Auto-Generated Indoor Navigation Map Using Sensor Transponders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current indoor navigation systems require cumbersome and time-consuming manual processes to create routable maps, are prone to inaccuracies due to reliance on existing infrastructure, and struggle with updating maps in dynamic environments, especially for visually impaired individuals.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing transponders equipped with sensors to autonomously scan and generate local map models, allowing for dynamic and automated mapping, and integration of location information with radio signals to provide real-time updates and accurate navigation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual processes are used to create routable maps, then maps can be generated with detailed physical characteristics, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical mapping processes with an automated sensor-based system. Sensors mounted on mobile devices or vehicles automatically capture spatial data, wall locations, and environmental features, eliminating the need for manual creation of routable maps while maintaining high accuracy through systematic data collection and processing
Solution Approach 2:
The mapping system performs self-service by automatically generating routable maps without human intervention. The sensors autonomously detect physical characteristics, the processor automatically creates the map representation, and the system independently updates maps when environmental changes are detected, freeing users from manual mapping tasks
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing Wi-Fi infrastructure is used for triangulation, then network coverage is provided, but positioning accuracy is severely impacted due to signal reflection and attenuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces sensors as intermediary devices between the user and the environment. These sensors directly measure physical characteristics such as wall locations, distances, and spatial relationships, providing accurate positioning data without relying on Wi-Fi signal propagation that is subject to reflection and attenuation
Solution Approach 2:
The system substitutes Wi-Fi-based electromagnetic triangulation with sensor-based direct measurement. Instead of inferring position from signal strength that degrades in indoor environments, the system uses sensors to directly detect and measure physical environmental features, achieving superior positioning accuracy
3Measurement precision
If a high density of beacons or RFID tags is deployed for proximity-based navigation, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the system becomes impractical and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the mobile device itself universal by equipping it with sensors that serve multiple functions: navigation, mapping, environmental detection, and positioning. This eliminates the need for separate beacon infrastructure, as the user's own device performs all sensing and mapping functions, reducing system complexity while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts the mapping and sensing functionality from the infrastructure and places it in the user's portable device. Instead of deploying beacons throughout the environment, the patent removes the infrastructure burden and empowers individual devices to create and use their own local maps for navigation
4Manufacturing precision
If manual mapping is performed, then initial map creation is possible, but updates in dynamic environments become difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous mapping and automatic update of routable maps. Sensors continuously monitor the environment, detect changes in walls, structures, or spatial relationships, and automatically update the map representation. This continuous operation ensures the map remains current in dynamic environments without requiring periodic manual remapping
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously provide data about environmental changes, the processor analyzes this feedback to detect modifications in the physical space, and the map is automatically adjusted based on this feedback loop, ensuring ongoing accuracy and adaptability
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 approach significantly reduces manual effort, provides accurate and real-time navigation, and automatically updates maps in response to changes in the environment, enhancing navigation for all users, including those who are visually impaired.
Implementation Method 1
determine distance measurements between the transponder and features within the spatial environment
Data Source
AI summary
A wayfinding system comprising: a first device comprising at least one sensor for sensing a spatial environment to generate a first map, said a first device positioned in a first position in said spatial environment; a second device for receiving signals from said first device to determine a relative position of said second device within said spatial environment; and wherein on said second device said relative position is used in conjunction with said first map to provide turn-by-turn navigation within said spatial environment.