Indoor Positioning via Sonic Wave and Wireless Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional indoor positioning systems face challenges in effectively distributing configuration information to multiple transmitters, especially in areas with weak GPS signal strength, such as underground malls, where traditional technologies struggle to provide accurate positional information and routing guidance.
Innovation Solution
A novel positional information transmission system utilizing a combination of close-range wireless communication and sonic wave transmission, where positional information is transmitted as sonic signals by modules integrated into lighting devices, allowing effective propagation and detection of positions within indoor environments, even where GPS signals are weak.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS wireless signals are used for positioning, then positioning can be achieved in outdoor areas, but signal strength becomes weak in indoor areas such as underground malls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces sonic waves as an intermediary medium to transmit positional information indoors. Instead of relying on GPS radio waves that penetrate poorly, the system uses sound waves (which propagate effectively through indoor environments) as a mediator to carry positioning data from transmitters to receivers, resolving the signal strength issue in underground malls and indoor areas
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic wave-based GPS system with a sonic wave-based positioning system for indoor environments. By substituting the transmission medium from radio waves to sound waves, the system overcomes the limitation of GPS signal weakness indoors while maintaining positioning functionality
2Reliability
If indoor transmitters are installed to transmit positional information, then positioning is enabled in indoor areas, but configuration information distribution becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes transmitters multi-functional by enabling them to perform both close-range wireless communication (for receiving configuration information) and sonic wave transmission (for broadcasting positional information). This universality simplifies the overall system architecture by reducing the need for separate dedicated configuration distribution infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The transmitter system performs self-configuration through close-range wireless communication, where transmitters automatically receive and process configuration information from nearby transmitters or access points. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex manual configuration distribution systems
3Measurement precision
If multiple transmitters are deployed for coverage, then positioning accuracy improves, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single transmitter unit: close-range wireless communication capability, sonic wave transmission capability, and positional information processing. By merging these functions, the system achieves accurate positioning with fewer multi-functional units rather than requiring multiple specialized devices
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
Enables accurate and efficient positional information transmission and routing guidance indoors by using sonic signals, reducing the need for GPS compatibility in terminal devices and minimizing power consumption, while being resilient to noise and environmental fluctuations.
Implementation Method 1
a sonic wave transmission unit that transmits positional information as a sonic signal
Data Source
AI summary
A novel positional information transmission system includes a plurality of positional information transmission units. The positional information transmission unit includes a close-range wireless communication unit that performs close-range wireless communication and a sonic wave transmission unit that transmits positional information as a sonic signal used for detecting a position of a receiver that receives the sonic signal based on information transmitted by the close-range wireless communication unit.