Mobile Device Time of Flight Localization via Frequency Originator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current localization methods rely on GPS networks, which are not applicable underwater and can be unreliable in overcast conditions, and existing solutions do not provide a seamless, cost-effective means for mobile devices to detect large motions and movements without GPS.
Innovation Solution
A method involving frequency originator and receiver devices for clock synchronization, using Near Field Communication (NFC) tags or RFID for storing broadcast frequencies and distances, and calculating time of flight to determine location, which can be applied to mobile devices with built-in sensors to detect movements and changes in position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS network is used for localization, then location accuracy is improved, but the system becomes unavailable underwater and in overcast conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces frequency originator devices and frequency receiver devices as intermediaries to enable localization without GPS. These devices transmit and receive frequency signals that can penetrate water and work in overcast conditions, serving as a mediator between the mobile device and the localization function when GPS is unavailable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the GPS satellite-based electromagnetic system with a local frequency-based signal system. By using frequency transmission and time of flight calculations between nearby devices, the system substitutes the GPS mechanical/satellite infrastructure with a peer-to-peer frequency communication mechanism that works in GPS-denied environments
2Adaptability or versatility
If time of flight calculation is used for localization, then GPS-independent positioning is achieved, but clock synchronization between devices becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service clock synchronization where each device uses its own clock to timestamp transmitted frequency signals. The receiving device calculates time of flight by comparing the timestamp from the transmitted signal with its own reception time, allowing both devices to synchronize their clocks autonomously without requiring a central time server or complex synchronization protocol
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback from the time of flight calculation to adjust and synchronize clocks between devices. By measuring the actual signal transmission time and comparing it with expected values, the system provides feedback information that enables clock synchronization, reducing drift and improving localization accuracy over time
3Reliability
If mobile devices carry localization hardware, then positioning capability is improved, but device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes mobile devices universal by enabling them to function as both frequency originators and frequency receivers using existing components. The same mobile device can transmit localization signals to other devices and receive signals from them, eliminating the need for specialized asymmetric hardware and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable positioning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the localization functionality with the existing mobile device communication infrastructure. By combining the frequency transmission, reception, and processing capabilities into the standard mobile device stack, the system eliminates separate dedicated localization hardware and achieves positioning using integrated components already present in modern smartphones
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 GPS-independent localization of mobile devices, providing a cost-effective and reliable method for determining location and detecting movements, even in environments where GPS is unavailable, such as underwater.
Implementation Method 1
calculating a time of flight (TOF) based on the known distance and the speed of the broadcast; and incorporating a time correction=T2−(t1+TOF) in calculations of TOF between the frequency originator device and the frequency receiver device
Data Source
AI summary
A method for synchronizing a clock of a frequency originator device (FOD) and a clock of a frequency receiver device (FRD), the method including disposing an information storage device at a known distance from the FOD, wherein a broadcast frequency of the FOD and the known distance are configured to be stored in the information storage device; obtaining by the FRD, the known distance between the FOD and the FRD and the broadcast frequency of the FOD; receiving a broadcast of the FOD by said FRD at the broadcast frequency according to the FRD's clock time at T2, wherein the broadcast was made at time t1 according to the FOD's clock time; calculating a time of flight (TOF) based on the known distance and the broadcast speed; and incorporating a time correction=T2−(t1+TOF) in calculations of TOF between the FOD and the FRD.