Multi-Antenna Object Tracker for Orientation-Dependent Signal Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tracking devices face challenges in maintaining effective wireless communication due to improper antenna orientation, leading to low or zero signal strength when the device is positioned in a way that obstructs radio signal transmission or reception.
Innovation Solution
The tracking device incorporates multiple antenna modules positioned differently on its circuit board, allowing a processor to select the best-oriented antenna based on sensor data or machine learning models for optimal wireless communication with external devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single antenna module is used in the tracking device, then the device complexity is reduced, but the wireless communication reliability deteriorates when the device is positioned in an obstructive orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is segmented into multiple antenna modules (at least two) positioned at different locations and orientations on the circuit board. This segmentation allows the system to divide the communication function across multiple elements, so that if one antenna is obstructed, another can maintain the wireless connection, thereby resolving the contradiction between simple configuration and reliable communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects which antenna module to use based on real-time orientation sensor data and signal strength measurements. The processor continuously monitors the device orientation and signal quality, switching between antenna modules as needed to maintain optimal communication. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by making the antenna system flexible rather than fixed.
2Device complexity
If the tracking device uses a fixed antenna orientation, then the device complexity is reduced, but the received signal strength deteriorates when the device is not properly oriented toward the external device
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback through orientation sensors that continuously monitor the device's physical orientation and provide this data to the processor. The processor uses this feedback information to determine which antenna module is currently best positioned for communication with the external device, thereby maintaining optimal signal strength despite changes in device orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter (which antenna module is active) based on the device's physical orientation parameters. By monitoring orientation angles and selecting the appropriate antenna module accordingly, the system adapts to different physical configurations without requiring mechanical adjustment of the antennas themselves.
3Reliability
If multiple antenna modules are added to the tracking device, then the wireless communication reliability is improved through better orientation coverage, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple antenna modules (excessive action) but activates only one at a time based on current orientation needs (partial action). This approach provides the reliability benefits of having multiple antennas available while keeping the active component count low, thereby managing complexity while maintaining communication reliability across different orientations.
4Reliability
If the tracking device continuously monitors and switches between antenna modules, then the wireless communication reliability is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous monitoring and switching, the system performs antenna selection periodically or at key moments (such as when connection is established or when orientation changes significantly). This periodic approach maintains communication reliability by ensuring antennas are selected based on current orientation while reducing energy consumption by avoiding constant monitoring and switching operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for tracking an object, includes means for attaching to said object, a wireless communication circuit, at least two antenna modules having respective positions different from one another, and at least one processor configured to: select one of the at least two antenna modules based on information indicative of a best-oriented antenna module for wireless communication among the at least two antenna modules; transmit or receive one or more signals for tracking said object using the wireless communication circuit and the selected best-oriented antenna module.