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Home » Bluetooth Low Energy Badge for Proximity Data

Bluetooth Low Energy Badge for Proximity Data

  • Smart devices
BLE Badge for Proximity Data Sharing

In a nutshell

This case study explores the remarkable initiative led by a dynamic duo of Software Embedded Engineers and Hardware Engineer in creating a game-changing Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Badge for peer-to-peer proximity data exchange. The project aimed to redefine networking at events by leveraging BLE technology to facilitate contact information exchange seamlessly. This study delves into the project’s timeline, team composition, technology, project requirements, as well as the challenges faced and goals achieved in developing an innovative networking solution.

Project overview

Project Duration:

01.2018- 12.2018

Team Setup:

2 x Software Embedded Engineers

Technology:

exchange UUID with other devices

Client Requirements

The project’s primary requirements were centered around creating a BLE Badge that facilitates contact information exchange among attendees. The requirements included:

  • Contact Information Exchange: Developing a badge that allows attendees to exchange their contact details by simply pressing a button.
  • Seamless Data Transfer: Facilitating data exchange like magic, allowing attendees to take home contact details and product brochures with ease.

Project Scope

The project’s primary requirements were centered around creating a BLE Badge that facilitates contact information exchange among attendees. The requirements included:

  • Proximity Based Contact Information Exchange: Developing a badge that allows attendees to exchange their contact details based on proximity
  • Seamless Data Transfer: Facilitating data exchange like magic, allowing attendees to take home contact details and product brochures with ease.
  • Over-the-Air Update Capability: Implementing secure remote firmware updates to enhance the device’s functionality while keeping Intellectual Property safe from eavesdropping

Approach

needCode’s Embedded Engineers crafted a solution that met the project goals through the following strategies:

  • Hardware Design and Assembly: Crafting and assembling intricate hardware components for optimal functionality and compact design, fitting within the wristband’s limited space. The RF circuit was carefully designed to provide reliable distance measurement.
  • Firmware Development: This phase included several key components:
    • UUID Technology Integration: Utilizing UUID technology to streamline contact information exchange, taking into consideration privacy concerns.
    • BLE Stack Modification: Implementing a custom advertiser and observer role to measure the distance between devices with low power consumption and latency, while ensuring reliability in RF-interference-prone environments.
    • Accurate Distance Measurement and Gesture Recognition: Estimating the distance between devices based on signal strength, along with accelerometer integration for event and gesture detection.
    • LED and Haptic Feedback: Designing and implementing haptic feedback to inform users about contact exchange and device status.
    • Storage: Developing a dedicated non-volatile memory module to persistently store exchanged data.
    • Battery Level and Charging Support: Continuously measuring battery voltage for accurate battery level reporting and low battery notification, while also adding USB charging support with attention to battery life cycle and safe charging conditions.
    • Secure Over-the-Air Update Implementation: Enabling remote updates for continuous enhancement and adaptability of device features.
  • Prototyping: Creating functional prototypes allowed for iterative testing, refinement, and fine-tuning of the design and features, thereby overcoming design constraints.

Business Impact

The Bluetooth Low Energy Badge project led to significant business outcomes:

  • Streamlined Networking: Enabling attendees to exchange contact information effortlessly and take home valuable leads.
  • Technological Advancement: Establishing the BLE Badge as a cutting-edge networking tool, attracting attention and user interest.
  • Efficient Data Collection: Empowering event organizers to collect accurate contact details for post-event engagement.
  • Competitive Edge: Utilizing advanced BLE technology to create a competitive advantage in event networking solutions.

Results and Achievements

The collaborative efforts of needCode’s Embedded Engineers yielded remarkable results:

  • Successful BLE Badge Creation: Development of an innovative badge that facilitates peer-to-peer proximity data exchange.
  • Accurate Proximity Data Collection: Implementation of accurate proximity data collection at approximately 50 cm.
  • Low Power Consumption: Design of a low-power solution for extended badge usage.
  • RF Interference Resilience: Implementation of technology to ensure seamless operation despite RF interference.

Conclusion

The dedication of needCode’s Embedded Engineers in creating the Bluetooth Low Energy Badge has transformed networking dynamics at events. By harnessing the power of BLE technology, they have redefined contact information exchange, making it seamless and efficient. This case study highlights the potential of technology-driven innovation in streamlining processes and enhancing user experiences.

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