IoT Mesh Asset Tracking Across GPS and Indoor Signal Gaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fixed-location asset tracking in indoor/outdoor environments is challenging due to infrastructure limitations, particularly when GPS signals are unavailable, and existing systems struggle to maintain accurate location tracking of objects that move in and out of GPS coverage.
Innovation Solution
A network of IoT devices using a combination of long-range and short-range signals, such as GPS and Bluetooth, forms a mesh network to track objects, allowing location information to be shared and relayed even when long-range communication is unavailable, with precise time synchronization and battery-powered operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS signals are used for location tracking, then location accuracy is improved, but tracking reliability deteriorates in indoor environments where GPS signals are unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines GPS long-range signals with Bluetooth short-range signals into a unified tracking system. When GPS is available, it provides accurate location data; when GPS is unavailable (indoor environments), Bluetooth signals take over to maintain tracking reliability. This merging of two different signaling approaches resolves the contradiction between location accuracy and tracking reliability across different environments.
Solution Approach 2:
Bluetooth signals serve as an intermediary mechanism that bridges the gap when GPS signals are unavailable. The system uses Bluetooth beacons and devices as mediators to provide location information in indoor environments where GPS cannot penetrate, thus maintaining tracking reliability without sacrificing GPS accuracy when available.
2Reliability
If traditional infrastructure is installed for asset tracking, then tracking reliability is improved, but device complexity and infrastructure requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing smartphones and IoT devices serve multiple functions: they act as both Bluetooth beacons for indoor tracking and GPS receivers for outdoor tracking. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized tracking infrastructure, reducing device complexity while maintaining tracking reliability across different environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses existing infrastructure (smartphones with Bluetooth and GPS capabilities) to perform tracking functions without requiring additional dedicated tracking infrastructure. Devices serve themselves by using their built-in capabilities, eliminating the need for complex external infrastructure installation and maintenance.
3Measurement precision
If continuous tracking is performed using long-range signals, then location accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic switching between GPS and Bluetooth based on environment detection. Instead of continuously using GPS, the system periodically checks signal availability and switches to Bluetooth when GPS is unavailable. This periodic action reduces power consumption by using the lower-power Bluetooth mode whenever possible while maintaining tracking accuracy when GPS is available.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operating parameters by switching between GPS mode (high accuracy, high power) and Bluetooth mode (adequate accuracy, low power) based on environmental conditions. This parameter change allows the system to optimize power consumption while maintaining acceptable location accuracy in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for detecting the location of objects using a network of internet of things (IoT) sensors (“tracking devices”). The tracking devices may be capable of determining location information (for example, through GPS signals) and may communicate this information to a central server. However, in some cases, a tracking device may be unable to communicate with the central server using a long-range communication network. The tracking device may also be unable to ascertain its own location. In such situations, other tracking devices may communicate with the tracking device over short-range signals, determine the location of the tracking device, and relay this information to the central server.