Prob and Stat
Prob and Stat
Natalya Mutovina, Margulan Nurtay, Alexey Kalinin, Aleksandr Tomilov, Nadezhda Tomilova
Information and Computing Systems Department, Faculty of Innovation Technologies, Abylkas Saginov Karaganda Technical
University, Karaganda, Kazakhstan
Corresponding Author:
Natalya Mutovina
Information and Computing Systems Department, Faculty of Innovation Technologies, Abylkas Saginov
Karaganda Technical University
56 N. Nazarbayev av., Karaganda, Kazakhstan
Email: mutovina_natalya@[Link]
1. INTRODUCTION
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are pivotal technologies transforming
numerous sectors, mining included. AI encompasses the realm of computer science focused on developing
systems that can perform tasks traditionally requiring human intelligence, like speech recognition, decision-
making, and problem-solving [1]–[3]. Machine learning, a subset of AI, specifically concentrates on devising
algorithms that enable computers to learn from data and enhance their performance over time. The mining
industry, as one of the oldest and most resource-intensive sectors, has always been in pursuit of new
technologies capable of enhancing the efficiency and safety of mineral extraction. Machine learning has the
potential to prevent or anticipate various incidents at industrial facilities [4]. The application of AI and ML in
mining opens up new possibilities for addressing many challenges faced by mining companies [5]–[7]. The
use of AI enables enhanced productivity, lower operational costs, improved workplace safety, and reduced
environmental impact. The use of ML algorithms makes it possible to optimize the processes of mining and
processing of minerals. For instance, ML-based systems can analyze mining data in real time, suggest
optimal routes for mining equipment, and predict the most efficient mining methods [8], [9]. Predictive
analytics based on ML improves the prediction of equipment breakdowns and plans its maintenance, which
reduces the cost of repair and replacement of equipment. Such approach is especially important for large and
expensive mining equipment [10]. AI and ML can analyze data from sensors and surveillance cameras to
identify potentially dangerous situations and warn workers about possible accidents. For example, monitoring
systems can monitor the condition of mines and predict collapses or methane emissions, which allows
workers to be evacuated in a timely manner and precautions taken [11]–[13]. ML can also be used to monitor
and manage environmental aspects of mining operations, such as air and water pollution control, waste
management and land reclamation. It also reduces negative environmental impacts and complies with
environmental regulations and standards. Leading mining companies are deploying autonomous vehicles and
AI-driven drilling rigs, reducing the risk to human life and increasing mining efficiency. ML algorithms are
used to analyze large volumes of data collected from sensors and equipment to predict potential equipment
failures and plan preventive maintenance [14]–[16]. AI systems help monitor the quality of extracted raw
materials in real time, analyzing samples and predicting possible deviations from the standard. ML allows
optimization of supply chains and inventory management, which reduces costs and increases operational
efficiency [17]–[20]. The application of AI and ML in the mining industry represents a significant step
forward in the development of the industry as shown in Figure 1.
These technologies not only increase productivity and reduce costs, but also significantly improve
occupational reliability and minimize negative environmental impacts. With increasing demands for
efficiency and sustainability, mining companies using AI and ML gain competitive advantages and open up
new opportunities for further growth and development. This review will provide a comprehensive analysis of
all aspects and potential problems that occur in the process of expert systems development to solve problems
in the mining industry. A thorough analysis of existing studies on the application of artificial algorithms were
used to solve specific practical issues in the mining industry. Since the authors' further goal is to develop
Intelligence methods in mining will help identify the most relevant and priority areas for further development
in this subject area. Through the review authors will analyze studies in which ML and deep learning an
expert system for solving problems of mine workings support, special attention in the review should be paid
to studies aimed at predicting and diagnosing various situations that arise during mining.
2. METHOD
2.1. The goal and objectives of the study
The main objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive review of the application of AI and
ML in the mining industry, with a focus on expert systems. To achieve this goal, the following tasks were set:
Q1: Identification of the main directions and applications of AI and ML in the mining industry.
Q2: Analysis of existing expert systems, their advantages and disadvantages.
Q3: Identification of promising technologies and methods for the further development and implementation of
AI and ML in mining processes.
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This review aims to highlight both the theoretical advancements and practical applications of AI and ML in
improving mining operations. By addressing these key questions, the study seeks to provide a critical
analysis of the current state of AI and ML technologies in mining and their potential for future innovation.
Furthermore, the findings will offer insights into how expert systems can be optimized for enhanced
decision-making and operational efficiency in various mining environments.
systems become increasingly integrated into mining operations. Additionally, the importance of developing
skilled personnel capable of managing and maintaining AI technologies was underscored. Upcoming studies
should concentrate on overcoming these challenges to completely realize the capabilities of AI and ML in the
mining industry. Furthermore, collaboration between academic institutions, industry stakeholders, and
technology providers is essential to speed up the advancement and implementation of AI and ML
technologies in the mining industry. Investment in research and innovation will be crucial for addressing both
technical and practical challenges, enabling more efficient and sustainable mining practices in the future.
3. LITERATURE REVIEW
This review analyzes the leading studies using AI methods in the mining industry. Applications of
ML, including regression analysis, clustering, and classification, to predict ore grade and optimize production
processes are discussed. Convolutional neural networks, which are used to analyze rock samples, and
recurrent neural networks, which are used for time series anticipating in the mining industry, are highlighted
as shown in Figure 2. Each study is analyzed in relation to its positive sides and drawbacks. Benefits include
increased forecasting accuracy and improved resource management thanks to the capacity to identify various
trends and dependencies of information base. However, disadvantages include difficulty in interpreting
results, high computational requirements, and the requirement for substantial data to train models. This
review seeks to offer a comprehensive summary of recent developments in the usage of intelligent systems in
mining industry, highlight the potential and difficulties of each of the reviewed techniques, and contribute to
the further development of this important area of science and technology.
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test set, indicating a significant loss of data following feature extraction. The utilized dataset in the study includes
both continuous data and discrete spatial data. Additionally, the outcomes revealed that PCA, as a feature
conversion method, allows for better extraction of complex data compared to the feature selection method. The
authors also noted that their future work will be aimed at testing nonlinear feature transformation methods, such as
autoencoders, as well as more complex datasets [21].
The authors considered premature failure of rock bolts in underground mines. It is becoming a major
critical issue due to the complex mechanisms and multiple influencing factors, which makes laboratory
predictions often unreliable. The study addresses this issue by application of the categorical gradient boosting
(CatBoost) algorithm and Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) to predict rock bolt failures with high
accuracy and transparency. Using a dataset from an underground coal mine, the CatBoost algorithm
demonstrated excellent prediction capabilities, with high AUC values and better performance than Random
Forest. The SHAP analysis showed that "roadway length" is the main factor contributing to rock bolt failure,
with increasing risks in roadways longer than 30 meters and in the presence of high-sulfur groundwater.
Rock bolts younger than five years were found to be significantly less susceptible to failure. The study
demonstrates valuable understanding of the intricate relationships between rock bolt failures and various
geotechnical and ecological variables, highlighting the importance of explainable ML to improve safety and
reliability in underground mining. Thus, this study illuminates the complex relationships between rock bolt
failures and the impact of geotechnical and environmental variables. The proposed approach has clarity and
interpretability, which can facilitate the implementation of transparent ML for rock bolt failure risk
evaluation in subterranean mining operations [22].
This review presents the current state of the art in applying ML to stress corrosion cracking risk
assessment. There are many forms of corrosion, some of which carry minor risks while others can lead to
catastrophic failures of engineering materials. Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) is a highly severe form of
corrosion that is challenging to detect. It results from crack propagation in a corrosive environment combined
with the application of tensile stress to metals or alloys. Predicting and identifying SCC occurrences remains
a critical challenge for corrosion scientists and engineers [22]. The progression of technology and the fourth
industrial revolution have led to an unprecedented increase in available data. Leveraging this data to address
real-world challenges has gained significant attention in recent years. The accessibility of this data enables AI
and ML to serve as advanced technologies for tackling complex issues and uncovering insights that would
otherwise be unattainable. ML is particularly useful in corrosion prediction applications, allowing the use of
corrosion-influencing data such as environmental parameters (temperature and humidity), process conditions
(flow circumstances, flow temperature and pressure), material characteristics (material type, material
thickness, process device dimensions), existing corrosion protection measures, and visual conditions [22]. All
these data can be utilized in ML algorithms to model and predict the occurrence of stress corrosion cracking
and conduct risk assessments. This paper attempts to review the available research on the application of ML
to SCC. It also presents the current advances in ML and SCC, identifies current gaps in knowledge, as well as
outlines potential avenues for future research in the field of deterioration risk assessment using ML [23].
This study aims to quickly and accurately predict gas explosions in coal mines using the real-time
data gathered by the smart system of mining, covering monitoring of mining safety, worker tracking, and
visual monitoring systems. Initially, the mine accident prevention software has divided on subsystems
considering accident contributing factors, surrounding conditions and vulnerable objects, which can establish
a proactive warning system to predict gas levels explosions. Therefore, a dataset to train is chosen arbitrarily
beginning from the identified coal mine samples, which is analyzed and processed using MATLAB software.
Next, a learning algorithm formed from the bagging classification algorithm (Kopeć et al.) is built, which is
enhanced using the parameters Mtry and Ntree. As a result of comparing the built model with the support
vector machine classification model, special coal mine cases are carried out to validate the effectiveness of
the improved gas explosion warning algorithm. The practical outcomes reveal that the improved bagging
classification algorithm achieves 100% accuracy in forecasting results in coal mines, while the precision
metrics of the SVM model is only 75%. The improved algorithm also demonstrates reduced model deviation
and proportional error, confirming its superior performance in early detection systems for coal mine gas
explosions. The advantages of this approach include high prediction indicator and dependability of the
warning system, capability to operate in real-time, and the use of multivariate data analysis to improve safety
management in coal mines. However, the study has limitations, including the limited number of study
samples and only focusing on the prevention of gas explosions, not covering other potential risks such as
fires and geological disasters [24].
Mining activities lead to adverse environmental impacts, and such regions demand continuous
observation, which can be done using remote monitored data. The paper examines the effects of subterranean
coal extraction in one mine of Poland. Spectral indices, satellite-based radar interferometry, geographic
information system (GIS) tools and ML algorithms were employed. A spatial model was created that
determines the statistical importance of the impact of various elements on the emergence of swamps. The
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findings demonstrated that changes in the normalized difference vegetation index, terrain elevation, water
table level and surface deformation significantly affect the emergence of wetlands. The model based on the
random forest (RF) classifier effectively identified potential flood zones with an accuracy of 76%.
Geographically weighted regression (GWR) analysis allowed us to identify local anomalies in the influence
of the chosen variables in the formation of swamps, which contributed to understanding the reasons for their
development. The use of RF and GWR allowed us to obtain accurate and detailed data on the influence of
various factors on the formation of wetlands. The study takes into account various parameters (optical, radar,
geological, hydrological and meteorological data), which allows us to obtain a comprehensive understanding
of the problem. The use of available remote sensing data makes the methodology accessible and cost-
effective for widespread use. The model can sometimes incorrectly classify flood zones, which requires
additional data filtering efforts. The score of ML models is strongly reliant on the quality and volume of
available dataset, which may limit their use in some regions. To enhance the model precision, it is essential to
utilize more accurate geological and hydrological data, as well as expand the model with additional variables,
which can complicate the analysis process [25]. Coal and gas emissions are one of the major factors
contributing to fatalities in underground coal mines and associated risks to coal-fired operations global
energy producing from coal. Currently, methods such as tracking methane concentrations with sensors,
conducting geophysical investigations to detect geological formations and emission-prone zones, and
empirical modeling to predict emissions are used to prevent them. However, with the development of
industry 4.0 advances, numerous examinations have explored the use of AI methods for forecasting
emissions. The proposed approaches and their outcomes show considerable variation in the publications. The
research [26] examines how ML is used to forecast coal and gas emissions in subterranean mines employing
a hybrid method. The majority part of the found works focusing on prediction of the coal and gas emissions
using ML was reviewed in China [26].
The results show that authors trained various ML models, mainly combining them with various
optimization techniques, incorporating analysis of particle swarm, genetic algorithms, the theory of rough
sets, and inverted algorithm of fly optimization to forecast the emission. The quantity and kind of input
variables for forecasting varied substantially, where the initial gas velocity is the most significant variable to
find gas emissions and depth of the coal seam being the most significant argument of coal emissions. The
training and testing set of the models proposed in the literature showed significant variation, yet they were
inadequate in most cases, which casts doubt on the dependability of certain applied models. Upcoming
studies will explore how data size and input parameters influence the forecasting of coal and gas emissions.
The advantages of applying ML methods to emission forecasting include the capacity to handle huge datasets
and automatically enhance models as new data becomes available, enhancing the precision and dependability
of forecasts. Such disadvantages include the reliance on the quality and quantity of input data, and the need
for complex model tuning to obtain reliable results.
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planning and implementation. The model was trained on data from three different projects, which increases
its applicability in different geological conditions. The study allowed us to determine the optimal structure of
the neural network for this task, which improves its performance and reliability. As a drawback, we noted the
dependence on data quality; the model requires high-quality and representative information, which can be
complex to provide. Tuning and optimizing the neural network parameters require significant computing
resources and specialized knowledge. The model may be less effective when used on projects with geological
conditions that are very different from those on which it was trained. Thus, the utilization of the deep
learning methods for TBM penetration rate modeling offers significant advantages in terms of accuracy and
optimization, but requires taking into account the limitations associated with data quality and the complexity
of model tuning [28].
In this paper, the anticipation of rock-caused stress during pillar extraction is investigated using ML
methods [29]. The models take into account factors such as working depth (H), panel width/length (W/L),
pillar width/work height (w/h), goaf length, and extraction area [29]. The paper emphasizes the significance
of operational parameters in comparison to geological ones. In the cases analyzed, the correlation coefficient
for rock-induced stress is approximately 80% for the RF model and about 76% for the multilayer perceptron
(MLP), demonstrating the superior performance of the RF model. The developed models predict the stress
conditions of pillars. Despite many advantages, ML also has its drawbacks. ML models require training on
historical data to obtain accurate predictions, and the algorithm’s precision relies on the quantity and
dependability in this dataset. However, ML has limited to be applied only to specific areas, and additional
training of the model is required to work with new data. In this study, only four panels of continuous miners
are analyzed, considering the limitations of data collection and the limitations from one coal mine. Going
forward, additional panels and varied geo-mining conditions can be considered to improve the model.
Therefore, stress prediction in subsurface coal mines remains as the most important obstacles for mining
engineers, despite automation, advanced tools, and numerical modeling methods [29].
Effective forecasting ground vibrations resulting from blasting in opencast mining plays a
significant role in minimizing environmental grievances. This study proposes a new hybrid evolutionary
artificial neural network (ANN) optimized using a genetic algorithm (GA) for predicting peak particle
velocity (PPV). The optimized GA-ANN model automatically selects the optimal ANN architecture
including the quantity of neural units, functions of activation, learning algorithm and the number of epochs.
The dataset, comprising maximum charge mass per delay, horizontal distance (HD), radial distance (RD),
and a newly modified radial distance (MRD) between the monitoring and blasting stations, was utilized to
evaluate the proposed method at the Sungun copper mine in Iran. A performance evaluation of the GA-ANN
model using statistical indicators demonstrates its superiority over empirical prediction methods and the
neuro-fuzzy inference system. A significant result is that using modified radial distance (MRD) instead of
traditional HD and RD distances improves the prediction accuracy. In summary, the results demonstrate the
effectiveness of the proposed GA-ANN method for identifying the optimal ANN architecture for PPV
forecasting. The advantages of using the novel hybrid evolutionary ANN are: increased forecasting accuracy
due to the use of MRD, optimization of the ANN architecture using GA provides higher model performance,
and a systematic and automated approach to selecting ANN parameters. The disadvantages noted are: a
substantial volume of data for model to achieve high accuracy, the model may be limited by the specificity of
the application domain and not adapt to new conditions without additional training, a limited amount of data
and tests may affect the ability of the model to generalize and its real-world applicability to other mining
developments [30].
An attempt was made to estimate and forecast blast-induced ground vibrations and frequencies
based on rock variables, modeling of blasts and explosive parameters through an artificial neural network.
A three-layer, feed-forward, back-propagation neural network with 15 hidden units, 10 input variables, and
two output variables was developed using 154 experimental and monitoring blast data from a large surface
coal mine in India. Twenty new blast datasets were utilized to validate and compare the prediction of peak
particle velocity and frequency using ANN and other forecasting methods. To enhance reliability in the
suggested approach, the same datasets were employed to predict PPV using both established vibration
predictors and multivariate regression analysis. The outcomes were evaluated by comparing the correlation
and mean absolute error between the observed and forecasted PPV and frequency indicators. The ANN
results showed a very close match with the experimental data, indicating high accuracy in contrast to
traditional anticipators and multivariate regression analysis (MVRA). ANN has the ability to recognize new
patterns that were not previously presented in the train part and refresh its understanding over time when new
training data is added. As a disadvantage, it is noted that the development and tuning of ANN requires
significant computational resources and specialized knowledge to optimize the network architecture.
Although ANN takes into account more parameters than traditional predictors, it may still not take into
account all possible influencing factors, which may limit the accuracy of forecasts in some cases [31].
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This study focuses on the application of methods, namely bagging models and one-layer neural
network, to forecast stress conditions caused by mining activities of Indian subsurface coal excavations.
Focus is on predicting the behavior of strata in mining zones where the cobblestone and pillar method is
used. The study revealed that operational parameters such as working depth, panel width and length, pillar
width and working height, corrugation length and mining area play a key role in the models built to predict
mining induced stress. As opposed to geological factors, operational parameters were found to be more
important for the accuracy of predictions. The developed models exhibited high correlation coefficient (R2)
reaching 85% for bagging model and 76% for one-layer neural network, indicating their effectiveness in
predicting pillar stress conditions under different operating conditions. These findings help managers to take
proactive measures to minimize risks in the coal industry including developing emergency response plans.
The study also found that RF demonstrated higher accuracy compared to MLP, although the latter showed a
higher mean absolute error. In the realm of subsurface coal mining, the application of ML tools is innovative
and can significantly improve the safety and efficiency of processes. Future research can be aimed at
improving the models, as well as exploring other computational techniques, such as the finite element way
and finite difference approach, which will allow for more in-depth and accurate predictions of rock behavior
under different operating conditions. Thus, while the application of AI and ML techniques of structural
health monitoring offers significant benefits, it is important to consider their limitations to develop effective
and reliable damage detection systems [32].
This study focuses on the use of explosives as a power source for breaking rock material. Most of
the blast power is misplaced as earthquakes, noise, air bursts, and other factors. Earthquakes caused by blasts
depend on numerous elements including rock mass composition, explosive properties, and blast planning.
Forecasting of blast-induced earthquakes though regression methods is at times, overly cautious, which
creates obstacles for efficient and safe mine operation. The scaled distance approach remains a reliable
method for predicting vibrations, however, there are other alternative methods that show similar outcomes
with strong correlation coefficients [33].
Contemporary analysis and anticipation tools such as ANN have demonstrated to be an outstanding
method of vibration prediction, as confirmed by many researchers in their work. Another method used in the
study is an ensemble learning method such as RF, which builds multiple decision trees and shows good
results in both classification and regression. The work makes an effort was made to forecast maximum
fragment velocities in explosions at different distances using the RF, ANN and scaled regression methods.
Each method, correlation coefficients were obtained using different initiation systems, which revealed that
ANN demonstrates the highest values of correlation coefficients, showing the most accurate results among
the three considered methods. RF also showed good results, although lower compared to ANN, but superior
to the scaled regression methods.
The authors made the following useful conclusions:
a. Out of the three methods utilized to predict blast-induced vibrations, ANN anticipated the most reliable
values of the biggest correlation indicators. This makes ANN the preferred tool to anticipate blast-induced
oscillations in mining.
b. The strongest correlation indicator values for all of these approaches were achieved using the electronic
initiation system. This demonstrates the accuracy of such a system, which contributes to a more accurate
prediction of vibrations caused by explosions.
c. Based on the conducted study, it can be concluded that it is recommended to use electronic detonators
with the predictive ANN model to accurately predict the vibrations caused by blasts in controlled blasting
operations to calculate the peak value in regulated blasting operations, instead of the bagging model and
scaled regression methods. This can greatly help mine operators when conducting controlled blasting
operations near populated areas.
The paper explores how deep learning is used to detect open-pit mining operations using space
imagery, treating it as a land utilization and land cover classification problem. Using convolutional neural
networks (CNN) and pre-trained visual geometry group (VGG), residual network (ResNet) and densely
connected convolutional networks (DenseNet) architectures, a huge train data of “coal mine” images and a
large number of “non-coal mine” images was prepared. The VGG model using transfer learning achieved the
highest model precision of approximately 100% on the validation set. These results indicate high accuracy
and the potential for applying model to detect coal operations in different countries. The model showed 98%
accuracy on the validation dataset and more than 95% on test images from other countries, which
demonstrates its reliability. Using CNN can greatly simplify the process of monitoring and detecting coal
mines compared to traditional methods. The model can be updated and improved with new data, allowing it
to remain relevant and effective. We would like to note that the model is prone to false positives, which can
lead to additional work to filter out incorrect data. The model may misclassify other types of mines, such as
copper, which requires additional data preprocessing measures [34].
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Effectiveness of the suggested forecasting model is experimentally measured in contrast of current models
such as support vector machine (SVR) and autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA). It was
observed that the UMAP-LSTM model demonstrated the lowest root mean square error in predicting gas
concentrations across various types, indicating a higher efficiency of the proposed forecasting models. Fires
in mines frequently result in explosions caused by gas and coal dust, which pose a danger to the lives of
miners and complicate rescue efforts. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the state of the gas mixture in
sealed areas and study trends in the explosiveness of the gas mixture over time. Knowledge of future gas
concentrations allows immediate action to be taken to eliminate the hazard [38].
This study introduces a deep neural network designed to predict gas concentrations in sealed
sections of underground coal mines, utilizing various IoT sensors placed in a metal gas reservoir. Air is
automatically drawn from the sealed area at set periods using a solenoid valve, suction pump, and
programmable microcontroller. Gas level meters continuously observe the gas levels within the coal
operation and relay the density data to a server room on the surface via a wireless network, with cloud data
storage for further processing. In this study, a forecasting model is proposed that combines dimensionality
reduction techniques with recurrent models capable of retaining memory, aiming to improve prediction
accuracy. The t-SNE model method is used to reduce the complexity of recorded gas concentration data,
while the VAE layer reconstructs the internal features of the low-dimensional gas concentrations. The Bi-
LSTM layer is then employed to predict the concentrations of gases. The advantages of suggested recurrent
model for predicting gas concentrations in sealed areas of coal mines include high prediction accuracy, as
evidenced by low mean square error (MSE) values compared to alternative auto regressive integrated moving
average (ARIMA) and chaos time series (CHAOS) models. The model is able to effectively account for the
complex relationships between the concentrations of various gases and time, which makes it more adaptive to
changes in the mine environment. In addition, the use of t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE)
and variational auto encoder (VAE) technologies can reduce data dimensionality and extract important
features, which enhance the overall productivity of the solution. However, the model also has disadvantages.
Particularly, the complexity of setting up and interpreting the results can be high due to the use of several
complex algorithms (t-SNE, VAE, and bi-LSTM) that require deep understanding and experience in ML and
geology. In addition, the model requires significant computational resources and training time due to its deep
architecture and the need to process large amounts of data [39].
Early detection of cracks allows for prompt action to address them, guaranteeing the reliability of
both workers and machinery in surface coal operations. Observation of cracks in these areas is crucial for
safeguarding workers and protecting national resources. Digital twins (DTs) are essential for fracture
identification in surface coal mines, offering continuous, real-time observing of mine conditions and the
adjacent area. Multiple sensors and IoT tools collect ground motion and stress data. Integrating this data into
DT allows the identification and analysis of anomalies that could signal the development or spread of cracks.
This work proposes a deep neural network with dense connectivity and low weight embedded in DT for
fracture identification and proactive maintenance decision making via integrating time series, live data
collected from sensors, and information from forecasting models. The proposed DT system is capable to
predict the form of cracks, which allows proactive measures to eliminate them. When comparing the
performance of the network with other models, it was found to surpass all cutting-edge deep neural networks
in several key metrics, including accuracy, recall, precision, average accuracy, F1-measure. The model
demonstrated superior performance in average accuracy and surpassed several detection models and recurrent
neural networks in both training and prediction times. The advantages of the proposed system lie in its
holistic approach to crack detection, which combines live observation, forecasting analysis, modeling,
visualizing, and solution maintenance. This integration enables specialists in mining sector to enforce the
reliability, improve sustainable activities, moreover, to reduce the bottlenecks related to cracks and structural
vulnerability. Disadvantages of the system may include difficulty in setting up and the need for a large
amount of data to ensure high accuracy and reliability of forecasts [40].
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condition [43] of equipment and infrastructure, predict possible breakdowns and take preventive measures as
shown in Figure 3 [44].
Cloud technologies offer robust resources for storing and processing large volumes of data gathered
through IoT devices as well as various resources [45]. Big data analysis using ML methods allows you to
identify hidden patterns and trends, which helps optimize production processes, manage risks and reduce
operating costs [46]. Augmented and virtual reality technologies can be used for personnel training, planning
and modeling of mining operations [47]. With their help, you can create virtual simulations that allow you to
train workers without risking their life and health, as well as plan complex operations taking into account all
possible scenarios [48].
Figure 3. Promising technologies and methods for the further development and implementation of AI and ML
in the mining industry [49], [50]
Robotization and automation of mining processes can significantly improve their efficiency and
safety. Modern robotic systems are capable of performing complex tasks in conditions that are dangerous to
humans. The introduction of autonomous robots and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) [51] for exploration,
drilling, transportation and other operations reduces the risk of human errors and increases productivity. Deep
learning techniques demonstrate significant effectiveness in analyzing complex and diverse data. The
application of deep neural networks for processing geological data, predict mineral content, and optimize
mining and processing processes can significantly improve the results of mining operations [52].
The industrial internet of things (IIoT) [53], [54] combines all of the above technologies, creating a
single ecosystem for managing production processes. IIoT allows the integration of data from various sensors
and devices [55]–[58], providing centralized control and management of all aspects of mining operations. As
digital technology advances in the mining industry, the need for cybersecurity increases. Robust systems to
protect data and infrastructure from cyberattacks are a key component for successful implementation of AI
and ML. Developing and implementing advanced cybersecurity practices will protect critical data and ensure
the smooth operation of all systems. Using predictive analytics and ML-based forecasting techniques, you
can predict potential problems and optimize production processes. This includes forecasting equipment wear
and tear, inventory management, maintenance planning and other aspects that help reduce costs and improve
efficiency [59]. Combining AI with other advanced technologies such as blockchain can provide additional
transparency and security in supply chain and document management. Blockchain allows you to securely
record and track all transactions and operations, which is especially important for logistics and inventory
management in the mining industry. Identifying and implementing these promising technologies and methods
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requires an integrated approach and close collaboration between research institutions, mining companies and
technology developers. Funding for research, development, education, and skill development, will support
the wider and more effective use of AI and ML in the mining industry. This, consequently, will result in
higher productivity, lower costs, and enhanced safety and sustainability of mining operations [60], [61].
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mapping using the example of gold prospectivity mapping in northwestern Hubei Province, China. The
ability of reinforcement learning models to adapt to different conditions during the learning process allows
one to achieve better results in solving various problems and implement complex intelligent systems.
The application of AI and ML in the mining industry has already proven effective, but many
technologies are at an early stage of adoption. One of the key challenges is dealing with unstructured and
noisy data, making it difficult to create high-quality AI models. While algorithms for data cleaning and
normalization are showing progress, questions remain regarding data accuracy and reliability. For example,
combining data from various resources is often challenging, such as heterogeneous data formats and
incompleteness. This affects the final quality of the models, which requires further improvements. Another
important aspect is the interoperability of AI systems with existing mining infrastructures. Despite active
research in this direction, the development of standards and protocols that enable seamless integration
remains an important challenge. Without standardized approaches to integrating AI with legacy systems, the
effectiveness of technology adoption will be limited.
Currently, various AI and ML approaches have been applied in the mining industry, including deep
learning algorithms, support vector machines, and reinforcement learning (RL). For example, in the study
[62], reinforcement learning is successfully applied to optimize the control of mining electric locomotives,
which reduces energy costs and increases productivity. While deep learning performs well in prediction and
pattern recognition tasks, RL adapts to dynamic conditions more efficiently, making it preferable in tasks
with high demands for changing operating conditions. The industry's implications involve higher
productivity, lower operational expenses, and enhanced safety standards in the workplace. However, without
proper data management and quality data processing, the potential benefits of AI may be limited. Further
research should focus on building more resilient data processing systems that will provide more accurate
predictions and automate complex tasks.
Looking ahead for the mining sector, it is important to develop affordable and scalable AI solutions
that can be implemented by both large and small enterprises. Developing cost-effective solutions, such as
AIaaS, will lower the barriers to entry for companies with fewer resources and allow for wider adoption of
AI in the industry. The development and creation of better algorithms for data cleaning and integration will
improve the quality and reliability of AI systems being developed. It is also necessary to continue developing
protocols and standards to simplify the integration of AI systems with existing infrastructures.
advanced AI algorithms that can handle multi-layered operational scenarios, especially in multi-user
environments. In addition, the study revealed the need to develop more robust approaches to integrate data
from different sources, which may lead to more robust AI models. The outcomes of the research are
consistent with the findings of other works on AI utilizations in mining sector. For example, work [62]
showed the effectiveness of reinforcement learning algorithms for driving vehicles, and the study of [63]
demonstrated that deep learning can be successfully applied in predicting mineral prospectivity. To fully
leverage the capabilities of AI and IoT in the mining industry, it is essential to carry out further research to
develop cost-effective solutions that are affordable for both large and small mining companies and to develop
interoperable standards to more easily integrate AI technologies into existing infrastructure.
7. CONCLUSION
While the utilization of AI and ML in mining industry offers numerous benefits, several obstacles
need to be addressed to unlock their full potential. One of the main problems is the qualitative and
quantitative merits of data. The successful fitting of AI and ML models relies on access to substantial
volumes of high-quality data, which can often be scarce in the mining industry. Additionally, data may be
disparate and inconsistent, making integration and analysis difficult. In the future, it will be important to
develop methods for collecting, cleaning and unifying data to ensure its reliability and completeness.
Another significant issue is the complexity of mining operations. AI and ML models must take into
account many factors, such as geological conditions, equipment technical parameters and external influences
such as weather conditions. This requires the development of more complex and adaptive algorithms that can
cope with such complex and variable conditions. Security and reliability are also key aspects to consider
when introducing AI and ML into the mining industry. Any errors or failures in the operation of AI systems
can lead to serious consequences, including accidents and losses. Therefore, the development of reliable and
robust systems that can operate under conditions of uncertainty and provide a high degree of safety is
required. Ethical and legal considerations are equally critical in the execution of AI and ML in the mining
sector. Ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements and standards while addressing potential societal and
ecological impacts is essential. Achieving this requires close cooperation among mining companies,
regulators, and society to establish robust ethical and legal frameworks for the use of these technologies.
Moreover, there is a pressing need for workforce training to support these advancements. The
implementation of AI and ML requires the availability of qualified specialists who can develop, implement
and maintain these systems. This requires investment in education and training, as well as the creation of
vocational training programs. By focusing on the identified challenges and following suggested future
research directions, the mining industry can overcome these barriers and achieve sustainable and efficient
operations. Further collaboration between researchers, engineers and AI specialists, as well as the sharing of
knowledge and experience between different industries, can contribute to more effective application of AI
and ML in the mining sector. Establishing international collaboration is crucial for sharing optimal strategies
and creative decisions to expedite the adoption of these technologies and enhance their effectiveness. In
summary, the future of AI and ML in the mining sector hinges on linking existing issues as well as
persistently pursuing novel approaches. Research and development aimed at improving data quality,
developing complex algorithms, ensuring security and reliability, compliance with ethical and legal
standards, and training are key areas for the continued enhancement and successful application of AI and
ML. In summary, this body of literature review has provided a comprehensive overview of the current
applications of AI and ML in expert systems within the mining sector. The analysis highlighted several
modern methods and technologies that are instrumental in enhancing decision-making processes, optimizing
operational efficiency, and improving safety in mining operations. Key algorithms discussed, including
predictive analytics, neural networks, and reinforcement learning, will serve as foundational components in
the ongoing project focused on developing an expert system for decision-making regarding the reinforcement
and maintenance of mine workings. By leveraging these advanced AI and ML techniques, the proposed
expert system aims to address critical challenges in mining operations, ultimately contributing to safer and
more sustainable practices in the industry. The insights gained from this review will guide future research
and development efforts, ensuring that the expert system is both innovative and effective in meeting the
needs of modern mining operations.
FUNDING INFORMATION
This research was carried out within the framework of grant funding for scientific and scientific-
technical projects of the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2023-2025 No. AP19680292 Development of the expert
system for making decision of fixing and maintaining mine workings.
Int J Elec & Comp Eng, Vol. 15, No. 3, June 2025: 3291-3308
Int J Elec & Comp Eng ISSN: 2088-8708 3305
Name of Author C M So Va Fo I R D O E Vi Su P Fu
Natalya Mutovina ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Margulan Nurtay ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Alexey Kalinin ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Aleksandr Tomilov ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Nadezhda Tomilova ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
INFORMED CONSENT
Informed consent was not required for this study.
ETHICAL APPROVAL
Ethical approval was not required for this study.
DATA AVAILABILITY
No data was used for the research described in the article.
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BIOGRAPHIES OF AUTHORS
Application of artificial intelligence and machine learning in expert systems for … (Natalya Mutovina)
3308 ISSN: 2088-8708
Int J Elec & Comp Eng, Vol. 15, No. 3, June 2025: 3291-3308
The adoption and implementation of AI and ML in mining are significantly affected by costs and data quality. High implementation costs and the scarcity of quality data pose major challenges. High-quality, substantial data is crucial for AI model fitting, but it is often inconsistent and incomplete in mining, complicating data integration and analysis. Thus, financial outlays and data management capabilities can limit broader adoption and impact the effectiveness of AI solutions .
AI contributes to predictive maintenance by using machine learning algorithms to predict equipment failures before they occur, thus minimizing downtime and increasing efficiency. Techniques such as support vector machines and reinforcement learning are particularly effective, enabling detailed analysis and prediction of maintenance needs. By predicting when equipment will need servicing, AI helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and optimize maintenance schedules .
Adopting AI and ML in mining can lead to societal benefits such as improved worker safety and operational efficiency. However, potential ecological impacts include resource depletion and environmental degradation if not managed properly. Ethical frameworks are crucial to balance technological advancement with social responsibility. These frameworks ensure adherence to regulatory standards and address societal and ecological impacts, necessitating collaboration among stakeholders to establish robust, ethical guidelines .
AI and ML can automate and optimize inventory management by analyzing data trends to predict stock needs, reduce waste, and improve supply chain efficiency. These technologies enable real-time monitoring and adjustments, thus enhancing operational precision and decision-making. The expected outcomes include reduced operational costs, minimized overstock or stockouts, and improved resource allocation and logistics efficiency, significantly contributing to overall mining productivity .
Challenges in data management for AI in mining include dealing with unstructured and noisy data, heterogeneous data formats, and data incompleteness. These issues can lead to difficulties in creating high-quality AI models, as inaccurate or unreliable data can compromise model reliability and outcomes . Overcoming these challenges involves improving data cleaning and normalization algorithms and developing robust data processing systems for accurate predictions .
AI and ML technologies significantly increase productivity, enhance reliability, and reduce operational costs in the mining industry. They are applied in predictive analytics, inventory monitoring, machine automation, and quality control, contributing to improved safety standards. The outcome involves better productivity and lower operational expenses while also addressing challenges related to efficiency and reliability .
Future research should focus on developing advanced algorithms capable of handling complex operating scenarios, improving data quality, and ensuring ethical and legal compliance. These directions are important as they address AI’s adaptability to complex, multi-layered mining operations. This research is crucial for achieving reliable predictions, ethical use, and legal adherence, which collectively ensure the effective and responsible application of AI technologies in the mining sector .
Reinforcement Learning (RL) is preferable in dynamic conditions typical in the mining sector because it adapts more efficiently to changing operating environments compared to deep learning. While deep learning performs well in prediction and pattern recognition tasks, RL's ability to learn from interactions with dynamic environments makes it suited for tasks with high demands for adaptability, such as mining operations .
Workforce training is critical because AI and ML implementation requires skilled specialists for development, deployment, and maintenance. Without trained personnel, mining companies cannot fully exploit the potential of these technologies. Investments in education and creation of vocational training programs are necessary to equip workers with the required skills, ensuring sustainable adoption and effectiveness of AI interventions in the mining industry .
Developing standardized protocols and interoperable standards is crucial for the effective integration of AI in mining infrastructures. Without these, integration with legacy systems is difficult, which impedes technology adoption. Standards and protocols enable seamless integration, enhancing operational efficiency and reliability. This development remains a significant challenge but is essential for realizing the full potential of AI technologies in enhancing mining operations .