Color Band Code Indoor Positioning via Optical Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Indoor positioning systems face accuracy issues due to radio interference in environments where GPS is inoperable, such as retail spaces, making it difficult to determine the location of objects or people with precision.
Innovation Solution
The use of color band codes on light sources, which are identified by optical sensors, allowing for unique identification and location determination within a structure, enhancing the accuracy of indoor positioning systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If radio technologies are used for indoor positioning, then distance measurements can be obtained from mobile devices to anchor nodes, but radio interference negatively affects the accuracy and efficacy of positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces color band codes on light fixtures as an intermediary visual identification system. Instead of relying solely on radio signals between mobile devices and anchor nodes, the system uses optically detectable color codes on physical light fixtures as mediators. Mobile device cameras capture these color codes to identify and locate anchor points, converting the positioning problem from radio signal processing to optical pattern recognition, thereby eliminating radio interference issues.
2Reliability
If color band codes are used to identify light sources, then unique identification and location determination are achieved, but the system requires optical sensors and processing capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex radio frequency identification systems with a simpler optical recognition system. Instead of using radio transmitters, receivers, and signal processing hardware, the system uses color band codes that can be read by standard mobile device cameras. This substitution of mechanical/optical systems for electromagnetic radio systems reduces device complexity while maintaining or improving identification reliability.
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
This method improves the accuracy of indoor positioning by providing a reliable and interference-resistant means to identify and locate light sources, thereby enhancing navigation and promotional services in indoor environments.
Implementation Method 1
a light transmissive surface through which passes at least a portion of the emitted light. The light transmissive surface comprises a plurality of transmissive color regions configured to absorb at least a portion of the emitted substantially white light
Implementation Method 2
obtaining image data from an optical sensor observing a light source, where the light source comprises a transmissive surface. The transmissive surface including a color band code comprising an array of color regions that at least partially modify visible light from the light source prior to the light impinging the optical sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Image data of a light source comprising a surface is obtained using an optical sensor. The surface includes a color band code comprising an array of color regions at least partially modifying visible light of the light source prior to the light impinging the optical sensor. One or more characteristics of the color band code are determined based on the image data that is obtained. Determining a unique identity of the light source based on the determined one or more characteristics of the color band code is performed, or determining a location within a structure associated with the light source based on the determined one or more characteristics of the color band code is performed.