In the drive toward intelligent, safe, and efficient mining operations, the integration of 5G Private Network Base Stations, WiFi 6, Fiber Optic Repeaters, PoC Walkie-Talkies, and AI Cameras has become a core enabler, addressing pain points like poor underground connectivity, high safety risks, and inefficient management.

 

1. 5G Private Network Base Stations: The Core Connectivity Backbone

5G private networks are deployed to cover underground roadways, mining faces, and surface control centers. With ultra-low latency (≤10ms) and high reliability, they support critical services such as real-time remote control of mining equipment (e.g., automated loaders and drill rigs), transmission of high-definition underground video, and data interaction between IoT sensors (for gas, temperature, and pressure monitoring). Unlike public 5G, private networks prioritize mining-specific data, ensuring no latency or interference during peak operations.

2. WiFi 6: Complementary Coverage for High-Density Scenarios

WiFi 6 is deployed in fixed areas with high personnel/device density, such as underground refuge chambers, surface workshops, and staff lounges. It complements 5G by providing high-bandwidth access for non-critical tasks—like workers checking maintenance manuals on tablets, or transferring large batches of equipment operation logs to the cloud. Its ability to connect hundreds of devices simultaneously avoids network congestion in busy zones.

3. Fiber Optic Repeaters: Extending Connectivity to Deep Underground

Underground mines often have deep roadways or remote working faces where 5G/WiFi signals weaken or disappear. Fiber optic repeaters solve this by amplifying and relaying signals along fiber optic cables (laid alongside mining tunnels). They ensure stable connectivity even in 1,000+ meter deep mines, enabling real-time communication and data transmission between deep working faces and the surface control center—critical for coordinating mining tasks and responding to emergencies.

4. PoC Walkie-Talkies: Unified, Smart Communication for Teams

Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PoC) walkie-talkies replace traditional analog radios, leveraging the 5G/WiFi network for seamless communication. Unlike analog devices (limited by short range and single-channel), PoC walkie-talkies support:

• Long-range communication (covering the entire mine, surface to underground).

• Multimedia sharing (sending real-time photos/videos of equipment failures or safety hazards to the control center).

• Group calls (coordinating teams across different mining zones, e.g., excavators, transport trucks, and safety inspectors).

This unifies communication, reducing delays in decision-making and emergency responses.

5. AI Cameras: Proactive Safety and Efficiency Monitoring

AI-enabled cameras are installed at key locations: underground mining faces, surface stockyards, and equipment operation areas. They integrate with the 5G network to transmit real-time video to an AI analytics platform, enabling:

• Safety monitoring: Detecting violations (e.g., workers not wearing safety helmets, unauthorized personnel entering restricted zones) and hazardous conditions (e.g., gas leaks, tunnel collapses) with instant alerts to the control center.

• Efficiency optimization: Analyzing equipment operation (e.g., detecting idle time of loaders) and stockpile volumes (via computer vision) to optimize production schedules.

• Post-incident analysis: Storing video data for reviewing safety events or equipment malfunctions, supporting root-cause investigations.

Synergy of the Integrated System

Together, these technologies create a “connected, intelligent, and safe” mining ecosystem:

• 5G + Fiber Optic Repeaters ensure full-coverage, low-latency connectivity;

• WiFi 6 supplements with high-bandwidth access for non-critical tasks;

• PoC Walkie-Talkies enable unified team communication;

• AI Cameras turn raw data into actionable insights for safety and efficiency.

This integration not only reduces accident risks (e.g., real-time hazard detection) but also boosts productivity (e.g., automated equipment control, optimized workflows), marking a key step toward the future of smart mining.

 

For more details about the smart mine solution, please contact kingtone team.