Self-Verifying Node Array for Obstacle-Penetrating Position Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current geolocation technologies, such as GPS, are limited in accuracy and can be obstructed, making them less effective in complex environments or areas with obstacles, and require specialized equipment and training.
Innovation Solution
A self-verifying array of Nodes (SVAN) that uses wireless communications to verify the positions of Nodes within the array by generating multiple sets of position determination variables, such as time of transmission, phase change, and signal strength, to enhance location tracking and communication accuracy across large areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS or traditional wireless position determination equipment is used, then location tracking can be achieved, but accuracy is limited and the system can be obstructed by obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the coverage area into multiple zones with distributed Nodes instead of using a single centralized GPS system. Each Node independently determines positions of other Nodes through local wireless communications, eliminating the single-point failure mode and improving reliability in complex environments where traditional GPS may be obstructed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces multiple intermediate Nodes that relay position determination information between the target Node and the array. These intermediary Nodes enable position tracking even when direct line-of-sight communication is blocked by obstacles, thereby maintaining measurement precision and reliability in complex environments.
2Measurement precision
If specialized equipment and training are used for position determination, then location tracking capability is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses universal smart devices that everyone possesses instead of specialized equipment. The Node apparatus can be implemented in common smartphones, tablets, or wearables, making the position determination system accessible to any user without requiring specialized training or equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically performs position determination calculations using wireless communication data between Nodes without requiring user intervention or specialized knowledge. The Node apparatus self-verify positions through generated communication variables, eliminating the need for trained operators.
3Area of stationary object
If a single wireless access point is used, then communication coverage is provided, but the range is limited and cannot penetrate obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the communication infrastructure into multiple distributed Nodes instead of relying on a single wireless access point. Each Node creates its own communication zone, and collectively they provide comprehensive coverage that can penetrate and绕过 obstacles, extending the effective communication area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point (2D) wireless access point to a distributed array of Nodes across three-dimensional space. This spatial distribution allows communication paths to be established from multiple angles and dimensions, enabling signal penetration through obstacles that would block a single access point.
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 SVAN system improves the accuracy and reliability of location tracking and communication by creating cooperative communication paths that can penetrate obstacles and extend beyond the range of individual wireless access points, enabling effective communication and data retrieval in complex environments.
Implementation Method 1
A position for a Node may be generated based upon values for position determination variables generated by multiple wireless communications amongst multiple Nodes
Implementation Method 2
The position determination variables may include one or more of: a time of transmission of a data set during wireless communication between Nodes; a time of arrival of a data set during wireless communication between Nodes
Implementation Method 3
The position determination variables may include one or more of: a phase change between disparate antennas receiving a wireless communication; an angle of arrival of a data set
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus is provided for determining a position relative to a reference transceiver. The apparatus includes an antenna configured to communicate with the reference transceiver and a receiver in logical communication with the antenna. A transmitter is also in logical communication with the antenna. A digital storage contains software executable upon demand via a processor in logical communication with the digital storage. The processor is operative via execution of the software to cause the apparatus to display a user interface on a visual display that includes a symbol indicating the direction of the reference transceiver in relation to the apparatus and a distance between the apparatus and the reference transceiver.