ZigBee localization system for public transport vehicles

Abstract

The importance of public transport in modern cities is undisputable: considering the land usage per traveler is about 20 times more efficient than private cars. But an unreliable transport cannot be attractive and will not be used at its fullest. It is important to have a good knowledge about the time a vehicle arrives in a bus stop, and when you will get to your destination. GPS systems may provide location, but with a rough approximation, especially in cities with tall buildings, or some vehicles may not possess it. Therefore, a complementary system must be installed to improve the location accuracy. Based on its main features, ZigBee was considered to be a solution. With the possibility of measuring RSSI, it was considered that location in two-dimensional space (like the road network) can be obtained. The analysis performed, both in laboratory (controlled) environment and in real life conditions, tested the possibility to use this technology for more accurate detection of public transport vehicles along the line.