Development of smart distributed data storage and analysis systems for optimization of mining operations and coal mining management

Digitalization of the coal industry based on the introduction of smart distributed data storage and analysis systems opens up new opportunities for optimization of mining processes. This study focuses on designing the architecture of such systems as well as a comprehensive assessment of the effects from their application at coal mining companies. An original methodology is proposed that combines analysis of technological, economic and environmental aspects of digitalization. Simulation modeling of production processes and calculation of the key performance indicators of the smart systems have been carried out based on an extensive empirical database on Russian coal mining companies for 2018-2023. The obtained results indicate a significant potential for optimizing coal production by increasing the equipment output by 30-40%, reducing the maintenance costs by up to 25%, and improving the workplace safety by up to 95%. Practical recommendations are offered on the systems configuration and integration of various data sets. The results of the study can provide a basis for developing strategies for digital transformation of the coal industry and distribution of the best practices