Abstract: Based on the prototype of the representative geological section plane of a copper mine, the physical general model test is made to analyze deformation and subsidence of ground surface and surrounding rock with different excavating steps by grid digital photography which is used to measure full-field displacement of model section plane. In the model test, once mines between –75m and –45m are excavated; the influence zone of surrounding rock and the subsidence displacement of surface become greater and greater. Thus, the rocks above the cavity begin to separate from surrounding rocks after the 7th excavating step and the zone from No 1 testing point to No 4 testing point form a subsidence basin obviously after the 9th excavating step. The result of model test is almost consistent with the result of UDEC( The Universal Distinct Element Code) and the in-situ circumstance.

Key words: mining engineering, rock mechanics, inclining mine near surface, deformation and subsidence, model test