Multi-dimensional Object Location Using Distributed Transceivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for locating objects in a volume of space using signals, such as RF signals, face challenges in determining two- or three-dimensional coordinates and lack verification of signal reception, leading to inaccuracies and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing multiple electrical devices with transceivers, where a controller broadcasts signals and collects data from the object's responses to determine a multi-dimensional location, employing trilateration methods like time of flight (ToF) and triangulation to achieve precise location tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple electrical devices with transceivers are used to broadcast signals and collect response data for multi-dimensional location determination, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the location determination task across multiple electrical devices, where each device independently broadcasts signals and collects response data. This segmentation enables multi-dimensional location determination through trilateration while distributing system complexity across individual devices rather than concentrating it in a single complex unit.
Solution Approach 2:
Each electrical device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a signal broadcaster and a response data collector. The transceivers in these devices perform multiple functions including signal transmission, signal reception, and time stamping, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and thereby managing complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If time of flight (ToF) and triangulation methods are employed for precise location tracking, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic signal broadcasting rather than continuous transmission. Electrical devices broadcast signals at intervals and collect response data periodically, which enables location determination through time of flight measurements while significantly reducing overall power consumption compared to continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The object being located actively responds to broadcast signals by transmitting response data back to the electrical devices. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for continuous active interrogation by the electrical devices, reducing their energy consumption while still enabling precise location tracking through the round-trip time measurements.
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
The system provides highly accurate two- or three-dimensional location determination with enhanced data security and reduced power consumption, meeting standards for various environments and applications.
Implementation Method 1
The controller can instruct the electrical devices to broadcast, using the transceiver, multiple first signals in the volume of space
Implementation Method 2
when signals (e.g. radio frequency (RF) signals) are involved, the time of flight (ToF) of each signal can be measured to help determine the location of an object within a volume of space
Data Source
AI summary
A system for locating an object in a volume of space can include multiple electrical devices, where each electrical device includes a transceiver. The system can also include a controller communicably coupled to the electrical devices. The controller can instruct the electrical devices to broadcast, using the transceiver, multiple first signals in the volume of space. The controller can also collect data associated with multiple second signals received by the transceiver of the electrical devices, where the second signals are sent by the object in response to the first signals. The controller can further determine, using the data, a multi-dimensional location of the object in the volume of space.