New BMX Fragmenter delivers first real 3D muckpile fragmentation analysis from drone imagery for greater accuracy

·     BMX Fragmenter combines 2D and 3D fragmentation analysis to improve accuracy

·     Gathers hundreds of thousands of individual particle measurements from drone images

·     Fast, accurate and fully automated analysis of the entire muckpile

3GSM GmbH, developer of software that optimizes blasting and reduces inherent environmental issues, introduces new post-blast fragmentation analysis software BMX Fragmenter that works as an independent module or seamlessly integrates into BlastMetriX UAV. BMX Fragmenter is a first-of-its-kind platform that automatically converts high resolution drone images into a highly accurate 3D rendition of the muckpile with color-coded delineation of gradation.

The system accepts overlapping high-resolution images taken by the operation’s standard drone. Using an interactive or preprogrammed flight plan, the flexible system leverages the drone’s GPS coordinates, so no ground reference markers are required. To save time and improve efficiency, the images remain local to the computer and do not require time-consuming uploading to the cloud.

New BMX Fragmenter generates millions of 3D data points, reviewing an average rate of 200 photos per hour, for more complete statistical particle analysis. Setting it apart from other programs, BMX Fragmenter automatically combines both 2D and 3D analysis for a more accurate and comprehensive evaluation of the muckpile surface. “Delineation using only 2D analysis can lead to inaccurate measurements due to shadowing and the particle’s contour and structure,” comments Robert McClure, president of Robert A. McClure (RAM), Inc. “Adding the third dimension offers more accurate delineation through shape, and the 2D analysis is used for refinement and smaller particle detection.”

A 3D post-blast model is automatically generated showing the width, throw and height of the muckpile. Particle sizes are color-coded to give a quick gradation overview and for easy visualization of oversized material. The system comes standard with editing tools for analysis refinement. Quantitative charts generated provides distribution of particle size and percent passing through the screen. Users can also assign fragmentation models like Rosin-Rammler, Swebrec and Swebrec extended to the analysis.

Results can be exported and saved in PDF format. New BMX Fragmenter also generates comprehensive summary reports to be used for blast program optimization. In addition to open-pit mining operations, the new system can be used in debris flow, dam and underground applications.

“For continuous cyclic optimization of a surface blasting program, miners need a reproduceable blast design and objective analysis and quantification of the results,” adds McClure. “New BMX Fragmenter offers simple, fast and incredibly accurate analysis of the post-blast muckpile gradation, critical for a mine’s KPI program.”

About RAM, Inc.

An international blast engineering and consulting firm, RAM, Inc., focuses on improving productivity and safety through blast optimization, advanced technical services and training. RAM, Inc., offers a wide range of services, including Explosives Educational Services – offering the most up to date training seminars in the explosives industry – and Explosives Technical Services – providing innovative advanced technical engineering, project management, training, safety services and solutions, blast design and explosives applications for regulatory, mining, civil, military and seismic operations worldwide.

www.ramets.com      info@ramets.com

About 3GSM GmbH

3GSM develops and markets easy-to-use software for generating three-dimensional models of rock and terrain surfaces for assessments and surveying. Available for both surface and underground mining, 3GSM systems cut mapping time, deliver outstanding and reproducible results, and lead to an objective data basis for the planning and construction of subsurface and surface rock mass excavation and construction. The 3GSM product portfolio includes the BlastMetriX and ShapeMetriX product families.

www.3gsm.at      office@3gsm.at