Ambient IoT Positioning Using Backscatter Signals in Obstructed Areas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles face challenges in obtaining accurate and reliable location information due to uncertainties in satellite-based systems, which can be obstructed by weather and physical structures, necessitating alternative methods for precise location determination.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing ambient Internet of Things (IoT) devices to broadcast and modulate signals, allowing autonomous vehicles to determine their location by receiving and processing location information from these devices, which can include backscatter communication and ambient energy capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If satellite-based location systems are used, then location information can be obtained globally, but location precision and reliability deteriorate due to signal obstructions and systematic inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces ambient IoT devices as intermediary elements between the autonomous vehicle and the location determination system. These devices broadcast location information that the vehicle can receive and process, serving as a mediator that bypasses the need for direct satellite signal reception and improves both reliability and precision in obstructed environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables ambient IoT devices to perform multiple functions: they serve as location beacons for autonomous vehicles, maintain their own operational functionality, and potentially assist other vehicles. This multi-functionality allows the system to improve location determination without requiring dedicated infrastructure
2Measurement precision
If satellite signals are used for location determination, then location information can be obtained, but signal reception deteriorates in areas with weather conditions, geologic formations, or modern buildings
Solution Approach 1:
Ambient IoT devices act as local intermediaries that broadcast location information through shorter-range communication channels that are less susceptible to atmospheric and physical obstructions, thereby maintaining accurate location determination in environments where satellite signals are blocked or degraded
Solution Approach 2:
The ambient IoT devices pre-broadcast their location information continuously in the environment, allowing the autonomous vehicle to receive this information without needing to establish direct line-of-sight communication or perform complex signal processing through obstructions
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
Provides accurate and reliable location information to autonomous vehicles by leveraging ambient IoT devices, enhancing navigation accuracy and robustness against signal obstructions.
Implementation Method 1
receiving a modulated signal, resembling the broadcasted signal transmitted by an electronic device
Implementation Method 2
shift the frequency of the received signal to resemble the received signal
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for location determination. A signal is broadcasted and then, in response to broadcasting this signal, a modulated signal resembling the broadcasted signal that was transmitted by an electronic device is received. Location information is extracted from the received modulated signal using an identifier of the electronic device. Then the extracted location information is used to determine the location.