VLCMine: Visible Light Vital Monitoring System in RF-Constrained Mines

In the environment where traditional radio frequency (RF) communication systems face significant challenges, such as mining operations or nuclear testing laboratories, reliable alternative data transmission methods are required. This research presents a novel visible light communication (VLC) system, VLCMine, that transmits important sensor data, including body temperature, in RF-stuffed areas. The VLCMine integrates two stable ceiling mounted transceivers and dynamic wearable headcap transceivers to enable strong bidirectional communication. Mathematical modeling was employed to determine the optimal placement of stable units, select the appropriate beam angles, and define the ideal operating speed for dynamic transceivers, effectively reducing signal interference. Extensive experimental testing under different lighting conditions, different receiver distances, and dynamic user movement landscapes confirmed that the system firmly maintains high data integrity with a low bit error rate under optimal conditions. Finally, successful implementation of the VLCMine enhances operating efficiency and safety in environments where RF communication is impractical.