Design and construction of an underground communication system :

Abstract

This project report presents the design and construction of an underground communication system for the Tiira mining area, with a focus on addressing the critical issues of safety and productivity among small-scale and artisanal miners. The existing communication methods, such as walkie-talkies, are expensive to acquire and maintain, leading miners to rely on outdated and inefficient bells and pipes, resulting in accidents and reduced production. The primary objective of this study is to design and construct an affordable and efficient underground communication system. The specific objectives of the study include designing the underground signaling system, assembling the system components, testing its efficiency, and conducting a financial analysis. The developed system utilizes a 7.4V power source consisting of two rechargeable lithium AA size cells with a capacity of 2600mAh each. It is controlled by an Arduino Uno microcontroller and incorporates 6 LEDs, a 4-ohm speaker, and a 16x2 LCD display. The system also features nine push buttons with pull-down resistors of 10k Ohms. The system’s performance, based on testing, was found to be 73%, a significant improvement over the existing communication method, which operates at 45%. The financial analysis indicates that the system is profitable, with a Payback Period of 0.5 years and Profitability Index (PI) of 2.14. Implementing this improved communication system is expected to lead to increased production, enhanced safety, and reduced accidents. Furthermore, it aligns with the sustainable development goals, NDP III objectives, VISION 2040, and the NRM manifesto, supporting economic growth, modern technology-driven mining, job creation, and poverty eradication. In conclusion, the design and construction of this underground communication system offer a promising solution to the challenges faced by Tiira small-scale miners. It not only enhances communication but also contributes to the overall well-being and economic development of the region. For future research, it is recommended to develop a multi-functional system that can handle communication, production monitoring, and personnel tracking during emergencies, further improving safety and productivity in underground mining operations.