Be first to read the latest tech news, Industry Leader's Insights, and CIO interviews of medium and large enterprises exclusively from Applied Technology Review
Difficulties Associated with Indoor Location-Based Services
Indoor positioning's primary consumer benefit is the expansion of location-aware mobile computing indoors.
By
Applied Technology Review | Monday, January 10, 2022
The use of indoor positioning systems makes it possible to track the location of people or items inside buildings.
FREMONT, CA: Indoor positioning's primary consumer benefit is the expansion of location-aware mobile computing indoors. As mobile devices become more prevalent, developers have prioritized contextual awareness. However, most applications currently rely on GNSS and perform poorly indoors. Indoor location-based services' open challenges and disadvantages can be classified into three categories: indoor localization, indoor mapping, and indoor spatial information modeling.
Indoor Localization Difficulties
Stay ahead of the industry with exclusive feature stories on the top companies, expert insights and the latest news delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe today.
The primary disadvantage of indoor localization is the absence of widely used positioning technology. Each technology has several advantages and disadvantages. Take a look at the most prevalent technologies;
Indoor Localization Using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Beacons: Such specialized hardware is a resource-intensive technology, as it must be densely installed. As a result, they are only suitable for installation in large building structures (e.g., airports), which is complicated. They are primarily battery-powered, making them an energy-constrained technology, and there is no clear business case for such investment. Their clocks are incompatible with synchronization, which complicates precise localization.
Ultra-Wideband (UWB) for Indoor Localization: UWB has the same advantages and disadvantages as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons; for example, it lacks a clear economic driver. They are more expensive than BLE, have a slower adoption rate, and cannot coexist with other radio-based technologies.
On the other hand, magnetic field-based localization requires permanent structures within a building (e.g., walls) to reach structural steel elements, depending on the steel content and structure. This is not always the case. Additionally, the disturbances tend to occur near walls, preventing the technique from being used in large indoor spaces such as large halls. Additionally, current techniques for mapping magnetic field landmarks are insensitive to user orientation and velocity.
Localization via WiFi: While these technologies appear to be ubiquitous, they are only effective in certain circumstances. Algorithms that employ trilateration for positioning—in which the distance to the target is estimated using RF propagation time—presuppose the synchronization of the access points (APs), which is difficult to achieve due to high clock crystal oscillations or insufficient transmission bandwidth for device-to-device synchronization. The angle of arrival algorithms requires optimized antennas for localization and therefore cannot be used with existing smartphones. Localization algorithms that rely on received signal strength may be influenced by the presence of people, as the human body can absorb the microwave frequency used in WLANs. Additionally, mapping areas using their unique characteristics colloquially referred to as "fingerprints," is a resource-intensive process that frequently suffers from heterogeneity due to the differences in WiFi antennas on smartphones.
Computer Vision-Based Localization: Computer vision-based approaches have the highest power consumption, the highest processing demand, the slowest response time for localization queries, and the highest user involvement, as they require users to capture multiple photos of an area at a time—resulting in a poor user experience, while also requiring a large upfront investment, as photos of the entire area must be captured with specialized equipment and updated whenever changes occur.
Vertical localization remains an unsolved problem. All preceding approaches have been limited to planar localization, and only a few have been validated in a multi-story environment. The issue with vertical localization is that existing methods have difficulty distinguishing between floors, and phones equipped with barometric sensors cannot use them for vertical localization due to the high sensitivity of atmospheric pressure to temperature, humidity, and other environmental constraints. Additionally, reference pressure, temperature, and humidity are required for altitude estimation with such sensors, as is calibration between the two sensors.
The foundation of industrial automation, supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, are becoming progressively more important. They guarantee safety, facilitate real-time monitoring and control, optimize operations, and enhance decision-making. The interconnectedness of SCADA systems, which enable data gathering and analysis from a broad network of sensors and devices across an entire facility or several sites, is at the core of this innovation, which is propelling a new era of industrial automation.
IIoT integration facilitates edge computing. It reduces latency and bandwidth usage, allowing for faster decision-making and more efficient control of critical processes. Integrating advanced data analytics and AI into SCADA systems represents another significant leap forward. Modern SCADA systems can now analyze vast amounts of data in real-time, providing actionable insights beyond simple monitoring and control. AI-driven analytics can identify patterns, predict equipment failures, and optimize process parameters, improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime.
Advancements in user interfaces and visualization tools have made modern SCADA systems more than just functional. The interfaces often include real-time dashboards, customizable displays, and advanced visualization techniques, sparking excitement and intrigue about the future of industrial automation. The improvements enhance the operator's ability to manage complex systems and reduce the likelihood of human error. The potential vulnerabilities of SCADA systems to cyberattacks have led to significant advancements in security protocols and practices.
Modern SCADA systems have robust cybersecurity features, including encryption, multi-factor authentication, intrusion detection, and network segmentation. Real-time threat detection and response mechanisms have been integrated into SCADA systems, allowing immediate action during security breaches. The shift towards cloud-based SCADA systems represents a significant advancement in deploying and managing these systems. The model enables organizations to access SCADA data from anywhere, providing greater operational agility and facilitating remote monitoring and control.
Cloud-based SCADA systems support seamless integration with other cloud services, enabling advanced analytics, data storage, and collaboration across different departments and locations. The advancements in SCADA systems drive the next generation of industrial automation, characterized by increased connectivity, intelligence, and security. SCADA systems will remain at the forefront of industrial innovation, playing a crucial role in the future of smart manufacturing, energy management, and critical infrastructure. ...Read more
Interior design trends are changing, influenced by evolving visual tastes, cultural movements, technological progress, and shifts in lifestyle. The trends adapt to reflect people's changing needs and desires. While they might appear straightforward, the styles selected often carry more profound significance, reflecting personal and societal values. Interior design remains a dynamic field that is continuously evolving to align with the contemporary landscape and individual expressions.
Use of Color
Spaces can be made bigger, warmer, and calmer by color. Bright colors, such as 'Viva Magenta' 18-1750, make them stand out. With its vibrant hue, this bold hue illustrates how color plays a huge role in interior design. Color plays a vital role in creating a unique and captivating space, and this choice proves it.
Mixed Materials
Biophilic design is a popular trend in interior design, combining natural elements with beautiful textures and tones to enhance comfort and aesthetics. This style can be achieved by pairing multiple materials, such as stones, timber grains, tiles, and plants, to create a strong juxtaposition that communicates the space's function or a more prominent aesthetic theme.
Warm Colour Palettes
Bold colors dominate this year's trends, but warm color palettes are expected to become more prominent. Despite years of Covid-19 restrictions, people are now back to normalcy, yearning for more variety and comfort in their daily lives. Warm, earthy tones can create a sense of tranquillity in biophilic design, addressing the cravings of the new normal.
Geometric Shapes
The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a shift in interior design towards minimalistic styles, requiring more vibrancy and life in spaces. Geometric patterns create solid visual features on walls, floors, and ceilings, creating a more balanced and visually appealing space. These patterns can develop focal points and add movement to the overall design, making spaces more dynamic and stimulating.
Sustainable Design
The design world embraces sustainable design, incorporating recycled materials, reused products, and long-term materials. This trend not only benefits the environment but also creates unique aesthetics. Businesses and places can demonstrate their commitment to reducing carbon footprint and promoting a wider and greener future. Sustainable design also creates visually appealing spaces that promote health and well-being for occupants, showcasing their commitment to a greener future. ...Read more
Sector convergence, which involves the breakdown of traditional divisions among several industries, is being accelerated by practical technology. This phenomena allows firms to leverage technology and proficiencies outside of their principal domain, fostering new business paradigms, value constellations, and opportunities.
Key Technological Catalysts
Several transformative technologies are serving as the primary drivers of industry convergence, providing the infrastructure and capabilities that enable cross-sector collaboration and the creation of new value. The Internet of Things (IoT) connects physical assets to digital networks, generating vast streams of data that integrate physical and virtual operations. For example, smartwatches and fitness trackers, initially consumer electronics, now serve the healthcare sector by supporting remote patient monitoring and preventative care. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) build on this data by enabling advanced analytics, driving smarter decision-making, and delivering hyper-personalized services across various industries. Retailers utilize AI to predict consumer trends, optimize supply chains, and personalize shopping experiences. At the same time, financial institutions leverage it for fraud detection and algorithmic trading, thereby blurring the boundaries between technology and traditional banking. Blockchain adds another dimension by offering a secure, transparent framework for managing transactions and data across multiple parties, streamlining cross-sector collaboration in areas such as supply chain management by reducing reliance on intermediaries. The rollout of 5G connectivity provides the speed and low latency necessary to support these technologies at scale, enabling real-time communication between devices and seamless integration across various industries. Autonomous vehicles, for instance, depend on instantaneous connectivity with smart city infrastructure and other cars, exemplifying the convergence of automotive, telecommunications, and urban planning.
Impact on Business and Society
Sector convergence is profoundly altering conventional business paradigms. A single product or service no longer defines enterprises; instead, they are evolving into comprehensive ecosystems that deliver an array of integrated solutions. This evolution fosters novel opportunities for innovation, concurrently introducing complexities such as navigating intricate regulatory frameworks and managing data privacy across disparate sectors. From a consumer perspective, this convergence facilitates enhanced convenience, personalization, and seamless experiences; however, it also raises concerns regarding data security and market dominance. As the trajectory of applied technology continues its advancement, the demarcations between industries will inevitably diminish, thereby ushering in a future characterized by interconnected and integrated services.
Ultimately, applied technology transcends mere efficiency; it represents a fundamental force for change, reshaping the very structure of our economy. The future will be defined by ecosystems of integrated services, where companies succeed not by dominating a single sector, but by seamlessly connecting their offerings with others. This era of convergence promises unprecedented innovation and convenience for consumers. Yet, it also necessitates a proactive approach from businesses and policymakers to navigate the challenges of regulation, data privacy, and market power. Embracing this paradigm shift is crucial for companies seeking to develop in a world where the distinctions between sectors no longer exist. ...Read more
Artificial intelligence and machine learning are proving to be very useful for weather prediction, as they are in many other fields of science. Machine learning has shown some potential in our research on forecasting high-impact weather. Researchers also believe these tools open up new possibilities for better forecasts where more than human expertise is required.
There still are major challenges with employing just human expertise. It remains difficult to predict tornadoes, large hail, or heavy rain during thunderstorms. Inaccurate predictions trigger subsequent inaccuracies in predicting small changes in complex processes, making weather less predictable.
Models: Numerical weather prediction models are today's primary tools for weather forecasters. Weather stations, balloons, and satellites provide observations of the current state of the atmosphere for these models, which solve equations governing air movement.
It is possible to predict most weather systems with these models, but the smaller the event, the harder it is to do. Integrating weather prediction models with human analysis leads to better predictions. Forecasters are remarkably good at analyzing the huge amount of weather data they receive daily, but their memory and bandwidth could be improved. Machine learning and artificial intelligence can help with some of these challenges.
Artificial intelligence (AI): These tools allow forecasters to make predictions beyond models' capabilities, such as high-impact weather. A machine learning approach is also being incorporated into numerical weather prediction models to speed up tasks that can be computationally intensive, such as predicting how water vapor turns into rain, snow, and hail.
Machine learning (ML): In the future, machine learning models may replace traditional numerical weather forecasting models. These systems process past weather maps instead of solving complex physical equations as models do to learn how weather systems typically behave. They then make weather predictions based on historical data and current weather conditions.
Research has shown that machine learning-based forecast systems can predict general weather patterns and numerical weather prediction models with only a fraction of the computing power. Researchers are closely testing these new tools and developing new methods for forecasting local weather. Although they still need to provide detailed information about local weather, these tools have promising prospects. ...Read more