PROXIMITY DETECTION TECHNIQUES FOR UBIQUITOUS COLLABORATION

Abstract

Proximity detection works in conjunction with other enabling technologies and becomes an essential requirement for interaction in a ubiquitous collaborative environment. Mobile and embedded systems are increasingly widespread with advancements in technology; hence, detecting and tracking the location of users or objects in that environment becomes crucial for context-sensitive communication, system behavior, and service delivery. This paper aims to review techniques for proximity detection, exploring their applications in ubiquitous collaboration. We explore fundamental enabling technologies, including RFID, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ultrasonic, and infrared systems, thoroughly focusing on their principles of operation, benefits, and limitations. From collaborative workspaces and location-based services to innovative environments, the paper presents a range of real-world applications and acknowledges implementation challenges, including privacy, security, interoperability, and scalability. Several case studies are presented for successful deployments, best practices, and ongoing research trends. With this evaluation, we provided insights and recommendations to aid further research and system design in proximity-aware ubiquitous collaboration systems.