Keywords
Bluetooth beacon; iBeacon; beacon network; indoor localization.
Location
Session D3: Advances in Environmental - Decision Support - Software Systems
Start Date
12-7-2016 8:30 AM
End Date
12-7-2016 8:50 AM
Abstract
This research addresses assessment of Bluetooth Low Energy beacon based sensor networks used indoors for navigation or localization purposes, e.g. for fire brigade or during emergency evacuation. The objective of this research is to evaluate suitability of beacon technology in the terms of overall stability and precision. We focused on commercially highly deployed beacon brand Estimote, for usage in such network infrastructures. These beacons were tested in a real field deployment conditions, with focus on radiated signal quality and its spreading. Test measurements were made by iOS based smartphones to evaluate precision of user localization. Furthermore, beacons were tested in a semi-anechoic chamber for radiated emission measurements comparison. Other tests include signal strength degradation over traveled distance, received signal strength comparison across device models, framework distance estimate evaluation, and beacon placement position significance to signal strength quality. Gathered results show unsuitability of Bluetooth based beacon network systems for precise indoor navigation. This conclusion is important mainly for calling attention to flaws and latent risks related with usage of this technology, since current research and use cases were over-positively influenced by hype from the side of vendors of beacon technologies.
Included in
Civil Engineering Commons, Data Storage Systems Commons, Environmental Engineering Commons, Hydraulic Engineering Commons, Other Civil and Environmental Engineering Commons
Bluetooth Beacon Network Suitability for Crisis Management
Session D3: Advances in Environmental - Decision Support - Software Systems
This research addresses assessment of Bluetooth Low Energy beacon based sensor networks used indoors for navigation or localization purposes, e.g. for fire brigade or during emergency evacuation. The objective of this research is to evaluate suitability of beacon technology in the terms of overall stability and precision. We focused on commercially highly deployed beacon brand Estimote, for usage in such network infrastructures. These beacons were tested in a real field deployment conditions, with focus on radiated signal quality and its spreading. Test measurements were made by iOS based smartphones to evaluate precision of user localization. Furthermore, beacons were tested in a semi-anechoic chamber for radiated emission measurements comparison. Other tests include signal strength degradation over traveled distance, received signal strength comparison across device models, framework distance estimate evaluation, and beacon placement position significance to signal strength quality. Gathered results show unsuitability of Bluetooth based beacon network systems for precise indoor navigation. This conclusion is important mainly for calling attention to flaws and latent risks related with usage of this technology, since current research and use cases were over-positively influenced by hype from the side of vendors of beacon technologies.
