Improving Proximity Detection of Mesh Beacons at the Edge for Indoor and Outdoor Navigation

摘要

Navigation Systems are challenging software solutions that can support users who move in unknown environments. In this context, Bluetooth Beacons can strongly benefit of Mesh configuration for the deployment of new efficient mobility services in Edge computing and Internet of Things (IoT) scenarios. In this paper, we investigate how to use the Wireless Mesh Network (WMN) concept for improving the indoor and outdoor Navigation Systems using low-cost Bluetooth devices. This scientific work is preparatory for the adoption of Machine Learning algorithms that will drive and optimise the configuration of WMN, directly deployed at the Edge, achieving advances for navigation services. Detailed analysis of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signal propagation in both indoor and outdoor scenarios are reported, representing the starting point for forthcoming developments. Specifically, our analysis shows how BLE interference among beacons depends on the distance among beacons and transmitting power, and this open new opportunities in designing new optimization strategies to be executed at the Edge.