RF Tag Positioning via Master Unit Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional RF track-locate systems require expensive infrastructure and are unsuitable for environments without fixed infrastructure, as they rely on GPS signals or fixed RF reference points, which limits their effectiveness in locating objects in environments like malls or urban canyons.
Innovation Solution
A system using a Master Unit with an RF transceiver that interfaces with an RF Tag, allowing for the measurement of distance and direction to determine the Tag's position without external infrastructure, utilizing inputs like pedometers, accelerometers, or GPS receivers to calculate the Tag's location through continuous movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional RF systems use fixed infrastructure and reference points, then location determination is possible, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the reference point functionality from fixed infrastructure and relocates it to mobile devices (Master Units and Tags). Each device carries its own reference information (compass, pedometer, accelerometer data), eliminating the need for external fixed reference points while maintaining location determination capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Devices serve themselves by using their own onboard sensors (compass, pedometer, accelerometer) and RF transceivers to determine positions. The system is self-contained, with each device contributing its movement and orientation data to the mutual location calculation without requiring external infrastructure services.
2Measurement precision
If GPS signals are used for location, then position can be determined, but the system fails in environments without satellite visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple sensing modalities (RF distance measurement, compass orientation, pedometer step counting, accelerometer motion detection) that can operate in any environment. This multi-functional approach replaces GPS-dependent positioning with a universal method that works indoors, in urban canyons, and in any location where satellite signals are unavailable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters used for location determination from satellite-based signals to device-based sensor data. By measuring relative position through RF distance, compass bearing, and integrated movement (pedometer/accelerometer) rather than absolute GPS coordinates, the system adapts to environments where GPS parameters are unavailable.
3Measurement precision
If fixed RF reference points are deployed, then tracking is enabled, but power consumption and device size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, power-intensive fixed RF infrastructure with inexpensive, low-power mobile devices. The Master Unit and Tags use standard consumer electronics components (RF transceiver, compass, pedometer, accelerometer) that consume minimal power compared to dedicated fixed RF reference points, enabling tracking without high energy consumption.
4Measurement precision
If multiple reference points are required for GPS, then location accuracy improves, but the system becomes complex and requires line of sight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the location determination task into multiple independent measurements: RF distance between devices, compass orientation, pedometer step count, and accelerometer motion. Each segment contributes independently to the final position calculation, replacing the monolithic GPS multi-reference-point requirement with modular, infrastructure-free measurements.
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
Enables accurate tracking and locating of objects in environments without fixed infrastructure, using RF signals to determine the position of the Tag relative to the Master Unit, providing a compact and reliable solution for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
a Master Unit having an RF transceiver and adapted to interface to an RF Tag to measure distance to the RF Tag
Implementation Method 2
The first input can be a pedometer
Implementation Method 3
The first input can be a pedometer, accelerometer, a gyroscope, an altimeter or a GPS receiver
Implementation Method 4
The Master can include a compass input for determining current position of the Master Unit
Implementation Method 5
The first input can be a pedometer, accelerometer, a gyroscope, an altimeter or a GPS receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A system for determining location of an object, the system including a Master Unit having an RF transceiver and adapted to measure distance to the Tag. The Master Unit has a first input from which it can derive its current position. The Master Unit transmits instructions to the Tag for movement in a predetermined direction. The Master Unit measures distance to the Tag after the movement in the predetermined direction. The Master Unit determines position of the Tag after the movement in the predetermined direction. The Tag can include a compass, a pedometer, and optionally an accelerometer, a solid-state gyroscope, an altimeter inputs for determining its current position by the Master Unit. The Master can optionally include a compass as well as a pedometer, an altimeter, an accelerometer, a solid-state gyroscope, an altimeter and a GPS receiver. Also, the Tag movement does not have to follow the Master's direction. However, the Master Unit still will be able to determine the Tag location(s). Also, the roles of the Master Unit and Tag can be reversed.