Optical Transmitter Modulation for Indoor Positioning Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing indoor positioning systems face challenges in accuracy and reliability due to the limitations of GPS in indoor environments and the vulnerabilities of QR codes and NFC in authentication methods, particularly in complex indoor settings.
Innovation Solution
A self-identifying one-way optical transmitter using modulated light signals, specifically Digital Pulse Recognition (DPR) modulation, is employed to transmit unique identification information to mobile devices, enhancing security and user experience through proximity-based authentication and precise indoor positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS is used for indoor positioning, then outdoor positioning accuracy is maintained, but indoor positioning accuracy deteriorates due to signal penetration limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces radio frequency-based GPS positioning with optical-based positioning using LED lights and photodetectors. This substitution enables accurate indoor positioning by using visible light signals that can penetrate indoor environments effectively, while outdoor positioning can still utilize GPS when available.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system is designed to work universally in both indoor and outdoor environments. The same optical positioning infrastructure can serve indoor locations, while GPS provides backup or complementary outdoor positioning capability, creating a multi-functional positioning solution.
2Ease of operation
If QR codes and NFC are used for authentication, then convenience is improved, but security deteriorates due to replication vulnerabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical authentication methods (QR codes, NFC tags) with optical signal-based authentication. The system uses modulated light signals from LEDs that encode authentication data, making replication difficult while maintaining ease of use through optical communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication system changes from static physical codes to dynamic optical signals with varying parameters (modulation frequency, intensity patterns). This allows for more secure authentication as the optical signals can be dynamically adjusted and are harder to replicate compared to static QR codes or NFC data.
3Measurement precision
If light intensity is increased for better positioning signal detection, then measurement precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic modulation of LED light intensity at specific frequencies to encode positioning and authentication data. This periodic action allows for efficient signal detection through frequency-based filtering, improving measurement precision without requiring continuous high-intensity illumination, thus reducing overall energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of light modulation from continuous high intensity to periodic intensity variations at specific frequencies. This allows receivers to detect signals more accurately through frequency discrimination while the average power consumption remains lower compared to continuous high-intensity operation.
4Measurement precision
If optical signals are used for positioning, then directional precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to modulation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses standard LED components that serve dual purposes: providing illumination and transmitting modulated positioning signals. This universality reduces device complexity as no separate transmitters are needed, and the same hardware infrastructure supports both lighting and positioning functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex dedicated positioning transmitters with standard LED lighting components. By using commercially available LEDs with simple modulation circuitry, the system achieves directional positioning accuracy without requiring specialized or complex transmitting devices.
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
The system provides accurate and secure indoor positioning and authentication by leveraging the directional nature of optical signals, offering high precision and resistance to replication, while minimizing power consumption in lighting devices.
Implementation Method 1
A self-identifying one-way optical transmitter using modulated light signals, specifically Digital Pulse Recognition (DPR) modulation, is employed to transmit unique identification information to mobile devices
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a self-identifying optical transmitter for broadcasting a one-way authentication code using light-based communication. The transmitter may include a memory for storing an identifier of the transmitter, a processor for generating a data signal including an identifier of the transmitter, a modulator for receiving the data signal and generating an electrical signal, the modular generating the electrical signal by modulating the data signal. The transmitter may also include a light source for receiving the electrical signal, converting the electrical signal into an optical signal, and continuously broadcasting the optical signal as an optical data transmission stream. The optical data transmission stream may be used to verify that a receiving mobile device is near the transmitter. The transmitter may also include an optical surface for dispersing the optical data transmission stream as the optical data transmission stream is emitted from the transmitter.