UWB Fence Network Trilateration for Complex Geo-Fence Configuration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing geo-fence technologies face challenges in accurately establishing and monitoring virtual boundaries due to the need for precise node configuration and distance determination, which can be complex and resource-intensive, especially in environments with multiple overlapping fences or complex shapes.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that utilize a network of fence nodes communicating via ultra-wideband (UWB) to determine distances and establish a coordinate system, allowing for the intelligent configuration of geo-fences through trilateration, enabling the registration of fence vertices and sides, and monitoring of transient nodes entering or exiting the defined area.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional geo-fence establishment methods are used, then basic boundary definition is achieved, but the process becomes complex and resource-intensive in environments with multiple overlapping fences or complex shapes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility for complex fence geometriesVSAvoidconfiguration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fence nodes automatically perform trilateration calculations and coordinate system establishment without requiring manual configuration. The system self-configures by having nodes determine their positions relative to each other through automated distance measurements and mathematical computations, eliminating the need for complex manual setup procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent pre-establishes a coordinate system framework before defining actual fence boundaries. By first setting up the coordinate system and having nodes determine their positions within it, the system creates a structured foundation that simplifies subsequent fence definition, allowing complex geometries to be defined through simple vertex registration rather than complex configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If precise node configuration and distance determination are implemented, then accurate geo-fence boundaries are achieved, but the process requires significant computational resources and time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenode position accuracyVSAvoidfence establishment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the geo-fence establishment process into distinct segments: first establishing the coordinate system, then having each node independently determine its position through trilateration, and finally registering vertices by simple location marker placement. This segmentation allows parallel processing of node position determinations and reduces the sequential time required compared to traditional methods that require comprehensive configuration of all parameters before boundary definition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a coordinate system as an intermediary framework that simplifies the relationship between nodes and fence boundaries. Instead of directly configuring complex geometric relationships between nodes, the coordinate system serves as a mediator that transforms the problem into simpler position registrations within a predefined framework, reducing computational complexity and time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If manual configuration of fence nodes and vertices is performed, then basic geo-fences can be established, but accurate determination of node positions and shapes becomes difficult in complex environments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefence boundary accuracyVSAvoidconfiguration ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical configuration processes with automated electronic trilateration and coordinate system calculations. Instead of manually positioning and configuring nodes based on physical measurements, the system uses electronic distance measurements between nodes and automated mathematical computations to determine positions and define boundaries, significantly improving accuracy while simplifying operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses location markers as simplified copies or representations of actual fence vertices. Rather than requiring precise manual configuration of complex geometric parameters, the system uses simple location marker placements that are automatically translated into accurate vertex coordinates through the established coordinate system, making the process easier to operate while maintaining high precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

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 approach simplifies the process of establishing and monitoring geo-fences, allowing for accurate determination of node positions and shapes, efficient resource allocation, and flexible configuration for various fence geometries, including complex shapes and overlapping fences, while enabling seamless monitoring and action upon transient node entry or exit.

Implementation Method 1

A coordinate system is set up to determine a position of each fence node of the plurality of fence nodes

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTime of Flight: Time of Flight

Data Source

PatentUS10003919B2Intelligent geo-fencing
Publication Date: 2018.06.19 TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING CO LTD
  • US10003919B2 patent drawing
  • US10003919B2 patent drawing
  • US10003919B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and system of establishing a fence network is provided. The fence network comprises a plurality of fence nodes in communication with each other and a plurality of fence vertices defining a geographic fence. The method comprises configuring the plurality of fence nodes, setting up a coordinate system to determine a position of each fence node of the plurality of fence nodes, and, for each fence vertex, setting a location marker at a position of the fence vertex and using the location marker to register the position of the fence vertex. At least one fence vertex may be located at a position other than a position of a fence node. The plurality of fence vertices may be registered in sequential order and connected in order of registration.