Laser scanning specialist
The project aims to develop new models for slope failure monitoring, and will be used to improve the safety and operational efficiency of mining companies around the world.
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP), such as this one between 3D Laser Mapping and Durham University, are said to help businesses improve their competitiveness and productivity through the better use of the knowledge, technology and skills that already reside within UK colleges and
universities.
“By utilising the recently gained knowledge and expertise of our KTP Associate we can build on our existing mine monitoring solution SiteMonitor and incorporate the latest principles and innovations from academic research,” says Dr Graham Hunter, 3D Laser Mapping’s executive chairman and founder.
The project sees KTP Associate Dr Ashraf Afana join the 3D Laser Mapping team from Durham University where he will work on a three-year placement on the integration of full waveform (FW) data processing into the SiteMonitor product.
Dr Afana, who has a PhD in Fluvial Geomorphology from the University of Almeria in Spain, will be working in a hands-on technical position developing and implementing a slope monitoring system that utilises strain-rate based failure modelling.
He will work closely with 3D Laser Mappings Research and Development division and will undertake project work with some of the world’s leading mining companies.
“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I get to work at the cutting edge of slope monitoring research and development software using my knowledge and skills to further develop a system that is already saving lives and improving efficiencies. I will gain hands-on experience of the system and get the opportunity to extract first-hand feedback from existing and potential users,” says Dr Afana.
