Excavation simulation: visualising continued extraction

An animated 3D scenario shows what happens when extraction continues to greater depth while the existing slope ratios are extended.

Animated excavation simulation of a sand extraction site with yellow areas outside the bed model

Project

The question was what happens when extraction continues below the current depth while maintaining the existing slope progression within the extraction area. A target depth alone does not show how much space the slope requires or where the available bed model ends.

Approach

De Groot GeoServices combined the current 3D bed model with a target depth and several slope ratios. Excavation, fill and the volume beyond model coverage were calculated for each simulation step. Yellow marks where the projected slope extends beyond the available bed model. Yellow therefore does not automatically mean outside the permit, but it does mean outside the coverage that can support a reliable volume calculation.

Result

The client can see in advance how the shape and extent of the excavation change as extraction continues. The simulation shows where the model provides sufficient coverage and where an additional survey or model extension is needed before quantities can be established responsibly.