An Investigation of UWB-Based Wireless Networks in Industrial Automation

Ultra-wideband (UWB) communication has been the subject of extensive research due to its unique capabilities and potential applications. Some see UWB as an enabling technology for new wireless applications that span from high-data-rate transmission of raw multimedia video to new location-aware, low-data-rate, and low-power communication of sensor and actuator data. Underground mines, which are characterized by their tough working conditions and hazardous environments, require foolproof mine-wide communication systems for smooth functioning of mine workings and ensuring better safety. During the last years, a number of Canadian mining companies have started to deploy modern communications systems in order to automate processes, reduce operational costs and with the objective of increasing safety and productivity. However, many important aspects of UWB communication systems have not yet been thoroughly investigated in this kind of environments. In this paper we give an overview on UWB communication. Also we investigate via measurements and simulations the applications and design challenges for UWB communication and ranging in underground mines.