Indoor Pathfinding with the A* Algorithm: A Cross-Platform Mobile Implementation Case

Kongwen Zhang; Boris Massesa; Jingwei Gao

doi:10.62177/jaet.v2i4.899

Authors

Kongwen Zhang University of the Fraser Valley https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7570-9805
Boris Massesa University of the Fraser Valley
Jingwei Gao Hebei Normal University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62177/jaet.v2i4.899

Keywords:

Indoor Pathfinding, A* Algorithm, NestJS, Mobile Application

Abstract

This study presents the development of a fully integrated mobile module that enables indoor pathfinding functionality from the front end to the back end. The module is implemented using the A* algorithm for route optimization and a NestJS framework with PostgreSQL and PostGIS for spatial data management. Designed as part of the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) Campus App project, this cross-platform mobile application is built with React Native to ensure seamless usability across devices. Core functionalities include intelligent room search, interactive floor plan visualization, and real-time, turn-by-turn navigation powered by WebSocket communication. The system demonstrates the feasibility of combining spatial databases, efficient routing algorithms, and real-time communication technologies to enhance campus navigation and user experience.

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