Expected Impact and Applications

Two important wireless applications begin to merge in future systems, namely data communication and positioning. Compared to existing approaches based on GPS (Global Positioning System), cell-ID (Identification), RSS (Receive Signal Strength) or UWB (Ultra-Wideband) TOA/AOA (Time/Angle of Arrival), RESOLUTION enhances the state-of-the-art in terms of local positioning accuracy. Further advantages such as real-time ability and self-sustaining operation without dependency on any external operator are leading to novel and enhanced applications, e.g. for automated factories and guiding. The two major application scenarios are outlined in the following sections.

Comparison between different positioning systems.

Smart Factories

A smart factory is based on knowing the position of every workpiece, fabrication tool, transport machinery or maintenance worker at any time and everywhere. Position tracking performed by a host enables several exciting new features:

• Complete overview over the location and amount of all supplies and tools included in the manufacturing process.
• By virtue of wireless networks, real-time data access is possible anywhere and anytime.
• Due to information transfer enhanced global management and product state monitoring is possible.
• The level of automated fabrication can be increased.
• Optimisation of material flow and resource delivery.
• Less storage area and material consumption.
• Reduced fabrication time.
• Efficient use of fabrication tools and machines.
• Collision avoidance and increased security.

Application: Smart Factory.

Interactive Guiding

Real-time based active mapping, e.g. for advanced sightseeing, in museums, shopping malls and amusement parks are useful for guiding of pedestrians. The positioning is marked in a PDA based map and can be transferred to a server. Location dependent actions can be applied to increase the amusement and information quality. The services can be combined with location-aware billing, which decreases personnel costs and improves the billing system.

Application: Interactive Guiding.