Radiator Localization via Channel Covariance Matching

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing localization techniques relying on line-of-sight (LoS) paths are not always guaranteed in real-world environments due to the complexity of wireless channel signatures, especially at higher frequencies, leading to challenges in accurately determining the location of radiators in scattering environments.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the definition of a channel measurement vector and the calculation of likelihood values using cell covariance matrices to determine the location of a radiator, which involves selecting a cell based on the calculated likelihood values across multiple cells, utilizing a computer-readable medium and processor to execute these calculations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If line-of-sight (LoS) based localization techniques are used, then localization can be achieved when LoS path is available, but localization accuracy deteriorates or fails when LoS path is not guaranteed in real-world environments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocalization reliabilityVSAvoidlocalization accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the previously harmful multipath propagation into a beneficial resource for localization. By using covariance matching with non-LoS multipath signals, the system transforms environmental reflections and scattering that once degraded localization performance into informative channel signatures that enable accurate radiator localization even without direct line-of-sight paths

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the fundamental parameter used for localization from relying on direct LoS path parameters (angle of arrival, time difference of arrival) to utilizing covariance matrix parameters derived from multipath channel signatures. This parameter transformation enables the system to operate effectively in environments where traditional LoS-based parameters are unavailable or unreliable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of manufacture

If traditional LoS-based localization methods are employed, then the system is simpler to implement, but the system fails to provide accurate localization in scattering environments with blocked paths

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimplementation simplicityVSAvoidlocalization reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces covariance matrices as an intermediary representation that bridges the gap between received channel measurements and localization decisions. Instead of directly using simple signal strength or time-of-flight measurements, the system processes channel data through covariance matrix computation and matching, providing a robust intermediary step that maintains reliability in complex scattering environments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9763216B2Radiator localization
Publication Date: 2017.09.12 WISCONSIN ALUMNI RES FOUND
  • US9763216B2 patent drawing
  • US9763216B2 patent drawing
  • US9763216B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of locating a radiator is provided. A channel measurement vector is defined that includes a signal value measured at each of a plurality of antennas in response to a signal transmitted from a radiator. (a) A cell covariance matrix of a first cell from a plurality of cells defined for a region in which the radiator is located is selected. (b) A likelihood value that the radiator is located in the first cell is calculated using the selected cell covariance matrix and the defined channel measurement vector. (a) and (b) are repeated with each cell of the plurality of cells as the first cell. A cell location of the radiator is selected based on the calculated likelihood value for each cell of the plurality of cells.