Beacon Search System Using Radio Signal Propagation Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beacon search systems for locating individuals in critical situations, such as avalanches, have limited emission ranges and lack unique identification capabilities, making them difficult to use effectively and requiring regular practice.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a detection device to receive and analyze a target radio signal from a beacon, determining distance and position based on signal propagation time, allowing for unique identification and extended range detection, with optional use of LORA protocol, GPS, and intermediate beacons for enhanced location accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If electromagnetic signal intensity detection is used, then the beacon can be detected, but the emission range is limited to a few tens of meters and the search becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electromagnetic signal intensity detection with radio signal propagation time measurement. Instead of measuring signal strength which limits range to tens of meters, the system uses time-of-flight measurement of radio signals, enabling detection over several kilometers while simplifying the search process through automatic distance calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from signal intensity to signal propagation time. By measuring the time it takes for a radio signal to travel between devices rather than measuring signal strength, the system achieves extended emission range and more accurate distance determination over long distances.
2Measurement precision
If electromagnetic signal detection is used, then the beacon can be located, but the beacon cannot be uniquely identified among multiple beacons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary identification code that is transmitted within the radio signal. This code acts as a unique identifier for each beacon, allowing the detection device to distinguish between multiple beacons and identify the specific target without requiring complex additional hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The radio signal serves multiple functions simultaneously: it carries the identification code for unique beacon identification, provides timing information for distance calculation, and enables communication between devices. This multi-functionality achieves precise identification without increasing device complexity.
3Length of stationary object
If signal propagation time calculation is used, then distance can be determined with extended range, but additional temporal information processing is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the detection device send a request signal with a timestamp before measuring the response time. This pre-established timing reference simplifies the calculation of propagation time by providing a known starting point, reducing the complexity of temporal information processing while enabling long-range detection.
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 efficient and economical searching of beacons over several kilometers with precise location determination, simplifying the search process and allowing for unique identification without requiring complex setup or regular practice.
Implementation Method 1
Determination of a target distance value between the detection device and the target beacon on the basis of a calculation of a propagation time of the radio signal between the target beacon and the detection device
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a system for searching for a target beacon (BC) attached to an object or to a living being to be located comprising said target beacon (BC) emitting a target radio signal in an emission range (P) and a detection device (F) capable of detecting the target radio signal (SC) emitted by the target beacon (BC), and to the method for searching for the corresponding target beacon (BC).