Ranging Accuracy via Clock Synchronization and Multipath Correction

The patent introduces a master device as an intermediary that provides a reference clock signal to slave devices. This master device acts as a mediator to synchronize the timing across all devices in the ranging system, eliminating the need for each device to maintain its own independent clock synchronization. The master device generates and distributes timing references that all slave devices use to align their ranging operations, thereby resolving the clock synchronization issue and improving ranging precision.

The patent replaces the mechanical/electronic internal clocks of individual devices with a centralized software-based timing system. Instead of relying on hardware clocks that drift and require synchronization, the system uses a master device to generate software-controlled timing signals that are distributed to slave devices. This substitution of the timing mechanism eliminates clock drift issues and improves timing accuracy for ranging measurements.

The patent employs periodic transmission of ranging signals by the master device to slave devices. Instead of continuous transmission, the system uses periodic pulses at optimized intervals. This periodic action allows the limited transmission power to be concentrated in discrete bursts, improving the signal-to-noise ratio during detection while still meeting regulatory power limits. The periodic timing also allows for coherent integration of multiple pulses, further enhancing detection capability.

The patent combines multiple weak ranging signal pulses through coherent integration at the receiver. By merging the energy from multiple periodic transmissions and aligning them in phase, the system achieves effective signal enhancement without increasing the peak transmission power. This combining technique allows the limited power to be effectively accumulated over time, improving signal detection above background noise while complying with power regulations.