Phase-Based Wireless Node Location Method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless mesh networks face challenges in accurately determining the physical location of mobile nodes, particularly in environments where traditional GPS or complex synchronization methods are impractical due to cost and complexity, and signal attenuation by metal objects.
Innovation Solution
A method using a single broadcast timing signal from a reference node, repeated in phase by an unknown node, allows a second reference node to determine the node's position by comparing the phase difference of received signals, enabling three-dimensional location determination using multiple planes and nodes with known positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional GPS or complex synchronization methods are used to determine node location, then location accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the location determination function from complex GPS hardware and synchronization systems, implementing it through a simplified protocol that uses existing wireless network infrastructure. The method extracts only the essential phase comparison mechanism while removing unnecessary GPS receivers, complex timing synchronization hardware, and expensive positioning services.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive GPS hardware and complex synchronization systems with a low-cost protocol that uses standard wireless network components. The solution uses disposable-like simplicity in its approach, relying on basic phase measurement capabilities already present in wireless nodes rather than investing in permanent, expensive positioning infrastructure.
2Measurement precision
If complex synchronization methods are used to determine node location, then location accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive phase measurement capabilities that are already standard in wireless network components, eliminating the need for expensive GPS receivers, specialized timing hardware, or complex synchronization equipment. The solution uses cheap, readily available technology to achieve accurate location determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes expensive manufacturing components such as GPS receivers, precision timing devices, and complex synchronization hardware from the system. By extracting these costly elements and replacing them with standard wireless network components that perform phase measurement as a byproduct of normal operation, the manufacturing cost is significantly reduced.
3Adaptability or versatility
If signal-based location methods are used in environments with metal objects, then location capability is provided, but signal attenuation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses phase information as an intermediary that can penetrate metal objects better than traditional signal strength-based methods. The phase comparison between signals at different locations provides location data even when signals are attenuated by metal structures, as the relative phase changes remain measurable despite absolute signal strength reductions.
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 simplifies node location determination without requiring expensive GPS hardware or complex synchronization, providing accurate positioning in wireless mesh networks while reducing costs and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The first signal and the second signal are received in the second reference node
Implementation Method 2
The unknown node receives the first signal and sends a second signal to at least the second reference node in phase with the first signal
Implementation Method 3
The phase of the received signals is compared to determine the position of the unknown node based on the phase difference between the received first and second signals
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The physical position of a movable node in a network is determined by sending a first signal from a first reference node to at least a second reference node and the unknown node. The unknown node receives the first signal and sends a second signal to at least the second reference node in phase with the first signal. The first signal and the second signal are received in the second reference node and the phase of the received signals is compared to determine the position of the unknown node based on the phase difference between the received first and second signals.