Introduction to IPCS

A combination of solid Bluetooth technology platform and 9Solutions' strong IPR portfolio has enabled us to build unique solution that is revolutionizing the way we navigate indoors, and sets new RTLS performance standards.

IPCS by 9Solutions is wireless Bluetooth and SaaS based real-time locating solution (RTLS) and application platform that enables a real-time tracking of IPCS Tags and billions of other Bluetooth devices, like mobile phones.

IPCS offers complete infrastructure for efficient indoor positioning including both hardware and software applications and services required to operate, manage and monitor the system. IPCS yields substantial improvements in employee safety, asset utilization and efficiency by providing highly accurate positioning information and a fully scalable and customizable user interface. IPCS is based on standardized Bluetooth technology and is the first and only solution, which is compatible with existing mobile devices that are commonly used. IPCS is also compatible with future devices as it supports both traditional Bluetooth and Bluetooth Low Energy.

IPCS infrastructure consists of four elements: Tracked object, Node, Cell Controller Unit (CCU) and Software as a Service (SaaS).

Tracked object can be any Bluetooth device or special IPCS Tag. Tag is a small battery operated device comprising user interface and Bluetooth radio transceiver. System follows the locations of Tags. Each person and assets must be linked to a specific Tag. Tags have direct communication channel to System Server via Nodes and CCU.  Other Bluetooth devices are handled as virtual Tags in IPCS.

Node is a small device connected to mains, comprising power supply and two Bluetooth transceivers (Standard and Bluetooth Low Energy). Nodes have two main functions: Form a network to transfer data from Tags to System Server and act as locating beacons. A number of Nodes defines locating accuracy. If room level accuracy is required, each room must be equipped with a Node.

CCU is used for connecting the network of Nodes (The Cell) via Internet to the System Server. CCU comprises Bluetooth Transceiver, Internet connection, and power supply. CCU is running embedded software application ensuring the standalone operation of IPCS Cell during potential network failure.

System server is the core of the IPCS system, comprising IPCS Compass locating engine and IPCS Smooth user interface to administer the system and to use locating data. A complete software solution is offered to customers as a service. Each customer has their own password protected account to utilize the system. Optionally server software can be installed in customer premises.

IPCS Infrastructure:

Smooth is the Graphical user interface for daily use, setup & maintenance of the 9Solutions IPCS. Web based service is accessible by all web-enabled devices. Smooth is optimized for touch device use. IPCS CCU acts as a gateway between IPCS cell and IPCS Compass locating server. IPCS Compass is offered as a service (SaaS). Nodes form a self-organizing wireless Bluetooth network enabling stunning locating accuracy, compatibility with all Bluetooth devices and independent operation without loading existing infrastructure. IPCS Tags and other Bluetooth devices communicate with Compass locating server by using the IPCS Node network as a communication channel.

What makes IPCS by 9Solutions unique? Read more