Determination of coal mine mechanization using fuzzy logic

Two of the most important tasks in coal mines are to improve efficiency and to increase production besides keeping safety constantly in mind. In order to obtain these goals, mine mechanization is required. Mine mechanization needs high levels of investment and should therefore be studied carefully before final decisions about mechanization are made. When analysizing the potential for mechanization the following, rather imprecise, factors should be considered: seam inclination and thickness, geologi-cal disturbances, seam floor conditions, roof conditions, water at the working face and the extension of seams. In our study we have used fuzzy logic, membership functions and created fuzzy rule - based methods and to considered the ultimate objective: mechanization of mining. As a case study, the mechanization of the Takht coal seams in Iran was investigated. The results show a high potential for mechanization in most of the Takht coal seams.