In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers have been exploring innovative solutions to ensure public safety while maintaining operational efficiency in various sectors. A recent study led by Sallar S. Murad from the Institute of Informatics and Computing in Energy at Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Malaysia, introduces a novel vehicle social distancing management system that leverages Light Fidelity (LiFi) technology. This system aims to enhance safety measures in smart buildings by providing real-time monitoring of vehicles entering these facilities.
The research addresses a significant gap in existing social distancing protocols, particularly regarding vehicle access during the pandemic. Traditional methods often rely on periodic testing at designated facilities, which can overlook individuals who may be asymptomatic or untested. Murad’s system proposes a dual approach: it incorporates a real-time health check at the point of entry alongside conventional testing reports. This proactive measure is designed to minimize the risk of unidentified infections entering the building.
The study categorizes vehicles into low-risk and high-risk areas within the facility, allowing for targeted management based on health assessments. In simulations conducted using MATLAB, the proposed system demonstrated a remarkable improvement over benchmark methods. It classified 40% of vehicles as high risk and 55% as low risk, compared to only 20% and 75% in the benchmark scenario. Furthermore, only 5% of vehicles were denied access under the new system, a significant reduction from the 25% denial rate observed previously. This efficiency not only enhances safety but also reduces waiting times for vehicles, thereby improving overall operational flow.
The implications of this research extend beyond health safety; they present considerable commercial opportunities for the energy sector and smart building industries. As buildings increasingly integrate advanced technologies to manage access and ensure safety, solutions like Murad’s vehicle social distancing system can become essential components of building management systems. This could lead to increased demand for LiFi technology, which offers high-speed data transmission and secure communications, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of smart buildings.
Moreover, the ability to manage vehicle access effectively can help mitigate the economic impacts of pandemics by ensuring that operations can continue with a reduced risk of infection. As organizations seek to balance safety and productivity, systems that offer real-time monitoring and decision-making capabilities will be crucial.
As the world adapts to new norms, the research published in ‘IEEE Access’ highlights the potential for technological innovations to play a vital role in public health and safety, paving the way for smarter, safer buildings. For more information about the research and its implications, you can visit the Institute of Informatics and Computing in Energy.
