Radio Attenuation Mapping for Indoor Obstacle Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining wireless network characteristics indoors are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and inaccurate, lacking real-time updates and precise simulation of attenuation values, and fail to integrate data from surveying and simulation tools effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that divide a space into finite elements, using a transmitter to measure real signal strengths, calculate theoretical values, and set attenuation values based on tolerances to identify areas with attenuation objects, employing a measurement device and processor to determine the location of such objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual surveying is performed by walking through premises to examine wireless network state, then wireless network characteristics can be determined, but manual labor, costs, and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement device automatically performs surveying by moving along predetermined paths and collecting signal strength data without requiring manual intervention at each location. The system self-manages the data collection process, eliminating the need for operators to physically walk through premises and manually record measurements at each point.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical surveying with an automated electronic system. The measurement device uses radio frequency signal transmission and automatic data logging to substitute the mechanical process of manual walking and note-taking, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining measurement precision.
2Loss of information
If 2D map is generated based on signal strength change when wireless devices position is changed, then spatial distribution of signal can be visualized, but the map becomes static and does not reflect real-time changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static 2D map into a dynamic representation by continuously updating signal strength data as the measurement device moves along predetermined paths. The system captures real-time variations in signal strength and reflects these changes in the visualized map, making it dynamic rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously comparing measured signal strength values with previously recorded data and updating the map accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that the visualized map accurately reflects current signal conditions rather than outdated information.
3Productivity
If wireless simulator tools are used to simulate network performance without actual surveying, then simulation can be performed quickly, but attenuation values of structures cannot be accurately determined
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actual surveying to measure real signal strength values and determine accurate attenuation values of structures before running simulations. This preliminary action provides the simulator with precise attenuation data, enabling accurate simulation without requiring repeated manual surveying during the simulation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the actual wireless environment by measuring real signal characteristics and replicating them in the simulation model. This copying process transfers accurate attenuation values from the physical environment to the virtual simulation, maintaining measurement precision while enabling fast simulation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If data from surveying and simulation tools are kept separate, then each tool can operate independently, but ease of procuring and sharing information is hampered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the data from surveying tools and simulation tools into a unified database or data structure. This combining allows information to be easily shared and accessed between different tools while maintaining the independence of each tool's operation. The integrated data system eliminates information silos and improves data accessibility.
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
Facilitates accurate, fast, and cost-effective identification of attenuation objects by analyzing signal strengths and propagation models, reducing manual labor and improving simulation precision.
Implementation Method 1
providing a first transmitter to transmit radio signal with a first strength value... measuring a plurality of real signal strength values at interest-locations along the first path
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining area in which attenuation object is located in space, wherein space is divided to finite elements. The method includes providing first transmitter to transmit radio signal with first strength value; moving measurement device along first path and a plurality of real signal strength values at interest-locations along the first path; calculating theoretical signal strength value, for each of the interest-locations of the first path, using radio signal propagation model assuming a free propagation between the first location and the interest-locations; setting attenuation value for each of the finite elements, along lines connecting the first location and the interest-locations; and using locations of the finite elements with the non-free space attenuation value to determine the area in which the attenuation object is located.