Sensor systems for positioning and identification in ubiquitous computing

Abstract: Technologies for position sensing and identification are important to have in ubiquitous computing environments. These technologies can be used to track users, devices, and artefacts in the physical milieu, for example, locating the position of a cellular phone in av physical environment. The aim of this thesis was to survey and classify available technologies for location sensing and identification. We have made a literature study on both commercial and research-oriented systems and technologies for use in indoor and outdoor environments. We compared the characteristics of the underlying sensing technologies with respect to physical size, sensing method, cost, and accuracy. We conclude the thesis with a set of recommendations to developers and discuss the requirements on future sensing technologies and their use in mobile devices and environments.