AUTOMATED OPEN-PIT TRUCK DISPATCHING AT TYRONE.

The computer-based truck-shovel DISPATCH system currently operating at the Tyrone mine of Phelps Dodge Corp. in New Mexico is an excellent example of succesful application of information systems technology in an operating mine environment. With the aid of straightforward examples, this article defines the basic terminology, briefly covers key algorithms embodied in the system software, and addresses system hardware considerations. Implementation benefits in the areas of ore production improvements and report generation are presented and discussed, as are possible future improvements in the system.