Figure 3: Polygon-based ore-grade model derived from a conventional block model for benchlevel visualization. 3.2. Bench-Level Augmented Reality Visualization of Ore Grades The second key result of this study is the successful visualization of bench-level ore-grade polygons within an augmented reality environment aligned to the physical mine geometry. Using high-precision RTK GNSS positioning, the polygon-based ore-grade model was spatially registered and overlaid onto a three-dimensional surface representation of the open-pit mine. Figure 4 presents a representative visualization of the proposed AR-based grade control system, showing color-coded ore-grade polygons superimposed on the mine bench as viewed through smart glasses. The visualization distinguishes low-grade, medium-grade, and waste zones using standardized color schemes, enabling immediate visual recognition by field operators. The alignment between the digital ore model and the physical bench geometry demonstrates the feasibility of real-time spatial context awareness in open-pit operations. Although the visualization shown is a controlled demonstration rather than a continuous production trial, it reflects realistic operational conditions in terms of spatial scale, viewing distance, and user interaction. The field unit, consisting of an RTK GNSS rover, microcontroller, portable power supply, and mobile computing hub, provides continuous positional updates to the AR system, allowing the virtual grade boundaries to remain fixed relative to the bench as the operator moves. This result highlights the potential of AR-based visualization to overcome longstanding challenges in grade control communication. Instead of interpreting abstract maps or coordinates, operators can directly observe ore boundaries in situ, reducing cognitive load and the likelihood of misinterpretation. Even in the absence of full-scale site validation, the visualization confirms that the proposed system architecture can support intuitive and spatially coherent grade control visualization at the bench level.
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