OpenCitySense -Intelligent sensor management for smart cities

Product description

Sensors are the senses of modern cities. They measure air, transportation, water, energy, and much more. But the larger and more diverse sensor networks become, the faster it becomes difficult to maintain an overview: malfunctions go undetected, data is questioned, and maintenance becomes expensive. OpenCitySense brings clarity and reduces the complexity of this data. OpenCitySense shows the status of all sensors in a clear and location-specific manner – at a glance. Data quality is continuously checked, anomalies are detected early, and changes can be implemented with just a few clicks. New sensors are quickly integrated. This keeps your data reliable and your operations stable.

 

Quick facts about OpenCitySense

1. Reduces complexity throughout the entire lifecycle of your sensor networks—from initial setup to modifications, replacement, or uninstallation.
2. Uses the FROST^® server and the open OGC standard SensorThings API.
3. Complements FROST^® with sensor monitoring and administrative staff to view operating conditions, detect anomalies, and control actions.
4. Suitable for many smart city applications (environment, transportation, energy, etc.) – including seamless integration into existing geodata infrastructures and urban data platforms.

 

Technical descriptions

• Foundation and openness: OpenCitySense uses the FROST^® server and the open OGC standard SensorThings API. This ensures easy data exchange and simple integration with geodata infrastructures and existing urban data platforms.
• Data model: OpenCitySense extends the OGC SensorThings API data model so that configurations and operating states can be mapped in addition to sensor measurements and metadata. All information from sensors, data flows, and events is thus brought together in a unified structure, consistently recorded, and easy to find—regardless of manufacturer and area of application.
• Rapid integration of new sensors: Based on predefined and expandable sensor types, new devices can be located and put into operation with just a few details. This reduces input errors, accelerates rollouts, and facilitates scaling.
• Monitoring and anomaly detection: Continuous monitoring detects failures and anomalies, e.g., low battery, sensor covered/dirty, or vandalism damage. Notifications are traceable, and measures can be planned, implemented, and documented in a targeted manner.
• Life cycle management: Supports all phases: initial setup, configuration changes, replacement, and uninstallation. Changes, responsibilities, and statuses are documented transparently.
• Mastering heterogeneous environments: Different systems, transmission types, and data formats are centrally bundled and standardized. This provides an overview of operability and strengthens confidence in the data provided.
• Integration and areas of application: Thanks to open interfaces, OpenCitySense integrates seamlessly into existing geodata infrastructures and urban data platforms (environmental monitoring, traffic control, water/waste management, energy, and public infrastructure).
• Result: Greater transparency, reliable data, lower operating costs—and a sensor network infrastructure that remains maintainable in the long term.

 

Benefits for your target groups

Administrative staff and municipalities benefit from the transparent data quality of a reliable sensor network as a robust basis for decision-making. Municipal utilities and IT service providers appreciate standards, clear interfaces, rapid integration, and clear documentation of all adjustments to the sensor network. Tools for simplified sensor management provide a transparent overview at all times, enabling predictable deployment, shorter response times, and lower operating costs.