Polyhedral Morphing for Indoor Positioning Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Real Time Location Systems (RTLS) using RFID tags for object tracking face limitations in scalability, accuracy, and usability, particularly in large enterprises, with Wi-Fi standard 802.11 protocols being insufficient for precise location determination and battery life issues in tags.
Innovation Solution
A system employing wireless tags with Hosts and Repeaters organized into Sectors and Zones, utilizing Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) to determine tag locations, with a Data Management Service processing messages for enhanced accuracy and efficiency, and configurable settings for improved performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Wi-Fi standard 802.11 protocols are used for location determination, then communication capability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) as an intermediary mechanism between the Wi-Fi communication protocol and location determination. Instead of relying solely on protocol-level communication, the system uses signal strength measurements as an intermediate parameter to calculate relative positions, thereby maintaining communication versatility while improving location measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter used for location determination from binary communication states (protocol-level) to continuous signal strength values (RSSI). This parameter transformation allows the system to leverage existing Wi-Fi infrastructure for communication while extracting precise location information through signal strength variations
2Measurement precision
If location update frequency is increased, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy by moving object worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic location updates rather than continuous transmission. Tags transmit their locations at configured time intervals, allowing the system to maintain acceptable location accuracy while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous high-frequency updates
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses partial action by updating locations only when necessary (at configured intervals) rather than continuously. This partial update strategy provides sufficient location information for most applications while conserving tag battery life
3Adaptability or versatility
If system scalability is improved for large enterprises, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the large enterprise environment into multiple zones with fixed stations distributed throughout. Each zone operates semi-independently, allowing the system to scale to large enterprises by simply adding more zones and fixed stations rather than redesigning the entire system
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses universal fixed stations that can be deployed in any zone throughout the enterprise environment. These multi-functional devices perform both communication and location determination functions, simplifying system configuration and deployment as the enterprise scales
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 efficient object tracking across multiple environments, supporting business needs with improved scalability and reduced tag battery life concerns, by determining three-dimensional spatial locations and adapting to environmental factors.
Implementation Method 1
They can provide Unique Device Identification (UDI) and may employ Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) of RF signals to calculate relative positions
Data Source
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AI summary
Objects are located within at least one mapped field region. Environments for location tracking arc mapped through a configuration setup flexibly supporting multiple objects with precision and speed. Host and Repeater devices are located at vertices of polyhedra defining spaces. Polyhedra edge lengths are defined as the modified physical distance between two devices. This morphing employs parameters measured by or input to the system. Morphed three dimensional subzones are defined within the volume of the polyhedra defined by the devices at the vertices.