Omnidirectional Signal Location Tracking for Fall Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current object location and movement detection systems are inadequate, particularly in industries where precise and real-time tracking is needed, as they often result in false positives, are costly, and unable to pinpoint locations accurately, especially for objects experiencing gravitational movements like falls.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a locating circuit and movement sensor secured to an object, with remotely positioned monitoring units communicating omnidirectional signals to calculate the object's location based on transmission time, enabling real-time tracking and detection of movements exceeding gravitational forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If proximity sensors are used to detect object location, then location detection capability is provided, but false positives occur and location precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional proximity detection to three-dimensional location determination by incorporating time measurement as a third dimension. Multiple monitoring units measure the transmission time of omnidirectional signals from different spatial positions, enabling precise 3D location calculation through triangulation while eliminating false positives through multi-point verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces omnidirectional signals as an intermediary carrier between the locating circuit and monitoring units. These signals serve as mediators that transmit location information through measured transmission times, enabling indirect but precise location determination without requiring direct line-of-sight proximity sensing.
2Productivity
If RFID technology or barcode scanning is used to detect object movement, then movement detection capability is provided, but system cost and equipment size increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical scanning systems (RFID readers, barcode scanners) with a simplified electromagnetic signal-based location system. By using omnidirectional signals and measuring transmission times, the system achieves continuous movement detection without requiring multiple specialized scanning devices, significantly reducing equipment complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring units serve multiple functions simultaneously: they detect omnidirectional signals from multiple objects, measure transmission times for location calculation, and provide spatial-temporal data for movement detection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized devices for each detection task.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If existing fall detection devices are used, then fall detection capability is provided, but location pinpointing ability is lost and false positives increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds spatial location determination as a new dimension to fall detection. While traditional devices only detect the acceleration pattern of a fall, this system simultaneously calculates the precise 3D location using transmission time measurements from multiple monitoring units, enabling both detection and pinpointing of fall events.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback by cross-validating movement sensor data with location calculation results. When a fall is detected, the system verifies the location data to confirm the object is at ground level, reducing false positives while maintaining accurate location pinpointing capability.
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 system provides accurate, real-time location tracking and movement detection, reducing false positives and costs, and effectively identifies objects in motion, such as falls, enhancing safety and efficiency in various industries.
Implementation Method 1
when an object is moving at greater than one g-force, it may be indicative of the object falling to the ground from a gravitational force
Implementation Method 2
A first omnidirectional signal is intermittently communicated between the locating circuit and the plurality of monitoring units
Data Source
AI summary
An object movement and location detection system and method is provided. A locating circuit is substantially secured to the object. A plurality of monitoring units is positioned remotely from the locating circuit, each in a different location. A first omnidirectional signal is intermittently communicated between the locating circuit and the plurality of monitoring units. A movement sensor is substantially secured to the object, wherein the movement sensor detects a movement of the object. A calculator is in communication with each of the plurality of monitoring units and the movement sensor, wherein the calculator determines a duration of transmission time of the first omnidirectional signal between each of the monitoring units and the locating circuit and calculates a location of the locating circuit using the determined duration of transmission time for each of the monitoring units and the locating circuit subsequent to a detected movement of the object.