Pelora develops precise Bluetooth location tracking for indoor spaces

Some innovations don't arise from a lack of something, but rather from curiosity. This is also the case with Pelora, a spin-off from the University of Erlangen. The young company has developed a Bluetooth-based system for precise indoor positioning that can be used in a variety of ways. The key feature is that the technology came first. The problems it solves only emerged in the second step.

Navigation where GPS fails

Whether at trade fairs, in supermarkets, or in logistics warehouses – wherever classic GPS signals reach their limits, Pelora promises a precise alternative. The idea: Bluetooth-based location tracking that works without additional end devices. In the future, visitors will be able to navigate to their destination using their smartphones. Anyone desperately searching for yeast in the supermarket could be shown the direct route. And in production, the system helps track assets and maintain an overview.

The technology behind it uses standard Bluetooth chips, which are found in almost every smartphone. These send out signals that are received and evaluated by specially developed receivers. This allows the position of the device in the room to be determined exactly – more precisely than with previous Bluetooth positioning systems.

High accuracy, easy to use

Two features stand out in the Pelora solution: The location is particularly accurate – a result of university-based fundamental research. And it works with existing hardware – a decisive advantage for practical use. The combination of scientific depth and everyday usability makes the technology interesting for many industries.

A simple table setup serves as a demonstration: Two model cars with Bluetooth modules move across the surface while a screen displays their position in real time. The location tracking works with both special transmitters and a normal smartphone.

Supermarkets that know where everything is

A conceivable scenario: When stocking shelves, an employee records the position of a product with a handheld scanner. This information is stored in the system. If a customer later searches for exactly this item, the system can guide them directly to it – without any searching. This is practical, saves time, and opens up new possibilities for product recommendations directly at the shelf.

Seamless tracking in the supply chain

Logistics also benefits from the system. Bluetooth Low Energy was developed for particularly economical power consumption. This means that transmitters can run continuously for several months or even years without changing batteries. This is a real advantage, especially for long transport routes, such as from Asia to Europe. Pelora thus offers a tracking solution that works from the starting point of the supply chain to the final delivery.

Initial tests at the Hannover Messe

Pelora currently has 19 prototype receivers. These are being used in pilot projects, including at the Hannover Messe trade fair. Deutsche Messe AG was interested in two things: helping visitors find their way around more easily and analyzing movement patterns. Which stands attract the most attention? Where do visitors linger? The system can also provide this information in real time and with a high degree of accuracy.

From the university to real life

The transition from prototype to product is underway. The team aims to present a market-ready version within a year. Discussions with partners from the retail, logistics, and event industries are already underway. Demand is growing, and the need is there. Pelora shows that technical solutions do not always have to arise from a specific problem. Sometimes a good tool is enough—and the use cases come naturally.