3d solutions in documentation of geological structure of hard coal deposit in upper silesian coal basin (Poland)

Computers have replaced people’s work in various economy sectors for quite some time. Newer and newer technologies and software are designed to improve quality and safety. Precision and accuracy are the most important, both while looking for mineral deposits’ documentation and during their exploitation in the future. Most geological works are performed using proven, classical methods. However, the development of computer science nowadays is huge. More and more mining operations are performed by means of computers and special software. Computer techniques – thanks to their flexibility – allow to choose the most effective tools in order to optimize “work on the deposit” at each stage of its management: searching for a deposit, recognizing a deposit, exploitation of the deposit and closing the mine as well as taking care of post-mining areas. Spatial visualized structure of the deposit lets us create and interpret geological cross-sections, profiles of bore-holes, outline of tectonics, etc. It extends the possibility of their using in documentation of geological phenomena in underground hard coal mines. In this case there is no simplification or generalization of data resulting in loss of accuracy of a given phenomenon’s description and resulting from complexity of the multi-seam deposits’ geological setting. Three dimensional model of a deposit also enables us to make proper assumptions and foresee documentation in further perspective suitable solutions of safe, efficient and economic exploitation. This makes it possible to define potential zones connected with penetration of deposit fluids or gases to the working space and as a consequence break of patency, retreat of crew as well as interruption in geological-mining works. This article presents examples of how 3D modelling has been used in the Upper Silesian hard coal deposits (S Poland). The selected 3D options of AutoCAD and RockWorks programs offer the possibility of visualizing deposit conditions, starting with deposits’ identification by means of bore-holes, through making deposits available via mining excavations, and ending up with complex 3D geological models.