Sub-GHz Positioning Using Packet Biasing for Accurate Ranging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing positioning systems using sub-GHz frequencies face challenges with accuracy and range due to elongated signal leading edges and increased signal reflections, making it difficult to determine the correct path and distance between nodes.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves biasing a radio receiver using a first section of a data packet and performing distance calculations based on a second section of the packet, adjusting output power to minimize reflections, and optimizing packet error rates to enhance accuracy and range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If sub-GHz frequencies are used for positioning, then range and penetration capability are improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to elongated signal leading edges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data packet into multiple sections, using the first section for biasing the radio receiver and the second section for distance calculations. This segmentation allows the system to use sub-GHz frequencies for extended range while maintaining measurement precision by separating the receiver preparation phase from the measurement phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by using the first section of the data packet to bias the radio receiver before the actual distance measurement is performed in the second section. This preliminary biasing action prepares the receiver to accurately detect the signal arrival time despite using sub-GHz frequencies with elongated leading edges.
2Length of stationary object
If output power is increased to extend transmission range, then range is improved, but signal reflections increase causing measurement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous output power adjustment based on packet error rate feedback. The system continuously monitors the packet error rate and adjusts the output power to maintain optimal levels, ensuring extended range while minimizing harmful reflections through continuous adaptation rather than fixed high power transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the receiving node sends packet error rate information back to the transmitting node. This feedback loop allows the transmitting node to adjust its output power dynamically, extending range when needed while reducing power to minimize reflections when packet error rates indicate problematic conditions.
3Reliability
If packet error rate is reduced through higher output power, then reliability is improved, but signal reflections increase causing timing errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the output power adjustable and adaptive rather than fixed. The system dynamically adjusts output power based on real-time packet error rate conditions, finding the optimal balance between ensuring reliable data transmission and minimizing timing errors caused by excessive power-induced reflections.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, node, and device for determining a traveling distance for sub-GHz radio signals wherein the range and accuracy are significantly improved in relation to prior art systems. The solution relates to receiving at least one data packet, bias at least part of the data packet radio signal, and using the biased section to perform a distance calculation. The distance calculation can for example be used in a positioning system.