Extensible transmitting antenna device for through-the-earth communication and working method

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of wireless communication. The invention discloses an extensible transmitting antenna device for through-the-earth communication, which comprises a plurality of transmitting antenna units which are of an annular structure; the self-adaptive adjusting devices are connected with the transmitting antenna units in a one-to-one correspondence manner; the transmitter is respectively connected with the plurality of self-adaptive adjusting devices; wherein the plurality of transmitting antenna units form an axially parallel antenna array. Through the structure, the radiation power and the antenna efficiency of the antenna array are greatly improved, the through-the-earth communication distance is effectively prolonged, the communication requirement of a deep mine is met, and miniaturization, expandability and high performance of the through-the-earth communication antenna are achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of wireless communication technology, and more specifically, to an apparatus and method for operating a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication. Background Technology

[0002] Trans-terrestrial communication (PTC) refers to wireless communication technology that bypasses thick, solid barriers such as earth, rock, and concrete. Existing TTC systems primarily utilize low-frequency electromagnetic waves. The main technical challenges faced by these systems include: First, the antenna size is large: low-frequency electromagnetic waves have long wavelengths, and traditional loop antennas need to be large (tens of meters in diameter) to achieve effective radiation, which makes them difficult to deploy in narrow underground spaces; Second, the transmission distance is short: the existing systems generally have a shallow penetration depth, which makes it difficult to meet the communication needs of deep mines in my country; Third, low communication speed: Due to the limitation of signal bandwidth, the data transmission rate is low, making it difficult to support multimedia communication such as voice. Fourth, weak anti-interference ability: weak signals are easily drowned out by the noise of underground electrical equipment.

[0003] In view of this, there is an urgent need for a device and method for operating a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication to solve the above-mentioned technical problems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main purpose of this application is to provide an apparatus and method for operating a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication, so as to solve the problems of short transmission distance, large antenna size and weak anti-interference capability of existing through-ground communication systems.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, a first aspect of this application provides an apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication, comprising: The transmitting antenna elements are multiple, and the multiple transmitting antenna elements are in a ring structure; An adaptive adjustment device is connected to each of the transmitting antenna units in a corresponding manner; The transmitter is connected to multiple of the aforementioned adaptive adjustment devices; wherein... Multiple transmitting antenna elements form an axially parallel antenna array.

[0006] Some possible implementations also include an antenna array support structure; the antenna array support structure supports multiple transmitting antenna elements connected axially in parallel, and the antenna array support structure is detachably connected to the multiple transmitting antenna elements.

[0007] In some possible implementations, the adaptive adjustment device independently adjusts the operating frequency of the transmitting antenna unit connected to it; the transmitter is capable of modulating the output signal into an amplitude-modulated (AM) signal or a frequency-modulated (FM) signal; wherein, When the transmitter outputs an amplitude modulation signal, all the transmitting antenna units operate at the same frequency; When the transmitter outputs a frequency-modulated signal, each of the transmitting antenna units operates at a different frequency.

[0008] In some possible implementations, the transmitting antenna element is tuned and matched by the adaptive adjustment device.

[0009] In some possible implementations, the transmitting antenna unit includes an insulating ring frame and a conductive coil wound on the frame, wherein the spacing between the turns of the conductive coil is uniform and the total number of turns of the conductive coil is the required number of turns, and the insulating ring frame is made of glass fiber reinforced plastic.

[0010] In some possible implementations, the antenna array is arranged axially side by side, and the capacitance loading value of each of the transmitting antenna elements is configured according to a preset frequency.

[0011] Some possible implementations also include a first connecting cable and a second connecting cable, wherein the first connecting cable is used to connect the transmitting antenna unit to the corresponding adaptive adjustment device, and the second connecting cable is used to connect the adaptive adjustment device to the transmitter; wherein each transmitting antenna unit forms an independent transmission path with the transmitter through the first connecting cable, the adaptive adjustment device, the second connecting cable and the transmitter.

[0012] In some feasible embodiments, the antenna array support structure is a segmented modular structure, with each segment of the modular structure corresponding to the installation of one transmitting antenna unit, and adjacent modular structures are connected to each other via quick-release components.

[0013] In some feasible embodiments, the coil of the transmitting antenna unit is made of an integrated transmitting coil.

[0014] Secondly, this application provides a method for operating a scalable transmitting antenna for through-the-ground communication, applied to the aforementioned apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-the-ground communication, the method comprising: Based on the distance and rate requirements of through-ground communication, the transmitter selects either amplitude modulation (AM) or frequency modulation (FM) mode, sends frequency control commands to each adaptive adjustment device, and independently adjusts the operating parameters of the corresponding transmitting antenna unit so that each transmitting antenna unit matches the low-frequency band required for through-ground communication. If amplitude modulation mode is selected, the transmitter controls all the transmitting antenna elements in the antenna array to operate at the same target frequency, and adjusts the signal transmission parameters of each transmitting antenna element to effectively improve the radiation efficiency of the transmitting antenna elements, output amplitude-modulated signals, and increase the transmission distance through superimposed radiation by the antenna array. If the frequency modulation mode is selected, the transmitter controls each of the transmitting antenna elements in the antenna array to operate at different preset frequencies, and outputs a frequency modulation signal formed by the multi-frequency cooperative radiation of the transmitting antenna elements to extend the channel bandwidth; During signal transmission, each of the adaptive adjustment devices collects the operating status data of the corresponding transmitting antenna unit in real time and feeds it back to the transmitter. The transmitter dynamically fine-tunes the frequency parameters and signal amplitude of each transmitting antenna unit based on the feedback data to counteract noise interference.

[0015] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application may include the following beneficial effects: This application discloses a scalable transmitting antenna device for through-ground communication. By employing multiple transmitting antenna elements arranged axially in parallel to form an antenna array, and combining them with a corresponding adaptive adjustment device that works in conjunction with the transmitter, it effectively solves the problems existing in current through-ground communication systems. The transmitting antenna elements significantly improve the coil Q-value and effective radiating area. The axial array configuration replaces the traditional large-size single-loop antenna, greatly reducing the overall antenna deployment volume and solving the problem of difficult installation in narrow underground spaces. The array design integrates the operating frequency bands of each element, broadening the system bandwidth, breaking through the rate limitation of low-frequency signals, and improving the data transmission rate to support multimedia communication. The high Q-value characteristic can suppress noise interference from power frequency, electromechanical equipment, etc. outside the frequency band. The adaptive adjustment device ensures that each transmitting antenna element operates efficiently at the optimal frequency, enhancing the anti-interference capability of the transmitted signal at the operating frequency. Simultaneously, the radiated power and antenna efficiency of the antenna array are significantly improved, effectively extending the through-ground communication distance, meeting the communication needs of deep mines, and realizing the miniaturization, scalability, and high performance of through-ground communication antennas. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the application and to make other features, objects, and advantages of the application more apparent. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of this application are used to explain the application and do not constitute an undue limitation of the application. In the drawings: Figure 1 A logic diagram of an apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication provided in this application; Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating the operation of a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication provided in this application. Detailed Implementation

[0017] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0018] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for the embodiments of this application described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0019] In this application, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "middle," "vertical," "horizontal," "lateral," and "longitudinal" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for the purpose of better describing this application and its embodiments, and are not intended to limit the indicated device, element, or component to having a specific orientation, or to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation.

[0020] Furthermore, in addition to indicating location or positional relationship, some of the aforementioned terms may also have other meanings. For example, the term "above" may also be used in some cases to indicate a certain dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0021] Furthermore, the terms "installation," "setup," "equipped with," "connection," "linked," and "socketing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0022] In through-the-ground communication systems, loop antennas are widely used due to their simple structure and ease of achieving magnetic field coupling. A through-the-ground communication system mainly consists of a ground antenna, a ground transceiver, a ground transmission channel, and a downhole antenna and transceiver. In emergency situations where other communication systems fail, low-frequency signals penetrate the rock strata to enable data communication with the underground network.

[0023] Insufficiency of existing technology: While existing ground-penetrating communication technologies have made some progress, the following major problems still exist: 1. Insufficient transmission distance: Existing ground-penetrating communication systems generally have a limited transmission distance. While existing systems may have long communication distances, their ground penetration depth is insufficient, or their ground penetration depth is good, but their communication range is limited. Therefore, they cannot meet practical needs and have become a significant problem restricting their field application. 2. Large Antenna Size: Low-frequency electromagnetic waves have long wavelengths, necessitating the use of very large loop antennas in the transmitting system to achieve effective electromagnetic radiation. For example, the TeleMag system requires a loop antenna with a diameter of 18.3 meters. Such large antennas are not only difficult to lay out, but also limited by the conditions of underground tunnels, restricting installation methods. 3. Weak anti-interference capability: The underground environment contains various noise sources, including power frequency interference, geological noise, lightning pulse interference, and noise from electromechanical equipment. The amplitude of these noises is often tens of times higher than the useful signal, while the signals emitted by underground communication equipment are already very weak after passing through the strata, making them extremely easy to be drowned out by the electrical noise of surrounding electrical equipment, causing the system to malfunction. 4. Small channel capacity: Existing ground-penetrating communication systems generally use low-frequency signals, which, while beneficial for improving the signal-to-noise ratio, limits the transmission rate.

[0024] These issues make it difficult for existing solutions to meet the engineering requirements of high efficiency, mobility, and scalability in complex wireless environments.

[0025] In view of this, this application proposes a device and operating method for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication. It uses a loop antenna as the transmitting antenna unit and operates at a low frequency. Through innovative antenna array structure and tuning technology, it solves the problems of short transmission distance, large antenna size and weak anti-interference capability of existing through-ground communication systems.

[0026] like Figure 1 As shown, in a first aspect, this application provides an apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication, comprising a transmitting antenna unit, an adaptive adjustment device, and a transmitter.

[0027] The array comprises multiple transmitting antenna elements, which are arranged in a ring structure. These multiple transmitting antenna elements form an axially parallel antenna array.

[0028] Specifically, the transmitting antenna unit is tuned and matched by the adaptive tuning device.

[0029] Furthermore, the transmitting antenna unit includes an insulating ring frame and a conductive coil wound on the frame. The spacing between the turns of the conductive coil is uniform, and the total number of turns of the conductive coil is determined by the application scenario. The insulating ring frame is made of glass fiber reinforced plastic.

[0030] The insulating ring frame can be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic, a material that combines lightweight, high strength, and resistance to moisture and dust, making it suitable for complex underground environments. The inner diameter of the insulating ring frame is designed according to the operating requirements of low-frequency through-ground communication, providing ample winding space for the conductive coil while ensuring a precise fit with the snap-fit ​​parts of the antenna array support structure to ensure no loosening after installation. The frame's wall thickness is designed for structural stability under KW-level transmission power to prevent deformation over long-term use.

[0031] The conductive coil is wound around the outer wall of an insulated ring frame, using a multi-strand stranding process with silver-plated copper wire. This reduces skin effect loss in low-frequency signal transmission, and the silver plating enhances conductivity and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for high-current overcurrent requirements under tuning conditions. The number of turns is selected based on actual needs, with uniform spacing between turns. The design principle for this range of turns is to balance the antenna's Q value and physical size, ensuring a high Q value to suppress out-of-band noise while avoiding excessive antenna size due to too many turns, thus achieving a balance between miniaturization and high performance.

[0032] The conductive coil is a capacitor-loaded coil, with the capacitor integrated at the end of an insulated ring frame. It is fixed to the two ends of the conductive coil by welding, and the welded joints are sealed with insulating adhesive to prevent corrosion from underground moisture. The operating frequency of the capacitor-loaded coil matches the adjustment frequency of the corresponding adaptive adjustment device. The principle is that the capacitor and the conductive coil form a resonant circuit, and the adaptive adjustment device, by changing its own adjustment parameters, drives the resonant frequency of the capacitor-loaded coil to precisely fall within the low-frequency band required for through-ground communication, ensuring efficient radiation from the transmitting antenna unit.

[0033] It should be noted that, in order to facilitate the support of the transmitting antenna units, an antenna array support structure is also included. The antenna array support structure supports multiple transmitting antenna units that are axially connected in parallel, and the antenna array support structure is detachably connected to the multiple transmitting antenna units.

[0034] The antenna array support structure is a segmented modular structure, with each segment of the modular structure corresponding to the installation of one transmitting antenna unit, and adjacent modular structures are connected by quick-release components.

[0035] Specifically, in the axially arranged antenna array, the capacitance loading value of each transmitting antenna element is configured according to a preset frequency.

[0036] The antenna array support structure can be a segmented modular structure, with each segment corresponding to the installation of one transmitting antenna unit. The length of the segment is adapted to the outer diameter of the transmitting antenna unit, ensuring that the axis of the transmitting antenna unit is aligned after installation. The advantage of modularity is that the number of segmented modular structures can be increased or decreased according to the on-site communication distance, speed and deployment space requirements, realizing flexible expansion of the antenna array and solving the problem of limited deployment of traditional large-size antennas.

[0037] Each modular support structure has a snap-fit ​​groove on its sidewall that fits the insulating annular frame of the transmitting antenna unit. The inner wall of the snap-fit ​​groove is equipped with an anti-slip rubber pad, and the transmitting antenna unit is detachably connected to the support structure through mechanical snap-fit. During installation, the transmitting antenna unit is simply inserted into the snap-fit ​​groove for fixation; during disassembly, the transmitting antenna unit is easily separated by gently pushing it along the axial direction, requiring no additional tools and meeting the needs of rapid downhole deployment. It should be noted that the structure of the snap-fit ​​groove can be a conventional structure, and this application does not limit the specific structure of the detachable connection.

[0038] The two adjacent modular support structures are connected in a detachable manner, such as with a spring-loaded snap-on quick-release mechanism. One end of one structure has a boss with a spring-loaded snap, and the other end of the structure has a corresponding positioning slot. During connection, the boss is inserted into the slot, and the spring-loaded snap automatically engages with the limiting hole within the slot, forming a self-locking fixation to ensure connection stability. During disassembly, pressing the spring-loaded snap releases the lock, allowing for quick separation of the two structures. The operation is convenient and requires no auxiliary tools.

[0039] In axially parallel antenna arrays, the principle of spacing design is that the spacing within this range can effectively superimpose the radiation fields of adjacent transmitting antenna elements, avoiding the reduction of the radiation effect of the transmitting antenna elements due to too small a spacing, or the weakening of the radiation field superposition effect due to too large a spacing, ultimately improving the total radiation power and communication distance of the antenna array.

[0040] The capacitance loading value of each transmitting antenna element is configured according to a preset frequency. The preset frequency is determined based on the target frequency band requirements for through-ground communication, ensuring the continuous connection of the operating frequency bands of the transmitting antenna elements. The configuration logic is as follows: by setting the capacitance loading value of each transmitting antenna element differently, each transmitting antenna element corresponds to a specific frequency point within the target frequency band. Then, by combining arrays, the system bandwidth is expanded, thereby improving the communication rate. This, combined with the independent frequency adjustment function of the adaptive adjustment device, allows for flexible switching between amplitude modulation (AM) and frequency modulation (FM) modes.

[0041] An adaptive adjustment device is connected to each of the transmitting antenna units in a corresponding manner.

[0042] Specifically, the adaptive adjustment device independently adjusts the operating frequency of the transmitting antenna unit connected to it; the transmitter can modulate the output signal into an amplitude-modulated (AM) signal or a frequency-modulated (FM) signal; wherein... When the transmitter outputs an amplitude modulation signal, all the transmitting antenna units operate at the same frequency; When the transmitter outputs a frequency-modulated signal, each of the transmitting antenna units operates at a different frequency.

[0043] It should be noted that the adaptive adjustment device has the function of independently adjusting the operating frequency of the transmitting antenna unit connected to it. Its core principle is based on the adjustable design of the resonant circuit parameters, and the specific implementation process is as follows: The transmitter sends corresponding frequency control commands to each adaptive adjustment device according to the frequency band requirements of through-ground communication.

[0044] After receiving the instruction, the adaptive adjustment device adjusts the circuit to its resonant frequency by changing the capacitance of the variable capacitor or the inductance of the variable inductor.

[0045] Since the coil of the transmitting antenna unit is a capacitor-loaded coil, it forms a complete resonant circuit with the variable parameter module of the adaptive adjustment device. When the circuit is tuned to match the transmitter signal frequency, the transmitting antenna unit enters the resonant state, achieving efficient radiation.

[0046] During the adjustment process, data such as impedance and current of the circuit are collected in real time and fed back to the transmitter to form a closed-loop adjustment, ensuring the stability and accuracy of the operating frequency.

[0047] The adaptive adjustment device is an existing device, and this application does not improve or adjust the structure of the adaptive adjustment device.

[0048] The transmitter can modulate the output signal into an amplitude-modulated (AM) signal or a frequency-modulated (FM) signal. The operating frequency configuration of the transmitting antenna element follows differentiated logic between the two modulation modes, and the core design is based on the radiation characteristics of the antenna array and communication requirements. Amplitude modulation mode: All transmitting antenna elements operate at the same frequency. Principle: The requirement for amplitude modulation (AM) signals is to increase radiated power to extend communication distance. When all transmitting antenna elements operate at the same target frequency, the radiated fields of each element can be effectively superimposed, significantly increasing the total radiated power of the antenna array and meeting the long-distance transmission requirements of ground-penetrating communication.

[0049] Adaptive Design: When the transmitter issues an amplitude modulation mode command, it simultaneously sends the same frequency control command to all adaptive tuning devices. Each device coordinates to adjust its corresponding transmitting antenna element to ensure consistent resonant frequencies. Simultaneously, the transmitted signal, through the coordination of the adaptive tuning devices and the transmitting antennas, ensures an effective improvement in the radiation efficiency of the transmitted signal. Frequency modulation mode: Each transmitting antenna element operates at a different frequency. Principle: The core requirement of FM signals is to expand channel bandwidth to increase communication speed. The signal bandwidth of a single transmitting antenna element is relatively narrow. By having multiple transmitting antenna elements operate at different preset frequencies (each frequency covering a non-overlapping and continuously connected frequency band), the total bandwidth of the antenna array can be superimposed and expanded, breaking through the bandwidth limitation of a single transmitting antenna element.

[0050] Adaptive Design: When the transmitter issues a frequency modulation mode command, it sends different frequency control commands to each adaptive adjustment device. The command frequencies are preset based on the target extended bandwidth requirements, ensuring that the operating frequency bands of each transmitting antenna element are continuous and non-overlapping. Each adaptive adjustment device independently adjusts the resonant frequency of its corresponding transmitting antenna element, enabling the array to achieve wideband coverage. The frequency modulation signal output by the transmitter is radiated through multi-unit multi-frequency coordinated radiation, thereby expanding the channel bandwidth and improving the communication rate.

[0051] The transmitter is connected to multiple of the aforementioned adaptive adjustment devices.

[0052] It should be noted that the emitter is an existing emitter, and this application does not improve the structure of the emitter.

[0053] In one embodiment, an apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication further includes a first connecting cable and a second connecting cable, the first connecting cable being used to connect the transmitting antenna unit to the corresponding adaptive adjustment device, and the second connecting cable being used to connect the adaptive adjustment device to the transmitter; wherein each transmitting antenna unit forms an independent transmission path with the transmitter via the first connecting cable, the adaptive adjustment device, the second connecting cable, and the transmitter.

[0054] Specifically, both the first and second connecting cables can be low-loss RF coaxial cables, with conductors made of multi-strand silver-plated copper wire, consistent with the conductive coil material of the transmitting antenna unit. This reduces skin effect loss during low-frequency signal transmission and is suitable for high-current overcurrent requirements at KW-level transmitting power. The cable insulation layer is made of cross-linked polyethylene, which is wear-resistant, moisture-resistant, and anti-aging. The outer layer is wrapped with a double-layer shielding mesh (inner copper wire braided mesh + outer aluminum foil), which can effectively resist external interference such as underground power frequency interference and electromagnetic radiation from electromechanical equipment, ensuring signal transmission purity.

[0055] Each of the aforementioned transmitting antenna units forms an independent transmitting path through a series structure of "first connecting cable → adaptive adjustment device → second connecting cable → transmitter". Specifically, a single transmitting antenna unit corresponds to one first connecting cable, one adaptive adjustment device, and one second connecting cable, and the second connecting cable corresponds one-to-one with the independent interface of the transmitter, forming a "one-to-one" path configuration to ensure physical isolation between multiple paths.

[0056] Secondly, this application provides a method for operating a scalable transmitting antenna for through-the-ground communication, applied to the aforementioned apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-the-ground communication, the method comprising: S100: Based on the distance and rate requirements of through-ground communication, the transmitter selects either amplitude modulation (AM) or frequency modulation (FM) mode, sends frequency control commands to each adaptive adjustment device, and independently adjusts the operating parameters of the corresponding transmitting antenna unit so that each transmitting antenna unit matches the low-frequency band required for through-ground communication.

[0057] S200, if amplitude modulation mode is selected, the transmitter controls all the transmitting antenna elements in the antenna array to operate at the same target frequency, and adjusts the signal transmission parameters of each transmitting antenna element to effectively improve the radiation efficiency of the transmitting antenna element, output amplitude-modulated signals, and increase the transmission distance through superimposed radiation by the antenna array.

[0058] S300, if the frequency modulation mode is selected, the transmitter controls each of the transmitting antenna elements in the antenna array to operate at different preset frequencies, and outputs a frequency modulation signal formed by the inter-frequency cooperative radiation of multiple transmitting antenna elements to extend the channel bandwidth.

[0059] S400, during signal transmission, each of the adaptive adjustment devices collects the working status data of the corresponding transmitting antenna unit in real time and feeds it back to the transmitter. The transmitter dynamically fine-tunes the frequency parameters and signal amplitude of each transmitting antenna unit according to the feedback data to counteract noise interference.

[0060] It should be noted that for a description of the method steps, please refer to the description of an apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication, which will not be repeated here. Example

[0061] A scalable transmitting antenna device for through-the-ground communication uses a loop antenna as its core unit and operates in the low-frequency band. Through antenna array structure and tuning technology, it solves the problems of short transmission distance, large antenna size, and weak anti-interference capability in existing through-the-ground communication systems. The device system block diagram is shown below. Figure 1As shown, the main system components include transmitting antenna units (1, 7, 12, 17), antenna array support structure (6, 11, 16), antenna and adaptive tuning device connecting cables (2, 8, 13, 18), adaptive tuning device (3, 9, 14, 19), adaptive tuning device transmitter connecting cables (4, 10, 15, 20), and transmitter (5). The transmitting antenna units and adaptive tuning devices are in one-to-one correspondence; one ring transmitting antenna unit is paired with one adaptive tuning device. The ring transmitting antenna unit and the adaptive tuning device are connected by cables, and then the adaptive tuning device is connected to the transmitter interface, thus forming an independent ring transmitting antenna unit transmission path. Multiple ring transmitting antenna units can be connected side-by-side along the axial direction using the antenna array support structure. The number of ring transmitting antenna units in the antenna array can be configured according to actual site requirements. Figure 1 The schematic diagram shown is an example of an antenna array consisting of four ring-shaped transmitting antenna elements.

[0062] In this application, the antenna array needs to be set up first. Here, we take an antenna array composed of four transmitting antenna elements arranged axially side by side as an example. Each transmitting antenna element is equipped with an adaptive tuning device, so that each transmitting antenna element is independently connected to the transmitter interface.

[0063] Because ground-penetrating communication antennas operate in low-frequency bands, the wavelengths of electromagnetic waves in these bands are very long. This results in extremely large physical dimensions for ground-penetrating communication antennas, classifying them as small-loop antennas. The lower the operating frequency, the larger the antenna's physical size needs to be to ensure that its efficiency does not become too low. According to antenna design theory, antenna efficiency is directly proportional to the effective area of ​​the antenna. Furthermore, when the effective area of ​​a loop antenna is fixed, the total effective area of ​​the antenna array can be increased by forming an antenna array with multiple loop transmitting antenna elements. This increases the overall antenna efficiency, improves the signal transmission power, and thus effectively increases the communication distance and improves the antenna's signal-to-noise ratio.

[0064] To ensure communication distance and signal-to-noise ratio, the radiated power of the through-ground communication antenna must be maintained at a certain level. Because the through-ground communication antenna operates in a low-frequency band, the efficiency of small loop antennas is extremely low. Therefore, the transmission power of the through-ground communication signal needs to be very high, reaching the kilowatt level. In the tuned state, the impedance of the loop transmitting antenna element is very small, resulting in extremely high instantaneous current in the circuitry within the loop transmitting antenna element. To ensure the engineering implementation of the through-ground communication antenna, while maintaining the overcurrent capability of the loop transmitting antenna element, the internal circuitry structure of the loop transmitting antenna element results in an extremely high Q value, thus the signal bandwidth of a single loop transmitting antenna element is very narrow, and the channel rate is very low. Based on these antenna characteristics, amplitude modulation (AM) is commonly used for modulation of the through-ground communication signal. Using the scalable through-ground communication antenna array structure proposed in this application, the through-ground communication signal is modulated and transmitted using frequency modulation (FM) through phase modulation or time-division multiplexing. Compared to AM, using FM for signal transmission can increase the communication rate without changing the antenna array architecture, and simultaneously improve the anti-interference capability of the transmitted signal in complex environments.

[0065] In fact, by using this method of axially arranging multiple transmitting antenna units in parallel, the antenna performance is improved, and the miniaturization of the ground-penetrating communication antenna is also achieved simultaneously. A single transmitting antenna unit can be connected to another transmitting antenna unit through a support structure. Both the ring-shaped transmitting antenna unit and the support structure can be quickly assembled and disassembled. As a result, the ground-penetrating communication antenna proposed in this invention has the attributes of scalability, miniaturization, and flexible deployment.

[0066] In an embodiment, to further improve the coherent superposition of transmitted signals in the target area, the following examples may be included: The transmitter sends control commands to each adaptive adjustment device according to the target area coverage requirements and synchronous ignition requirements formed by the electronic detonator arrangement. The control commands can independently adjust the operating parameters of the corresponding transmitting antenna unit so that each transmitting antenna unit is matched with the low frequency band required for electronic detonator ground-penetrating communication.

[0067] The transmitting antenna unit receives the dynamic adjustment parameters and sends them to the adaptive adjustment device to ensure that the difference in the received signal amplitude of all electronic detonators within the target area of ​​several hundred meters is less than a preset difference, for example, ≤3dB, and the difference in synchronous ignition response time is less than a preset time difference, for example, ≤1ms.

[0068] It should be noted that, based on the coverage requirements and synchronous ignition requirements of the target area formed by the distribution of digital electronic detonators, the transmitter sends control commands to the adaptive adjustment device. For example, the command might be: operating frequency in the low-frequency band, reference amplitude set to 10V. After receiving the command, the adaptive adjustment device adjusts the capacitance loading value of the corresponding transmitting antenna unit to ensure that the resonant frequencies of the four transmitting antenna units are precisely matched to the set operating frequency, while simultaneously calibrating the loop impedance to a 50Ω matching state. All four transmitting antenna units operate stably in the set operating frequency band, with loop impedance fluctuation ≤2Ω, meeting the frequency band matching requirements for electronic detonator through-ground communication.

[0069] Next, the dynamic calibration parameters are sent to the adaptive adjustment device in real time, forming a closed-loop control. This ensures that the amplitude difference of the received signals from all electronic detonators within the target area is less than or equal to a preset threshold, such as ≤3dB, meeting the synchronization requirements for electronic detonator detonation; there is no signal loss or false triggering throughout the process. It should be noted that the above values ​​are illustrative and can be adjusted according to actual conditions.

[0070] In summary, the scalable transmitting antenna device and operating method for through-ground communication provided in this application have the following beneficial effects: By applying a multi-antenna array configuration, the effective antenna area of ​​the loop antenna array can be significantly increased compared to the traditional single loop antenna, thus significantly improving the radiation power of the loop antenna array and thereby enhancing the antenna efficiency of the loop antenna array, and simultaneously increasing the communication distance.

[0071] This scalable multi-antenna array structure, combined with an adaptive tuning device, improves communication speed and signal-to-noise ratio. It enables the antenna array to operate efficiently at its operating frequency. Each antenna is connected to the transmitter through an independent adaptive tuning device, and each antenna can operate independently at a single operating frequency. By controlling the transmitter, the signal modulation method of the transmission system can be easily configured, thereby improving the communication speed and signal-to-noise ratio of the transmitted signal without changing the configuration of the transmission system.

[0072] Miniaturization of low-frequency antennas enhances system flexibility. This scalable structural design allows for the reduction of bulky single low-frequency antennas to antenna arrays composed of multiple loop transmitting antenna units that can be assembled and disassembled by a single person. This miniaturization of low-frequency transmitting antennas significantly improves the flexibility of low-frequency transmitting antenna applications and enhances the ability to deploy rapidly in complex environments.

[0073] It should be noted that the steps shown in the flowchart in the accompanying drawings can be executed in a computer system such as a set of computer-executable instructions, and although a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases the steps shown or described may be executed in a different order than that shown here.

[0074] Obviously, those skilled in the art should understand that the various units or steps of this application described above can be implemented using general-purpose computing devices. They can be centralized on a single computing device or distributed across a network of multiple computing devices. Optionally, they can be implemented using computer-executable program code, thereby storing them in a storage device for execution by a computing device, or fabricating them separately as individual integrated circuit modules, or fabricating multiple modules or steps into a single integrated circuit module. Thus, this application is not limited to any particular combination of hardware and software.

[0075] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A device for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication, characterized in that, include: The transmitting antenna elements are multiple, and the multiple transmitting antenna elements are in a ring structure; An adaptive adjustment device is connected to each of the transmitting antenna units in a corresponding manner; The transmitter is connected to multiple of the aforementioned adaptive adjustment devices; wherein, Multiple transmitting antenna elements form an axially parallel antenna array.

2. The apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an antenna array support structure; the antenna array support structure supports multiple transmitting antenna units connected in parallel along the axis, and the antenna array support structure is detachably connected to the multiple transmitting antenna units.

3. The apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The adaptive adjustment device independently adjusts the operating frequency of the transmitting antenna unit connected to it; the transmitter can modulate the output signal into an amplitude-modulated (AM) signal or a frequency-modulated (FM) signal; wherein... When the transmitter outputs an amplitude modulation signal, all the transmitting antenna units operate at the same frequency; When the transmitter outputs a frequency-modulated signal, each of the transmitting antenna units operates at a different frequency.

4. The apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The transmitting antenna unit is tuned and matched by the adaptive adjustment device.

5. The apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The transmitting antenna unit includes an insulating ring frame and a conductive coil wound on the frame. The conductive coil has a uniform inter-turn spacing and the total number of turns is the required number of turns. The insulating ring frame is made of glass fiber reinforced plastic.

6. The apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication as described in claim 1, characterized in that, In the axially parallel antenna array, the capacitance loading value of each transmitting antenna element is configured according to a preset frequency.

7. The apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a first connecting cable and a second connecting cable. The first connecting cable is used to connect the transmitting antenna unit to the corresponding adaptive adjustment device, and the second connecting cable is used to connect the adaptive adjustment device to the transmitter. Each transmitting antenna unit forms an independent transmission path with the transmitter through the first connecting cable, the adaptive adjustment device, the second connecting cable, and the transmitter.

8. The apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The antenna array support structure is a segmented modular structure, with each segment of the modular structure corresponding to the installation of one transmitting antenna unit, and adjacent modular structures are connected by quick-release components.

9. The apparatus for a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The conductive coil of the transmitting antenna unit is made of multi-strand silver-plated copper wire.

10. A method for operating a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication, characterized in that, An apparatus for use with a scalable transmitting antenna for through-ground communication as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, the method comprising: Based on the distance and rate requirements of through-ground communication, the transmitter selects either amplitude modulation (AM) or frequency modulation (FM) mode, sends frequency control commands to each adaptive adjustment device, and independently adjusts the operating parameters of the corresponding transmitting antenna unit so that each transmitting antenna unit matches the low-frequency band required for through-ground communication. If amplitude modulation mode is selected, the transmitter controls all the transmitting antenna elements in the antenna array to operate at the same target frequency, and adjusts the signal transmission parameters of each transmitting antenna element to effectively improve the radiation efficiency of the transmitting antenna elements, output amplitude-modulated signals, and increase the transmission distance through superimposed radiation by the antenna array. If the frequency modulation mode is selected, the transmitter controls each of the transmitting antenna elements in the antenna array to operate at different preset frequencies, and outputs a frequency modulation signal formed by the multi-frequency cooperative radiation of the transmitting antenna elements to extend the channel bandwidth; During signal transmission, each of the adaptive adjustment devices collects the operating status data of the corresponding transmitting antenna unit in real time and feeds it back to the transmitter. The transmitter dynamically fine-tunes the frequency parameters and signal amplitude of each transmitting antenna unit based on the feedback data to counteract noise interference.

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