Ultrasonic Beacon Positioning via Time-Difference of Arrival
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for determining the relative position of electronic devices are limited in accuracy, especially in indoor environments and when multiple devices are present in a small area, as they rely on global positioning systems or line-of-sight optical solutions that are prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
The use of ultrasonic signaling to broadcast unique identifiers or codes from one device, which are received by an array of ultrasonic receivers, allowing for accurate determination of the relative position through time-difference calculations, and optionally utilizing an external receiver array or surface-based propagation to improve accuracy and reduce line-of-sight limitations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If global positioning systems are used to determine device position, then position information can be communicated, but accuracy is limited especially in indoor environments and when multiple devices are in a small area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces GPS (electromagnetic satellite-based system) with an acoustic system using ultrasonic waves and microphones for position determination. This substitution enables accurate indoor positioning by using sound wave propagation characteristics (time difference of arrival) that work effectively in indoor environments where GPS signals are blocked or insufficient.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces acoustic waves (ultrasonic signals) as an intermediary medium for position determination. By transmitting unique acoustic signatures through the air and detecting them with microphones, the system creates a mediator-based positioning mechanism that overcomes the direct line-of-sight requirements and signal blockage issues of GPS in indoor environments.
2Measurement precision
If line-of-sight optical solutions are used for position determination, then position information can be obtained, but accuracy deteriorates when devices are not in direct line of sight or in complex environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical line-of-sight systems with acoustic wave-based detection. Acoustic waves can propagate through walls, furniture, and other obstacles that block optical signals, enabling position determination in complex indoor environments without requiring direct line of sight between devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter used for position determination from optical (light) to acoustic (sound). By utilizing the different propagation characteristics of sound waves—which can bend around obstacles and pass through materials that block light—the system achieves adaptability in environments where optical solutions fail.
3Measurement precision
If conventional position determination methods are used, then basic presence detection is possible, but the ability to distinguish between multiple devices in a small area is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the acoustic signal into device-specific unique signatures or codes. Each device transmits a distinct acoustic signature that can be individually identified by receiving devices, enabling the system to distinguish between multiple devices even when they are in close proximity or transmitting simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent assigns different local qualities (unique acoustic signatures) to each device. This differentiation allows the receiving system to identify and distinguish individual devices based on their specific acoustic characteristics, enabling accurate position determination even when multiple devices are present in a small area.
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 determination of relative positions between electronic devices, even in complex environments, with improved accuracy and reduced interference, allowing for effective communication and application in various scenarios such as meetings or gaming.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic signal is received from a nearby device. The signal can be decoded or otherwise processed to determine or obtain the signature contained in the signal
Implementation Method 2
The receivers can be separated on the device by at least a minimum distance necessary to use time-difference information to determine a relative position of the source of the signal
Data Source
AI summary
The relative positions of two or more electronic devices can be determined utilizing ultrasonic beacons. Each device can have a unique signature that can be included in the beacon broadcast by that device. A device having an array of ultrasonic detectors can receive a beacon and correlate the beacon received at each detector. The time of arrival then can be used to determine the relative position of the source of the beacon. The signature in that beacon can also be used to determine the identity of the device that broadcast the beacon, in order to determine the identity of the device, or a user of that device, at the determined relative position. The devices can be configured to transmit signals over the air or through a specific transmission medium, such as propagating surface. Further, a dedicated detector array can be used for determining multiple relative positions.