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 using the IPS Setup app or simulated by a predictive algorithm using beacon data and the layout of walls within an indoor environment. 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. Reliable positioning generally requires signals from at least four beacons at a positioning point. Optimal performance is typically achieved with approximately 10 beacon signals, while improvements beyond 20 signals are minimal and may lead to oversaturation.
Estimating the required number of beacons is typically based on suggested signal coverage for a particular environment type. Different environments may require varying densities or configurations of the beacon network and should be considered when preparing a beacon placement plan. A beacon placement plan can be created manually or by using the Generate Beacon Placement Plan tool. It is recommended that you use the Generate Beacon Placement Plan tool to streamline the workflow, while referring to the suggested best practices during beacon planning.
Beacon distribution and density are important factors that determine the quality and accuracy of an indoor positioning system. To achieve optimal signal coverage and positioning performance, refer to the following distance recommendations:
- Optimal distance between beacons is determined by a combination of factors, including the geometry of the IPS area and walls, beacon signal strength (RSSI), and the presence of physical barriers and materials that affect signal propagation. These factors influence how far Bluetooth signals can travel while maintaining reliable positioning accuracy.
- Aim for at least four detectable beacon signals at each positioning point, with at least three in line of sight (LoS). In typical office environments, place beacons approximately 10-15 meters (30-50 feet) apart. Distances greater than 15 meters are generally not recommended. For optimal results, consider the following factors:
- Thin or low-density walls such as 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. Avoid placing beacons too closely on opposite sides of lightweight walls, as excessive overlap can result in more than the recommended signal density and may reduce performance.
- Thick or dense walls such as 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 typically applies to industrial buildings, venues, airports, and hospitals.
- Corridors—Deploy beacons in a staggered or zigzag pattern to improve signal distribution and reduce dead zones.
- Open spaces—Place beacons around the perimeter of the space. For spaces wider than 30 meters (100 feet), add interior beacons in a regular grid pattern as the environment permits.
The Generate Beacon Placement Plan tool automatically takes into account factors such as spacing, signal density (RSSI), and physical barriers. It places beacons on suitable, deployable wall surfaces and ensures sufficient coverage with the minimum number of beacons required.
Installation
Install beacons according to the beacon placement plan, either manually or by using the Generate Beacon Placement Plan tool. 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—Whenever possible, maintain consistent mounting height across the deployment, ideally 3 to 4 meters (10 to 13 feet) above the floor. Place all beacons at or as close as possible to the same height.
- Mounting—Use double-sided tape on smooth, clean surfaces to avoid fallen or misplaced beacons.
- Obstructions—Avoid placing beacons near fire extinguishers, HVAC ducts, elevator shafts, large metal infrastructure, televisions, and other obstructing or signal-interfering structures and objects.
Note:
If the beacon plan or installation conflicts with best practices, especially in cases of obstruction, update the deployment plan and install the beacon as close as possible to the recommended location.
- Recording locations—Record the location and attributes of each beacon on the map following beacon deployment and configuration. 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 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.