Automated RTLS Calibration for Portable Device Position Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for calibrating real-time location systems (RTLS) for portable devices relative to objects, such as vehicles, are time-consuming, inconsistent, and prone to variations due to human error and differences in device orientation and environment, leading to inaccurate location determinations.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that automatically obtains calibration data by moving a portable device to various positions relative to an object, using a control system and movable body to collect signal characteristic samples, which are then used to determine parameters for a locator to accurately determine the device's location based on truth data, adapting to different conditions and device types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual calibration methods are used with human testers moving the portable device to different positions, then the calibration process can be performed with simple equipment, but the consistency and accuracy of location determination deteriorates due to human variation in hand configuration and positioning capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical positioning system with an automated robotic arm system. The robotic arm precisely positions the portable device at predetermined locations according to control signals, eliminating human variability in hand configuration and positioning. This mechanical substitution maintains equipment simplicity while dramatically improving measurement consistency and accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-calibration by using the portable device itself to generate calibration data at automatically positioned locations. The device communicates with the object device to obtain calibration samples without requiring human intervention for data collection, making the calibration process autonomous and consistent across different testing scenarios.
2Device complexity
If conventional manual calibration processes are used with human testers, then the system can operate with basic equipment, but the calibration time and inconsistency increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual calibration operations with an automated robotic arm that rapidly positions the portable device at multiple predetermined locations. This mechanical substitution reduces calibration time by eliminating manual movement while the systematic control approach keeps the overall system complexity manageable through software automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses predetermined locations and automated positioning sequences to perform calibration efficiently. The robotic arm follows pre-programmed paths and positions the device at optimal calibration points before data collection begins, reducing the overall calibration time while maintaining systematic control over the process complexity.
3Measurement precision
If a calibration function is configured for one type of vehicle make and model, then it may perform accurately for that specific vehicle type, but it performs poorly with other types of make and model vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent collects calibration data across multiple vehicle types, makes, and models to establish a comprehensive dataset. This enables the system to adjust calibration parameters dynamically based on the specific vehicle type being tested, improving both accuracy for individual vehicle types and versatility across different vehicle categories through parameter adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated calibration system is designed to work universally across different vehicle types by using standardized positioning procedures and multiple predetermined locations. The system collects calibration data that can be applied across various vehicle makes and models, making the calibration function multi-functional and adaptable while maintaining accuracy through systematic data collection methods.
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 consistent and accurate location determination of portable devices relative to objects by leveraging automated data collection and machine learning algorithms, enhancing precision and adaptability across various environments and device models.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna configured to communicate wirelessly with the portable device via a communication link
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are provided for obtaining calibration data for a portable device relative to an object in order to facilitate defining a locator for determining a location of the portable device relative to the object. The system and method may obtain calibration data pertaining to a signal characteristic of communications transmitted from the portable device and corresponding to a known location of the portable device (e.g., truth data).