UWB Group Ranging Using Overheard Messages to Cut Exchanges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing UWB communication systems require a large number of message exchanges for ranging between multiple devices, which is inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a first UWB device transmitting and receiving messages to initiate group ranging with two other UWB devices, and determining reply times based on these messages, while the second UWB device overhears and receives messages from a third UWB device to reduce the number of exchanges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional pairwise ranging is used between multiple UWB devices, then each device can perform accurate distance measurement, but the number of message exchanges increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple pairwise ranging operations into a single group ranging operation. Multiple UWB devices (first, second, third, and fourth devices) participate in a unified ranging process where they exchange group ranging messages instead of performing separate pairwise exchanges. This merging reduces the total number of message exchanges from what would be required for individual pairwise operations while maintaining the ability to calculate distances between all device pairs in the group.
2Productivity
If group ranging is implemented to reduce message exchanges, then communication efficiency improves, but devices must overhear and process messages from multiple other devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the group ranging process into distinct message types with specific functions: group ranging initiation messages (GRIM) for starting the process, group ranging response messages (GRRM) for acknowledging and providing timing information, and group ranging final messages (GRFM) for completing the ranging. Each message type has a defined purpose and format, allowing devices to process messages systematically rather than handling all communications as a single complex operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a coordinated message exchange protocol that acts as an intermediary framework between devices. The first UWB device initiates the group ranging by sending GRIM messages to multiple other devices. These devices respond with GRRM messages containing their timing information. The initiator then sends GRFM messages to all participants, providing a structured way for devices to share ranging data without direct peer-to-peer coordination complexity.
3Reliability
If devices perform individual ranging operations, then each device has full control over its measurements, but the overall system requires more time and energy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the first UWB device send group ranging initiation messages (GRIM) to all other devices in the group before the actual ranging measurements begin. This initiation phase prepares all devices simultaneously, providing them with the necessary timing references and coordination information in advance. Devices then perform their measurements based on this pre-established framework, maintaining autonomy while operating within a coordinated timeline that reduces total ranging time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by having multiple devices perform ranging measurements simultaneously within the group ranging operation. Instead of devices taking turns or performing sequential pairwise operations, all devices in the group engage in measurements concurrently based on the coordinated message exchange. This parallel execution maintains device autonomy while significantly reducing the total time required compared to sequential operations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a method for providing a service by using ultra wide band (UWB) communication. The method for a first UWB device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, comprises the steps of: receiving a downlink time difference of arrival (DL-TDoA) message from at least one UWB anchor over a UWB channel; confirming that location measurement of the first UWB device based on the DL-TDoA message has failed; receiving, from a second UWB device, a ranging message including location information regarding the second UWB device; and measuring a location of the first UWB device on the basis of the DL-TDoA message and the location information regarding the second UWB device.