Multiple seam interactions are a major source of ground instability in several U.S. coalfields. Empirical methods are well suited for this problem, because while the mechanics multiple seam interactions are very complex and poorly understood, many mining case histories are available for analysis. This study makes use of an updated database that includes 356 multiseam case histories, including 67 unsuccessful designs. The paper describes in detail the process used to design the study, collect the data, conduct the statistical analysis, and develop the quantitative model. The model can be used for mine planning in multiple seam situations, and has been made available as a module within the Analysis of Coal Pillar Stability (ACPS) computer program.

在美国的几个煤田中，多种煤层相互作用是造成地面不稳定的主要原因。经验方法非常适合此问题，因为尽管力学上的多个煤层相互作用非常复杂且了解甚少，但许多采矿案例历史可用于分析。这项研究利用了一个更新的数据库，该数据库包含356个多缝案例历史，包括67个不成功的设计。本文详细描述了用于设计研究，收集数据，进行统计分析以及开发定量模型的过程。该模型可用于多种煤层情况下的矿山规划，并且已作为“煤柱稳定性分析（ACPS）”计算机程序中的模块提供。