lighTag - A UWB Positioning System Integrated in Lighting System and its Applications
The diagram of UWB ModuleThe lighTag UWB Project, supported by MIT Hong Kong Innovation Node and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, is a research endeavor focusing on Ultra-wideband (UWB) technology and Internet of Things (IoT) applications. The project aims to address various challenges, such as indoor positioning, visitor recording during Covid-19, and smart lighting control.
The main features of lighTag include its integration with the building’s lighting system, enabling continuous power supply for UWB bases. With four lighTag Base Stations, the system achieves 3D indoor positioning, accurately determining the x, y, and z coordinates of the lighTag Tags integrated into users’ devices. It boasts high accuracy, with 5cm ranging accuracy, 10cm 2D accuracy, and 20cm 3D accuracy, facilitating precise user positioning. Additionally, lighTag can detect users’ presence in specific areas within the building.
The project comprises three main components: Tag & Base, Algorithm API, and User Interface. The Tag & Base component utilizes the BP-TWR-50 UWB Module with Two Way Ranging (TWR) distancing algorithm. Python is used to implement the Multilateration Positioning Algorithm, enabling the calculation of coordinates from distance data. The User Interface, built with Python’s Kivy library, offers real-time plotting of the user’s position, Area of Interest (AOI) detection, and mobile app packaging possibilities.
The applications of lighTag are diverse. It facilitates 3D indoor navigation in venues like shopping malls, airports, and factories, with floor numbers clearly indicated. When integrated with the LeaveHomeSafe App, lighTag automatically records users’ arrivals and departures, captures detailed location information, and measures social distancing. Additionally, lighTag intelligently adjusts indoor lighting, including ON/OFF status and brightness, based on the users’ positions and the number of people present.
Overall, the lighTag UWB Project introduces a promising solution for enhancing indoor positioning, visitor recording, and smart lighting control, contributing to improved user experiences and efficiency in various indoor environments.
Hin Chi Kwok
Student in IEOR and Computing
I strongly believe that the 3Cs - CURIOSITY, CHALLENGE, and CHANGE - will shape my future, help me achieve my goals, and positively impact my community. I am passionate for technology, and I am here to share my journey of rediscovering my passion for STEM. Despite facing gender stereotypes and societal expectations from selecting IT as my career before, I pursue my CURIOSITY and participate in research projects and competitions. I embrace CHALLENGES, seek innovative solutions, and am actively involved in academic exchanges and entrepreneurship. My ultimate ambition is to translate my research into real products, contribute to make CHANGES in the science and technology industry, and inspire others to pursue a career in STEM.