UWB LAN Anchors for Indoor Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods, such as RADAR and GPS, are inadequate for accurately measuring the distance of objects within indoor environments due to limitations in precision and line-of-sight dependencies, necessitating the development of ultra-wide-band (UWB) local area networks for precise object tracking.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of time-slotted UWB object tracking systems using multiple anchors and tags, where anchors transmit UWB signals and measure time-of-flight to determine distances, with a site master synchronizing timing systems and a gateway processing location data for precise tag localization within a facility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If RADAR is used to measure distance, then long-distance measurement is achieved, but precision deteriorates to several meters per tick
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the timing parameter from coarse RADAR counters to precise UWB time-of-flight measurements with picosecond resolution, enabling both long-range and high-precision measurement simultaneously by operating in the 3.1-10.6 GHz frequency band with narrow pulse widths
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical RADAR timing system with electronic UWB time-of-flight measurement using integrated circuit radios that can measure time delays with much greater precision, substituting older electromagnetic measurement methods with modern digital timing circuits
2Reliability
If GPS is used for location tracking, then outdoor positioning is achieved, but indoor tracking deteriorates due to line-of-sight requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal location tracking system that functions both indoors and outdoors by using UWB technology that does not require line-of-sight to satellites, allowing the same system architecture to serve multiple environments without GPS dependency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces UWB anchors as intermediary reference points indoors, replacing the satellite intermediary used by GPS, allowing position calculation through time-of-flight measurements to local anchors rather than distant satellites
3Measurement precision
If transponder mechanism is used with improved timing, then indoor location precision is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the timing synchronization function by designating specific anchors as masters that generate timing references, while other anchors act as slaves that synchronize to their master, dividing the complex synchronization problem into manageable hierarchical segments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional master-slave relationship by allowing any anchor to become a master for its associated tags, rather than having a single centralized master, distributing the timing reference function across multiple anchors to reduce overall system complexity
4Reliability
If multiple anchors and tags are deployed to increase coverage, then tracking capability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by having tags transmit location information only at scheduled intervals rather than continuously, with the reporting rate dynamically adjusted based on tag density and movement detection, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining tracking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables self-service by allowing tags to autonomously adjust their reporting rates based on local conditions such as detected movement and tag density, with tags in high-density areas reducing their transmission frequency to conserve battery life
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 accurate and efficient tracking of mobile assets inside facilities with hundreds of anchors and tags, providing precise location information and adaptable reporting rates to conserve battery life and optimize tag density.
Implementation Method 1
measuring time-of-flight of responsive UWB transmissions from the tag to each anchor
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for providing and using ultra-wide-band (UWB) local area networks (LANs) are disclosed. A system for locating UWB devices includes UWB local area networks (LANs). Each UWB LAN includes anchors configured for performing UWB ranging and a LAN master anchor surrounded by at least some of the anchors. The LAN master anchor is configured for transmitting a UWB beacon to identify the UWB LAN to one or more candidate tags to join the UWB LAN. The system includes a tag securable to an object for tracking. The tag is configured for receiving a first UWB beacon from a first LAN master of a first UWB LAN; receiving a second UWB beacon from a second LAN master of a second UWB LAN; and determining to associate with the first UWB LAN based on the first UWB beacon and the second UWB beacon.