Convoy Navigation Audio Device Using Location-Triggered Playback
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Solution Overview
Problem
In vehicular convoys and group navigation scenarios, such as first responders or hikers, existing methods like two-way radios and physical markers can be unreliable due to environmental disruptions or unclear signage, making it difficult for members to follow the intended route without visual contact or clear navigation instructions.
Innovation Solution
An audio device system with a memory, speaker, communication interface, and location determining device that receives and stores navigation instructions and associated locations, playing the information when the device reaches the specified location, allowing for location-specific navigation without visual markers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If two-way radios are used for convoy navigation, then verbal navigation instructions can be transmitted to convoy members, but the communication may be disrupted in urban environments and convoy members in breakaway vehicles may have difficulties in following the convoy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses GPS location data as an intermediary to convey navigation information. Instead of relying on continuous verbal communication through two-way radios, the system transmits location coordinates that automatically trigger pre-recorded navigation instructions when the follower vehicle reaches those locations. This mediator approach ensures reliable information delivery even when radio communication is disrupted.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-recording navigation instructions and associating them with specific GPS locations before the convoy journey begins. When a follower vehicle reaches a recorded location, the corresponding pre-prepared instructions are automatically played, eliminating the need for real-time verbal communication and ensuring navigation information is available even if radio communication fails.
2Loss of information
If physical markers are used for route navigation, then route information can be provided at junctions, but the markers may not be clear to all members of the group and may change due to environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of the physical environment by recording GPS coordinates of navigation points and associating them with pre-recorded instructions. This digital replica of the route replaces physical markers, providing consistent and reliable navigation information that doesn't degrade or become unclear like physical signs might in challenging environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical/physical marker system with an electronic/GPS-based navigation system. Instead of relying on physical signs that can be obscured by environmental factors, the patent uses electronic location tracking and automated audio playback, substituting a more reliable electronic system for the vulnerable physical infrastructure.
3Measurement precision
If convoy members maintain visual contact with the leader to follow the route, then navigation accuracy can be maintained, but this is not feasible in urban environments or when vehicles are separated
Solution Approach 1:
The follower vehicle's navigation system is self-service in that it autonomously tracks its own GPS location, automatically compares it with pre-recorded convoy path locations, and triggers the appropriate navigation instructions without requiring visual contact with or direct control from the lead vehicle. The system serves itself by independently determining when and what to play based on its own location data.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the follower vehicle's GPS location and automatically triggering navigation instructions when the vehicle reaches predetermined locations along the convoy path. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures navigation accuracy is maintained through automated location verification rather than visual contact.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for convoy navigation is provided. An audio device comprises: a memory; a speaker; a communication interface; a location determining device; and a controller. The controller: receives, from a second audio device, via the communication interface, on a narrowband communication channel, audio information and an associated location of the second audio device, the associated location indicative of where the second audio device transmitted the audio information; stores, at the memory, the audio information and the associated location; tracks, using the location determining device, a current location of the audio device; and when the current location of the audio device is at about the associated location, controls the speaker to play the audio information.