so it can run outside of a Mine-
Sight 3D (MS3D) session from the Start menu. You Connect to a data source for statistical
can also access it from the MS3D Desktop Menu. and geostatistical analysis.
MSDA Projects
Creating an MSDA project simultaneously creates
a set of folders and subfolders. One of them, MSDA
Resources, stores items such as settings and fa-
vorites. MSDA_Charts contains subfolders for stor-
ing charts by type, for example box plots and his-
tograms.
The first time you use a new MSDA project, you may
encounter a few warning messages. The first one
tells you that a project has not been previously set. When you start a new project using File →
You may also be warned that MSDA was not able New → File-New-Empty MSDA Project, MSDA
will ask you if you wish to retain the history
to initialize the data source. This is normal, because
from the previous project. Users creating
you have not yet told MSDA where to find the input
their first MSDA project should always answer
data for the new project. Typically, the input data is “No.”
found in a MineSight project directory, though this
is not a requirement.
EXERCISE: Initialize a New MSDA Project

Create a new MSDA project in your project folder. After starting MSDA, you can create a new empty project
or use the Project Wizard, which automatically configures the import directory and opens the data source
dialog. When you start up MSDA for the first time, a warning message displays to explain that a project has
not been previously set, is invalid or is incomplete. Press OK to start MSDA. MSDA Manager, the main MSDA
window, displays.
Start MSDA Start → Programs → MineSight → MSDA → select project directory
Start a New MSDA Manager → File → New → MSDA Project Wizard → select PCF → Next →
MSDA Project Next → Finish
It is possible to connect to a MineSight Torque project without using a PCF.
Initializing MSDA | 45

Data Sources
Before you can use any MSDA application, you must first connect to a data source. Once the
connection is made, you can run any number of MSDA applications without reconnecting to the
data source. In fact, when you exit, MSDA saves the data source details of your session.
MSDA can directly access MineSight drillhole and blasthole files, and block models. Drillhole data
may be composites or assays. In addition, MSDA can access any ODBC compliant database,
spreadsheet, text file, etc. Databases, spreadsheets and text files are accessed via a Data Source
Name (DSN) which may be easily created from the Microsoft Windows ODBC Data Source Admin-
istrator dialog.
Connecting to a data source is a three-
step process. After each step, click TIPS FOR CONNECTING TO A DATA SOURCE
Apply to move to the next step. You
• The Data Source dialog sets the actual data that
can also save the parameters and load
will be used by all MSDA applications. It is the
them for later use. The Data Source dia-
most critical part of MSDA.
log determines the actual data that will
• You must have a current project and a valid
be used by all MSDA applications. It is a
import directory before using the Data Source
critical component of MSDA.
dialog.
Step 1. Project Definition: Select the • You may return to the Data Source dialog and
project type (i.e. MineSight, MSTorque, update your parameters at any time. Don’t
ODBC or text records). forget to press OK to save your changes, or
Cancel to ignore.
Step 2. Data Source Definition: Select
the data class and the table or file (i.e. • MSDA automatically keeps track of your latest
data source parameters for each project, both
MSTorque drillholes, bench composites).
during an MSDA session and between sessions.
Step 3. Item Selection: Select up to 100 • You can name and save the contents of the
items for analysis. Data Source dialog at any time, and restore the
dialog by name later.
• When connecting to a model file, you have the
option of choosing a homogeneous (regular),
single ore percent or multiple ore percent model
style. Choosing either ore percent option will
enable the Ore Percent setup tab in the Data
Source window.
EXERCISE: Connect to a Data Source

Connect to a MineSight Torque bench composite set, selecting all items.
Connect to Data MSDA Manager → Data → Source → Data Source dialog → Data Source tab →
Project Type → Project File → Apply → choose data class → Apply → select
items for import → Apply
46 | Initializing MSDA
Metadata
Metadata is data about data. It includes information such as field names (sometimes referred to
as item names), data type (string, float or integer) and number of decimal places. Metadata is
useful in MSDA because it will be available in all tools. If metadata has not been loaded as part of
the Data Source connection, it can be added separately.
EXERCISE: Add and Show Extended Metadata
Add Metadata MSDA Manager → Data → Metadata → Add Extended
View Metadata MSDA Manager → Data → Metadata → Show
Setting Up Folders
Upon initialization, MSDA creates several subfolders, including MSDA_Charts. It is good practice to
create a folder structure useful for finding charts later.
EXERCISE: Organize MSDA Subfolders

Inside the MSDA_Charts folder, create the following subfolders: Histograms, Box Plots, Contact Plots, CPP, Scat-
terplots, Reports and Swath Plots.
Add Folders MSDA Manager → View → open current directory in Explorer → add folders
Initializing MSDA | 47

NOTES
48 | Initializing MSDA
Model Statistics
After the model has been coded and interpo-
lated, and all calculations are finished, it is nec- LEARNING OBJECTIVE
essary to produce statistics and a total resource
report. Statistics quantitatively explain the model Produce model statistics and a total re-
and can be used to analyze aspects such as to- source report.
tal tonnages in each cutoff grade, grade distribu-
tion and probability. Using MineSight Data Analyst
(MSDA), you can compare statistics from the model with statistics taken from the source drillhole
data set. The model statistics set up is similar to the drillhole statistics setup. You can compare your
model statistics with the drillhole statistics to examine grade distributions and for other analyses.
MSDA model statistics currently only assesses parent block values. It does not consider sub-block
values.
Histograms
The histogram application offers several options: a
histogram (chart); a cumulative frequency curve; a
grade/tonnage curve; and a simple report by cut-
off grades, based on the same histogram intervals.
EXERCISE: Create Histograms

Compare IDW and polygonal plots of CU (CUI and CUPLY). Use 15 bins, 0.1 width. Also, view the cumulative
frequency curve and grade/tonnage curve for CUI. Filter all results where topography is defined.
Build a Histogram MSDA Resources → MSDA_Charts → left-click histogram destination folder →

MSDA Manager menu → Tools → Build Histogram → Primary Data → set bin
information → Set button → File Chooser dialog → Filter tab → enable desired
filters → Title and Labels tab → Build
View Cumulative histogram screen → View → Cumulative Frequency Curve

Frequency
Add External Histograms histogram screen → External Histograms → Manage
View Grade Tonnage histogram screen → View → Grade Tonnage Curve toggle
Curve
View Cutoff Grade histogram screen → Report by Cutoff Grade tab

Report
Model Statistics | 49

Custom Report
The following procedure demonstrates how to gen-
erate a basic univariate report.
EXERCISE: Build a Report File

Report mean, max and standard deviation for CUI grade and tonnage for each reserve classification (CLASS
item). Filter by TOPO >0 to ignore blocks in the air. Change the row and column grouping and adjust the
display properties.
Report File MSDA Resources → MSDA_Charts → report destination folder → MSDA Manager
menu → Tools → Build Custom Report → enter requested information → Build
View Report Chart MSDA Manager → click report file in Preview screen → MSDA Manager OK but-
ton → Chart
Swath Plot
Swath plots convey a general trend in grade in
a given direction. You choose a direction and
swath/step size, and the data is aggregated in two
dimensions and projected in the third. Swath plots
are useful as a validation tool to compare interpo-
lation techniques against each other and against
composite data.
EXERCISE: Build a Swath Plot

Create a swath plot for the model (File 15) and compare it to the composite set (bench). You will create two
separate plots. They must have the same direction (column/easting/x) and number of steps (step size = 1 for
model, 25 for comps).
For the model, the tonnage expression is VOLUME * SG * TOPO/100 and should be viewed as bars (right axis).
The grade envelope and analysis item is CUI, and the grade item in the composite is total copper. Afterwards,
use the Import Swath Plot function to view the two plots together. (File → Import Swath Plot).
Swath Plot MSDA Resources → MSDA_Charts → swath plot destination folder → MSDA Man-
ager menu → Tools → Build Swath Plot → enter requested information → Build
50 | Model Statistics
Reporting Model Resources

MineSight Reserve is a calculation tool that uses a
specified MineSight block model to generate re- LEARNING OBJECTIVE
serve reports from solids or polygons, between GSF
surfaces (file 13) or from a range of coordinates. It Produce resource reports in Reserve to
utilizes Advanced Reporting and Charting (ARC) gain insight into the deposit.
options that allow quick and simple creation of
charts, graphs and reports in multiple formats. Re-
serve can be executed in stand-alone mode or directly from MineSight 3D (MS3D).
The tool uses the following assumptions for calculating reserves:
• A thickness item is used to calculate the block volume in conjunction with the X and Y cell
dimensions of the block. If this item is not specified, then the bench height of the block model
is used.
• Volume Type allows you to choose between mined out and topo logic. The associated model
item represents a percent of the block present (Topo) or missing (Mined-out). This item is used
to represent the boundary between air and rock. If you are reporting reserves on a sub-
blocked model, you must use a sub-blocked Volume Item.
A single bench of the block model, with the copper values displayed inside the clipped pit solid.
Pitres.dat, accessed through MineSight Compass and the Calculate Reserves Tool in MS3D, formed the
traditional method of reserve reporting. It has now made way for Reserve.
Reporting Model Resources | 51


EXERCISE: Create a 3DBM Resource Report

Create a resource report for CUI and MOI grades. To accomplish this, you will create a logic file, add grade
and zone items, and define materials before calculating reserves. The steps are outlined in the following
sections.
For the resource report, report all material below topography, and then report all material below topography
separated by class and mineralogy. Cutoff values are 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8. Use the SG item that has been
stored in the model.
TERMINOLOGY
Topo clipping: Used if the ore percents in the block do not already reflect the topo (the shapes used to
code them were not clipped at the surface). This will result in the percents being reduced by the topo
percent within the reserves engine.
Partial: The volumetric percent of the block being taken.
Take Ore First: Prioritizes ore to be taken before waste when the partial is less than 100 percent.
Zone Code: The integer code used for material classification; it can be a model item or a computed
zone item.
Zone Item: The model item(s) or computed zone item(s) containing our zone code(s).
Cutoffs: The “real” values that the control grades are compared against for the binning of material
within a material (as defined by a zone code/zone item in our material set).
Discrete items: Items used to further classify material with up to five additional integer items. These can
be used for reporting purposes.
Reserves Logic
The first step in reporting reserves is creating the logic file. A reserves logic is essentially a set
of options to use for a specific reserve or resource report based on a selected 3D block model
(3DBM). Whether using Reserve as a stand-alone program or using it within MS3D, you will need to
set up a reserves logic.
When creating a new reserves logic file, you will see a dialog in which you can define the MineSight
Project Files (PCF and model file), the plan name and fundamental options, such as the treatment
of topography versus partial percentages. At this stage, you can select whether you’re using a
single or multiple ore percent model. Once this definition is accepted, a new dialog provides
more detailed configuration options.
EXERCISE: Create a New Reserves Logic

Create a new logic file for a single ore percent model. Save the plan and logic file as “classmin.resx.” Re-
serve is accessible from the Model Menu inside MS3D. There is also a stand-alone version accessed from the
Windows Start menu.
Reserves Logic MS3D Desktop Menu → Model → Reserves Setup → File → New → select PCF,
3DBM file and TOPOS item → Volume Is Percentage = False → OK
52 | Reporting Model Resources

Adding Grade and Zone Items

After creating the plan, you can add grade items and discrete items for reporting, and define
calculated items for the reserve report. To add a new grade item to the reserve logic setup, click
the Add Grade button, and enter the name of the grade item and the treatment (accumulated,
mass-weighted average, item-weighted or volume-weighted average).
Calculated fields can also be added on the fly for reserves calculations and reporting. To create
a new calculated field, click the New Field button and select the type of calculated field, which
could be a grade field (e.g. EQCU), a grade by zone field (e.g. dilution item), or a zone field (e.g.
material classification field).
If your 3DBM is subblocked, you can specify to use only non-subblocked model items in the reserves
logic by defining False in the Subblock Mode Plan Option. If you set this mode to True, the option
to Use In-Out Partials when calculating reserves for the individual subblocks becomes available.
EXERCISE: Add Discrete, Grade and Other Model Items

Report by two zones (CLASS and MNRLS) to break down the analysis by resources classification and mineral-
ogy. Read the SG from the model, and add the copper and moly grade items. Use a calculated field for
equivalent copper.
Add Items Reserve → Add Grade Items = copper and moly → add Primary Zone Item =
CLASS → add Secondary Discrete Item = MINRLS → edit value labels by click-
ing on discrete item name → add a Calculated Grade Field for equivalent
copper – e.g. EQCU=CUI + (MOI*99.23/19.73) → select the SG item from the
model → Save
Material Sets
Once the grade items are set, you will define the material set. The Material Set dialog consists
of the Zone Details on the left and the Material Set Properties along the right side. Add zones
manually or by using the “Auto” button, in which case the program will read the zone information
directly from the 3DBM.
An example of a material set broken down by cutoffs and classification scheme.
EXERCISE: Create a Material Set
Material Set Reserve → Material Set Mode → Auto button → change names to Measured,
Indicated, Inferred and default → bin materials by 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8 →
Save


Reporting Reserves
Once the reserve logic is defined and saved, there are two options for defining a reserve volume
within MS3D. From the Model menu, choose Quick Reserves from OCB to select a geometry ele-
ment through the Object Contents Browser. Alternatively, use Quick Reserves from Viewer to select
geometry directly from the Viewer. In the stand-alone version, under the Geometry link, it’s possi-
ble to calculate reserves based on cuts, surfaces or a coordinate range. Cuts can be imported
directly from an MineSight Planning Database (MSPD).
Once you have selected one of the above options, the MineSight Reserve Reporting dialog will
open. This analysis provides the familiar Advanced Reporting and Charting options (ARC), includ-
ing the drag-and-drop Pivot Grid options.
EXERCISE: Report Reserves Inside Pit Solid

Select the diorite lithology solid from the viewer. Create a quick analysis and publish the reports.
Reporting MS3D Desktop Menu → Model → Quick Reserves from Viewer → select the
diorite solid → Analysis Report = pivot chart and grid → Publish Report
Analysis report showing pivot grid and paired chart below.
54 | Reporting Model Resources

NOTES


Conclusion & Future Training

We hope you will be able to use the tools covered during this MineSight software training course
to improve productivity at your mine. As you apply the concepts you have learned, please phone
or email us with questions. Our contact information is listed on the inside cover of this book and
on our website, www.minesight.com. The website also gives you access to our download/upload
page, the latest updates to our software, news, seminar papers and newsletter articles about our
software.
Future Training
Whether it takes a few hours or a few days, training with MineSight’s newest tools can pay instant
dividends. Designed to fit your schedule, our mix-and-match formats support your learning needs
no matter what your expertise with MineSight software.
Spend some time using our software in day-to-day applications. When you are comfortable with
working in MineSight, contact us at training@mintec.com or visit www.minesight.com to set up your
next training.
3D Block Modeling with MineSight 3D. V3. February 4, 2016
c
2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009 by Mintec, Inc. and Leica Geosystems AG. All rights reserved. No part of this document shall be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means, electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written
permission from Mintec, Inc. All terms mentioned in this document that are known to be trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective companies have been appropriately identified. MineSight is R a registered trademark of Leica Geosystems. This material is
subject to all the terms in the MineSight End User License Agreement (EULA).
56 | Conclusion & Future Training

Conclusion & Future Training | 57

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3D Block Modeling with MineSight 3D. V3. February 4, 2016

3D BLOCK MODEL (3DBM) STRATIGRAPHIC MODEL

ECONOMIC PIT LIMITS & PIT OPTIMIZATION

PIT & UNDERGROUND DESIGN

No matter your location or the time of

SHORT TERM PLANNING MineSight software is always improving

MineSight Consulting Services offers

The Solutions Group specializes in cus-

The MineSight Project

Store project folders created MineSight

MS3D Torque MSDA

The MineSight Project | 1

2 | The MineSight Project

Geo Copper Data Set

Geo Copper Data Set | 3

4 | Geo Copper Data Set

The Model Manager

THE PROJECT CONTROL FILE (PCF)

The Model Manager | 5

EXERCISE: Create a New PCF

EXERCISE: Create and Edit a Model File

New Model File Model Manager → Model → 3DBM—File 15 or GSF—File 13

Clone Model Manager → Model → Clone

Rename Model Manager → Model → Rename → enter new name → OK

6 | The Model Manager

Import/Export a Model Item List

EXERCISE: Import Model Items

The Model Manager | 7

8 | The Model Manager

The Compass Interface

Setup: Displays the current project control file

Menu: Controls the display and selection of

Options: Contains multi-run options and the pro-

Project: Controls project parameters, and cre-

Extent: Controls editing and viewing of the PCF

The Compass Interface | 9

The Project Response File (PRJ)

EXERCISE: Initialize a New PRJ

Start Compass Windows Start Menu → MSCompass → specify project directory → OK

Defining Project Files

Project file Items are the “spaces” available in project files to

• Roundoff = (Precision/2) - .0001

Alphanumeric strings (e.g. drillhole labels, geologic codes, property ownership)

• Item label: one to five alphanumeric characters; no special characters (/ * . _ -) ; no embed-

• Minimum value = 0; maximum value = 0; Precision = -1

• Value limited to four alphanumeric characters

• Multiple alphanumeric items allowed

• Not allowed in model files

10 | The Compass Interface

EXERCISE: Create Project Files

The Compass Interface | 11

12 | The Compass Interface

The Torque Database

EXERCISE: Open a Torque Project

The Torque Database | 13

14 | The Torque Database