Direction Finding Using Chirp Signals to Resolve Multipath Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing direction finding technologies, such as GPS, face inaccuracies and failures indoors due to multipath propagation and atmospheric conditions, and require line-of-sight to satellites or infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using chirp signals transmitted between units to determine range and bearing without line-of-sight to satellites or infrastructure, employing deterministic algorithms to overcome multipath interference and provide three-dimensional direction finding capabilities, utilizing a network of units with transmitters, receivers, and processors to convert and analyze signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS-based systems use microwave signals from satellites, then location can be determined, but accuracy deteriorates indoors due to multipath propagation and atmospheric conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful multipath propagation effect into a beneficial tool by using the reflected signals themselves to determine location. Instead of treating reflections as noise to be filtered out, the system utilizes the time delay and phase information from multipath signals to calculate precise position data, thereby transforming the adverse environmental condition into a useful measurement resource
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the signal parameters by using wideband and ultra wideband signals instead of traditional microwave GPS signals. This parameter change enables the system to operate effectively in indoor environments where GPS fails, as the wider bandwidth provides better resolution for distinguishing direct signals from multipath reflections, thereby improving both accuracy and reliability in challenging environments
2Ease of operation
If GPS systems require line-of-sight to satellites, then signal acquisition is simplified, but the system becomes inoperative without direct satellite visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal location determination system that can function in multiple environments both indoors and outdoors. By using wideband signals and processing techniques that work with both direct and reflected signals, the system achieves multi-functionality, replacing the need for environment-specific solutions and enabling operation without line-of-sight requirements while maintaining ease of use
3Adaptability or versatility
If wideband and ultra wideband signals are used for locating, then indoor operation becomes possible, but signal processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs self-service techniques where the received signals are directly processed to extract location information without requiring complex external infrastructure. The processing algorithms automatically identify and utilize the characteristic features of wideband signals, including their time-frequency properties, to determine position while rejecting interference, thereby managing complexity through intelligent signal utilization rather than additional hardware
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 accurate range and bearing determination indoors and outdoors, overcoming multipath interference and providing three-dimensional direction finding without the need for satellite line-of-sight or infrastructure, with improved accuracy and pocket-sized implementation.
Implementation Method 1
a first transmitter, a first receiver and a first processor, wherein the first unit is configured to transmit a first signal to the second unit with the first transmitter
Implementation Method 2
the converting comprises down converting the first signal with the mixers
Implementation Method 3
determining the distance between the first unit and the second unit is further based on the propagation speed and frequency ramp of the first signal
Data Source
AI summary
A system, device and method that enables units to communicate with each other and point to each other's location without requiring line-of-sight to satellites or any other infrastructure. Further, the system, device and method are able to operate outdoors as well as indoors and overcome multipath interference in a deterministic algorithm, while providing bearings at three dimensions, not only location but actual direction.