UWB Discovery Provisioning for Flexible Indoor Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing location systems for indoor environments face challenges in accurately tracking objects using ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, particularly in terms of integration of trackable objects into UWB location systems, varying localization operation modes, and seamless positioning across different technologies.
Innovation Solution
The system integrates ultra-wideband infrastructure with a discovery infrastructure and a controller to enable trackable objects to operate in two UWB localization modes, using UWB beacon signals and response signals, and employs a specific UWB framing protocol to manage localization rates and infrastructure data for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a UWB location system uses system-based localization requiring emission of UWB response signals from trackable objects, then localization accuracy is improved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling trackable objects to autonomously compute their position information based on received UWB beacon signals without requiring complex two-way signal exchange. The objects themselves perform the localization calculation, eliminating the need for complex receiver infrastructure and reducing system overall complexity while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the localization computation function from the infrastructure and places it directly on the trackable objects. By taking out the position calculation capability and embedding it in the objects themselves, the system avoids the complexity of centralized computation and signal exchange protocols while achieving accurate localization.
2Productivity
If the UWB location system tracks multiple objects at high location rates, then productivity is improved, but use of energy by the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by allowing trackable objects to operate at different localization rates rather than continuously at maximum rate. Objects can adjust their beacon transmission and position computation frequency based on their movement characteristics and application requirements, reducing energy consumption while maintaining necessary tracking throughput for multiple objects.
3Ease of operation
If the system integrates discovery infrastructure for seamless onboarding of trackable objects, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action through the discovery infrastructure that pre-establishes communication channels and exchanges necessary configuration data between new trackable objects and the UWB location system before formal localization begins. This preliminary onboarding process automates the integration steps, making the system easier to operate despite the added infrastructure complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The discovery infrastructure acts as an intermediary layer between new trackable objects and the main UWB localization system. It handles the complex tasks of initial connection establishment, capability exchange, and configuration, shielding users from the underlying complexity while enabling seamless integration of new objects.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the system supports multiple localization operation modes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the localization system adaptable and reconfigurable based on the capabilities and requirements of individual trackable objects. The system can dynamically switch between different operation modes (system-based localization, self-localization, discovery modes) depending on the object type and application needs, providing versatility without requiring fixed complex infrastructure for all scenarios.
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
This solution enhances localization accuracy and flexibility, allowing multiple objects to be tracked at different rates within a UWB location system, enabling seamless integration with various positioning technologies and improving industrial application usability.
Implementation Method 1
one measures runtimes of UWB signals between the trackable object and components of an UWB infrastructure of the location system to determine respective distances
Data Source
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AI summary
In an aspect, a location system (101) for interacting with a localizing sensor (109) includes an ultra-wideband infrastructure (103), a discovery infrastructure (105), and a controller (107). The ultra-wideband infrastructure (103) enables localizing and includes a plurality of stationary transmitters (111A, 111B) configured to emit ultra-wideband beacon signals (BF1, BF2) into a localizing zone (115). The discovery infrastructure (105) performs a wireless communication of infrastructure data about the ultra-wideband infrastructure (103) to the localizing sensor (109). The discovery infrastructure (105) includes at least one discovery signal transceiver (105A, 105B) configured to receive a discovery advertisement signal (121) emitted from the localizing sensor (109) and send in response a provisioning signal (123A) including the infrastructure data. The controller (107) controls the operation of the ultra- wideband infrastructure (103) and the discovery infrastructure (105), wherein a data storage (107B) stores the infrastructure data that is required to operate the localizing sensor (109) in line with an ultra-wideband framing protocol, and a processor (107A) controls the at least one discovery signal transceiver (105A, 105B) to send the provisioning signal (123A).