ImPact Technology Suite Digital Networks and Applications for Underground Mines

ImPact is a purpose designed WLAN network communications platform that extends a site’s Ethernet topology into the underground workings of a mine.

One of the most critical applications the ImPact network is used for is tracking personnel and equipment in underground coal mines. Mine Site Technologies (MST) and AeroScout have combined their technology platforms to produce one of the most reliable and robust underground tracking systems available, with installation in over 100 mines in USA, Australia, Canada, China, Indonesia, and Zambia.

The design architecture philosophy provides extended general TCP/IP functionality with the added benefit of utilizing productivity enhancing tools available through
proprietary and off-the-shelf 802.11 wireless networking technologies. The network backbone is designed specifically for ease of installation and maintenance in the underground environment. The composite optic fibre/power cable simplifies system set up and provision of power to the entire system.

Basically, the ImPact system allows the convergence of technologies that has occurred in the general surface business environment to be taken underground. The single digital backbone can provide a variety of applications. The following shows the most common applications, with the first two being extremely relevant in meeting the requirements of the MINER Act in the USA:
• Personnel and Asset Tracking, via MST and AeroScout technology to provide Wi-Fi RFID Tags in cap lamps and as stand alone units. Apart from general tracking, these RFID Tags are also used for:
o Proximity Detection System for improved control of vehicle/personnel interactions
o Traffic Control and Automated Block Light Systems
o Access Control into working areas for people and vehicles

• Mobile, two-way communications via VoIP Telephone Handsets
• Real-time vehicle diagnostic and payload uploads
• Wireless data transfer
• Direct data transfer into site ERP and Management Systems