Omnidirectional Signal Timing for Indoor Object Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current object location systems are expensive and inadequate, often failing to provide accurate location information, especially in environments with satellite signal loss or complex structures, leading to inefficiencies and security breaches.
Innovation Solution
A system that secures a locating circuit to the object and uses a plurality of monitoring units positioned remotely to communicate an omnidirectional signal, determining transmission time to calculate the object's location in three dimensions, overcoming absorption issues with frequencies above 4.2 GHz.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS is used for locating objects, then location can be determined in open environments, but it fails when satellite signal is lost such as in tunnels
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the location determination function into multiple independent monitoring units distributed throughout the structure. Each monitoring unit independently measures signal transmission time from the locating circuit, and the calculator combines these measurements to determine position. This segmentation allows the system to function without satellite signals by using local reference points within the structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary omnidirectional signal that propagates through the structure from the locating circuit to multiple monitoring units. This signal acts as a mediator carrying timing information that enables position calculation without direct satellite communication, bridging the gap between the locating device and the determination system in environments where GPS fails.
2Reliability
If proximity sensors are used to detect security tags, then presence can be detected, but no further location information is provided
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from binary detection (present/absent) to continuous measurement by utilizing the time dimension. Instead of merely detecting whether a tag is present, the system measures the transmission time of the omnidirectional signal from multiple angles and positions, adding temporal and spatial dimensions to the detection process. This enables precise location determination while maintaining reliable detection capability.
3Reliability
If current locating systems are implemented, then location tracking is possible, but they are expensive and inconvenient to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive components: basic locating circuits that can be attached to objects, straightforward monitoring units with timing capabilities, and standard calculator equipment. These components are designed to be affordable and easily deployable, replacing expensive specialized locating systems while maintaining effective tracking capability through the omnidirectional signal timing method.
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 accurate, real-time location tracking of objects within structures, reducing errors and enhancing security by providing precise three-dimensional location data, even in challenging environments.
Implementation Method 1
A calculator in communication with each of the plurality of monitoring units determines a duration of transmission time of the 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
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for locating an object is provided. A locating circuit substantially secured to the object. A plurality of monitoring units are positioned remotely from the locating circuit, each positioned in a different location. An omnidirectional signal is intermittently communicated between the locating circuit and the plurality of monitoring units. A calculator is in communication with each of the plurality of monitoring units. The calculator determines a duration of transmission time of the omnidirectional signal for each of the plurality of monitoring units, and the locating circuit. The calculator calculates a location of the locating circuit using the determined duration of transmission time for each of the plurality of monitoring units and the locating circuit.