VLC channel model in underground mining scenarios with the extinction effect and shadowing effect

Abstract

In this work, a novel, to our knowledge, visible light communication (VLC) channel model is proposed for underground mining scenarios taking into account the impact of coal dust particles and obstacles. Specifically, the extinction effect of the coal dust particles is analyzed on the basis of the Mie theory, and the quantitative formula of the influence on channel direct current (DC) gain is derived. Meanwhile, the effect of a random shadowing phenomenon is investigated and quantified with the geometric and statistical model considering the position, size, and shape of the obstacles. The channel impulse response, path loss, root mean square delay spread, and bit error rate (BER) are further investigated in two different underground mining scenarios, namely, a mining roadway and coal mine working face. Simulation results show that the shadowing effect plays a major role in the influence of DC gain attenuation. Furthermore, the BER performance is noticeably degraded due to the presence of coal dust particles and obstacles, especially when the receiver is located far from the transmitter. This work will benefit the design of the VLC systems in underground mines.