Environment Map Localization Using RF Signatures Indoors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Localization systems face ambiguities in determining position and updating environment maps, particularly in indoor areas with similar environments and temporary changes, leading to imprecise positioning and map updates.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing electromagnetic radiation scans and wireless communications data to allocate environment data to positions within the map, employing radiofrequency signatures to reduce ambiguities and distinguish between mapped and unmapped regions, allowing for robust and error-reduced map generation and updates without requiring extensive infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If laser-based localization systems are used for position determination, then infrastructure-free operation is achieved, but local ambiguities occur in similar environments leading to position determination errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines laser-based localization systems with radio-based transmission technologies (WLAN/Bluetooth) to create a hybrid localization system. The laser system provides infrastructure-free operation while the radio signals provide unique identifiers for different locations. By merging these two technologies, the system achieves both ease of deployment and accurate position determination even in ambiguous environments with similar corridors or areas.
Solution Approach 2:
Radio signals act as an intermediary that provides additional information to resolve ambiguities in laser-based localization. The radio transmitters' unique signatures (MAC addresses, device names) serve as mediators that help distinguish between similar-looking locations, enabling the system to correctly identify position without requiring additional physical infrastructure.
2Measurement precision
If radio-based transmission technologies are used for localization, then position ambiguities are reduced, but infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the multi-functionality of radio transmitters that already exist in indoor environments. These devices serve dual purposes: their original communication functions and as localization beacons. By utilizing existing WLAN access points, Bluetooth devices, or mobile phones with this dual purpose, the system reduces infrastructure requirements while maintaining position determination accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows existing radio transmission devices to serve themselves as localization infrastructure. Rather than requiring dedicated localization hardware, the patent enables ordinary communication devices to provide localization signals through their existing transmitters, reducing the need for specialized infrastructure while improving position accuracy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If environment maps are updated during regular operation, then adaptability to variable environments is improved, but ambiguities increase due to temporary changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the localization system continuously compares current laser scans and radio signal data with the stored environment map. When discrepancies are detected that could indicate temporary changes rather than permanent modifications, the system uses feedback loops to verify whether changes are persistent before updating the map, thereby maintaining reliability while preserving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
Before updating the environment map during regular operation, the system performs preliminary verification using both laser and radio data. This preliminary action involves checking whether observed changes are consistent across multiple measurements and whether they align with permanent environmental features rather than temporary conditions, thus preventing premature or erroneous map updates.
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 method effectively reduces position determination errors and map ambiguities by using radiofrequency signatures, enabling precise localization and map updates even in variable environments with minimal infrastructure, and maintaining operation during radio-based system failures.
Implementation Method 1
ascertaining a position within the environment map based on a scan of an environment using electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
the at least one localization system collects data in connection with at least one wireless communications unit
Data Source
AI summary
A method is described for setting up or updating an environment map and for ascertaining a position within the environment map based on a scan of an environment using electromagnetic radiation, in which environment data is ascertained by scanning the environment with the aid of at least one localization system using electromagnetic radiation, data pertaining to at least one wireless communications unit are collected by the at least one localization system, the ascertained environment data are allocated to at least one position or to at least one section of the environment map, and the collected data of the at least one wireless communications unit are used by an internal control unit or an external control unit of the localization system for plausibilizing the at least one position or the at least one section of the environment map of the ascertained environment data. In addition, a localization system is described.