Enhancing campus efficiency with Time-of-Flight people counting technology
People counting with Time-of-Flight (ToF) technology emerges as a cutting-edge solution that offers concrete benefits for these institutions. By accurately monitoring and analyzing foot traffic, Time-of-Flight technology empowers universities to make data-driven decisions, streamline operations, and create a more conducive learning environment. This article explores the advantages of implementing people counting with Time-of-Flight technology in universities and higher education facilities.
About Time-of-Flight technology
With Time-of-Flight people counting technology, infrared sensors measure the time it takes for a beam of light to bounce off an object and return to the sensor. This information is used to determine the distance and movement of individuals in a given space. Time-of-Flight technology simply measures the distance between objects and uses this information to determine the number of individuals passing through a specific area. The data gathered by Terabee people counters does not measure the height of the person coming into the area, it relies on seeing points for head and shoulders to indicate a person has passed into or out of the area.
Why Time-of-Flight technology is non-intrusive
Time-of-Flight technology is non-intrusive and does not gather personal data as it doesn’t rely on cameras or other sensors that may capture identifiable information. This means that no personal data is ever collected or stored, and individuals are free to move through the monitored area without fear of being tracked or monitored. People Counting solutions from Terabee only gather anonymous data and are fully GDPR compliant by design.
Accurate foot traffic analysis
Reliable foot traffic data is essential for universities to optimize the utilization of their facilities. Time-of-Flight technology employs advanced sensors to capture real-time data on the number of people in a particular area. This enables administrators to obtain accurate footfall counts, identify peak hours, and understand space utilization patterns. With this information, institutions can make informed decisions about resource allocation, such as adjusting staffing levels, optimizing classroom usage, and improving space planning.
Improved space optimization = better use of resources
Universities often face challenges related to the amount of space that is available, especially in areas like libraries, study halls, and cafeterias. People counting with Time-of-Flight technology provides valuable data on occupancy rates, peak hours, and traffic patterns. This information allows administrators to make informed decisions on space planning, facility layouts, and to ensure adequate allocation of resources. By identifying underutilized spaces, universities can repurpose them for more productive and engaging activities.
Enhanced energy efficiency
Managing energy consumption is a pressing concern for universities aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and lower operational costs. People counting systems based on ToF technology contribute to energy efficiency by providing real-time occupancy data for rooms, lecture halls, and other facilities. This information enables automated control of lighting, heating, and ventilation systems, allowing universities to adjust energy usage according to actual demand and significantly reduce wastage.
Data-driven decision making
People counting with ToF technology generates a wealth of valuable data that can inform strategic decision making. By analyzing foot traffic patterns, universities can gain insights into student behavior, preferences, and needs.
This data can be used to optimize resource allocation, plan for future infrastructure developments, and make informed decisions about facility expansion or renovations. Data-driven decision making helps universities align their operations with the evolving requirements of students and faculty, fostering continuous improvement and innovation.
Streamlined traffic flow and accessibility
Congestion in corridors, entryways, and parking lots can disrupt the daily operations of universities. By implementing ToF-based people counting systems, institutions can gain insights into traffic flow patterns and identify bottlenecks. This knowledge empowers administrators to optimize pathways, implement better crowd management strategies, and enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Consequently, students and staff can navigate the campus more efficiently, improving their overall experience.
Enhanced user experience
Students’ experience greatly influences their perception of an institution. People counting with Time-of-Flight technology helps universities create a positive and productive learning environment. By identifying peak hours and crowded areas, universities can take proactive measures to manage traffic flow and reduce congestion, thereby enhancing the overall student experience. This can include adjusting class schedules, ensuring sufficient access to facilities, or improving navigation through campus, leading to improved satisfaction and academic success.
The implementation of occupancy monitoring with Time-of-Flight technology presents significant advantages for universities and higher education facilities. Accurate foot traffic analysis, enhanced safety and security, improved space optimization, and an enhanced student experience are just a few of the benefits. By harnessing the power of ToF technology, institutions can leverage data-driven insights to streamline operations, create more efficient campuses, and ultimately provide an environment conducive to learning and growth.
Contact us to speak to an expert about your people counting challenges and requirements. Get in touch to find out more!
If you would like to learn how to deploy people counting solutions in your facility, whether it’s a campus or another type of building, contact a member of the Terabee team today.
Further reading
Stec, V. Herrmann and B. Stabernack, Using Time-of-Flight Sensors for People Counting Applications, 2019 Conference on Design and Architectures for Signal and Image Processing (DASIP), Montreal, QC, Canada, 2019, pp. 59-64, doi: 10.1109/DASIP48288.2019.9049169.
Shoaib Azizi, Gireesh Nair, Ramtin Rabiee, Thomas Olofsson, Application of Internet of Things in academic buildings for space use efficiency using occupancy and booking data, Building and Environment, Volume 186, 2020, 107355, ISSN 0360-1323. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.buildenv.2020.107355.
Giovanni Diraco, Alessandro Leone, Pietro Siciliano, People occupancy detection and profiling with 3D depth sensors for building energy management, Energy and Buildings, Volume 92, 2015, Pages 246-266, ISSN 0378-7788, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enbuild.2015.01.043.
