Studio 3 Features Full

Studio 3 A Summary of New Features Features and Enhancements

This document outlines the key enhancements and new features made since the inception of Studio 3. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. Detailed information regarding the upgrade from Datamine Studio 2 to Studio 3 is available via the Studio 3 Migration Course – please contact your local Datamine representative for more information.

Last Updated 23/11/2007 This documentation is confidential and may not be disclosed to third parties parti es without the prior written permission of Datamine Corporate Limited. © Datamine Corporate Limited

Contents 1

Introduction

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Setup, Startup and Installation

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Flash-driven CD Menu Launcher Updated Installation Package 64-Bit Operating System Support User Environment Profiles The Studio 3 Start Page Datamine Script Converter Data Source Driver Additions Help | About… Enhancements Common Tutorial Data Set

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Data Transfer and Management

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Save, Load, Refresh and Reload Control Project File Precision Control Data Object Manager Datamine Data Converter Utility Sirovision Data Driver Context-sensitive Save Options Edit Attributes Enhancements

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Commands and Processes

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ESTIMATE POLYDC Process Grid-from-DTMs Design Command Link-Multiple-Strings Design Command Dynamic Anisotropy Processes and Interface Dynamic Evaluation Reports VR Window Update Design Commands

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Windows, VR and Data Presentation

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Sirovision Window VR Window Enhancements Data Display Templates 3D Grids Mining Power Pack Quick Legends OLE Plot Items Images in Log Views

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Performance & Usability

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Wireframing Performance Increases Clip-to-Perimeter Improvement Improved VR Window Rendering Quick Profile Loading Memory Management Improvements

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Wireframing and Booleans

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Alternate Boolean Method Now Available DTM Creation Functionality Grid from DTMs Function Link-Multiple-Strings command

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Wireframe-Split command Wireframe-Section

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Documentation and Support

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Full Context-sensitive and Conceptual Help Tutorials

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Scripting and Automation

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Extended Automation Facilities

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Datamine Script Converter Macro File Name Size Increased New Macro Writing Tutorial

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Studio 3 is Datamine’s premier resource / reserve modelling and engineering solution. Its object oriented data model and support for distributed file systems allow mining professionals improved flexibility and greater control of data. Combined with the ability to view and format data independently in multiple views, Studio is the ideal environment for enhanced visualisation and verification of ore body models and mine designs. Studio 3 provides corporations with a secure governance framework through Enterprise level solutions. The incorporation of industry standard scripting tools provides a powerful scripting capability, allowing work flow procedures to be designed into solutions and repetitive tasks to be automated. Studio also includes an integrated virtual reality (VR) environment ideal for safety reviews, training, operational planning and general collaboration activities. One of Datamine’s key strengths lies in our comprehensive coverage of software for the entire mine planning cycle. As you can see from our Solution Footprint above, this isn’t just Studio but covers a lot of other software as well. We are continuing to develop our Solution Footprint and have invested significant resource in the development of Studio 3, which represents a major contribution to this effort. Although Studio’s traditional area of usage was steeped in the Geological Interpretation area, Studio now covers the full range of activities in the mine planning cycle from Exploration and Data Collection to Operational Mine Planning. Studio 3 not only encompasses the Geological Interpretation but also significantly expands coverage in other areas including In Touch and Datamine Enterprise. Studio 3 has been subject to a continual development program since its release in 2006. Regular releases, resulting from market feedback has meant that our flagship title is now the most intensely developed, tested and documented package of its type in the market today. Offering a multitude of new features and enhancements, implementing Studio 3 within your business

Studio 3 Features Summary

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is a natural choice for anyone serious about thriving in the mining industry. This document represents a reference list of all significant features and enhancements added since Studio 3’s inception in 2006. It is not an exhaustive list and represents a relatively small subset of the total efforts that have gone into maintaining Studio 3’s position as the application of choice for all mining professionals. If you have any specific questions about how Studio 3 can improve your business, contact your local Datamine representative, details of which can be found at www.datamine.co.uk.


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INTRODUCTION

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Enhancements and new features for Studio 3 have been introduced regularly since its initial release in 2005. These upgrades are numerous, and this document does not set out to outline them all. Instead, details relating to a selection of these updates are shown. This should not be seen as a full descriptive list of changes (this information is presented in the form of Studio 3 release notes which accompany every new release). This document will be updated as new Studio 3 features and enhancements are implemented. Information has been categorized as follows: •

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Setup, Startup and Installation: features and enhancements that directly affect the installation or initial configuration of Studio 3, including associated applications. Data Transfer and Management: program changes that relate to the import or export of data, and the handling of files and projects during a Studio 3 session. Commands and Processes: design commands and processes are updated regularly, and new items are added when required. Performance and Usability: Studio 3 components have been upgraded throughout the public release period to embrace the latest technology and react to customer comments. Wireframing and Booleans: the wireframing elements of Studio 3 have been significantly upgraded since the first release in terms of both robustness, performance and usability. Data Presentation: Studio 3’s Plots and VR windows have also been subject to significant improvements.

For information about the latest version of Studio 3, please contact your local Datamine representative for details specific to your area.


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SETUP, STARTUP AND INSTALLATION Studio 3 is a standalone application that will install all components required to run the application. This will include installation of other supporting products such as License Services and Data Source Drivers, shared by many Datamine applications, that will ensure you can license and run your Studio 3 package with the minimum of fuss. The following enhancements have been introduced relating to Studio 3 Setup and Installation process:

Flash-driven CD Menu Launcher All Datamine products are now available on a self-running CD, complete with a Flash-driven menu launcher. It is not necessary for Flash to be installed on the machine in use as all files are provided. From the CD Menu you will be able to access “What’s New” information, access to the latest release and any available associated printable documentation. The CD also provides access to useful utilities.

Updated Installation Package Once Studio has been selected for installation, an industry-standard wizard is used to allow you full control over the components you wish to install. This simple-to-use menu provides installation options and links to useful information, including a ‘What’s New’ summary for the latest release.

64-Bit Operating System Support After thorough testing, Datamine are now proud to announce full support for Studio 3 under 64-bit Windows operating systems. Updates have been made to provide support for license key dongles, 64bit .NET support and 64-bit specific wireframing controls.

User Environment Profiles Profiles are used to store user-specific interface settings for subsequent Studio 3 sessions. These files contain a multitude of data relating to how your screen is laid out. Multiple profiles can be saved and reloaded easily, and at any stage of a Studio 3 session. Profiles are XML (eXtensible Markup Language) files, containing information about your Studio 3 interface, or 'customization state'. These files are created automatically by your Studio 3 application, and default profiles are available.


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Profiles contain a wealth of information about your Studio 3 interface, including the following: •

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Data windows in view, and their visible state (minimized, maximized, tiled etc.)

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Toolbars in view and their visible state (position, floating, docked etc.)

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Control bars in view, and their visible state (position, floating, docked etc.)

A key advantage of using profiles is that they allow you to create interface layouts that suit a particular purpose. For example, you may have a particular set up that is sympathetic towards data presentation, and another for mine design, or VR window work. There is no limit to the amount of profiles you can store, and providing they are named sensibly, you will be able to retrieve a setup that suits any working scenario in Studio 3.

The Studio 3 Start Page The Studio 3 Start Page presented (optionally) on startup is a valuable information resource. This web-flavoured interface allows you to manage your current projects and interface profiles, and provides access to the Studio 3 Portal on the Datamine website. This page is updated regularly and indicates forthcoming new features and useful overview information. If no web connection is available, an offline version will be displayed. If a web connection is present, the information delivered is ‘live’, ensuring you have access to the latest information available about Studio 3 and other Datamine products. The Studio 3 Start Page can also be used to load default profiles, supplied to cover screen resolutions from 1024x768 pixels up to 1600x1200 pixels.

Datamine Script Converter Datamine Script Converter is a tool that will assist you in the upgrade of your existing, pre-Studio 3 scripts, so that they can achieve the same results in Studio 3 as they did in previous versions. These tasks are undertaken using a combination of automatic updating, and the analysis and reporting of areas requiring manual modification, either using the Script Converter dialog or an external script editing facility.

Data Source Driver Additions The acQuire and Data Provider data source drivers have now been added to the installation of all relevant Datamine products, dependent on the existence of the AcquireDirect Dynamic Link Library on destination machines. In addition, Sirovision import facilities have been introduced to facilitate the import of SiroTIFF files from 3rd party applications. Data filtering control is also available on import with this set of drivers, with options relevant to the data transfer route being presented to the user prior to committing to an import. Data transfer is an important aspect of using Datamine software – we don’t expect anyone to commit to a single format. As such, our awareness of the current market formats and


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versions is unsurpassed, ensuring you can access your most valuable corporate data within our market-leading systems.

Help | About… Enhancements All Datamine products now deliver a standardized information page under the Help context menu. As well as data relating to the release in general and individual installed components, information about the DirectX specific functionality and OpenGl functionality is also provided. Two extra buttons: DX Info and GL Info have been added to give access to dialogs reporting the appropriate information.

Common Tutorial Data Set To complement the range of tutorials that have been written exclusively for Studio 3 users, a single demo data set now exists for core Datamine projects, installed/updated with each new setup. This data is referenced throughout all of the Studio 3 tutorials, and is also shared by other products within the Datamine solution footprint.


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DATA TRANSFER AND MANAGEMENT Studio 3’s Data Source Drivers facility gives unparalleled connectivity options for your corporate data. A wealth of drivers and data types are supported, with all connection information stored in the Studio 3 project file, there is no need to permanently convert your files to the Datamine format; it’s a lot more beneficial to retain your preferred format and

let Studio 3 forge the links to your native data types. Once loaded, you can easily export in any supported format if you wish to, of course. The following enhancements have been introduced relating to project and file data management in Studio 3:

Save, Load, Refresh and Reload Control Studio 3 projects and project data can be saved using the highly-flexible project update dialogs. These dialogs are shown context-sensitively and offer you the opportunity to save all files in a project, or selected files. You can use the same interface to determine whether files are automatically reloaded the next time a project is opened, making the initial setup of projects considerably quicker. In addition, data can be saved to the project file or as standalone, portable Datamine (.dm) files. The ability to reload, refresh and unload data objects is available at any juncture in your Studio 3 session. You can even refresh data from non-Datamine sources, using the Data Source Drivers technology; source file edits can be passed into the Studio 3 framework immediately.

Project File Precision Control Studio 3 offers unprecedented control over single- and extendedprecision projects. Single precision projects can be upgraded to provide support for extended precision files using a simple setting. The presence of the precision status of a project is validated in all relevant areas, preventing mixed-project-precision issues. This concept is outlined fully in the “Studio 3 Precision Settings” guide, which is available from your local Datamine office.

Data Object Manager Studio 3’s Data Object Manager utility contains a wealth of functions that relate to the control and analysis of loaded object data. This “onestop shop” allows you to focus your data table-related activities in one area. As well as providing an overview of the underlying data columns of a particular object, you can also join and extract data from objects, add


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object attributes and apply data filters . Import and export options are also available. This dialog is also available in Downhole Explorer, Present and NPV Scheduler.

Datamine Data Converter Utility Datamine Data Converter (DDC) is a standalone application, now provided free-of-charge for Studio 3 users. This useful application permits the transfer of data between different formats. Specifically, it is aimed at providing a mechanism for the automated translation of file formats on a batch-basis. DDC allows you to access a subset of the available driver functions via a scripting environment, allowing the process of conversion to be automated and batch-based. This utility has a dedicated help file and tutorials, and is available from the Extras folder on your application CD.

Sirovision Data Driver To accommodate the fully-integrated Sirovision window introduced in Studio 3, a new set of data drivers have been implemented to complement the extensive suite of data transfer options already available. The Sirovision data driver permits full control over the import of Sirovision string, point and surface data, including the option to ‘decimate-on-import’ if required. Multiple (mosaic) image files are handled so that full control over which aspects of a multi-image file are imported, and full texture support is included as standard for mesh imports.

Context-sensitive Save Options File saving and archiving options been upgraded to provide more flexible control over what happens when a change in a project is detected, or new files have been created within the current session. Options are provided to allow you to save files individually, and to determine whether they are automatically reloaded when the project is next opened. You also have the choice of whether data is to be saved within the project file, or as a separate, portable Datamine file.

Edit Attributes Enhancements The Edit Attributes facility has undergone some visual enhancements in Studio 3, to provide an information-rich environment when selecting a particular object's attribute. Attributes are now visible as any combination of fill, line style, symbol and description properties, making the selection of attribute values more intuitive. The customizable nature of the new dialog ensures you will only see information that is relevant to your particular needs.

Project “Locking Facility To complement the range of tutorials that have been written exclusively for Studio 3 users, a single demo data set now exists for core Datamine projects, installed/updated with each new setup. This data is referenced


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throughout all of the Studio 3 tutorials, and is also shared by other products within the Datamine solution footprint.


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COMMANDS AND PROCESSES Studio 3 commands and processes underpin the core functionality of your system. The functionality available within Studio 3 can be accessed using menus, toolbars, command syntax and process syntax.

Studio 3 Design Commands, such as make-the-dtm, linksingle-outline, circle-from-edge-to-edge etc. are all accessible from Studio 3 interface menus, or accessed directly using the Command line, in the Command output window. These commands act on currently loaded (into memory) data, optionally with additional parameters supplied using further dialogs. Many of these design commands will also have an associated quick-key combination for rapid instigation during a Studio session. Studio 3 Processes, such as HOLES3D, ESTIMA, PERFIL etc. are similar to commands, in that they can also be accessed using the menu or command line, but instead of activating a function directly, they provide an interface to allow you to specify parameters required to complete the process. Commonly, a process will result on the specification of an input file, parameters to control the process and an output file, although sometimes, the most important result of a process will be the output to the Command window, for example, reporting summary statistics of an input geological model file. All design commands and processed are fully-documented in Studio 3, with this information provided as both a standalone Help file, and an in-dialog reference panel. The following enhancements have been introduced relating to design commands and processes. Please note that this does not represent an exhaustive list of changes:

ESTIMATE ESTIMATE uses the ESTIMA process to estimate grades in a block model. Estimate offers all the functionality of ESTIMA and INDEST (excluding unfolding), plus more, through a tailored dialog. It includes the ability to save and restore search volume, estimation type and variogram model information through the use of parameter files. The ESTIMATE dialog is broken up into a series of tabs, which follow the process of grade estimation from left to right. Each tab may contain controls and fields, or additional sub-tabs. There are a large range of commands and settings on offer, with each main tab accessing a dedicated context-sensitive Help topic.

POLYDC Process A new declustering super-process has been written for Studio 3. It is common practice to take more samples in high grade areas in order to improve the level of confidence in the estimation. However when data are not on a regular grid then using the full data set with equal weights for all samples will give a biased estimate of the mean, variance and histogram.


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The declustered weights take account of the proximity of neighbouring samples and thus lead to a better estimate of the statistical parameters, histograms, probability plots, QQ and PP plots, etc. The new POLYDC process calculates a set of declustered weights for a set of sample data using the 3D polyhedra method which is the 3D equivalent of 2D polygonal declustering. The existing DECLUST process also calculates declustered weights, but uses the rectangular grid method. The POLYDC process has several advantages over DECLUST, with the main one being the fact that weights are calculated for individual samples rather than all samples in a grid rectangle being assigned the same value.

Grid-from-DTMs Design Command A new command has been added to the Wireframes menu. Grid from DTMs allows you to create minimum, maximum or average elevation profiles consisting of a grid of points 'dropped' to the specified location, in relation to single or multiple wireframe surfaces.

Link-Multiple-Strings Design Command Creating a bifurcated wireframe has been a traditionally difficult process for CAD engineers. Studio 3 has now resolved the infamous 'trouser-leg' problem without the need for complicated guide string constructions by implementing a new 3D Solid string linking method.

Dynamic Anisotropy Processes and Interface Studio 3 delivers enhanced grade estimation functions via ESTIMA that support dynamic anisotropy methods. Two new processes, ANISOANG and APTOTRUE have been introduced to support this function. The dynamic anisotropy option allows the orientation of an ellipsoid to be defined individually for each block in the model. This functionality has been added along with a full online user guide and command Help.

Dynamic Evaluation Reports A useful dynamic geological model evaluation facility has been introduced in this release. This will allow you to interrogate geological block model data using one or more evaluation strings projected to specific elevations. The digitized evaluation zones can then be evaluated against an evaluation legend instantly, updated automatically when evaluation perimeter strings are edited.

VR Window Update Design Commands Two new commands have been added to further integrate Studio 3’s virtual reality toolset; “update-vr-view” (shortcut key “vrv”) will reset the VR window view to the current Design window view. The second command, “update-vr-objects” (shortcut key “vro”) updates the VR window according to the status of objects in the Design window.


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Enhanced String Vertex/Point Projection Options It is often a requirement to 'drop' point or string vertex data onto a particular surface. This version of Studio 3 sees the introduction of the Project Strings/Points dialog, accessed from the Sheets | VR folder's context menus. Previously, projection of data was only possible with string data, whereas now, string or point data can be projected onto one or more surface or section objects in memory. As well as a significant performance improvement, the new projection 'engine' allows projected data to be output to any object, or the original data can be updated. Complete customization of the projection direction is now possible, including selecting from a series of default angles.


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WINDOWS, VR AND DATA PRESENTATION

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Studio 3 provides several ways of viewing and interrogating mining and geological data. It does this through a variety of data windows, each of which concentrate on a different aspect of your data. The viewing hierarchy is closely related the way in which Studio 3 handles data and formats it for display; the data is loaded into memory as 3D objects which, depending upon their nature, can be viewed through one or more of the windows. This data is generally linked, and synchronized automatically, although you are given full control over this behaviour. Studio 3 merges the functionality of existing Datamine products to allow you access to a wide range of data manipulating functions. Due to the diverse nature of the data objects being represented across the full scope of Studio 3's processes, different viewports have been provided for specific reasons. Easily accessible from tabs at the top of the data window, each area represents a different functional category. The following data display enhancements and features represent the most significant updates introduced since the first release of Studio 3:

Sheet Templates Sheet templates are an efficient way of introducing standard content to your plot or log views. They can be used to minimize the work required in generating a framework presentation project which can be re-used in the future. Applicable to both Plot and Log views, templates are stored in a proprietary format (.dmtpl) which can be read in Studio 3, Downhole Explorer or Present applications.

Sirovision Window Studio 3’s Sirovision window is an excellent example of the integration of a new technology. Datamine Sirovision is a new technology that combines the power of digital photography with advanced mathematics to create value for the Mining industry. Sirovision produces rapid, accurate 3D structural models of mine features using affordable digital cameras. •

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Developed by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), the Sirovision window in Studio 3 represents a truly integrated solution, providing seamless connections between the powerful structure analysis tools and Studio 3's renowned proprietary technology. Sirovision uses digital images to generate three-dimensional (XYZ coordinates integrated with visual data) that can be used to provide valuable 3D information in minutes. Data is generated at thousands of 3D points per second and the system provides facilities for accurate mapping and analysis such as characterization of


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discontinuity orientation patterns and measurement of discontinuity spacing and persistence. •

Sirovision has been designed to support rapid mapping of mine features with a minimum of expertise in Photogrammetry. Using Sirovision, you can build accurate three-dimensional models from sections as small as 2 square meters up to 40,000 square meters in minutes. Using this system you can also create multiple 3D images in order to build an extended panoramic image.

For more information on the Studio 3 licensed Sirovision option, please contact your local Datamine Representative.

VR Window Enhancements The VR window is new to Studio 3, and is an embedded version of Datamine’s powerful InTouch technology. This visualization facility represents the Mining Industry’s first truly-integrated virtual reality solution. Data that is used during resource/reserve analysis, mine design, scheduling and reporting is the same as that used to present your virtual scenes in a memorable and unequivocal way. Since its inception, several enhancements have been made to the VR window (and it’s standalone InTouch equivalent): •

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Block Model Visualization: new controls have been added to the VR window to show block model data in a variety of formats, and with full playback of sequenced geological model animations. Visualizer File Support: Visualizer (.gvp) file support has been added to the VR window, allowing you to import and navigate exported Visualizer files, with or without sequence animation support. VR Performance Enhancements: the Studio 3 VR window now has a new rendering engine that displays and animates data more quickly and smoothly than in previous versions. This performance improvement has been ported to both Studio 3 and InTouch applications View Sections in VR : a new Sections item type has been added to the VR window. These sections represent single planes, which can be used for digitising onto, for clipping with, or simply displayed for reference purposes. Sections can be infinite planes, or can have a plane width and height defined. Section planes may also be accompanied by extents, which may have their own display settings, and can be used for creating a clipping range. VR Planes from Strings: Studio 3's VR window can now use strings digitised onto wireframes to specify key planes, for example for joint space analysis. As part of this, a variety of new tools and visualisation methods have been added to help with their generation and interpretation. These new commands are available under the new SiroJoint licensing module - contact your Datamine Representative for more details on how to acquire this powerful tool set. View Block Models as Intersections: block models can now be visualized in parent- and sub-cell resolution according to planes defined in the current section definition. This intersection can be defined according to any section currently in memory, and files containing multiple planes are supported, allowing rapid interchange of section. VR Environment Settings Additions: the VR window's Environment Settings dialog has been enhanced to provide support for double-sided lighting and data clipping.


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View VR Surfaces as Intersections: You can now view VR surface or block model data as an intersection. Block model sections can also show sub-celling (only full cells are displayed using the standard block model section control dialog). This intersection can be defined according to any section currently in memory. VR and Design Window Synchronization Options: New commands have been added to the Design window's drop-down Format menu allowing you to synchronize data objects and view directions between the Design and VR windows automatically.

Data Display Templates New to Studio 3, but now available in several Datamine products, Data Display Templates allow you separate style and content in your Studio 3 projects; a template contains all the data display instructions (simple or complex), and can be stored either in memory for use within the current project, or can be transferred to an external file for use in another project. A data display template can contain variety of information. In a simple form, a template could be used to, say, color an object red, and rendered in 3D. This type of display template is relatively generic and can easily be transferred to other object overlays of the same object type (it is not possible to apply, say, a wireframe display template to a block model, for example). For more information on Data Display Templates, please refer to your online Help, or contact your local Datamine Representative.

3D Grids The concept of grid overlays has been vastly extended in Studio 3. Grids are no longer restricted to simple 2D planes, but are now able to display contextual dimension data in 3 dimensions, and if required, snapped to an individual object. Grids are used to indicate the overall dimensions along any of the view axes (XYZ). One of the limitations of a standard flat grid is that it is often difficult to sense or interpret the extent of a 3D data object in a direction that is not orthogonal to the view. In the past, this conundrum has been resolved by allowing non-orthogonal grids to be viewed in the Design and Plots windows, and this type of measure is a very useful aid for denoting a measurement that is perpendicular to the viewing direction.

Mining Power Pack Mining Power Pack, an incredibly useful bolt-on for Studio 3, now runs under a Studio 3 Core License. Mining Power Pack is an Add-In for MS Excel® 97, 2000 and 2002, primarily focused on providing utilities for working with geological and mining-related data within Excel. Most of the utilities enable the rapid processing and manipulation of mining evaluation data. In particular, the facilities in Mining Power Pack enable automatic weighting of mineral grade values, which otherwise are only obtained in


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Excel by a tedious and time-consuming entry of functions cell-by-cell. These capabilities complement the existing facilities in Excel. Mining Power Pack is supported by a standalone Help file, including tutorials. It also comprises a demonstration data spreadsheet to help you to familiarise yourself with this renowned utility.

Quick Legends Studio 3’s Quick Legend facility is used to produce number-based legends (i.e. legends that interpret the numeric data of an underlying object when it is associated with an overlay of that object). Using a cutdown single-screen version of the Legend Wizard, you can rapidly generate ranged legends based on underlying object table contents.

OLE Plot Items Studio 3 provides a variety of proprietary plot items that you can add to your plot views to enhance a particular presentation. These items, although not directly 'built' from the same data format as, say, a geological block model or wireframe, they can report the contents of loaded objects of this type. Plot items can be static (for any items that will remain 'as constructed' no matter which underlying data is present) or linked (meaning that the information reported by the item can change according to certain aspects of the operating environment - such as a change of data object, or projection, or section and so on).

Images in Log Views Introduced in Studio 3, log views can be 'linked' to an external file containing a list of images. In fact, a particular hole display can be linked to any number of images. For example, hole VB3764 is supported, for a particular FROM and TO length interval, by color-enhanced imagery of a core sample, as well as a filtered view showing concentrations of a specific mineral deposit within the sample. Both of these images are useful for interpretation and presentation purposes, and both relate to a particular downhole sample.

Extended North Arrow Support North Arrows are a standard plot item in Studio 3, one of many available templates available from the Plot Item Library. Arrow plot items have been enhanced in this release, and are now based on flexible TrueType® technology, allowing dynamic scaling and formatting to be applied, with or without snapping or aspect ratio preservation. In addition to this upgrade, Arrow plot items can now be associated with grid overlays. Grid Arrows allow independent, local-coordinate-system indicators to be shown in either 2D or 3D. Consult your help file for more details.


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PERFORMANCE & USABILITY Clearly, there’s little point in introducing more features than your hardware can cope with. Within Datamine, it is an established business ethic to fit in with your business capabilities; it is important that your Datamine applications functional to their full potential on the designated hardware.

This has driven Datamine to invest much effort in ensuring that Studio 3 sits comfortably within your IT environment, and continuous code optimization projects ensure that the code that sits behind your application is as efficient as it can be. The mining industry traditionally deals with high-resolution data sets, particularly in the area of geological analysis, and our developers are focussed on delivering the most effective solutions for today’s hardware. On- and off-disk technologies are used to their full potential. The following enhancements have been introduced relating to system performance and usability:

Wireframing Performance Increases Embracing the latest advances in wireframing technologies, a new wireframing method has been added to the boolean dialogs, responsible for managing the interaction of wireframe data. This method, in many situations, can increase the speed of a boolean operation and manage large data sets even more effectively than the benchmark set by Studio 2.

Clip-to-Perimeter Improvement The clip-to-perimeter command has been optimized and now shows a significant speed gain.

Improved VR Window Rendering The Studio 3 VR window now has a new rendering engine that displays and animates data more quickly and smoothly than in previous versions, using OpenGL technology This performance improvement has been ported to both Studio 3 and InTouch v2.0 applications, and has opened up more possibilities for future feature implementations.

Quick Profile Loading The loading of environment profiles in Studio 3 has been greatly accelerated following focussed code optimization. Profiles now load/reload within a matter of seconds.


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Memory Management Improvements Several improvements have been made to ensure that system memory is used efficiently throughout your session; system resources are loaded as little as possible. As one example of this initiative, a change has been made which uses memory more efficiently when data contains a large number of identical alpha fields.


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WIREFRAMING AND BOOLEANS

Wireframes (also referred to as surfaces or solids in CAD or other modeling software programs) are 3D objects that can be generated by one of the following methods in Studio 3. All of the Boolean and plane operations already popular with Studio 2 users have been ported to the Studio 3 framework and, in many situations, they have been improved both in terms of additional control and command capabilities. In summary, wireframes in Studio 3 can be created using the following methods: •

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using Digital Terrain Modeling (DTM) wireframing techniques on 3D strings and/or points objects using String Linking techniques on 3D strings objects using Wireframing Manipulation techniques existing wireframe objects

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The following enhancements have been made to Studio 3’s wireframing functions. All of the functions listed below are described at both context and concept levels within your Studio 3 online Help.

Alternate Boolean Method Now Available Embracing the latest advances in wireframing technologies, a new optional method has been added to the boolean dialogs, responsible for managing the interaction of wireframe data. This method, in some situations, can increase the speed of a boolean operation and manage large data sets more effectively. This enhancement has been offered in addition to the previous wireframing function to provide the best solution for the data in context. This method of linking strings to produce wireframe volumes defines a series of regions for each string as either ‘open’ or ‘closed’ based on whether neighbouring strings overlap when looking in the direction of wireframing. When a string contains two or more closed regions a branch will be included in the wireframe. For more information on this method of linking strings, please refer to your Studio 3 online Help.

DTM Creation Functionality Studio 3's Digital Terrain Model creation facility has been enhanced to provide even more control over precisely how string vertices are linked to generate the resulting 3D terrain mesh. The previous Create DTM Dialog has now been superseded by a multi-screen Create DTM Wizard. You are given full control over the generation of spur objects, the use of boundary strings and the alignment of the projection plane.


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Grid from DTMs Function A new command has been added to the Wireframes menu. Grid from DTMs allows you to create minimum, maximum or average elevation profiles consisting of a grid of points 'dropped' to the specified location, in relation to single or multiple wireframe surfaces.

Link-Multiple-Strings command Creating a bifurcated wireframe has been a traditionally difficult process for CAD engineers. Studio 3 has now resolved the infamous 'trouser-leg' problem without the need for complicated guide string constructions by implementing a new 3D Solid string linking method.

Wireframe-Split command Splits a solid wireframe into two parts using a plane which can be the view plane, a plane (specified by azimuth, inclination and a reference point), or a plane picked using the pointer.

Wireframe-Section The previous multiple-wireframe-slice command has now been superseded by a more versatile version of the command. Wireframe-Section creates a string where a defined plane cuts through a wireframe object, using the new Wireframe Section Dialog.

Extended Boolean Plane Options You can now specify sections created in the VR window in any of the wireframe planar operations, e.g. split by string, multiple section etc. This has been provided in addition to the currently available plane definition options (North-South, East-West and Horizontal) and integrates the VR and Design window wireframing operations more closely. Any VR section can be specified in this way for planar operations.Creating a bifurcated wireframe has been a traditionally difficult process for CAD engineers. Studio 3 has now resolved the infamous 'trouser-leg' problem without the need for complicated guide string constructions by implementing a new 3D Solid string linking method.


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DOCUMENTATION AND SUPPORT Studio 3 is Datamine’s most extensively documented application to date. All areas of the system are documented thoroughly and clearly and much effort has been exuded in the creation of a dynamic information framework that evolves simultaneously with the application. Detailed Help is offered at context (F1) level, with a series of detailed conceptual topics supporting your learning of the system. Step by step general procedures are shown at every appropriate place, and the entire Studio 3 system is complemented by a suite of tutorials that will help you familiarize yourself with your system, and get the most out of it as quickly as possible.

Documentation is not a replacement for face-to-face training, and we are keen to encourage the continued increase in uptake for our training courses. All of Studio 3’s documentation has been written to complement our world-beating training, and provides an invaluable reference for any Studio 3 user. Help delivery is an important aspect of your application, and Datamine take it very seriously.

Full Context-sensitive and Conceptual Help All Studio 3 dialogs now support context-sensitive Help. Pressing in any dialog will produce a Help file relevant to the dialog on display. Much effort has been invested in ensuring that information is both up-to-date and, wherever required, conceptual, supporting information is provided.

Data Source Driver Help Updates Datamine's proprietary Data Source Drivers facility has long been used to facilitate data transfer between Datamine applications and a variety of industry-standard formats. Documentation for each driver has been completely rewritten and implemented to ensure you get the most out of this powerful data management system. Click , or press Help in any data import or export dialog to view these new files.

Screen Capture Facility The facility to record simulations created in the VR window has been available since the introduction of Studio 3. This facility has now been extended to allow you to capture the output from any Studio 3 data window, in .avi or .wmv format, using all available compression routines.


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Tutorials Datamine training courses offer tailored solutions for both new and current customers. Every release of Studio 3 is assisted by a set of tutorials that cover all aspects of your system, and have been written to be commensurate with Datamine’s seminal training methodology. Referencing demonstration data (installed automatically), these tutorials are an important part of your system. Tutorials are available for the following subjects: •

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Introductory Tutorial: introduces all key aspects of Studio 3, and is an invaluable tool for anyone wishing to upgrade from Datamine Studio 2. Open Pit Design Tutorial: this tutorial covers the stages involved in creating an ultimate pit design. Underground Design Tutorial: this tutorial introduces you to the key Studio 3 features used for the creation of a strategic mine design which would typically form part of a feasibility study or a long term plan of a mine planning cycle. It includes the design of workings for an ex-pit decline, footwall development and a Cut and Fill mining method. Data Presentation Tutorial: this tutorial introduces you to the key Studio 3 features used for presenting the electronic data that you would typically create in the geological modeling, grade estimation, mine design and mine planning stages of a Mine Planning Cycle. Grade Estimation Tutorial: This tutorial introduces you to the key Studio 3 features used for grade estimation. Typically 'grades' are estimated into the cells of a geological block model in order to generate a resource block model, which would typically be used as input into a feasibility study or a short-medium-long term plan of a mine planning cycle. Alternatively, 'grades' can estimated using panel outlines and results saved to a results table, without creating a block model. Scripting Tutorial: this tutorial will raise your awareness of the potential of automating some of your business processes using the wide variety of tools and components on offer, and provide a solid basis for learning more about this powerful aspect of Studio 3. Macro Writing Tutorial: This tutorial aims to introduce you to the basic tools and techniques used to write effective macros in Studio 3. Datamine Data Converter Tutorial: This tutorial contains a series of exercises to help you understand the processes behind data conversion using the Datamine Data Converter (DDC). Legends Tutorial: a series of exercises is available to take you through some of the key processes involved in managing the display of your Studio 3 data. Mining Power Pack Tutorial: understand and use Mining Power Pack from an informed perspective by following this tutorial.


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SCRIPTING AND AUTOMATION

Extended Automation Facilities Scripting in Datamine Studio 2 was introduced in order to bring together commands which appeared in the dmserver (now referred to as Datamine ‘processes’) with those in the gdserver (Design window). This was achieved by creating a new parsable scripting language which was based loosely on the existing MACRO language. Studio 3 introduced the concept of an object model to the Datamine operating environment and offered a valuable opportunity to implement more granular automation. This new scripting facility was created to take full advantage of Studio 3’s object-model, and now extends far beyond the confines of the previous macro-supported environment. Access to any COM-aware scripting environment automatically presents the full flexibility of the Studio 3 scripting environment. Unprecedented control of objects, via the Datamine Studio application programming interface, provides a boundless opportunity for automation. Datamine Script Converter The increase in functionality, and provision of a powerful, accessible and flexible object model has necessitated some changes to the way scripts are interpreted, and subsequently, if you wish to use your existing Studio 2 scripts within Studio 3, it is possible that some updating may be required to ensure scripts run as expected, without errors, and to make the best use of the new architecture. Datamine Script Converter is a tool that will assist you in the upgrade of your existing, pre-Studio 3 scripts, so that they can achieve the same results in Studio 3 as they did in previous versions. These tasks are undertaken using a combination of automatic updating, and the analysis and reporting of areas requiring manual modification, either using the Script Converter dialog or an external script editing facility. Macro File Name Size Increased The maximum number of characters for Datamine file names used in macros has been increased from 8 to 20. This upgrade applies both to standard commands, for example !COPY &IN(T1234567890), &OUT(Q1234567890ABC), and also to macro specific commands such as !FILE, !FIELD and !LINK. The maximum number of characters in filenames stored in catalog files has also been increased to 20. A catalog file contains a list of files to be processed and is mainly used in macros for deleting files (!DELETE) or appending (!APPEND) more than two files. The maximum number of characters per line allowed in a macro remains unchanged at 80.


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New Macro Writing Tutorial A new Macro writing tutorial has been provided, now available from your Studio 3 drop-down menu system under Help | Tutorials | Macro Writing Tutorial. This tutorial relies on the installed DM Tutorial demo data set, and takes you through the key points of creating, editing and recording macros to automate repetitive Studio 3 tasks.

Scripting from .NET It is now possible to reference the Studio 3 object model from within a .NET framework. This has been implemented so that all intellisense is full operational, allow scripters full access to this facility within .NET. From more information on scripting, please refer to your Studio 3 Scripting Tutorial, which can be accessed using Help | Tutorials | Scripting Tutorial.


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Studio 3 Features Full

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