Geolocation Accuracy via Secondary Sensor Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing GPS-based geolocation systems face inaccuracies due to atmospheric conditions and location-specific challenges, such as underground usage, where satellite signals are disrupted, leading to navigation issues.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a server-connected electronic device with both a GPS module and a secondary sensor (like an accelerometer or ambient temperature device) to determine geolocation by comparing sensor states to statistical patterns, generating revised route information and adjusting for deviations from predetermined sensor states, thereby improving navigation accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS-based positioning system is used, then geolocation information can be provided, but accuracy deteriorates in challenging environments such as underground parking due to atmospheric characteristics and location-specific challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces secondary sensors (accelerometer, temperature sensor, barometer, etc.) as intermediary devices that indirectly measure environmental parameters affecting GPS accuracy. These sensors act as mediators between the challenging environment and the positioning system, providing alternative data sources when direct GPS signals are degraded or unavailable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters used for positioning by incorporating multiple sensor types that measure different physical quantities (acceleration, temperature, pressure) in addition to GPS coordinates. This multi-parameter approach allows the system to compensate for GPS inaccuracies by analyzing patterns across multiple data dimensions.
2Reliability
If only GPS module is used for geolocation, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates when satellite signals are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges GPS positioning functionality with secondary sensor capabilities into an integrated navigation system. By combining data from GPS receivers, accelerometers, temperature sensors, and barometers, the system creates a unified positioning solution that maintains reliability across diverse environments while managing complexity through integrated processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary sensors serve multiple functions: they provide alternative positioning data when GPS is unavailable, detect environmental conditions that affect GPS accuracy, and enable the system to adapt to different operating scenarios. This multi-functionality increases reliability without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Measurement precision
If sensor data is collected and processed to correct GPS limitations, then navigation accuracy is improved, but loss of time increases due to additional data processing
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously collecting and pre-processing sensor data even when GPS is functioning, building statistical patterns and baseline measurements in advance. This preparation allows the system to quickly correct GPS inaccuracies when needed without extensive real-time processing delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where sensor data is continuously compared against expected patterns and GPS readings. This feedback loop enables real-time detection of GPS degradation and automatic correction using secondary sensor information, maintaining accuracy while minimizing processing time through iterative refinement.
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed a method of determining a geolocation of an electronic device having a first and second sensor, executable at a server, comprising acquiring route information from a first geo-point to a second geo-point; determining a plurality of route points along the route and receiving, from the first sensor a state indicative of the geo-position; determining the geo-location of one of the plurality of route points; receiving, from the second device sensor a state associated with a specific geo-maneuver at the given route point; comparing the second sensor state to a predetermined second sensor state for the given route point and for the specific geo-maneuver; determining that the device has deviated from the route at the route point; generating revised route information based on a difference of the second sensor state and the geo-position of the first sensor state; sending the revised route to the device.