RF Beacon Proximity Determination Using Multi-Method Distance Estimation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a system that effectively monitors and guides the behavior of pets in smaller living spaces, such as apartments, by tracking their location and providing real-time monitoring and training features, as existing solutions may not be suitable for metropolitan pet owners with smaller dwellings and varying pet needs.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing Bluetooth Low Energy beacons and collars that transmit and receive data to provide location tracking, behavioral monitoring, and training functions, allowing pet owners to set up and configure the system easily through a smartphone application, with beacons placed strategically around the home to monitor and manage pet activity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If RSSI-based distance estimation is used for beacon proximity determination, then the system can provide basic location tracking, but the accuracy and reliability of distance measurement deteriorates due to signal strength variations from obstructions, environment, and antenna orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple distance measurement techniques (RSSI-based estimation, time-of-flight measurement, and other ranging methods) into a single integrated system. The receiver collects distance indications from multiple beacons using different measurement methods and integrates these data sources to determine the pet's location, thereby compensating for the weaknesses of individual methods and improving both accuracy and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the receiver continuously monitors distance measurements from multiple beacons and adjusts its location determination based on the aggregated data. The processor analyzes the consistency and reliability of measurements from different techniques and refines the proximity determination accordingly, using feedback loops to improve measurement reliability over time.
2Measurement precision
If multiple distance measurement techniques are integrated to improve accuracy, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receiver device is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing multiple distance measurement techniques (RSSI measurement, time-of-flight calculation, and other ranging methods) using the same hardware infrastructure. This universal design allows the system to achieve high measurement precision through multiple techniques without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the same receiver processes different types of distance indications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the distance measurement function across multiple beacons, each potentially using different measurement techniques. Rather than requiring every component to perform all measurement methods, the overall system achieves high precision by aggregating segmented measurements from multiple sources, distributing the complexity across the network rather than concentrating it in a single device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the system provides comprehensive monitoring and training features for pets, then the functionality and versatility improve, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to configuration complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service capabilities where the processor automatically performs complex tasks such as determining pet location from aggregated distance measurements, identifying when the pet is within trigger distance of beacons, and initiating appropriate training functions. This automation reduces the operational burden on users, allowing comprehensive monitoring functionality without proportionally increasing configuration complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring multiple beacons with identification information and measurement capabilities before use. The receiver is pre-programmed with algorithms to process distance indications from multiple beacons using multiple techniques. This preliminary setup enables the system to provide versatile pet monitoring functionality while keeping actual operation simple, as the complex processing is already prepared in advance.
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 enables real-time monitoring and control of pet behavior, providing positive and negative reinforcement, and allows for easy configuration and use, addressing the specific needs of metropolitan pet owners by offering comprehensive tracking and training capabilities in smaller spaces.
Implementation Method 1
an RF beacon periodically transmitting an RF signal, the RF signal including data
Implementation Method 2
measuring strength of the periodically transmitted signal, the detecting including using the signal strength to provide a first estimate of the receiver's distance from the communications device
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A system is described herein that comprises a communications device periodically transmitting a radio frequency signal, wherein the periodically transmitted signal includes data. The system includes a receiver detecting the periodically transmitted signal, the detecting including measuring strength of the periodically transmitted signal, the detecting including using the signal strength to provide a first estimate of the receiver's distance from the communications device. The system includes the communications device comprising at least one location sensor for determining an additional distance indication, wherein the data includes the additional distance indication. The system includes the receiver performing a function when the first estimate meets at least one criterion and when the additional distance indication indicates a first state.