SMART CITIES
56 by exploiting the smartphones that almost everyone has in their pockets ,” highlights Woolley . “ All smartphones support Bluetooth , which can be used to collect data , communicated over Bluetooth by strategically deployed sensors . From the smartphone , the data can be uploaded to the cloud , where analysis can be performed and heat maps can be created , depicting various aspects of the city environment . In a similar way , vehicles can collect data wirelessly as they pass roadside sensors , allowing traffic patterns to be monitored and , as a result , routes and resources more efficiently allocated .”
Alternatively , Bluetooth beacons are small Bluetooth devices that can be used to create indoor navigation systems . These work in conjunction with smartphone applications , to help people find their way through complex environments like airports or large shopping centres when there is no GPS signal available .
The technology can also be used for the effective operation of smart buildings . “ Bluetooth mesh network is a new Bluetooth technology that allows thousands of devices to communicate with each other ,” Woolley adds . “ It ’ s designed for smart buildings , where a multitude of sensors provide data to other building devices and systems in
AUGUST 2018