Add-on Module Indoor Localization via Electromagnetic Field Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional localization methods, such as satellite-based systems and active RFID, are unreliable indoors and require uniform infrastructure, potentially disrupting sensitive devices and systems, and cannot be used in emission-sensitive areas.
Innovation Solution
An add-on module that passively measures local electromagnetic field distributions using a sensor system, determines position by comparing with a predetermined map, and transmits data to a server for tracking, without requiring direct communication with field-generating infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If satellite-based positioning systems or active RFID are used for localization, then positioning functionality is provided, but reliability deteriorates indoors due to signal reception conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces active signal transmission and reception systems with passive electromagnetic field measurement. Instead of using satellite signals or RFID communication that are blocked by buildings, the system measures ambient electromagnetic fields that penetrate structures, substituting an active mechanical/electronic system with a passive sensing approach that works reliably indoors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic field measurements as an intermediary between the localization device and the final position determination. Rather than directly receiving positioning signals that are blocked by buildings, the system uses electromagnetic fields as a mediator that can penetrate through structures to provide reliable indoor localization data.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional localization infrastructure is deployed, then positioning capability is achieved, but device complexity increases due to requirement for uniform electronic infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the localization system universal by using electromagnetic field measurements that can be performed by any device with a sensor, without requiring specialized RFID readers, satellite receivers, or dedicated positioning infrastructure. The same approach works across different device types and environments, eliminating the need for uniform specialized infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service localization where each device independently measures electromagnetic fields and determines its own position without requiring external positioning infrastructure or communication with centralized positioning systems. This eliminates complex infrastructure requirements while maintaining adaptability across different locations.
3Measurement precision
If active positioning signals are transmitted, then localization data is obtained, but harmful factors increase due to signal disruption of sensitive devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by instead of actively transmitting positioning signals and measuring responses, the system passively measures existing electromagnetic fields. This reversal eliminates signal transmission that could disrupt sensitive devices while maintaining the ability to obtain precise localization data through field strength measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the presence of electromagnetic fields, which could be considered background noise or interference, into a useful resource for localization. By measuring these fields that naturally penetrate buildings and sensitive areas, the system turns what might be seen as environmental interference into a beneficial positioning signal that provides accurate location data without active transmission.
4Productivity
If conventional localization methods are used, then positioning is possible, but loss of time increases due to infrastructure setup and adaptation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by using electromagnetic field measurements that can be immediately taken without requiring prior infrastructure setup. Unlike systems that need satellite reception, RFID tag deployment, or specialized hardware installation, the passive field measurement approach is ready to use immediately, eliminating setup time and enabling instant localization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables immediate self-service localization where devices can independently determine their position without requiring external infrastructure setup or adaptation. Each device autonomously measures electromagnetic fields and computes its location, eliminating the time loss associated with configuring centralized positioning systems or deploying specialized infrastructure.
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
Enables reliable, low-effort, cost-effective, and energy-efficient localization indoors and in emission-sensitive areas, avoiding signal interference and infrastructure adaptation, with improved accuracy through temporal field distribution measurements.
Implementation Method 1
The additional module comprises a measuring device configured to passively measure, by means of a sensor system, a local electromagnetic field distribution
Data Source
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Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to an add-on module (2) for a device (1), in particular a mobile device, a server (3), a localization method (33), a corresponding computer program (33), and a corresponding storage medium (5, 11, 18). The invention provides that a measuring device (12) uses appropriate sensors to measure the local electromagnetic field distribution caused by a respective infrastructure (27) through the device (1) to be localized or the add-on module (2). The current position of the add-on module (2) or the device (1) equipped with it is then determined by comparing the measured field distribution with a predefined map. To enable tracking of the add-on module (2) or the device (1), the measured field distribution and/or the determined position can be transmitted to a server (3) via a wireless data connection.