Outdoor Object Location System Using Time-of-Flight Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current object location systems, such as RTLS and GPS, are expensive and inadequate for outdoor environments, often failing to provide accurate and real-time location data due to satellite signal loss and limited functionality in open-air settings, leading to inefficiencies and security breaches in industries like healthcare and retail.
Innovation Solution
A system that secures a locating circuit to an object and uses a plurality of monitoring units positioned in different locations, including outdoor environments, to communicate an omnidirectional signal and calculate the object's location based on transmission time durations, enabling accurate three-dimensional tracking in open-air settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS is used for locating objects in outdoor environments, then location capability is provided, but the system fails when satellite signal is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces monitoring units as intermediary devices positioned between the GPS receiver and satellite signals. These monitoring units receive signals directly from satellites and relay them to the GPS receiver, enabling the system to function in environments where direct satellite signal reception is blocked, such as tunnels or urban canyons
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct satellite-to-receiver signal path with an intermediary communication path using monitoring units. This substitution allows the system to overcome physical obstacles that block direct line-of-sight satellite signals, enhancing reliability in outdoor environments
2Reliability
If proximity sensors are used to indicate presence of security tags, then security monitoring is achieved, but no further location information is provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional proximity detection to three-dimensional location tracking by implementing a network of monitoring units positioned at different locations. This spatial distribution enables the system to calculate precise three-dimensional coordinates of tagged objects, providing comprehensive location information beyond simple presence detection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the monitoring function into multiple distributed monitoring units rather than using a single centralized sensor. Each monitoring unit captures signal transmission time data, and the collective data from multiple units enables accurate three-dimensional location calculation through triangulation
3Reliability
If current location systems are deployed, then location tracking is provided, but the systems are expensive to implement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs monitoring units that can serve multiple functions: receiving GPS satellite signals, relaying signals to receivers in signal-denied areas, and enabling three-dimensional location tracking. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized equipment, lowering overall system implementation costs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses multiple identical monitoring units positioned at different locations rather than requiring complex specialized hardware. Each monitoring unit is a standardized device that can be replicated and deployed throughout the coverage area, reducing per-unit costs and simplifying system deployment
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 solution provides reliable, real-time location tracking in outdoor environments, reducing errors and enhancing security by determining the precise location of objects or individuals in three dimensions, thus preventing unauthorized movements and improving operational efficiency.
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, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of monitoring units are positioned in an outdoor environment. 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.