Multi-beam Phased Array Antenna for Transit Access Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transit systems face congestion and inefficiencies due to inadequate methods for accurately tracking user entry and exit using wireless signals, particularly with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons, which struggle to pinpoint positions within transit systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multi-beam phased array antennas and directional BLE receivers in combination with omnidirectional beacons to create defined volumes for tracking transit users' entry and exit, utilizing signal strength indicators (RSSI) and additional sensors for enhanced accuracy, enabling automatic check-in and check-out processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If omnidirectional BLE beacons are used for tracking, then coverage area is improved, but position accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single omnidirectional beacon into multiple directional antenna elements arranged in an array. Each element transmits or receives signals in specific directions, segmenting the coverage area into directional sectors. This segmentation allows the system to maintain wide coverage through multiple elements while achieving accurate position determination through directional signal analysis and RSSI comparison across multiple antennas.
2Device complexity
If manual check-in processes are used, then system complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic check-in and check-out systems where the mobile device and transit system automatically perform tracking and verification without manual intervention. The gate receiver automatically detects the mobile device, determines entry/exit status through RSSI analysis, and completes the check-in process automatically. This self-service automation eliminates manual check-in operations, significantly improving transit access efficiency while the standardized implementation keeps system complexity manageable.
3Measurement precision
If multi-beam phased array antennas are implemented, then position accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the gate receiver perform multiple functions: it serves as both a signal receiver and a position determination system, combining RSSI measurement, directional beam analysis, and entry/exit detection capabilities in a single device. The mobile device similarly performs multiple functions including beacon reception, device signal transmission, and automatic check-in execution. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, managing overall system complexity while maintaining high position accuracy through the phased array antenna system.
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 improves the accuracy of transit user tracking, reduces congestion, and automates the transit access process, allowing for efficient management of transit systems and user accounting without the need for manual interaction.
Implementation Method 1
receiving, by a gate receiver positioned within a gate within the transit location, the device signal
Data Source
AI summary
System, device, and method for enabling transit access using a multi-beam phased array antenna. One method may include repeatedly transmitting, by a location transmitter positioned within a transit location within a transit system, a location signal identifying the transit location. The method may include receiving, by a mobile communication device, the location signal, initiating a check-in process, and transmitting a device signal identifying the mobile communication device. The method may include receiving, by a gate receiver positioned within a gate within the transit location, the device signal and analyzing the received device signal to determine that a holder of the mobile communication device is entering through the gate.