Multifunctional Tag with UWB and Direction-Restricted Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing contact monitoring systems lack comprehensive evaluation of surroundings for infection protection, movement analysis, and versatile functionality, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 crisis.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional tag equipped with a first monitoring sensor unit for omnidirectional direction and distance determination using UWB, and a second monitoring sensor unit for direction-restricted distance determination using ultrasonic and EM signals, enabling precise monitoring through barriers and versatile functionalities like contact monitoring, access control, and data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single monitoring sensor unit is used for contact monitoring, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and comprehensiveness of environmental evaluation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is segmented into two distinct sensor units: a first monitoring sensor unit for omnidirectional monitoring and a second monitoring sensor unit for direction-restricted monitoring. This segmentation allows each sensor to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall measurement precision while keeping individual sensor complexity manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The tag device is designed with multi-functionality by integrating both omnidirectional and direction-restricted monitoring capabilities into a single wearable device. This allows the system to perform comprehensive environmental evaluation, contact monitoring, and movement analysis without requiring multiple separate devices
2Measurement precision
If omnidirectional monitoring is implemented for complete environmental evaluation, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The omnidirectional monitoring capability is achieved through segmentation by using the first monitoring sensor unit specifically for omnidirectional direction and distance determination, while the second sensor unit handles direction-restricted monitoring. This division allows comprehensive coverage without requiring all sensors to perform all functions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical omnidirectional sensor arrangements with a combination of UWB technology and ultrasonic sensors that achieve omnidirectional monitoring through signal processing and multiple antenna elements, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining measurement precision
3Measurement precision
If direction-restricted monitoring with narrow cone of vision is used, then the measurement precision for direct line-of-sight objects is improved, but the loss of information about the complete environment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is segmented into two sensor units with complementary fields of view. The second monitoring sensor unit provides high-precision direction-restricted monitoring within a narrow cone, while the first monitoring sensor unit compensates by providing omnidirectional coverage, ensuring no environmental information is lost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the data from both sensor units to create a comprehensive environmental model. The direction-restricted high-precision data from the second sensor is combined with the omnidirectional data from the first sensor, eliminating information loss while maintaining measurement precision for critical directions
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 precise and barrier-sensitive monitoring, reducing infection risk, enhancing user-friendliness, and providing comprehensive environmental evaluation for various applications, including infection protection and visitor analysis.
Implementation Method 1
the first monitoring sensor unit has an ultra-wideband (UWB) transceiver which is configured in particular for direction and distance determination
Implementation Method 2
the second monitoring sensor unit has an ultrasonic transceiver which is configured in particular for direction-restricted distance determination
Implementation Method 3
the second monitoring sensor unit has an EM transceiver for high-frequency electromagnetic waves, which are configured in particular in combination with the ultrasonic transceiver for the purpose of barrier-sensitive distance determination
Data Source
AI summary
A multifunctional tag includes one or more first monitoring sensor units and one or more second monitoring sensor units. The first monitoring sensor unit is for the purpose of omnidirectional direction determination with respect to one or more further multifunctional tags. The second monitoring sensor unit is for the purpose of direction-restricted, for example cone of vision-restricted, distance determination with respect to one or more further multifunctional tags.