ZigBee is a wireless technology developed as an open global standard to address the unique needs of low-cost, low-power wireless M2M networks. The ZigBee standard operates on the IEEE 802.15.4 physical radio specification and operates in unlicensed bands including 2.4 GHz, 900 MHz and 868 MHz.

ZigBee applications include Consumer Electronics, Energy Management and Efficiency, Health Care, Home Automation, Telecommunication Services, Building Automation and Industrial Automation.

Solution:

Automotive express service centers offer a range of services, such as vehicle inspections, oil changes and refilling/replacing a variety of automotive fluids, such as transmission, differential, brake, steering and more. Providing quality service quickly is the primary focus for these service stations.

In order to maximize their efficiency, increase profitability and maintain their commitment to fast service, large volumes of frequently used fluids are stored on-site in large tanks. It is critical that the shop does not run out any of these automotive fluids. Access to current tank level information enables these service stations to avoid shortages and troubleshoot potential problems.

Wirelessly-enabled ultrasonic sensors deployed into each tank make real-time monitoring of fluid supplies easy. XBee Wi-Fi embedded RF modules provide simple serial to IEEE 802.11 connectivity to these sensors, creating a secure, reliable ZigBee mesh network. Measurements taken by the sensors are sent via Wi-Fi access point, which sends the collected information to iDigi™.

By connecting to the iDigi Cloud over a secure IP connection a shop manager or an oil distributor can access current tank level information and schedule timely deliveries based upon usage. The service station does not have to rely on manually checking the levels of each tank. iDigi can even be configured to send email, SMS or other types of alerts whenever volume levels reach predefined points.

Benefits:
Making critical tank-level information easily accessible ensures that automotive fluid inventory levels are maintained and enables management to identify potential problems such as tank leaks or fluid theft.

Featured Product:

XBee Wi-Fi embedded RF modules provide simple serial to IEEE 802.11 connectivity. By bridging the low-power/low-cost requirements of wireless device networking with the proven infrastructure of 802.11, the XBee Wi-Fi creates new wireless opportunities for energy management, process and factory automation, wireless sensor networks, intelligent asset management and more. Focused on the rigorous requirements of these wireless device networks, the XBee Wi-Fi gives developers IP-to-the-device capability.

Key Features:
-Common XBee footprint allows OEMs to support a variety of wireless protocols
- Flexible SPI and UART serial interfaces
- RPSMA, PCB, U.FL and wire whip antenna options
- Support for low-power sleeping applications with <2 µA power-down current
- Over-the-air data rates up to 65 Mbps
- Wide temperature range (-40° C to +85° C) ensures operation in industrial environments