Optimization of Leaky Feeder Slot Spacing for Better Beam Forming in Mines and Tunnels

Abstract

The radiating cable (or leaky feeder) is the leading solution for distributed broadband wireless access in underground mines and tunnels. The traditional radiating cable has equally spaced slots along its axis radiating evenly. However, with the new requirement for tracking and localization of miners, this paper shows how to modify the leaky feeder to function as a beam forming antenna array by appropriately optimizing the slot spacing. Optimizing the leaky feeder slot distances using Genetic algorithm has a good impact on the channel parameters, making it an excellent choice for leaky feeder antennas. Linear, as well as bent practical leaky feeder shapes, were considered, and we tested five different optimization algorithms and compared side lobe energies, varying the slot distance which had an impact on side lobe level. Also, we derived the expression for the BER, spectral efficiency and throughput considering a time-varying wireless channel. We observed that as the radius of curvature of the feeder increased (approaching a straight line), the spectral efficiency decreased as expected. Interestingly different optimization algorithms perform differently at different carrier frequencies. An optimization method should be chosen according to the required goal to be achieved (maintaining uniform equal power along the cable, or a more directed beam, or using a certain frequency of operation).