Abstract
Purpose. To develop a new method for determining the volumetric current and final quarry contours based on minimizing the volume of the near-contour ore zone at different stages of mining development. Methodology. An economic-mathematical model was constructed to determine the optimal horizon for the introduction of combined transport, considering the quarry parameters. The proposed algorithm allows for the identification of the horizon for the installation of a combined transport transshipment point. Findings. The experience of designing the ultimate contour of deep quarries in open-pit mining practice was analyzed. It was established that the methodology for determining optimal quarry contour parameters includes two approaches: comparison of stripping ratios (economic and technological ones) and calculating deposit value using the Lerch-Grossmann algorithm and its modifications. The shortcomings of existing design approaches were examined, and a new method for determining volumetric current and final quarry contours was proposed. Originality. The dependence of the near-contour zone volume on the parameters of quarry contour placement in the plan was established, contributing to the increased efficiency of deposit extraction by increasing the share of recovered valuable minerals. The proposed concept enables the precise determination of the final quarry contours and their spatial location relative to the ore body while allowing for the prompt adjustment of parameters in response to changing market conditions. Practical value. The developed method is based on the concept of staged contour formation, where the location of the first-stage quarry is determined by minimizing the volume of the near-contour zone. The obtained results make it possible to adjust quarry contours during operation, considering changes in market conditions.