Urbiotica: Do We Really Need Multi-Detection in Sensors?

When it comes to detecting vehicles in parking spaces, there are several technological solutions available. Magnetic sensors are among the most common, but some systems combine multiple detection methods, like infrared and radar, under the premise of providing greater accuracy.

This prompts the question: is it truly necessary to use multiple detection technologies to achieve better reliability, or can a single detection system suffice?

Single Detection Technology

IoT sensors, which are typically used for detecting the presence of vehicles, go beyond simply capturing physical data. These devices must analyze complex information to make accurate decisions about whether a parking space is occupied. Magnetic sensors, for example, detect disturbances in the magnetic field caused by metal objects, such as vehicles.

However, to function properly, these sensors must be capable of distinguishing real vehicles from other magnetic disturbances. Additionally, they must be designed to handle environmental factors such as temperature changes and humidity, which can otherwise interfere with performance. To overcome these challenges, advanced algorithms are key to processing sensor data accurately.

Multi-Technology Detection

The idea behind multi-detection systems—those that incorporate technologies like infrared, radar, and magnetic sensors—is that each method can compensate for the weaknesses of the others, theoretically improving overall system reliability. However, in practice, combining multiple detection methods often complicates the system without providing significant improvements in accuracy, making it a less cost-effective option.

Conflicting Sensor Readings

A major drawback of multi-detection systems is that different sensors can provide conflicting data. For instance, in a system that combines both magnetic and infrared sensors, if the infrared sensor becomes obstructed (e.g., by dirt), it might incorrectly indicate that a parking space is occupied, while the magnetic sensor could show the opposite. This kind of inconsistency introduces uncertainty about which reading is correct, diminishing the reliability of the overall system.

The Calibration Puzzle

Calibration is critical for ensuring the accuracy of any detection system. When multiple technologies are integrated, the calibration process becomes more complex, as each detection method has different calibration needs. An error in calibrating one type of sensor can lead to inaccuracies in the system and potentially require recalibrating other detection methods, adding further complexity and maintenance requirements.

Higher Energy Use and Costs

Multi-detection sensors typically demand more power than single-detection alternatives, leading to shorter battery life and increased operational costs. The initial investment in these systems is also higher, and the ongoing maintenance tends to be more costly, making multi-detection a less economical option in the long run.

Real-World Example: U-Spot Duo vs. U-Spot M2M

Several years ago, Urbiotica introduced the U-Spot Duo, a multi-detection sensor that combined magnetic and infrared technologies to increase detection reliability. However, its performance was ultimately outclassed by the U-Spot M2M, a single-detection sensor relying only on magnetic technology.

The U-Spot M2M proved to be 98% reliable at detecting vehicles, exceeding the performance of the U-Spot Duo’s combined technology approach. This higher accuracy resulted in fewer detection errors and an improved user experience. Moreover, the U-Spot M2M’s simpler design allowed for lower power consumption, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and making it a more cost-effective solution over time.

Dealing with External Disturbances

One of the main arguments for using multi-detection systems is their ability to mitigate external disturbances, such as magnetic noise from nearby power lines or train tracks. However, advancements in magnetic detection technology have led to the development of sophisticated algorithms that can filter out such interference without the need for multiple detection methods.

Modern magnetic sensors now come equipped with these advanced algorithms, allowing them to adjust to external conditions and automatically calibrate themselves in real time. This eliminates the need for manual intervention and avoids the challenges of multi-technology calibration.

Final Thoughts

While multi-detection systems might seem like a more robust solution, they don’t necessarily guarantee better results. Magnetic sensors, when used alone, have demonstrated an impressive 98% accuracy in vehicle detection. They provide a simpler, more reliable, and cost-effective alternative that avoids the pitfalls of multiple technologies, such as inconsistent sensor readings or difficult calibration.

In the end, it’s not the number of detection methods that matters most—it’s the reliability of the system. What’s crucial is setting clear performance expectations through service level agreements (SLAs) that ensure system stability and accuracy, regardless of whether one or multiple technologies are used.

About Urbiotica

Urbiotica was born in 2008 with the mission to bring the most innovative technology to society through urban environments. Its vision is to help cities become more manageable, efficient, and sustainable, improving the quality of life of its citizens.

At Urbiotica, we focus on developing reliable IoT technologies that enhance urban mobility. Our sensors are rigorously tested to deliver high performance and accuracy in parking space management, ensuring efficient and dependable solutions.