Object Tracking via Synchronized Receiver Network
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional object tracking methods are prone to inaccuracies due to coarse resolution, human error, and signal interference, making it difficult to determine the precise location of objects within environments, especially in close proximity or in areas without access to global positioning systems.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a network of synchronized receivers to capture transmission signals from objects, marking them with timestamps, and using algorithms like TDOA to determine the relative position of objects with high accuracy, correlating this data to a map of the environment for precise location identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional object tracking methods are used, then the system is simpler to implement, but the location precision deteriorates due to coarse resolution and human error
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the tracking environment into multiple reception zones with receivers distributed throughout the space. Each receiver independently measures signal characteristics from transmitters, and the central processing system segments the location determination task by processing signals from multiple receivers to calculate precise positions through triangulation or multilateration methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual tracking methods (human observation and recording) with an automated electronic system using transmitters, receivers, and digital signal processing. The mechanical/manual processes of locating and recording object positions are substituted with electromagnetic signal transmission and automated computational analysis of time difference of arrival (TDOA) data.
2Adaptability or versatility
If GPS or external positioning systems are used, then location accuracy is improved, but the system cannot operate in environments without external positioning systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to function universally across different environments by using self-contained transmitters and receivers that do not depend on external positioning infrastructure. The same TDOA-based architecture works whether the environment has GPS access or is completely isolated, making the system multi-functional and adaptable to diverse operational contexts from open outdoor spaces to enclosed indoor facilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces local transmitters and receivers as intermediary devices that enable positioning without direct reliance on external systems like GPS. These intermediaries create a localized measurement network that mediates between the objects to be tracked and the environment, allowing accurate location determination through local signal propagation and time difference measurements regardless of external system availability.
3Measurement precision
If more receivers are deployed to improve precision, then location accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves sufficient location precision by using a partial network of receivers rather than requiring complete coverage. The TDOA method can determine positions using signals from a subset of receivers, and the system processes all available signal data to extract location information, using more receivers than the theoretical minimum to provide redundancy and improve robustness without proportionally increasing complexity.
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 a more accurate and precise object tracking system that minimizes user intervention and manual input, capable of determining object locations within inches, even in environments with signal interference and without external positioning systems.
Implementation Method 1
using algorithms like TDOA to determine the relative position of objects with high accuracy
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment provides a method, including: receiving, from at least one transmitter coupled to an object, a transmission signal, wherein the transmission signal is received at a subset of a plurality of receivers, wherein the plurality of receivers are connected together through a network and have a synchronized clock; identifying, for each of the subset of the plurality of receivers, a time of receipt of the transmission signal and marking the transmission signal with a timestamp corresponding to the time of receipt; determining, using the marked transmission signals, a relative position of the object relative to the receivers; and identifying a location of the object within an environment by correlating the determined relative position of the object to a map of the environment. Other aspects are described and claimed.