Open sensing and The Things Network now makes it possible for local councils to monitor the usage of parks, facilities and other community spaces in real-time.
the problem ...
Local councils are responsible for the development and management of many community assets including parks, gardens, playgrounds and ovals, to name just a few. Within these spaces there may be a number of facilities including BBQ’s, fitness and play equipment, toilets, walking tracks, irrigation systems and water features.
Historically, it has been difficult and costly to collect real-time usage and condition data to inform maintenance schedules and development projects.
the solution ...
Open, remote sensing devices combined with a collaborative, open access network of internet connected gateways – The Things Network, now make this data collection process simple and cost effective to implement, with enormous potential efficiency and effectiveness benefits for all network users.
some examples ...
By simply fitting a battery-powered sensor to each piece of fitness equipment in a park, it is possible to get real-time accelerometer data on when each piece of equipment was used and for how long. This data can then be used to inform decisions about future equipment purchases and location.
The addition of an infrared battery-powered people counter at the entrance to public toilets can measure facility usage, and thus inform cleaning regimes.
A sensor (retro) fitted to a gas BBQ located in a community space or remote parking bay can measure BBQ usage, and thus inform gas cylinder replacement and maintenance decisions.
getting started ...
- Identify what data you would like to capture.
- Speak to opensensing about your data needs.
- Purchase recommended smart sensors.
- Check The Things Network map (https://www.thethingsnetwork.org/map) to see if your sensors are in reach of a TTN gateway(s). If this is not the case, consider purchasing a TTN gateway.
- Locate sensors and gateway(s) in environment.
- Start collecting real-time data.
- Use data to inform development and maintenance decisions.
