Available for an ArcGIS organization licensed with the ArcGIS IPS extension.
The ArcGIS IPS Setup app uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons to collect reference signal data for indoor positioning. These signals can be collected during an indoor positioning system (IPS) survey conducted using the IPS Setup app or generated predictively from a defined indoor positioning area when its boundaries are identified on an indoor map. Once processed using the Generate Indoor Positioning Dataset tool and published as an Indoor Positioning Data Service, the signals serve as a reliable source for accurate localization. Any BLE beacon that operates on the iBeacon protocol can support indoor positioning if it follows the recommended configuration.
Proper deployment of beacons is critical in ensuring the lasting accuracy and effectiveness of an indoor positioning system. Consider the best practices described below during the planning, installation, configuration, and testing phases of indoor positioning enablement.
Planning
Beacon planning involves determining the number and distribution of beacons based on the coverage area (IPS area) and the physical characteristics of a facility. Estimating the required number of beacons is typically based on the recommended signal coverage for a particular environment type. Different environments may require varying densities or configurations of the beacon network. Based on the identified IPS environment, a beacon placement plan should be prepared. It is recommended that you follow the best practices during beacon planning. This allows precise estimation for the required number of beacons to be acquired and installed.
Installation
Install beacons according to the beacon placement plan. Mount the beacons on walls, ceilings, or other structures to ensure that they are securely attached. Consider the following best practices when installing beacons:
- Placement—Mount beacons above head level on walls or the ceiling, ideally 3 to 4 meters (10 to 13 feet) above the floor. Whenever possible, place all beacons at the same height.
- Distance—The maximum recommended distance between two beacons should not exceed 15 meters (approximately 50 feet). To achieve the best results, place at least three beacons in the Line of Sight (LoS) from each positioning point within the defined IPS area as follows:
- Thin or low-density walls (for example, drywall, glass, or wood)—If the absolute distance to the closest beacon is less than 8 meters (approximately 25 feet), it is not necessary to have three beacons in the LoS. This case applies to office environments.
- Thick or dense walls (for example, brick, concrete, or metal beams)—If the absolute distance to the closest beacon is more than 10 meters (approximately 30 feet), it is recommended that you have three beacons in the LoS. This case applies to industrial buildings, venues, airports, and hospitals.
- Mounting—Use double-sided tape on smooth, clean surfaces to avoid fallen or misplaced beacons.
- Obstructions—Don't place beacons near fire extinguishers, metal constructs, televisions, and other obstructing or signal-interfering structures and objects.
- Recording locations—Record the location and attributes of each beacon on the map. For more information about how you can use the IPS Setup app to create, modify, or delete a beacon on the map, refer to the Beacon deployment operations topic.
Configuration
Configure beacons using the software provided by the beacon provider (or ideally acquired with the appropriate configuration to avoid misconfiguration and ensure a streamlined deployment workflow). Configure the beacon network with the following options and settings:
- Transmission Protocol—iBeacon
- Advertising interval—350ms
This setting specifies how often the signal is emitted from the beacon.
- TX Power setting—This setting specifies the strength of the Bluetooth signal emitted from the beacon.
2 (-16 dBm) is the default for the majority of beacon installations. A custom power level may be required in certain environment conditions.
Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI)—At 1 meter (3.2 feet), the reading should be –81 dBm or as close as possible.
- A Unique UUID.major.minor combination exists for each beacon in the network.
Tip:
Environments with strong radio interference or congestion may require adjustments to the network settings to achieve the best results. Consult an ArcGIS IPS expert for specific requirements and network management recommendations.
Testing
Some important beacon attributes required for the generation of the positioning data may be skipped or omitted during onsite installation. If this occurs, missing attributes can be amended to beacon features using ArcGIS Pro workflows. After installation and configuration of beacons, it is recommended that you test the beacon network to ensure proper functionality and coverage. You can test the beacon coverage by walking through the area with a mobile device and using a generic radio scanning app, such as nRF Connect, or any network management app provided by the beacon vendor. Conduct indoor positioning performance testing and evaluation after processing the network data with the Generate Indoor Positioning Dataset tool, publishing the Indoor Positioning Data Service, and configuring the IPS-aware map.
After configuring an indoor positioning deployment, you may need to conduct occasional maintenance on the Bluetooth beacon network. You can use the IPS Setup app to monitor the status of deployed beacons and determine if any maintenance is needed.