Probabilistic Heading Model for Interference-Resistant Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional location tracking solutions, such as GPS signaling, are unreliable in environments with interference and limited to two-dimensional coordinates, making it difficult to accurately determine the heading of objects, especially in complex terrains with changes in elevation.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that use internal measurement values from inertial measurement units and probabilistic heading models to generate estimated heading data objects, which can also incorporate satellite navigation and locator location values to provide accurate and up-to-date heading determinations, even in environments with interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS signaling is used for heading tracking, then location tracking is provided, but reliability deteriorates in environments with interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines GPS satellite navigation data with inertial measurement unit (IMU) internal measurement values to create a hybrid heading determination system. This merging allows the system to maintain reliability by using IMU data when GPS signals are interfered with or unavailable, while still benefiting from GPS accuracy when signals are clear.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a probabilistic heading model as an intermediary that processes and fuses data from multiple sources (GPS and IMU). This mediator evaluates the reliability of each data source and combines them optimally, allowing the system to overcome environmental interference by selecting and weighting data based on current conditions.
2Measurement precision
If GPS signaling is used for location tracking, then two-dimensional coordinates are provided, but measurement precision deteriorates for heading determination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional GPS coordinates to three-dimensional heading information by incorporating IMU measurements that provide pitch, roll, and yaw data. This dimensional expansion enables accurate heading determination including elevation changes, transforming the limited 2D position data into comprehensive 3D orientation and direction information.
3Measurement precision
If inertial measurement units are used for heading tracking, then internal measurement values are obtained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the inertial measurement unit to serve multiple functions: providing heading information, pitch data, roll data, and acceleration measurements. By making the IMU a multi-functional component that supports various tracking needs simultaneously, the system achieves high measurement precision without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
4Reliability
If multiple data sources are integrated for heading determination, then reliability improves, but computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a probabilistic heading model that dynamically adjusts parameters based on data quality and environmental conditions. The system changes the weighting and reliability parameters of different data sources in real-time, allowing efficient fusion of multiple inputs without requiring equally complex processing for all scenarios. This adaptive parameter adjustment maintains reliability while managing computational complexity.
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
Enables accurate and reliable tracking of object headings in real-time, improving navigation and location determination in complex environments by integrating internal measurements with satellite and locator data.
Implementation Method 1
one or more internal measurement values which pertain to an object, where each internal measurement value corresponds to a particular time point and where the one or more internal measurement values are measured by an inertial measurement unit associated with the object
Data Source
AI summary
Method, apparatuses, and computer program products for automatically tracking a heading of an object. An example method comprising receiving, one or more internal measurement values which pertain to an object; determining an internal heading uncertainty value for each internal measurement value of the one or more internal measurement values; generating, using a probabilistic heading model, an estimated heading data object for the object based at least in part on the one or more internal measurement values; and providing the estimated heading data object to one or more associated user devices.