LED Zone Location System for Sub-Foot Indoor Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current GPS systems have limitations in resolution, often providing location accuracy only within six to nine feet, and may not be available in all situations, necessitating the need for finer location determination in three-dimensional space.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to transmit binary signals that identify specific zones, allowing devices to determine their location within these zones and perform actions based on received signals, with the potential for multiple LEDs to create overlapping zones for precise triangulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS systems are used for location determination, then location coverage is provided, but location resolution is limited to six to nine feet
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the GPS-based mechanical/navigation system with an optical communication system using LEDs and photodetectors. The system transmits location information through light signals that can be detected and processed to determine position with finer resolution than GPS provides, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring complex additional hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of location determination by using three-dimensional spatial distribution of LED signals. Instead of relying solely on GPS satellite geometry, the system uses the spatial arrangement and intensity patterns of light signals from multiple LEDs to calculate position, enabling sub-foot accuracy through dimensional analysis of the light field.
2Measurement precision
If GPS extensions like differential GPS and inertial navigation system are used to improve resolution, then location precision improves to a few inches, but system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses inexpensive LED light sources and basic photodetector circuits instead of expensive GPS receivers, differential GPS equipment, or inertial navigation systems. The system achieves high resolution location determination through software processing of simple optical signals, eliminating the need for costly hardware while maintaining sub-foot accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses standard optical communication components that can be integrated into existing devices. The same LED and photodetector infrastructure used for basic illumination or simple signaling is leveraged for precise location determination, making the system universally applicable without requiring specialized expensive equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If GPS systems are used for location determination, then location services are provided, but GPS signals are not available in all situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical signals as an intermediary medium that can propagate through environments where GPS signals fail. The LED-based system can operate indoors, in urban canyons, or any environment where satellite signals are blocked, providing reliable location determination through direct optical communication between transmitters and receivers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the fundamental parameter of signal transmission from electromagnetic radio waves (GPS) to optical light waves. This parameter change enables the system to operate in environments where GPS is unavailable, as light can be transmitted through walls, floors, and other obstacles that block satellite signals, thereby improving adaptability and reliability.
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 location determination with a finer resolution than traditional GPS, allowing devices to perform specific actions based on zone identification, and can function independently of GPS signals by using LEDs to define spatial volumes and communicate with devices within those volumes.
Implementation Method 1
A system utilizing light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to transmit binary signals that identify specific zones
Implementation Method 2
receiving the first signal at the device when the device is in the first zone
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of for performing an action at a device is disclosed. A first signal is sent into a first zone from a first light source, wherein the first signal identifies the first zone. The first signal is received at the device when the device is in the zone. The device determines from the received first signal that the device is in the first zone and performs the action at the device based on the device being in the first zone. A second variable light source may send a second signal into a second zone, wherein the second signal identifies the second zone. Triangulation may be performed to determine a location of the device using the first signal and the second signal. Alternately, a parameter of motion of the device may be determined using the received messages.