Wireless Communication in Underground Mines: RFID-based Sensor Networking

Underground mines require fool-proof, mine-wide communication systems for smooth functioning of mine production and worker safety. Proper and reliable communication systems not only decrease machine break down time, but more importantly provide immediate transmission of messages from the underground working area to the surface for normal mining operations as well as necessary rescue operations in case of disaster. Therefore, a reliable and effective communication system is an essential requisite for safe working, and maintaining the requisite production and productivity of underground mines. Existing wired communication systems cannot reach parts of complex mines, and are ineffective in many disaster situations. Wireless Communication in Underground Mines focuses on the recent advancement in wireless communication technologies for underground mines and other hazardous areas. This comprehensive book provides a unified foundation of wireless communication systems for transmission of data, voice and video. The book also incorporates intrinsically safe design and development aspects of circuits, which are essential for underground mines and hazardous areas. The book consists of recent wireless communication technologies designed and developed by the authors for underground mines and draws upon their experiences in the fields. Wireless Communication in Underground Mines covers a wide range of the recent practices of wireless communication systems as well as wireless sensor networking, radio frequency identification devices, system specific embedded software, application software, and designing and developing techniques for intrinsic safe circuits.