3D Position Estimation Using Signal Attenuation Prioritization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for estimating a three-dimensional (3D) position and direction, such as using cameras, ultrasonic waves, and inertial sensors, face challenges in accuracy and real-time precision due to noise sensitivity and equipment costs, especially when dealing with nonlinear signal attenuation characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A system that utilizes a signal attenuation characteristic-based estimator to select the minimum number of intensity information for precise 3D position and direction estimation, with a priority determining unit that assesses noise sensitivity and assigns priorities based on robustness against noise, using a configuration of transmitters and receivers to enhance accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If intensity information is used for 3D position and direction estimation based on signal attenuation characteristic, then the estimation accuracy is improved, but the noise sensitivity increases due to nonlinearity of the signal attenuation characteristic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the nonlinear intensity information into linearized distance and direction information by applying mathematical transformations. Specifically, it uses the relationship between signal intensity and distance/direction parameters to convert the nonlinear attenuation characteristic into linear forms that are less sensitive to noise, thereby maintaining estimation accuracy while reducing noise impact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple types of information (intensity information, distance information, direction information) to create a composite estimation system. By integrating these different information sources with complementary characteristics, the system achieves robust 3D position and direction estimation that overcomes the limitations of using intensity information alone.
2Measurement precision
If expensive and large motion capturing equipment is used, then the 3D position and direction estimation accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical motion capturing equipment with a signal-based estimation system using transmitters and receivers. Instead of using expensive optical or mechanical tracking systems, the invention uses signal attenuation characteristics in the electromagnetic spectrum to infer 3D position and direction, achieving comparable or superior accuracy with simpler, smaller, and more cost-effective devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive transmitter and receiver devices that can be mass-produced at low cost. These devices use simple signal transmission and reception components rather than expensive motion capture sensors, making the system economically viable for consumer electronics and mobile applications while maintaining sufficient estimation accuracy.
3Ease of manufacture
If ultrasonic wave method is used for 3D position estimation, then the equipment cost is reduced, but the real-time estimation capability deteriorates due to signal attenuation time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic signal transmission from transmitters to receivers, allowing for continuous real-time tracking. By transmitting signals at regular intervals and processing the attenuation information, the system achieves both cost-effectiveness (using simple acoustic or electromagnetic transmitters) and real-time performance (through continuous periodic measurements and updates).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic estimation system that continuously updates 3D position and direction information based on real-time signal attenuation measurements. The system adapts to changing conditions by processing ongoing signal data streams, enabling real-time tracking of moving objects without the latency issues of ultrasonic time-of-flight methods.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves precise 3D position and direction estimation with reduced noise sensitivity, enabling accurate and cost-effective real-time tracking using a small and inexpensive setup.
Implementation Method 1
a signal transmitted from each transmitter may have an attenuation characteristic, and thus, a measured intensity of a signal may vary based on a distance between a transmitter and a receiver and a directional direction
Data Source
AI summary
A system, apparatus, and method for precisely estimating a three-dimensional (3D) position and a direction. The 3D position and direction estimation apparatus may estimate a distance between at least one receiver and at least one transmitter and a direction of a remote device, based on intensity information of a signal measured at the at least one receiver, may sequentially select the minimum number of intensity information for estimating the 3D position and the direction of the remote device, in a descending order of robustness against noise, based on the estimated distance and direction of the remote device, and may precisely estimate the 3D position and the direction of the remote device based on the selected intensity information.