Thanks to his project “MWD-DEM-BIM Geotechnical Digital Twin: Rock Mass Characterization and Efficient Construction,” Dr. Alberto Fernández Osorio, a faculty member in the Department of Mining Engineering at the University of Santiago (Dimin Usach), recently won Codelco’s “Piensa Minería” competition in the Master’s degree category.
The project aims to develop, implement, and validate a dynamic geotechnical characterization system—defined as a Geotechnical Digital Twin—for deep mining work fronts by integrating Measurement-While-Drilling (MWD) data and Digital Elevation Models (DEM) within a BIM environment.
In this context, the models that make up the workflow are trained using artificial intelligence techniques tailored to the specific characteristics of the mining operation, with the goal of applying them to the dynamic and remote characterization of the rock mass. Their implementation will support decision-making aimed at optimizing constructability, minimizing over-excavation, and reducing risk exposure at development and production faces.
“This is a very significant achievement for me both personally and professionally, as it represents a milestone in my career and is the first research project I’ve been awarded. Furthermore, it holds special significance because I achieved it during my first year as a faculty member at Dimin Usach, which motivates me to continue applying for new grants,” said Dr. Alberto Fernández regarding his award from Piensa Minería.
Fernández also emphasized that “my goal is for the knowledge gained from these projects, combined with my experience as a researcher in Europe, to contribute not only to the Department of Mining but also to the University, in areas related to applied research on mining industry processes. It will also encourage participation in international research projects in collaboration with foreign universities, mining operations, and organizations.”
It is worth noting that Codelco’s Piensa Minería competition provides financial support for the development of research lines and thesis projects related to the Corporation’s main challenges and strategic areas of innovation.