Bayesian Tracking Algorithm for Mobile Node Location

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing local positioning systems face challenges in accurately tracking mobile nodes in environments with constrained signal propagation, such as buildings and underground mines, due to high anchor node density requirements and poor error performance in cooperative localization methods.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that dynamically measure the range between mobile and anchor nodes, using Bayesian tracking algorithms to determine location by exchanging data with neighboring nodes and incorporating statistical models of error and node motion, allowing for improved tracking accuracy in complex radio propagation environments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If anchor nodes are deployed at high density for full site coverage, then location tracking accuracy is improved, but system complexity and deployment cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation tracking accuracyVSAvoidanchor node density
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Mobile nodes perform self-localization by measuring ranges to multiple anchor nodes and processing measurements through Bayesian tracking algorithms. Each mobile node independently determines its location using cooperative localization, eliminating the need for high-density anchor deployment while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the approach from static anchor-based localization to dynamic Bayesian tracking that incorporates temporal information and motion models. This parameter change allows the system to achieve accurate tracking with fewer anchor nodes by utilizing historical data and predicted node positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If iterative multilateration is used for cooperative localization, then location estimation is achieved, but error performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation estimation accuracyVSAvoiderror performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The Bayesian tracking algorithm continuously refines location estimates by incorporating feedback from multiple sources: range measurements to anchor nodes, historical position data, and motion models. This iterative feedback mechanism corrects errors accumulated during tracking, significantly improving reliability compared to standard iterative multilateration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by establishing motion models and historical position data before final location determination. The Bayesian filter uses predicted positions from motion models to guide the localization process, preparing the system to handle measurement errors proactively rather than reactively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If standard cooperative localization methods are used, then location tracking is achieved, but ability to handle non-Gaussian noise and complex radio propagation environments deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetracking capabilityVSAvoidhandling non-Gaussian noise
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system changes the statistical assumption from Gaussian noise to non-Gaussian noise models in the Bayesian tracking algorithm. This parameter change allows the algorithm to better model real-world radio propagation conditions, including multipath effects and signal reflections, thereby improving adaptability to complex environments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The Bayesian tracking algorithm dynamically adapts to changing environmental conditions by continuously updating motion models and noise characteristics based on observed data. This dynamic adjustment enables the system to handle non-Gaussian noise and complex radio propagation environments more effectively than static localization methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9197996B2Tracking location of mobile device in a wireless network
Publication Date: 2015.11.24 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US9197996B2 patent drawing
  • US9197996B2 patent drawing
  • US9197996B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and system for dynamically tracking the location of mobile nodes (104, 106, 108, 110n) in a wireless network (102) is disclosed. The method comprises: for each mobile node, dynamically measuring the range between the mobile node and at least one neighboring node (step 202); and executing a Bayesian tracking algorithm for each mobile node (step 204). The algorithm has the measured range as an input, exchanges data with tracking algorithms for neighboring mobile nodes, and utilizes a statistical model of error in measured range and a statistical model of node motion to dynamically determine location.