Spatial Optimization of the Multiple Coverage Mesh Network Problem for Multifunctional Smart Poles

Abstract

Major metropolises worldwide are adopting the smart city approach as an aspect of their strategies to address urban challenges. This approach leverages integrated information and communications technology (ICT) to transform urban environments into more efficient and intelligent spaces. A smart pole combines varied services such as CCTV, environmental sensors, and public Wi-Fi into a single infrastructure, collecting data via the Internet of Things (IoT) and transmitting them to an integrated platform for urban management and public service delivery. Given network connectivity and budget constraints, such smart poles must be strategically deployed. However, the absence of specific criteria for establishment causes inefficient installations, contrary to their intended aims to optimize space and resources. This study integrates the optimal deployment of smart poles with an effective design for wireless mesh networking. Specifically, we propose a multiple coverage mesh network problem (MC-MNP) to enhance the placement of smart poles with multi-sensors by improving public service coverage and more efficiently using urban space. The findings of this study offer useful guidelines for optimizing the deployment of multifunctional smart poles and can ultimately deliver a viable implementation methodology for smart cities.