1. Principles

• Low-Latency Communication: Autonomous systems require real-time data transmission to function effectively. Low-latency communication ensures that commands from the fleet management system are received and acted upon instantly by autonomous vehicles, and that telemetry data is relayed back without delays. In underground mining, where rapid decisions are crucial for safety and efficiency, minimizing latency is critical.
• High Bandwidth: The transmission of large amounts of data, including video feeds, sensor data, and control signals, requires high bandwidth. Autonomous systems depend on transmitting a vast array of sensor inputs (e.g., LiDAR, cameras, radar) in real time to ensure accurate navigation and obstacle avoidance.
• Reliability and Redundancy: A reliable connection is essential for maintaining control over autonomous vehicles in underground environments, where even brief interruptions can result in safety hazards or operational inefficiencies. Redundancy in communication systems ensures that backup connections are available in case of primary network failure.
• Network Coverage in Confined Spaces: Unlike open-pit environments, underground mines are characterized by narrow tunnels, rock walls, and sharp turns, which can obstruct communication signals. The connectivity system must be designed to cover these confined and irregular spaces fully.

2. Mechanisms

Hardware

• Mesh Networks:
  • Mesh networks are a key solution for maintaining communication in underground environments. In a mesh network, each vehicle, sensor, or fixed node in the mine acts as a network relay, ensuring that data can hop between nodes even in the absence of direct line-of-sight. This creates a highly resilient network where if one node fails, data can still be routed through other nodes.
  • Wi-Fi Mesh and 5G solutions can both be deployed in mines to establish these networks. Wi-Fi mesh networks are commonly used due to their cost-effectiveness, while 5G offers higher bandwidth and lower latency, making it an attractive option for high-data-demand environments.
• Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Systems:
  • UWB technology is used for accurate positioning and short-range communication in underground mines where GPS is unavailable. UWB provides precise localization by sending high-frequency pulses that bounce off walls and objects, giving vehicles detailed positional data that can be relayed to the fleet management system.
• Leaky Feeder Systems:
  • Leaky feeder cables are specialized coaxial cables that emit and receive radio signals along their length. These cables are commonly used in underground environments to extend radio and communication signals where traditional antennas are ineffective. Leaky feeder systems can support voice communication, data transmission, and emergency signals, making them ideal for extending the coverage of communication networks deep underground.
• Antennas and Access Points:
  • Directional antennas and strategically placed Wi-Fi access points ensure that communication signals can reach vehicles even in remote parts of the mine. These devices are used in combination with other communication hardware like UWB and leaky feeders to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Software

• Network Management Software:
  • Network management platforms are essential for monitoring, configuring, and maintaining the network’s health. This software tracks the performance of various nodes, identifies areas of weak signal, and optimizes the allocation of bandwidth to ensure that high-priority data (such as safety-critical commands) is transmitted without delays.
• Edge Computing:
  • Edge computing reduces the dependency on centralized data processing by allowing data to be processed locally on the vehicle or at the edge of the network, close to where it is generated. This is especially important in underground mining, where latency issues may arise due to the complexity of the communication infrastructure. Edge computing allows critical data, such as obstacle detection or route planning, to be processed locally, ensuring quicker responses and reducing the load on the central network.