RF Time-of-Flight Positioning for Mine Site Proximity Warnings
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for determining object positions on large machinery sites, such as mine or construction sites, face accuracy issues due to multi-path environments and the need for numerous reference stations, which can lead to reduced warning system effectiveness and increased risk of collisions.
Innovation Solution
A radio frequency time-of-flight ranging system with a network of anchors and tags, using ultra-wideband signals and a position determining unit that incorporates GNSS data and site-specific information to provide accurate and real-time positioning, reducing the need for fixed reference stations and enhancing triangulation accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GNSS devices are used for proximity warnings, then the system can provide location information, but accuracy is lost in multi-path environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces radio frequency anchors as intermediary reference points distributed throughout the work area. These anchors serve as mediators between the GNSS satellites and the tags, providing a local reference framework that is independent of satellite signal quality. The anchors create a pseudolite positioning system that operates independently of GNSS multi-path issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the positioning function into multiple distributed anchors rather than relying on a single GNSS receiver. Each anchor independently provides reference signals, and the system segments the positioning task across multiple spatially distributed points. This segmentation allows the system to maintain accuracy even when individual anchors have limited visibility.
2Area of stationary object
If generic tracking radars are used, then the system can detect objects, but the range is limited due to multiple reflections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical radar wave reflection detection method with an electromagnetic time-of-flight measurement system. Instead of relying on reflected radar waves that suffer from multiple reflections and limited range, the system uses RF time-of-flight measurements between anchors and tags, which provide more reliable and extended detection capability.
3Measurement precision
If a multitude of anchors is deployed for accurate positioning, then triangulation accuracy improves, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs anchors that serve multiple functions: they provide positioning references, act as communication relays, and can function as safety monitoring points. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems and justifies the deployment density required for accurate triangulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic anchor selection where the system adaptively chooses which anchors to use for positioning based on current environmental conditions, tag position, and signal quality. This dynamic approach allows accurate positioning with fewer active anchors at any given time, reducing system complexity while maintaining precision.
4Measurement precision
If fixed reference stations are installed, then absolute positioning is provided, but the system cannot adapt to evolving site conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static reference station concept into dynamic anchors that can be relocated. Anchors are designed to be movable and can be repositioned as site conditions change, allowing the system to maintain accurate absolute positioning while adapting to evolving work areas, new equipment locations, and changing safety requirements.
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 improves positioning accuracy and reduces blind spots, enabling more reliable proximity warnings and enhanced safety by providing real-time position data and feedback, even in complex environments with large machinery.
Implementation Method 1
a point-to-point radio ranging unit configured for providing ranging data indicative of distances between anchors and tags, based on a defined measuring protocol, particularly based on the ALOHA protocol, of a time-of-flight measurement by radio frequency signals
Implementation Method 2
In particular, ultra-wideband signals may be used to mitigate for multi-path effects
Data Source
AI summary
A system for determining an object position on a site with large machinery, particularly a mine site, a construction site, or an agricultural area, based on radio frequency time-of-flight ranging. The system is configured to determine a current position of a reference point indicative of a position of a machine on the site, to access an arrangement dataset indicative of a positional relationship between the reference point and a mounting location on the machine of at least one anchor of a point-to-point radio ranging unit, and to determine a position of the at least one anchor based on the current position of the reference point and the arrangement dataset, wherein the position of the at least one anchor is provided to a position determining unit configured for determining position information of tags based on ranging data of the point-to-point radio ranging unit.