Application of multiple-wireless to a visual localisation system for emergency services

In this paper we discuss the application of multiple-wireless technology to a practical context-enhanced service system called ViewNet. ViewNet develops technologies to support enhanced coordination and cooperation between operation teams in the emergency services and the police. Distributed localisation of users and mapping of environments implemented over a secure wireless network enables teams of operatives to search and map an incident area rapidly and in full coordination with each other and with a control centre. Sensing is based on fusing absolute positioning systems (UWB and GPS) with relative localisation and mapping from on-body or hand-held vision and inertial sensors. This paper focuses on the case for multiple-wireless capabilities in such a system and the benefits it can provide. We describe our work of developing a software API to support both WLAN and TETRA in ViewNet. It also provides a basis for incorporating future wireless technologies into ViewNet.