Analysis of Bluetooth Low Energy Detection Range Improvements for Indoor Environments

Jay Pancham, Richard C. Millham, Simon James Fong

Abstract: Real Time Location Systems (RTLS) research identifies Bluetooth Low Energy as one of the technologies that promise an acceptable response to the requirements for indoor environments. Against this background we investigate the latest developments with Bluetooth especially with regards its range and possible use in the indoor environments. Several different venues are used at the University to conduct the experiment to mimic typical indoor environments. The results indicated an acceptable range in line of sight as well as through obstacles such as glass, drywall partitions and solid brick wall. Future research will investigate methods to determine the position of Bluetooth Low Energy devices for possible location of patients and assets.