A graph-coloring-based navigational algorithm for personnel safety in nuclear applications

In this paper, we propose a navigational algorithm that fuses and synthesizes data from multiple sensors. This algorithm, based on graph coloring theory and wireless communication of data, can be applied for personnel guidance through potentially hazardous radiation areas at nuclear facilities. The proposed algorithm relies upon coloring of the links (paths) involved in a way that would lead to rapid convergence of the edges within a graph, which, in turn, leads to improved navigational guidance of occupational workers alongside paths of minimum radiation. Verification of algorithm functionality is done via MATLAB simulations while considering the case of a radiation leak following a given accident scenario. Furthermore we test the robustness of the supporting network infrastructure using OPNET under proposed design layout.