# Routing Algorithm for Sensor Network Monitoring the Condition of Mining Equipment
## 8 Discussion  
The integration of wireless sensor networks in mining systems is rapidly progressing, covering a variety of applications such as pressure sensing, environmental telemetry and longwall monitoring.  
This paper presents the process of implementing the routing algorithm in a sensor network operating in powered roof supports, being an important component of longwall mining systems.  
The assumptions for the design process of a wireless sensor network equipped with inclinometers, oil pressure sensors and distance measuring modules, meeting stringent safety standards in accordance with the ATEX directive, are presented. Given the impracticality of cable connections in dynamic mining environments, the sensors operate wirelessly with battery power, which requires optimised energy consumption to extend their functionality.  
The authors conducted a simulation analysis of the routing algorithms. Reactive, proactive and swarm intelligence-based algorithms such as PSO, ACO and BEE were compared. The analysis demonstrated the ability of the algorithms to effectively manage data flow over a wide-area network infrastructure. The results showed that algorithms based on metaheuristics, such as PSO, ACO and BEE, can adapt communication routes more flexibly under dynamic environmental conditions.  
The rest of the paper focused on the implementation of the selected algorithms in real hardware units. Functional tests confirmed the correctness of the algorithms, and the results showed their ability to minimise energy consumption and reduce data delivery time to the target. The next iteration of the algorithm implementation used a PSO with ACO elements, which allowed the optimisation of the communication route in the sensory network. This implementation yielded promising results, indicating the potential of the algorithm to efficiently manage sensor networks in industrial settings.  
While challenges such as node replacement and network reconfiguration remain to be solved, this study provides a solid foundation for future research to improve the reliability and scalability of wireless sensor networks in mining applications. Using swarm intelligence and advanced routing algorithms, these networks promise to revolutionise safety and performance standards in underground mining operations.  
Conceptualization, [PERSON], K.S., M.H. and J.R.-R.; methodology, [PERSON], S.B., A.D. and M.H.; software, [PERSON], S.B. and J.R.-R.; validation, [PERSON], S.B. and J.R.-R.; formal analysis, K.S., A.D., M.H. and J.R.-R.; investigation, [PERSON], S.B., K.S., M.H. and J.R.-R.; resources, [PERSON], J.R.-R., K.S., M.H. and A.D.; data curation, [PERSON], [PERSON], [PERSON] and [PERSON]; writing--original draft preparation, [PERSON], [PERSON], [PERSON], [PERSON] and [PERSON]; writing--review and editing, [PERSON], [PERSON] and [PERSON]; visualization, [PERSON] and [PERSON]; supervision, [PERSON], [PERSON] and [PERSON]; project administration, [PERSON], [PERSON] and [PERSON]R. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.  
This research received no external funding.  
Not applicable.  
The data presented in this study are available in the article.  
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.