Applying Visible Light Communication Co-location in Nuclear Power Plant: Architecture and Key Technologies

A nuclear power plant (NPP) is an important avenue for the conversion of nuclear energy into electric energy. Wireless communication technologies can effectively promote more efficient and convenient construction and operation of an NPP. However, the traditional wireless communication technologies have several possible risks, such as radio-frequency electric sparks and electromagnetic interference, which may endanger the operation of NPPs. Recently, visible light communications (VLCs) and visible light positioning (VLP) have become two promising technologies for the nuclear power industry as they are electromagnetic-free and also highly secure. In this article we first present a multi-layer architecture for an NPP, which includes a macro-cell layer, a picocell layer, and an attocell layer. The former two layers work in the radio-frequency spectrum to provide seamless coverage for outdoor and indoor unrestricted areas. The attocell layer works in the visible spectrum to provide coverage for restricted areas in order to prevent electromagnetic interference and ensure safety. A visible light communication co-location (VLCL) system is proposed in the attocell layer to provide high-speed transmission and positioning services. Several key technologies are discussed, including light source layout, communication and positioning techniques, and a multiplexing scheme. Finally, technical challenges and possible solutions are presented. This article demonstrates that a VLCL system has potential advantages in supporting the nuclear power industry.