The study of the manifestations of mining cannot be done without a technology that allows monitoring the dynamics of surface changes. The Automatic Geodetic Monitoring System was developed to obtain measurement data on surface movements at the CSM coal mine. This system will provide data of sufficient frequency and quality to evaluate the surface deformations caused by deep mining. Long-term monitoring will generate a dataset suitable for developing a method for assessing the consequences of mining after mine closure.
The monitoring system consists of two automatic total stations with an integrated 3D laser scanner, GNSS sensors and other accessories. The monitoring period was set to cover, at least in part, the main phase of surface movements caused by underground mining and their subsequent fading in time. However, it is important to note that measured data accuracy can be affected by various adverse factors, prompting ongoing enhancements to the monitoring system.
Mining activities have significant impacts on the surface, both during and after mining operations. To understand and assess these effects, it is crucial to have a key technology that enables monitoring of surface changes. In this regard, the Automatic Geodetic Monitoring System has been designed to gather precise periodical measurements of surface movements caused by deep underground mining.
This article presents the concept, technical implementation, and initial experiences with the newly created monitoring system at the CSM mine, which is the last active hard coal mine in the Czech Republic. The monitoring period was strategically determined to capture the main phase of surface movements during underground mining and the subsequent fading of these movements over an estimated period of approximately five years.
The implementation of the monitoring system involves various technical solutions, including the stabilization of monitoring system components, selection and placement of monitored elements, and data processing. The trial operation of the monitoring system commenced in July 2022. Based on the initial experience, additional measures are proposed to address influence by external factors such as environmental conditions, vibrations, and surface reflection, which can affect the quality of monitoring.
