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The intrinsically safe system has wireless two-way communications and tracking.
The newly-approved stand-alone fixed nodes are installed underground for a mesh-type digital network.
With no external antennas or pre-installed hard-wire backbone, the nodes are powered by regular D-cell alkaline batteries and have a lifespan exceeding one year.
Working with the fixed nodes are mobile nodes, also known as miner interfaces, worn by workers on their person.
The mobile nodes function as the communicator and tracking device of the system.
As the fixed and mobile nodes interact, the miner identification data and text message communications are transmitted and received at the surface digitally, where it is logged.
StrataCommTrac is self-forming and self-healing, with worries about battery changes and other system functions eliminated by an automatic monitoring system.
In addition, the simple, inexpensive battery and node replacements minimize recurring maintenance expenses.
To date, Strata Safety has completed several successful live application tests and demonstrations. The system is available for installation at mines nationwide.
