LoRa-Powered IoT Messaging System for Internet-Free Communication

Abstract

This paper describes a novel message system that makes use of LoRa technology and the ESP32 IoT chip to deliver dependable communication in places with spotty internet access. The ESP32 module is integrated into the system architecture as an access point, and WebSocket protocol is used to enable messaging services. As a key center for communication, the ESP32-based access point facilitates flawless message exchanges between users. The key innovation lies in its incorporation of the LoRa RA-02 module, which enables RF-based communication among devices. The messaging system guarantees connectivity even in remote locations or areas with inadequate internet infrastructure by utilizing LoRa technology. This capability is especially helpful in situations when regular internet connectivity is unavailable or inconsistent, including in low-resource contexts, rural populations, or areas affected by disasters. Because of the messaging system\'s easy-to-use and accessible architecture, users can communicate without an internet connection. This lessens the need for internet connections and lowers related expenses, improving communication accessibility and affordability for marginalized communities.

Introduction

I. INTRODUCTION

A key component of human society, communication allows for coordination, interaction, and the sharing of important information. The widespread availability of internet connectivity in the current digital era has completely changed the way we communicate, enabling social media, email, and instant messaging. However, dependable internet access is still difficult to come by in many parts of the world, particularly in isolated or disaster-prone areas. Natural catastrophes like hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes frequently cause disruptions to conventional communication networks, isolating and endangering communities. A growing number of alternative communication options that are not dependent on standard internet connectivity are required to address these issues. Combining new technologies, like the ESP32 IoT module and LoRa (Long Range) technology, is one strategy that shows promise. These technologies have a special set of qualities that make them ideal for dependable communication in places with limited resources or after natural disasters.

A flexible platform for creating networked devices and applications is the ESP32 IoT module. The ESP32 facilitates effortless communication to both local networks and the internet due to its integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth features. Its low power consumption and compatibility with multiple communication protocols further make it a great option for Internet of Things deployments in a variety of settings. Applications needing connectivity over long distances might benefit greatly from LoRa technology's long-range, low-power communication capabilities when combined with the ESP32. Because LoRa can function in challenging situations and pass through barriers, it is especially useful for communication in rural or disaster-affected locations where traditional infrastructure can be destroyed.

The proposed message system builds a robust communication infrastructure that can function without conventional internet connectivity by utilizing the features of the ESP32 IoT chip and LoRa technology. Users can easily exchange messages within a local network by using the WebSocket protocol for messaging services and the ESP32 as an access point. RF-based communication is made possible by the incorporation of the LoRa RA-02 module, guaranteeing connectivity even in places with spotty or nonexistent internet access.

Disaster management is one of the main applications for the proposed messaging system. Conventional communication infrastructure, including cellular networks or internet services, may be interfered with during natural disasters, making rescue and relief operations more difficult. In situations like these, the capacity to create trustworthy communication channels becomes essential for organizing emergency response actions, sharing crucial information, and aiding impacted communities.

II. LITERATURE REVIEW

Cardenas et al. [1] research a new message system that uses LoRa wireless technology. The study focuses on how affordable and low-power this system is. Previous studies on wireless communication highlight the growing need for effective message solutions, particularly in settings with limited resources. Due to its low power consumption and extended range, LoRa technology has drawn interest for its potential in these kinds of situations. The literature now in publication emphasizes LoRa's adaptability to a wide range of uses, including as smart agriculture, urban infrastructure management, and environmental monitoring. But despite its potential, problems like bandwidth limitations and interference susceptibility still exist. By suggesting a low-cost messaging system that makes use of LoRa, this study attempts to address these problems by maximizing power economy and improving connectivity and communication efficiency.

A LoRa communication technology-based Internet of Things (IoT) health monitoring system [2] is investigated in the research of Misran et al. (2019). Previous research highlights the increasing importance of IoT in healthcare, enabling remote patient monitoring and improving the provision of healthcare services. The long-range communication range and low power consumption of LoRa technology make it especially useful for healthcare applications, as it allows for continuous and real-time patient health parameter monitoring. Previous research has demonstrated how distinct IoT-based health monitoring systems using diverse communication technologies can revolutionize healthcare services. This study contributes to this body of knowledge by putting forth a system designed especially for LoRa-enabled health monitoring.

Islam et al. (2019) explore a human body signal [3] monitoring Internet of Things (IoT) system that uses LoRa wireless networks. Prior studies highlight the growing interest in IoT applications for healthcare, which can improve medical services and enable remote monitoring. LoRa is a viable option for healthcare monitoring systems because of its benefits in long-range communication and low power usage. The many uses of IoT in healthcare, from emergency response systems to remote patient monitoring, are illustrated in the literature. This work contributes by suggesting a LoRa-based system made especially for tracking body signals in humans, demonstrating how IoT technologies can enhance patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.

Cardenas et al. (2018) provide a study that presents a LoRa-based [4] sustainable messaging system designed for remote populations. Previous studies highlight the necessity of communication solutions for bridging connectivity gaps and promoting social involvement in rural places. In these kinds of situations, LoRa technology's extended range and low power consumption hold promise for resolving communication issues. Extant literature emphasizes the value of sustainable and economical solutions while highlighting a variety of activities using wireless technologies for community development. By putting out a LoRa-based messaging system that is especially tailored to the requirements of remote communities, this study expands on the corpus of research in this area and advances the field of social good technology.

The construction and assessment of a mobile [5] emergency management system based on LoRa, called LOCATE, are presented by Sciullo et al. (2020). The literature now in publication emphasizes how important effective emergency management systems are to catastrophe response. Because wireless technologies like LoRa have minimal power and long range, they can improve coordination and communication during emergencies. Previous studies highlight the numerous ways in which wireless technologies are used in emergency management, highlighting the necessity of durable and dependable communication solutions. In order to advance the field of emergency management technology, this study contributes by proposing LOCATE, a LoRa-based system designed specifically for mobile emergency management. The system's goal is to enhance reaction times and coordination efforts in crisis scenarios.

Applying Message Queue Telemetry Transfer (MQTT) protocol and LoRa technology, [6] Gambi et al. (2018) provide a home automation architecture. Previous research emphasizes how home automation systems are becoming more widely used to improve security, comfort, and energy efficiency. Long-range communication and low power consumption are two benefits of wireless technologies like LoRa that make them appropriate for smart home applications. Furthermore, MQTT protocol makes data transmission and communication in Internet of Things contexts more efficient. Prior research has exhibited several applications of wireless and Internet of Things technologies in home automation, highlighting their capacity to transform residential settings. By putting out a LoRa and MQTT-based architecture specifically designed for home automation, this research advances the field of smart home technologies.

III. FRAMEWORK DESIGN

The primary objective of the system is to assist individuals during natural disasters by providing reliable communication capabilities. The framework design encompasses the system architecture and the integration of hardware and software components.

At its core, the system relies on the ESP32 microcontroller and the LoRa RA-02 module as its primary hardware components. The LoRa module requires sophisticated antennas and a minimal power source to facilitate long-range communication. To establish communication between the ESP32 and LoRa chip, they are connected via a serial communication interface, commonly referred to as UART, ensuring seamless data transfer. Additionally, ensuring each component receives an appropriate power supply is crucial to the system's reliability and functionality.

Programming the ESP32's firmware is essential to enable it to function as an access point and handle messaging services effectively. This includes incorporating WebSocket-based bidirectional communication to enable users to send and receive messages seamlessly. Utilizing a local web server further enhances the messaging capabilities, providing a user-friendly interface for composing and viewing messages. On the other hand, the LoRa module is configured to utilize the LoRa communication protocol, ensuring error-free transmission, packet encoding and decoding, and efficient communication within the designated frequency bands.

Smooth communication within the system is facilitated by leveraging the capabilities of the ESP32 microcontroller. With its dual-core architecture, one core is dedicated to message transmission while the other handles message reception, ensuring efficient data flow. The local web server serves as the central interface for users to interact with the messaging system, offering a convenient platform for composing, sending, and viewing messages in real-time.

The integration of the ESP32 microcontroller and LoRa technology provides a robust communication solution, particularly suited for disaster scenarios where traditional communication infrastructure may be compromised. By implementing efficient messaging protocols and user-friendly interfaces, the system aims to enhance communication resilience and facilitate effective communication during challenging situations.

In the above fig 1. You can see there are two microcontrollers are integrated with the AI Thinker LoRa chip, each equipped with an antenna for communication via UART serial communication. Leveraging LoRa's long-range capabilities, the system can transmit data over distances of up to 62 kilometers, although the current modules operate effectively within a radius of approximately 10 kilometers. LoRa operates within specific radio frequency bands, ensuring reliable communication. To facilitate message transmission and reception, users establish communication between the ESP32 microcontroller and a mobile device using a Wi-Fi network infrastructure. This integration of diverse technologies enhances the system's versatility and effectiveness in various communication scenarios.

IV. RESULTS

The results of testing and deploying the proposed messaging system in simulated disaster scenarios demonstrate its effectiveness in providing reliable communication capabilities. We assessed the system's performance under a variety of environmental circumstances, such as low connectivity settings and power-constrained scenarios, through extensive testing. The solution proved resilient to disturbances in conventional internet infrastructure by reliably maintaining communication linkages between ESP32 access points and LoRa-enabled devices.

The system's potential to provide communication between people and emergency responders, even in remote or inaccessible locations, was demonstrated via real-world deployment in disaster-prone areas. Users praised the system's user-friendly UI and reported flawless message exchange, demonstrating the system's usefulness and usability in difficult situations.

The low-power optimization algorithms employed by the system proved effective in prolonging battery life and guaranteeing prolonged operation under protracted crisis scenarios. We found that sleep modes and clever power management algorithms allowed us to use the least amount of energy while maintaining communication dependability. For communication infrastructure to remain operational during disaster situations where power supplies may be limited or unstable, this optimization is essential. The findings highlight the potential of the suggested message system as a useful instrument for improving communication resilience and streamlining relief and coordinating activities in the event of emergencies or natural disasters.

In the fig 1.2 We are able to see the two users communicating with each other over longer distances, sending and receiving messages concurrently. The user has the ability to send and receive messages. People who are stranded in disasters or elsewhere can communicate and request assistance in this way.

Conclusion

The proposed messaging system leveraging bidirectional communication between users over longer distances presents a significant advancement in disaster communication technology. By enabling seamless message exchange and simultaneous communication capabilities, the system offers a lifeline to individuals stranded in disaster-stricken or remote areas, empowering them to seek assistance, share critical information, and coordinate rescue efforts effectively. The system\'s versatility, reliability, and adaptability to longer distances make it a valuable tool for enhancing communication resilience and response effectiveness during emergencies. Furthermore, its broader implications for emergency preparedness and response strategies highlight its potential to strengthen disaster resilience and support effective coordination among authorities, organizations, and affected populations. Moving forward, continued research and development in this area will be essential to further enhance the system\'s capabilities and maximize its impact in safeguarding lives and communities during times of crisis.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2024 Rithesh Jaston Dsa, Rashmitha , Balachandra Rao. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.