An exploration on VLC channel model and characteristics using LEDs in underground mining

Abstract

In the underground mining environment, it is very vital to have reliable communication system to avoid frequently occurring dramatic disasters. The use of visible light communication (VLC) inside the mining environment can be considered instead of wired and radio communication. The communication scenarios inside the mine concentrate on illumination percentage and VLC channel characteristics. Less energy is consumed while using LED lightning fixtures, when compared with traditional light sources like incandescent bulb or compact fluorescent lamp. Thus, the work focuses on illumination sources and VLC channel characteristics so as to support communication among miners inside underground mining environment. The considered channel model is under line of sight condition to achieve better accuracy, and also, LED sources are considered in the mining roadway for brighter environment.