NEWS – iHub AWaDH at IIT Ropar Unveils Cost-Effective Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Gateway System

HIGHLIGHTS

• Development: The BLE Gateway and Node System, developed under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.
• Funding: ₹110 Crore allocated for the development.
• Purpose: To revolutionize IoT applications across multiple sectors, including agriculture, logistics, and environmental resilience.

Key Features of the BLE Gateway

• Connectivity – Offers 4G, Wi-Fi, and LAN compatibility for flexible networking.
• Long-Range Communication – Supports data transmission over a range of up to 1 km in line-of-sight (LOS) scenarios.
• Data Aggregation – Collects and processes data from multiple connected nodes, improving analysis and decision-making.
• Weatherproof and Compact Design – Built to endure extreme weather conditions with a user-friendly, compact form.
• Wireless Connectivity – Eliminates the need for extensive wiring, reducing installation costs and supporting remote deployments.
• Low Power Consumption – Energy-efficient for prolonged operation, ensuring cost savings over time.
• Scalability – Capable of managing over 100+ connected BLE nodes, making it suitable for large-scale IoT networks.
• Firmware Over-the-Air (FOTA) – Allows remote firmware updates with minimal manual intervention.
• Compatibility – Fully integrates with mobile apps, cloud platforms, and diverse sensors, offering enhanced flexibility.
• Enhanced Features – Includes external RTC with coin cell, USB supply/charging, humidity/temperature sensor, optional battery status indication, and a relay for switching local peripherals.

Value Propositions of the BLE Gateway

• Energy Efficiency – BLE technology ensures extended battery life and reduced energy consumption.
• Seamless Integration – Compatible with mobile apps and cloud platforms for remote monitoring.
• Data Security – Built-in BLE encryption to protect sensitive environmental data.
• Cost-Effective and Durable – Weather-resistant materials help minimize maintenance costs and improve reliability in harsh environments.

Sector-Specific Impact of the BLE Gateway System

• Agriculture – Supports precision farming by monitoring critical factors like soil moisture and air quality, promoting better control and sustainable practices.
• Logistics – Ensures optimal environmental conditions for perishable goods in cold storage and transit, reducing spoilage risks.
• Smart Cities and Industrial Sites
  • Enables large-scale monitoring networks, enhancing operational efficiency and security.
  • Real-time data transmission with customizable alerts enables proactive responses to temperature spikes or unauthorized movements.

Technology Integration and Convenience

• Remote Access: Users can access data through mobile apps and cloud platforms for enhanced convenience and decision-making.
• Energy Efficiency: BLE technology supports long battery life, reducing operational costs.
• Data Security: Encryption technology ensures secure data transmission, safeguarding sensitive information.