A Physical Layer Security Framework for Industrial Sensor Network Utilizing Integrated Infrared Handshaking and Visual Light Communication

This paper introduces a novel Physical Layer Security (PLS) framework tailored for LiFi-based sensor networks within industrial environments. The proposed system comprises multiple sensor nodes, each equipped with at least three radar sensors integrating both infrared (IR) and visible light communication (VLC) subsystems. The IR subsystem employs a handshake protocol, activating the IR transmitter when data is ready for transmission and ensuring the receiver is prepared to establish a secure link. Upon successful IR handshake, the VLC subsystem initiates data communication between sensors. Additionally, the IR subsystem monitors for mobile obstacles, pausing transmission if discontinuities are detected, thereby maintaining link integrity. Environmental factors, such as walls, significantly influence the secrecy rate performance; hence, the system utilizes parallel alignment of transmitters and receivers to optimize the signal-to-background ratio. The proposed system is examined by simulation and the feasibility results are presented. The results shows that this architecture enhances the robustness and security of inter-sensor communication in challenging industrial settings.