Multi-Antenna Sensor for 3D Object Location

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for locating objects in a space using signals are limited to single-dimensional accuracy due to reliance on Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) from a single antenna, resulting in imprecise positioning.

Innovation Solution

A system employing multiple antennae with a switch and controller to measure angles of signals at different antennae positions, enabling multi-dimensional location determination of objects within a volume of space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a single antenna is used to measure signal strength (RSSI), then the device complexity is low, but the location accuracy remains limited to single dimension

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation accuracyVSAvoidantenna configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from single-dimensional location accuracy using RSSI to multi-dimensional accuracy by measuring signal angles at multiple antennas. This dimensional expansion enables precise determination of object position in three-dimensional space through angular measurements from different antenna perspectives.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The system divides the location measurement function across multiple antennas, with each antenna contributing angular measurement data for a specific spatial dimension. This segmentation allows the system to reconstruct complete three-dimensional location information from individual two-dimensional angular measurements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If multiple antennae are used to measure signal angles, then the location accuracy improves to multi-dimensional, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-dimensional location accuracyVSAvoidswitch and controller configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple antennas with a switching mechanism and controller into an integrated location determination system. The switch and controller merge the functionality of multiple antennas, allowing sequential activation and coordinated measurement to achieve multi-dimensional location accuracy while managing system complexity through unified control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The switching mechanism enables a single antenna to perform multiple measurement functions by sequentially activating different antennas for different angular measurements. This multi-functionality approach allows the system to gather comprehensive spatial information while using a shared control and measurement infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If multiple antennae with switching are used, then the location determination reliability is enhanced, but the power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation determination reliabilityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs periodic switching between multiple antennas rather than continuous operation of all antennas. This periodic activation sequence allows the system to collect necessary angular measurement data from multiple antennas while maintaining low power consumption through intermittent operation, thereby enhancing reliability without proportionally increasing energy usage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 provides highly accurate two- or three-dimensional object location with enhanced reliability and data security, while minimizing power consumption and adhering to industry standards.

Implementation Method 1

a first angle of a signal received at a first antenna of the plurality of antennae

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation reception: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10965388B2Sensors with multiple antennae used for multi-dimensional location of an object
Publication Date: 2021.03.30 SIGNIFY HOLDING BV
  • US10965388B2 patent drawing
  • US10965388B2 patent drawing
  • US10965388B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for locating an object in a volume of space can include a sensor device having multiple antennae, and a switch coupled to the antennae. The system can also include a controller communicably coupled to the switch, where the controller measures a first angle of a signal received at a first antenna, where the first angle of the signal is associated with a location of the object. The controller also operates the switch from a first position to a second position, where the first position enables the first antenna, and where the second position enables a second antenna. The controller further measures a second angle of the signal received at the second antenna, where the second angle of the signal is associated with the location of the object. The controller also determines, using the first angle and the second angle, a multi-dimensional location of the object.