Answer:
IndoorAtlas' location technology is partly inspired by evidence that animals use the Earth’s magnetic field
not only for orientation detection but also for true navigation (Boles et al. 2003, Wlitschko et al. 1972,
Maugh et al. 1982, Mouritsen et al. 2004, Mora et al. 2004). Some animals, such as spiny lobsters, are not
only able to detect the direction of the Earth's magnetic field they can even sense their true position relative to
their destination. This means these particular animals are able to derive positional information from local cues
that arise from the local anomalies of the Earth's magnetic field.
1
Modern buildings with reinforced concrete and steel structures have unique, spatially-varying ambient
magnetic fields that can be used for positioning, in much the same way (albeit on a much smaller spatial
scale) as animals use the Earth's magnetic field. In principle, a non-uniform ambient magnetic field
produces different magnetic observations, depending on the path taken through it.
In IndoorAtlas' location technology, anomalies
(fluctuations) of ambient magnetic fields are
utilized in indoor positioning. This has been
facilitated by modern smartphones and the rapid
development of sensor technology. The image
on the right shows an example of indoor
magnetic fields present in modern buildings
(Time Warner Center, New York, US, June 2012).
Explanation:
