Collaborative Local Positioning Using Magnetic Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing local positioning systems face limitations such as the need for known anchor points, line-of-sight blockages, and multipath errors, which can reduce accuracy or make positioning impossible.
Innovation Solution
A collaborative local positioning system that uses mobile devices with receivers and processors to exchange sequences of positioning signals, allowing for distance determination between devices without the need for fixed anchors and overcoming line-of-sight blockages through penetrating signals or collaborative distance measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fixed anchor points are used for positioning, then positioning accuracy is improved, but device complexity and setup difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables mobile devices to autonomously determine their positions by exchanging signals with other mobile devices. Each device acts as both a locator and a reference point, eliminating the need for external anchor infrastructure. The devices self-organize into a positioning network, where relative positions are calculated through mutual signal exchange and time-of-flight measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes mobile devices universally functional for positioning purposes. Each mobile device can simultaneously serve as a locator, a reference point, and a signal transmitter/receiver. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated anchor infrastructure, as ordinary mobile devices fulfill multiple roles in the positioning system.
2Measurement precision
If line-of-sight paths are required for positioning, then positioning accuracy is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to blockages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces magnetic field signals as intermediaries that can penetrate physical obstacles. These magnetic signals serve as mediators that carry positioning information through walls and other blockages that would obstruct optical or radio frequency signals, enabling positioning in environments where direct line-of-sight is unavailable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite signaling approach that combines multiple signal types (optical, magnetic, radio frequency) to achieve positioning. By using different signal modalities with complementary penetration and propagation characteristics, the system overcomes the limitations of any single signal type when facing physical obstructions.
3Measurement precision
If traditional positioning signals are used, then line-of-sight positioning works well, but multipath errors increase accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of signal reflections into a beneficial measurement. By detecting and analyzing reflected magnetic signals, the system identifies multipath components and uses them to infer the presence and characteristics of obstacles. This information is then used to correct positioning calculations or select alternative signal paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where received signals are analyzed to detect multipath components, and this information feeds back into the positioning calculation process. The system continuously monitors signal characteristics and adjusts its positioning estimates based on detected reflections and obstructions, improving accuracy in complex environments.
Data Source
AI summary
Collaborative local positioning techniques, such as could be used with smart phones, surveying equipment, or other mobile devices, are described. The techniques include independent techniques for distance measurement between devices, the relative positioning of devices, and an absolute orienting of the devices without use of fixed anchor points and through on-will participation of the devices to provide privacy. Distances between devices are determined by use of a sequence of positioning signals, such as a magnetic signal, each of which include an identifier of the transmitting device, the amplitude of the signal as transmitted, and the position of the signal within the sequence. The amplitude of the positioning signal as received can be compared to the amplitude as transmitted to obtain a distance.