Application of positioning and tracking of construction workers

Modern construction sites are becoming more complex and large-scale. To manage these facilities effectively, developers and builders need to use advanced technologies. One of these technologies is the worker positioning and tracking system. These systems allow for improved process control, lower costs, and increased safety and productivity.

Various technologies are used on construction sites to position and track workers. The main ones include GPS and GLONASS, RFID, Bluetooth, UWB, Wi-Fi, and computer vision cameras. Each of these technologies has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on the conditions and requirements of a particular project.

GPS and GLONASS

Global positioning systems such as GPS and GLONASS are widely used on outdoor construction sites. These technologies allow you to accurately determine the location of workers and equipment in an open area. However, in conditions of dense buildings or inside buildings, their accuracy may decrease.

RFID

Radio Frequency identification (RFID) is a technology where RFID tags are attached to workers' hard hats, clothing, or equipment. Readers installed at certain points record the passage of tags, which allows you to track the movements of personnel. This solution is convenient for access control and time management.

Bluetooth и BLE

Bluetooth and BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) technologies are used to create networks of beacons that interact with workers' mobile devices. These technologies ensure high accuracy of positioning inside buildings, which makes them ideal for use in dense buildings.

UWB

Ultra-Wideband (UWB) is a technology that provides high positioning accuracy of tens of centimeters. It is especially effective in dense buildings and enclosed spaces where GPS accuracy may be insufficient.

Cameras and computer vision

Modern video surveillance systems using computer vision technologies can analyze the movements of workers and equipment in real time, detect violations and prevent accidents. Cameras can be placed at key points, providing visual monitoring of what is happening on the site.

Advantages for developers

The implementation of worker positioning and tracking systems brings many benefits to developers and builders. These systems can improve security, improve resource management, increase productivity, and reduce costs.

Increased security

Safety on the construction site is a priority. Tracking systems allow you to quickly respond to emergency situations, identify potential hazards in a timely manner and prevent accidents. For example, with the help of positioning systems, it is possible to control the access of workers to dangerous areas and evacuate them in a timely manner if necessary.

Increased productivity

Collecting data on workers' movements and activities helps optimize work processes, reduce downtime, and increase overall productivity. For example, data analysis can identify bottlenecks in logistics and suggest ways to eliminate them, which reduces the time needed to complete tasks.

Cost reduction

Automated control over the execution of work allows you to reduce the cost of management and control, as well as minimize losses associated with inefficiency and errors. According to research, the use of positioning and tracking systems can reduce workflow management costs by 10-20%. For example, if a project costs $100 million, the savings can be up to $20 million.

Improved resource management

Tracking systems help to efficiently distribute labor and equipment, avoiding their downtime and overloads. This makes it possible to use resources more efficiently and reduce the cost of their maintenance.

Documentation and reporting

Automatic logging and reporting simplifies the documentation process and allows you to quickly provide the necessary information to customers and regulatory authorities. This reduces the administrative burden and increases the transparency of the processes.

Metrics and achieved results

Various metrics such as labor productivity, security level, task completion time, and management costs are used to evaluate the effectiveness of positioning and tracking systems implementation. Examples of achievable results include:

  • Increase in labor productivity by 15-25%.
  • Reduce the number of accidents by 30-40%.
  • Reduce task completion time by 20-30%.
  • Reducing project management costs by 10-20%.

Integration with existing solutions

Modern positioning and tracking systems can be integrated with existing construction management solutions and geographic information systems such as the Indoors Navigation Platform. This allows you to create a unified information space and ensure more effective project management.

Integration with BIM (Building Information Modeling)

Tracking systems can be linked to BIM, which allows you to automatically update building models and monitor the execution of work in accordance with the design documentation. This simplifies the process of planning and coordinating work.

Integration with Construction Management Systems (CMS)

The introduction of tracking technologies in CMS allows for improved project planning, control, and reporting, providing more accurate data for management decision-making. This allows you to reduce decision-making time and improve their quality.

Integration with ERP systems

Integration with ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems helps automate accounting and resource management, including labor, equipment, and materials. This allows you to reduce the cost of managing resources and increase their efficiency.

The use of geographic information systems (GIS)

Combining data on the location of workers with GIS cartographic data allows for more accurate planning of work and improved logistics at the construction site. This helps to reduce the time needed to complete tasks and reduce logistics costs.

Indoors Navigation solutions for process and personnel control

The company Indoors Navigation offers comprehensive solutions for monitoring processes and personnel on construction sites. Our systems include the Indoors Navigation Platform, mobile applications for workers, analytical tools and solutions for integration with other systems.

The Indoors Navigation Platform

Our platform allows you to integrate various positioning and tracking technologies into a single system, providing accurate and reliable control over all aspects of the construction process. It supports integration with BIN, CMS, ERP and GIS, which allows us to use our technologies within the existing customer infrastructure.

Mobile applications for workers

User-friendly mobile applications allow workers to receive up-to-date information about assignments, routes, and safety, as well as provide real-time data for supervisors. This helps to improve communication and coordination of work.

Analytical tools

Our analytical tools help analyze the collected data, identify trends, and make informed decisions to optimize processes. This makes it possible to increase the efficiency of project management and reduce costs.

Integration with other systems

We offer solutions for integration with BIM, CMS, ERP and GIS, which allows us to use our technologies within the existing customer infrastructure. This simplifies the implementation process and increases the efficiency of using our solutions.

Conclusion

The introduction of positioning and tracking systems for workers on construction sites opens up new opportunities for developers and builders. These technologies help to increase security, improve process management, and reduce costs. The company Indoors Navigation offers advanced solutions that integrate with existing systems and provide full control over all aspects of construction. Contact us to learn more about our products and begin the path to more efficient and safer construction.

Learn more about the application of Indoors Navigation solutions for positioning on the construction site on our on the website .

How digital maps help developers sell real estate.

In today's digital world, successful real estate sales require an innovative approach. Digital maps of facilities, such as those offered by Indoors Navigation, are becoming an integral part of the developers' strategy. Let's look at how these cards can help you sell real estate.

Digitalization of buildings

Digitalization of buildings significantly increases the efficiency of the sale of real estate. It allows you to create accurate and interactive visual representations of objects, which helps potential buyers to better understand the layout and features of the property even before a physical visit. The use of digital doubles and 3D models enables virtual tours, which creates a more realistic impression of the space. This makes the purchase process more convenient, reduces decision-making time, and increases customer satisfaction by providing them with access to information at any time and from any location.

Advantages of digital cards

1. Visualization of space

Digital maps allow potential buyers to visualize the space of an object in an interactive format. They can view room layouts, floor layouts, and key points such as elevators, stairs, and exits. This helps buyers to better understand the layout and features of the property even before visiting the facility.

2. Interactive 3D models

Использование 3D-моделей здания предоставляет более глубокое погружение в объект. Покупатели могут «прогуляться» по цифровому двойнику здания, увидеть виды из окон и оценить пространство с различных ракурсов. Это создает более реальное впечатление и помогает в принятии решения о покупке.

3. Improved presentation of objects

Digital maps allow developers to create detailed presentations of their properties. They can be used to easily demonstrate the benefits of location, infrastructure, and available amenities. This is especially important when selling real estate during the construction phase, when physical access to the property is limited.

4. Data collection and analysis

The integration of digital maps with analytics systems allows developers to collect data on user behavior. Information about which areas of the map users view the longest can help in identifying the most attractive areas and improving marketing strategies.

5. Convenience for customers

Digital cards make the process of buying real estate more convenient and transparent. Buyers can explore the facility at any time and from any location using their devices. This reduces travel and meeting time, increasing customer satisfaction.

Usage examples

Внедрение «Умного ЖКХ» может значительно улучшить качество жизни жильцов. Во-первых, оно позволяет экономить на коммунальных платежах за счет оптимизации потребления ресурсов. Во-вторых, умные Indoors Navigation успешно внедряет цифровые карты в своих проектах. Например, создание цифровых двойников для жилых комплексов позволяет девелоперам демонстрировать планировки квартир и общих зон, а также предоставлять виртуальные туры для потенциальных покупателей.

Conclusion

Digital object maps are a powerful tool that helps developers effectively sell real estate. They provide visualization of space, interactive 3D models, improved presentation of objects, data collection and analysis, as well as convenience for customers. By implementing such technologies, developers can increase their competitiveness and meet the needs of modern buyers.

Let's simplify customer interaction together and make a convenient service for them.

You can learn more about the technologies on our website. on the website Indoors Navigation.

Smart housing and communal services: the future of public utilities.

В современном мире технологии стремительно развиваются и проникают во все сферы нашей жизни. Одна из таких областей — жилищно-коммунальное хозяйство (ЖКХ). Концепция «Умного ЖКХ» становится все более популярной и востребованной, предлагая инновационные решения для управления домами и коммунальными услугами. В этой статье мы рассмотрим, что такое «Умное ЖКХ», какие преимущества оно приносит и как его внедрение может улучшить качество жизни.

Что такое «Умное ЖКХ»?

«Умное ЖКХ» — это система управления жилыми зданиями и коммунальными услугами с использованием современных технологий, таких как интернет вещей (IoT), большие данные и искусственный интеллект (AI). Эти технологии позволяют создавать интегрированные и автоматизированные системы, которые могут мониторить, анализировать и управлять различными аспектами жилищно-коммунального хозяйства.

Основные компоненты «Умного ЖКХ» включают:

  1. Smart meters — devices that automatically collect data on water, gas, and electricity consumption and transmit it to a central system for analysis and accounting.
  2. Heating control systems — solutions that allow you to optimize energy consumption for heating and maintain a comfortable temperature in the room.
  3. Smart intercoms and security systems — devices that provide access control and increased security in residential buildings.
  4. Housing Management Platforms — software that integrates all the data and allows residents and management companies to effectively manage homes and utilities.

Преимущества «Умного ЖКХ»

  1. Energy efficiency — Умные системы управления энергопотреблением позволяют существенно снизить расход электроэнергии и тепла. Это не только экономит деньги жильцов, но и способствует охране окружающей среды.
  2. Convenience and comfort — С помощью умных устройств жильцы могут легко контролировать отопление, освещение и другие системы своего дома через мобильные приложения или голосовые команды.
  3. Safety — Умные системы безопасности и видеонаблюдения обеспечивают высокий уровень защиты жилых зданий, снижая риск взломов и краж.
  4. Transparency and control — Автоматический сбор и анализ данных позволяет получать точную информацию о потреблении ресурсов, что упрощает учет и расчет коммунальных платежей.
  5. Quick response to problems — Умные системы могут автоматически обнаруживать неисправности и оперативно уведомлять об этом управляющие компании и жильцов, что позволяет быстрее устранять проблемы.

Как внедрение «Умного ЖКХ» улучшает качество жизни

Внедрение «Умного ЖКХ» может значительно улучшить качество жизни жильцов. Во-первых, оно позволяет экономить на коммунальных платежах за счет оптимизации потребления ресурсов. Во-вторых, умные технологии обеспечивают высокий уровень комфорта и безопасности, создавая удобные условия для проживания. В-третьих, автоматизация процессов управления жильем освобождает время и ресурсы как жильцов, так и управляющих компаний, что повышает общую эффективность и удовлетворенность.

Conclusion

«Умное ЖКХ» — это не просто модное слово, а реальная возможность сделать нашу жизнь лучше и комфортнее. С внедрением умных технологий в жилищно-коммунальное хозяйство мы получаем множество преимуществ: от экономии энергии и ресурсов до повышения безопасности и удобства. Компания Индорс Навигейшн готова предложить передовые решения в области «Умного ЖКХ», помогая сделать ваш дом умнее и современнее.

The future is already here — let's make it better together!

You can learn more about the technologies on our website. on the website Indoors Navigation.

The use of vertical IoT location in public safety

«During a recent trip using my phone to navigate, my Google map showed buildings in 3D, a wonderful tool for showing the relative heights of buildings around me and providing a better understanding of where I am. This feature was introduced back in 2021. I've had enough years to remember the days when paper maps were my main means of navigation, when I had a rented car and had to write down exactly where I needed to go on a separate piece of paper so I wouldn't get lost searching. My path led somewhere in an unfamiliar city. But in the city itself, there were people of certain professions from whom I simply did not expect them to be able to navigate, including taxi drivers, deliverymen, and rapid response services — they all relied on knowledge and understanding of geolocation to get someone or something where they needed to go.», —  пишет читатель. Зачастую этим группам людей необходимо найти не только здание, но и определенный этаж внутри здания. В частности, службам быстрого реагирования нужна четкость вертикального местоположения для повышения эффективности служб экстренной помощи и общественной безопасности.

GPS and its disadvantages

GPS — this is an incredible technology that was developed in the 1960s during the Cold War for military purposes. We now use it on our phones for countless applications, from sharing apps to delivery apps; from gaming to finding our way around the city. We are so dependent on it and geolocation services that in many cases we don't even realize all the disadvantages of GPS technology. For example, in urban areas, signals can be reflected and very inaccurate (Have you ever seen a really big blue dot on a map?). Sometimes the map can put you much further away than you actually are, because there is no line of sight with the satellites that make up the GPS signals that your phone should receive. Maps have also historically always been 2D (including many Google and Apple maps so far), but as more and more people live in urban areas (approximately 82% of US residents), it's not enough to get just the coordinates of where an object is located.

Many people don't realize that emergency services and public safety were the driving force that brought GPS to our mobile phones for all the apps we use now. The proliferation of mobile phones (and the emergence of people calling emergency services from these phones) has been the impetus for chips to become small enough to fit into them. As more landlines are "disconnected" over the years, currently more than 80 percent of emergency calls are made from mobile phones. GPS location coordinates from phones can now provide "x" and "y" coordinates in an emergency.

Vertical position of the Z axis

We often think about the need to call 911 when there may be an emergency at home, but it can happen anywhere. Even outside residential buildings, emergency calls come from schools, office buildings, and hotels— multistory buildings where precise location is important, beyond the "x" and "y". Here, vertical positioning can be important to save lives. During a heart attack, acute asthma attack, or other similar emergency, the caller to the emergency service cannot provide his location or address. While our Public Safety Response Points (PSAPs) now have technologies that allow us to determine the "x" and "y" coordinates of the caller and convert them to the actual address. The location of the caller along the vertical axis can be vital for finding a person in need.

Unfortunately, GPS coordinates and even Wi-Fi are quite poor at providing a location at the floor level. The Federal Communications Commission now requires wireless carriers to provide a person's location information "at the floor level" of an emergency caller in 25 major U.S. markets with at least 80 percent accuracy. This will allow emergency service operators and emergency response services to find their callers much faster, which saves thousands of lives every year.

The good news is that vertical Z-axis location technology already exists and can be used in more than just the top 25 U.S. markets. Apart from GPS chips on phones, almost all cell phones, wearables, and IoT devices have barometric pressure sensors. As we were taught in high school in physics, atmospheric pressure can be measured — and it is constantly changing. When you take the elevator, the pressure drops (so your ears may pop). The same thing happens when there is a downpour or even a strong wind – the pressure changes. But by using the pressure readings on the phone and subtracting the immediate weather effects in the area, it is possible to determine the exact location at floor level — even inside buildings.

The importance of accuracy

Digital cards have replaced paper cards. As our maps begin to turn into 3D and we increase our expectations for the functionality of smart buildings, let's not forget the role that accurate geolocation (in particular, floor-level location detection) should play in our future IoT applications and beyond. Accurate real-time location information (including altitude above sea level) will eventually become what makes smart buildings truly smart. As a result, such buildings can actually participate in emergency response, helping emergency services get to people in need faster, as well as tracking first responders, providing enhanced capabilities. Security for them in complex, multi-storey buildings without an accurate vertical location of the 3D map is, in fact, just empty shells. Fortunately, today there are technologies that allow you to use a vertical location at floor level to create mobile applications, etc. 

You can learn more about the technologies on our website. on the website Indoors Navigation.

Booking meeting rooms, work spaces and parking spaces in the modern world

In today's world, where every minute counts, efficient use of office space and resources is becoming a key aspect of a successful business. Modern booking systems for meeting rooms, workplaces and parking spaces can significantly simplify the management of corporate resources and increase the overall productivity of the company.

These innovative technologies provide a higher level of organization and accessibility of office space and resources, which in turn leads to increased productivity and cost optimization. Let's take a closer look at what advantages booking systems provide and what key performance indicators (KPIs) can be improved through their implementation.

Advantages of modern booking systems

Optimizing space usage
Booking systems for meeting rooms and workplaces allow you to effectively manage office space, avoiding situations when meeting rooms remain empty, or vice versa, there is not enough space for meetings. Thanks to the centralized booking system, space management becomes flexible and transparent.

Reduced operating costs.
Automating the booking process helps to reduce office management costs. Booking systems minimize the need for constant intervention by administrative staff and reduce the risks associated with the human factor, such as errors during reservations.

Increase employee satisfaction and productivity.
The convenience of booking workplaces and meeting rooms directly affects the overall satisfaction of employees. Ensuring that the necessary resources are available at the right time allows staff to better plan their workday and be more focused and productive.

Efficient parking space management.
Parking reservation systems contribute to a better allocation of available space for cars, prevent overfilling of parking and reduce the time spent searching for an empty space. This is especially important for large business centers with limited parking spaces.

Бронирование переговорки

Key KPI that can be improved

  1. The space utilization factor. This indicator reflects how effectively the leased area is being used. Booking systems help to increase this figure by making it more appropriate to allocate meeting rooms and workplaces.
  2. Average booking time.
    Reducing the time required to book a space improves the overall efficiency of employees and reduces operational costs.
  3. Employee satisfaction level. The convenience and accessibility of booking systems directly affect job satisfaction. A higher level of staff satisfaction can reduce staff turnover and improve corporate culture.
  4. Cost reduction. Optimizing the use of office and parking space can significantly reduce rental and maintenance costs.

Advantages

The introduction of modern booking systems, such as GIS Indoors Navigation, in business centers and offices not only improves corporate resource management, but also creates a more comfortable and productive work environment. This is an important step towards optimizing business processes and increasing the company's competitiveness in the market.

On the website of the indoorsnavi.pro you will find additional information about how our solutions can transform your company for the better. Contact us to discuss how we can help your business become more organized and efficient.

A revolution in enterprise navigation

In today's world, where every minute of equipment operation is worth its weight in gold, and every step a worker takes must be aimed at improving productivity, navigation and staff tracking technologies play a key role. Industrial enterprises that face daily challenges in managing large areas and many employees find solutions in innovative systems from the company Indoors Navigation.

Clear understanding of the location

Indoors Navigation systems use advanced technologies such as RTLS (Real-Time Location Systems) to ensure the precise location of each element inside the industrial complex. This makes it possible not only to simplify the orientation of new employees, but also to significantly reduce the time spent searching for the necessary tools and equipment.

Monitoring and security

Tracking personnel movements in real time is not only a matter of efficiency, but also of safety. With the help of Indoors Navigation systems, managers can instantly receive data on the location of employees in case of emergencies, which is crucial for rapid response and minimizing potential risks.

Integration with digital building doubles

One of the most promising areas is the use of digital building doubles in combination with internal navigation systems. This allows you not only to visualize operations in real time, but also to analyze potential improvements in workflows based on the collected data. Managers can view workflow simulations and optimize them, ensuring continuous improvement of production operations.

Улучшение навигации на предприятия

Advantages for production

The integration of Indoors Navigation systems in production allows not only to improve asset and resource management, but also to significantly increase overall productivity. Optimizing the routes of personnel movement and logistics within the enterprise minimizes downtime and increases overall work efficiency.

On the website of the indoorsnavi.pro you will find additional information about how our solutions can transform your company. Contact us to discuss how we can help your business become more organized, secure, and efficient.

The impact of IoT technology on warehouse management

Automation and digitalization are driving the Industrial Revolution 4.0. Industrial revolutions have led to the mass production of goods, which has increased the need for modern warehouses. Every year, the work of warehouses becomes more and more difficult due to the increasing abundance of goods, so the usual warehouse management strategies are no longer suitable. To cope with huge commodity flows, modern innovations should be used more widely to manage these processes. The Internet of Things (IoT) is a technology designed to process large amounts of data with maximum efficiency in real time. The purpose of the technology is to perform administrative work, i.e. effective management of storage data. IoT can facilitate the implementation of intelligent identification, tracking, and control using radio frequency identification (RFID), infrared sensors, global positioning systems (GPS), laser scanners, and other detection tools.

The main function of the warehouse is to ensure sales and customer satisfaction. The introduction of IoT improves financial performance, labor productivity and customer satisfaction. For example, IoT can be used in warehouse management to monitor, track goods, predict demand trends, manage inventory, and other warehouse operations in real time.

Methods and methodologies

The complexity of the supply chain forces logistics companies to improve the flow of information both internally and externally. The Integrated Logistics Information System is a unique business management model that tracks the flow of materials, information, and goods from the point of origin to the point of delivery, where all management actions are interconnected. The possibilities of monitoring and tracking objects in warehouses using LPWAN technologies are being considered. The general idea is to ensure customer satisfaction by reducing the associated costs. The Integrated Logistics system provides a combined warehouse, transportation, and materials management solution, integrating various business process functions including: production function; supply and storage functions; and marketing function. 

The positive aspects of integrating IoT into warehouse management using examples

It is believed that IoT in warehouses brings companies a number of advantages. The introduction of the Internet of Things enables intelligent warehousing, brings revolutionary changes, and that is why major industries such as Alibaba, DHL, Amazon, or Bluedart have already implemented it into their inventory, logistics, and warehouse management. Below are also examples of the implementation of IoT solutions to date.

  1. In Korea, a new internal positioning system (IPS) has been developed and integrated with the warehouse management system. The system uses warehouse management tags to exchange data related to product availability, time in stock, delivery time, and inventory control. This flexible system requires the installation of multiple devices such as an LED screen, receiver, transmitter, gateway, and WMS tag. By integrating it with WMS, you can easily track inventory data in warehouses.
  2. Also, one of the approaches presents an innovative solution for warehouse management, which includes the integration of artificial intelligence and an algorithm for planning storage, reception and delivery of orders. This advanced solution requires pallets and shelves with a barcode, as well as the use of GPS and everything related to indoor navigation.:  BLE, UWB, Wi-Fi and so on .
  3. The following approach presents an automated warehouse monitoring solution based on IoT, which includes the technology ZigBee, sensors, a situation management system and a wireless intelligent control system. This innovative system instantly controls heating, temperature and humidity in the warehouse. Computers analyze the data collected from the sensors, and in the event of an emergency, the system automatically calls the dispatcher or emergency services.
  4. A study conducted in Malaysia showed that traditional SAP and WMS software packages integrated with IoT are widely used. In warehouses, radio frequency readers are used to manage material flows, plan routes, shipping operations, and dispatch. Intelligent radio frequency devices are used for operational functions in real-time radio communications.

The negative aspects of integrating IoT into warehouse management 

Previous discussions have shown that IoT-enabled warehouses are more efficient, faster, and more accurately managed. However, this technology has some drawbacks. According to previous research, this advanced technology has the disadvantages listed in the table below.

The delivery function

The impact of the Internet of Things

The IoT technology used

Operations in WMS

CCTV footage steals the privacy of customers and employees, security vulnerabilities, the complexity of interconnecting thousands of devices, and electronic waste.

Sensors, Cameras, Wi-Fi, GPS, Cloud network

Operations in WMS
Network/system, identity theft, hacking, or streams

Sensors, Cameras, Wi-Fi, GPS
Online transactions
Third-party access flows, inauthentic transactions, high maintenance costs, unemployment, hazardous electronic waste, environmental impact
Software packages for online transactions, cyber-physical system

Reception activities 

The purpose of this section is to show where and how new technologies can be integrated to improve the process and thereby provide real benefits to users of these services. The main functions of the warehouse include the following:

  • Reception : This process includes receiving the goods. For proper operation, it is necessary to check whether the right amount of goods has been received at the right time. To this end, RFID tags are highly accurate and reduce the likelihood of human error. They document the arrival of the goods. The RFID integrated with the automatic scanner can record the weight and dimensions of the parcel, indicating the correct place to store it. This improves the reception process, allows you to quickly unload the dock and free up space for other shipments.
  • Discharge . This is the process of moving goods from the receiving dock to the most optimal storage location. Mobile and wearable devices deliver incoming goods to the right location for consistent inventory accounting. The Internet of Things enables the use of intelligent forklifts, which can reduce accidents during this process, thereby reducing the time required to complete tasks and optimizing storage.
  • Keeping. Storage in a warehouse means placing goods in the most suitable location. Storage facilities require large investments, and optimizing the space can reduce these costs. IoT enables HCL solutions to optimize warehouse space by offering real-time optimization for a specific location and reducing space turnover. RFID tags also store product location data.
  • Assembly and shipment. This includes customer order processing and shipping. This process requires high efficiency, as mistakes reduce customer satisfaction. Wireless wearable devices can make this process optimal by allowing real-time scanning of the entire warehouse. Smart forklifts with sensors and scanners transmit data related to product handling precautions, as well as outgoing and incoming shipments. GPS allows the trailer tracking system to indicate the location of the cargo in real time. The PoD solution can be used for real-time delivery reports.

Summing up the results

Warehouses have a significant function in modern society, playing an important role in logistics and the entire supply chain. In order for any organization to stay in the market, it is necessary to ensure the smooth movement and operation of the entire chain. Inefficient organizational processes can lead to a loss of time and money. This may also be due to inefficient use of human resources or insufficient automation of business processes. It should be noted that global trends indicate that the complexity of the warehouse process will increase in the future. This means that the need for an efficient system and a customer-oriented approach will prevail in the future.

You can learn more about indoor navigation technologies on the website Indoors Navigation.
 

From history to innovation: navigation using BLE beacons in museums

Over the past few years, the ability to implement advanced communication applications and services supported by location information has contributed to the development of systems for locating people and objects indoors, including in museums. In parallel, the evolution of these systems was constantly supported by technological advances in the Internet of Things (IoT), specifically designed for low-cost short-range radio transmission, such as Bluetooth, as well as radio frequency identification technologies (RFID).

The problem of standardization of indoor navigation

Designing navigation systems based on short-range radio communication technologies is not a trivial task. In fact, the propagation of the radio signal inside buildings is influenced by several factors, such as building materials, facilities in the area, the presence of people, etc. All these factors can affect the quality of the received signal, which makes indoor localization very difficult and expensive when it is directly based on measurements of the physical parameters of the received signals from an object. Unlike outdoor navigation, which is mainly based on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technologies (for example, Global Positioning System, GPS), to date, indoor positioning systems have not yet been defined and standardized. The lack of standardization is mainly due to the very different characteristics of the areas served by the indoor localization system. As a result, this localization system is often developed specifically for a given area. At the same time, heterogeneous and often individual methods and processes for calculating location are used.

Proposed solutions

In this article, we will focus on the localization problem for a typical museum environment. The accessibility of information about the location of visitors in the museum can be used by the museum coordinator to promote communication services aimed at improving the overall “cultural experience.” In particular, location information can be useful to the museum operator for designing art exhibitions, determining individual routes according to the preferences of visitors, permanent or temporary installations, as well as for the care of collections. All these activities can be based on an analysis of visitor flows, for example, by observing the number of visitors stopping in front of a given work of art, or the amount of time spent in some museum rooms. In addition, assessments of the position of visitors can be used to improve their interaction with museum works of art in real time, for example, using augmented reality, which provides information about the works of art. In the latter case, each visitor is equipped with an intelligent device (for example, their own smartphone or tablet), which includes a device for communicating with the indoor localization system and is able to interact with the museum's indoor applications. At the same time, the device provides, for example, additional information about the observed or liked masterpiece, a work of art . The localization system can be deployed not only in the museum, but also in other rooms.

Technologies used

The system uses technology Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to collect data transmitted by a device belonging to each visitor. The main advantages of BLE are the availability of a large set of chips on the market and on modern smartphones or tablets, ease of programming and low power consumption. The resulting BLE-based localization system is inexpensive compared to other indoor location detection methods such as those based on (non-standard) RFID devices. In the localization system under consideration, the BLE signals emitted by the visitor's transmitters are received by BLE devices installed on the museum grounds. These devices can measure the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) and the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of each received signal, as well as extract the BLE transmitter identifier by extracting the corresponding message. The measured RSSI and SNR and the corresponding BLE message are then transmitted to a central server in the museum. The locator object on the server processes the received data and messages to determine the visitor's location on the object. The localization algorithm for each visitor is based on minimizing the objective function, which includes path loss measurements obtained from the corresponding RSSI and SNR. The optimal solution to the minimization problem corresponding to the expected position of the visitor was obtained by applying the nonlinear least squares algorithm (NLS).

The results show that the BLE transmitter can be localized with an accuracy of less than 1 m (i.e., the Euclidean distance between the true and estimated location is less than 1 m) when the BLE receiver is correctly positioned in the area. After training the neural network, the BLE receiver can better estimate distances based on RSSI and SNR measurements collected as the visitor moves around the artwork.

You can also find out more about the solutions used on the website Indoors Navigation.

Intelligent Parking System – how it works

Car parking navigation solutions work for both indoor and outdoor parking systems and can be created to achieve optimal performance. Thus, using a parking navigation solution means that the driver of the car spends less time searching for free parking spaces. The introduction of an intelligent parking system makes life easier for the driver and can even help increase the loyalty of your organization's employees.

Smart Car Parking System – Features

The smart parking system works on a simple principle: detecting obstacles by sending signals and receiving the same reflected signals. It may even be visual feedback. The system consists of sensors and signal interception devices that scan the area and help the driver park the car safely.

However, such smart parking systems can be designed to perform many other additional functions and thus take any business to a whole new level of productivity.

Car navigation in parking lots

Such navigation is facilitated by mobile applications that combine positioning technologies. This helps the car driver to easily navigate large parking lots, especially multi-level ones. The application is designed in such a way as to plot routes to free parking spaces and display them visually to help the driver easily find a place. The functions provided by the parking navigation app include:

  • Quickly find free parking spaces;
  • Simplify the search by directing vehicles according to the current occupancy of parking spaces.;
  • Register the details of all vehicles entering and exiting the slots;
  • Optimize traffic flow and use bandwidth in an optimal way;
  • Track the occupancy of parking spaces at different levels in multi-level parking lots.

Tracking the occupancy of a parking space at different levels

When entering a multi-level parking lot, most drivers face difficulties finding free parking spaces. The driver cannot properly search for an empty space, as this takes a long time and may prevent other vehicles from entering the parking space.

Using an internal navigation application specifically designed for this purpose can solve this problem quickly and effectively. The app works to provide car owners with the latest information about available parking spaces. Drivers of vehicles can use this application to reduce fuel consumption and find an empty parking space for their cars in the shortest possible time.

The application works as follows. As soon as the device detects an empty parking space, it sends information to the cloud gateway, where this information is processed and sent to a network server. As the driver approaches the parking entrance, a notification is sent to the driver's phone with information about the nearest available space. The application can also generate a visual map and show the route leading to a closed vacant spot at a certain parking level.

Booking parking spaces

A mobile car parking application can be designed in such a way that vehicle owners can book available spaces in advance, as well as pay for them. The user interface in such an application provides an easy and convenient view of parking spaces available at different levels in a multi-level parking lot. This allows vehicle owners to easily scan parking spaces in search of vacant spaces and book the most profitable ones. The application may include a payment gateway so that users can pay for the facility in advance. Thus, the entire booking process becomes well organized, simple and fast.

The parking management app offers many advantages to parking space owners as well, namely:

  • The ability to provide reports and analytics;
  • The owners can change the booking rules or rates at any time.;
  • Service quality improvement;
  • Customer loyalty is likely to improve;
  • It's easy to find any car in the parking lot.;
  • Optimize the use of parking space in real time.

As is often the case with vast and huge multi-level parking lots, drivers often forget where they parked their cars. Finding a car becomes a problem, and a lot of time is wasted in the process. The use of an intelligent parking system helps such drivers to find their cars quickly. When a driver enters a parking space, an alert is sent to his mobile phone indicating the location of the car with the parking space number and displaying the shortest route. In addition, these applications can be designed for turn-by-turn navigation of the driver to the vehicle, providing the most convenient access.

Technologies used for intelligent parking systems

Smart parking systems using navigation methods use different technologies to implement software applications. Some of them are listed below.

iBeacon

It is a small network device that acts as a transmitter. It helps to detect and track smartphones. The device uses signals BLE. Drivers who have installed the mobile app on their phones receive signals from beacons. They can turn on navigation, which will gradually lead them to a parking spot. This technology, when used, ensures high accuracy and low implementation costs.

Ultra-Broadband (UWB)

UWB — это система, которая обеспечивает точное позиционирование и работает, регистрируя короткие импульсы на небольших расстояниях. Функция навигации использует маломощные метки, которые потребляют меньше энергии. Сверхширокополосные приемники, расположенные на парковочных местах или в районе этих мест, перехватывают радиочастотную модуляцию, посылаемую транспондерами.

Wi-Fi

Technology such as Wi-Fi, can be operated using the existing parking infrastructure. The system works by using tags that send signals to several access points in a parking space at once. The location is determined using the RSSI and MAC address values. There is no need for any additional equipment or infrastructure.

You can learn more about the technologies on the website Indoors Navigation.

Как точность синхронизации 5G может изменить мир автоматизации

Сети 5G и автоматизированные системы

Сегодня повсеместно распространена автоматизация. Мы живем в мире, где все больше базовых процессов зависит от меньшего участия человека, чем когда-либо. Поскольку автоматизация охватывает практически все известные отрасли промышленности, мы видим влияние машин на принятие решений и действия в таких разнообразных областях, как развлечения, транспорт, производство, общественная безопасность, сельское хозяйство и многие другие.

В течение первых нескольких лет развертывания сетей 5G большое внимание уделялось тому, как сети 5G будут работать для потребителей. Однако новые требования к подключению для корпоративных и промышленных вариантов использования могут сильно отличаться от требований для потребительских вариантов. Скорость передачи данных и пропускная способность могут служить основными ориентирами для потребительских вариантов использования, таких как просмотр веб-страниц и потоковое видео. Но требования для предприятий и промышленных секторов могут выходить за рамки этих простых видов соединений — гораздо дальше, в более глубокие уровни автоматизации бизнес-процессов. К счастью, 5G был разработан для этих новых, более детальных  уровней точности.

Во многих случаях автоматизированным системам требуется чрезвычайно точное время для обеспечения стабильной работы. Подумайте о тонком движении камеры, необходимом для съемки высокобюджетного боевика, наполненного взрывами и автомобильными погонями. Также автоматических запирающих механизмов в окружной тюрьме, или методов точного бурения, используемых современными буровыми установками в нефтегазовой отрасли. Все механизмы блокировки и предоставления данных должны происходить очень быстро, должны быть синхронизированы и должны быть доставлены с чрезвычайно высокой степенью надежности. В некоторых случаях требования к точности для таких систем могут приближаться к одной микросекунде (1 мкс) или быстрее.

В мире сетей до 5G было сложно доставлять данные таким образом, чтобы соответствовать некоторым из этих новых требований. Тем не менее, 5G был разработан, чтобы реализовать концепцию цифровой трансформации различных предприятий и отраслей. В целом, 5G был стандартизирован для доставки данных со скоростью до 10 Гбит/с на пиковых теоретических скоростях, с сетевой задержкой всего 1 мс, до одного миллиона устройств на квадратный километр — с надежностью до 99,999 % безотказной работы. Однако системы точной синхронизации на основе 5G могут еще больше расширить границы этих общих спецификаций.

В нашем последнем информационном документе «Понимание 5G и критичных ко времени услуг» 5G Americas исследует будущие возможности точной синхронизации в сетях 5G и то, как они начинают применять некоторые из самых сложных базовых требований к услугам, требующим незамедлительного решения. По сравнению со спутниковой точностью, которая лежит в основе многих систем синхронизации, сети 5G предлагают уникальную возможность: обеспечение  покрытия внутри помещений с точностью до микросекунд и беспроводная передача времени.

Например, в коммерческом банкинге для обмена активами и высокочастотной торговли обычно требуется точность синхронизации от 1 мкс до 1 мс, в зависимости от нормативных стандартов и других факторов, установленных правительствами. Часто этим являются чрезвычайно сложные варианты использования для определенных решений точного хронометража, таких как глобальные навигационные спутниковые системы (GNSS), поскольку они обычно развертываются внутри помещений . Сети 5G могут быть более успешно реализованы внутри помещений с использованием технологий малых сот.

Другим примером могут быть электрические сети с несколькими генераторами, которые должны быть синхронизированы по фазам друг с другом. Такое решение требует очень точной синхронизации на каждой подстанции. В то время как эти наружные системы обычно используют GNSS, сети 5G могут обеспечить надежное решение для резервного копирования, тем самым повышая отказоустойчивость электрической сети.

5G

5G и точное время

Одна огромная область для точной синхронизации связана с производством. Современные заводы используют множество типов машин, которые должны работать в полной координации с остальной частью заводской системы, а современные сети должны учитывать множество устаревших машин и систем, чтобы обеспечить взаимодействие. Исторически сложилось так, что системы точной синхронизации полагались на GNSS и другие системы для обеспечения требуемой точности синхронизации, но были разработаны различные протоколы и источники синхронизации с разной степенью точности.

Кроме того, различные уровни точности синхронизации также влияют на количество пользовательских устройств, которые могут быть успешно синхронизированы в системе. Пользовательский уровень точности синхронизации часов будет определять не только количество синхронизированных устройств, но также зону обслуживания и тип сценария, в котором может использоваться точность синхронизации. Как вы можете видеть ниже, точность часов влияет на способность системы полностью синхронизировать все ее зависимые части.

Со всеми этими сложностями сети 5G в настоящее время совершенствуются, чтобы иметь возможность обращаться ко многим критически важным промышленным вариантам использования. Начиная с версии «16» проекта партнерства третьего поколения (3GPP) и далее усовершенствованной в версии «17», технологии в стандартах «сверхнадежной» связи с малой задержкой (URLLC) и сети, зависящей от времени (TSN), были созданы специально для этих промышленных вертикальных вариантов использования.

Стремление к поиску промышленных и автоматизированных решений широко распространено, поскольку стандарт «Институт инженеров по электротехнике и электронике для сетей, зависящих от времени» (IEEE 802.1 TSN), предоставляет потенциальную конвергентную сетевую технологию для заводов, обеспечивающую детерминированную связь с малой задержкой в ​​чувствительных к задержкам промышленных приложениях. Благодаря своей способности обеспечивать гибкий беспроводной доступ к данным и полное подключение для интеллектуального производства, IEEE 802.1 TSN выглядит привлекательным дополнением к протоколу точного времени (PTP) или его вариантам, таким как IEEE 802.1AS, для которого требуется проводное подключение к сети Ethernet.

Conclusion

В целом, мы только начинаем использовать возможности, которые могут предложить сети 5G, когда речь идет о точной синхронизации и «синхронизации как услуге» (TaaS). В ближайшие годы, по мере уточнения бизнес-требований и интеграции систем синхронизации на основе 5G, автоматизация откроет много новых дверей. Мы только на пороге великих событий и ожидаем, что принесет будущее.

Изучить информацию о других технологиях вы можете на нашем сайте Indoors Navigation.

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