Wireless Access Point 3D UAV Tracking via Phased Array Beamforming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current parcel delivery systems face challenges in efficiently tracking unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in 3-Dimensional space due to logistical and technical limitations, particularly in shared airspace, which hinders the integration of UAVs for automated parcel delivery and other applications.
Innovation Solution
A wireless network access point system that transmits and receives wireless signals using multiple UAV-locating modes to determine and track the location of airborne UAVs, employing phased array antennas for controlled beamforming and switching between search and tracking modes to provide precise 3-D tracking capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If multiple UAVs operate in shared airspace for automated parcel delivery, then delivery efficiency and automation capability are improved, but tracking precision and airspace safety deteriorate due to limited detection capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the tracking task by assigning dedicated tracking access points to specific UAVs, dividing the shared airspace into manageable zones. Each access point focuses on tracking a specific UAV, which improves measurement precision for individual targets while multiple access points collectively monitor the entire airspace, enabling both precise tracking and efficient automated delivery operations.
2Device complexity
If existing wireless networks are used for UAV tracking, then system complexity and cost are reduced, but tracking capability in 3-D space and multi-UAV detection are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing wireless access points multi-functional by enabling them to perform both their original communication functions and UAV tracking functions. The access points utilize their existing antennas and wireless interfaces to transmit locating signals and receive responses from UAVs, thereby achieving 3-D space tracking capability without adding dedicated tracking hardware, thus maintaining low system complexity while enhancing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the traditional 2-D wireless network coverage into the 3-D airspace dimension by having access points transmit locating signals upward and receive responses from UAVs at various altitudes. This dimensional expansion enables tracking of UAVs in three-dimensional space using conventional wireless infrastructure, improving adaptability without proportionally increasing system complexity.
3Speed
If access points transmit locating signals continuously to track multiple UAVs, then tracking coverage and response speed are improved, but energy consumption and signal interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by having access points transmit locating signals at scheduled intervals rather than continuously. Each access point transmits a locating signal, receives responses from UAVs, determines their locations, and then waits for the next transmission cycle. This periodic operation maintains adequate tracking coverage and response speed while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous transmission, and minimizing signal interference in the shared wireless spectrum.
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 precise tracking and identification of multiple UAVs in 3-D space with high precision and speed, improving the management of UAV traffic and enhancing the potential for automated parcel delivery and other applications by utilizing existing communication networks.
Implementation Method 1
employing phased array antennas for controlled beamforming and switching between search and tracking modes to provide precise 3-D tracking capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a first wireless unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-locating signal is transmitted by a wireless network access point in a network based on a first UAV-locating mode selected from a plurality of UAV-locating modes. The wireless network access point receives a wireless signal in response to the first transmitted UAV-locating signal, the wireless signal indicative of a location of an airborne UAV, and causes the determination of the location of the airborne UAV based on the received wireless signal. The wireless network access point transmits a second wireless UAV-locating signal based on a second UAV-locating mode selected from the plurality of UAV-locating modes. The selected UAV-locating modes control an emission pattern of an antenna of the wireless network access point.