UWB Ranging Synchronization With Split-Bandwidth Signal Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
UWB technology-based ranging and communication between nodes is power-consuming due to the long duration of UWB signals required for distance measurement.
Innovation Solution
Implement a communication method that uses a first bandwidth signal for synchronization and a second, wider bandwidth signal for ranging, with predefined time intervals to optimize signal exchange, reducing the duration of high-power consumption signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a UWB signal with large bandwidth is used for the entire ranging process, then measurement precision is improved, but power consumption increases and signal duration is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ranging process into two distinct phases: a first time unit using a first bandwidth signal for synchronization, and a second time unit using a second bandwidth signal for actual ranging. This segmentation allows the high-power, high-precision second bandwidth signal to be used only when necessary for measurement, rather than continuously throughout the entire process, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining ranging precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by using pulse repetition frequency (PRF) for the second bandwidth signal, transmitting high-power ranging signals at specific intervals rather than continuously. The PRF is configured within a specific range to balance measurement precision requirements with power consumption reduction, allowing the receiver to enter low-power states between pulses.
2Measurement precision
If a UWB signal with large bandwidth is used for the entire ranging process, then measurement precision is improved, but the duration of the signal is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ranging process into distinct time units with different bandwidth requirements. The first time unit uses a lower bandwidth signal for synchronization, and the second time unit uses a high bandwidth signal only for the actual ranging measurement. This segmentation significantly reduces the total duration that the high-power, high-bandwidth second bandwidth signal is transmitted, while still achieving the required measurement precision during the critical measurement phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by using the high-bandwidth second bandwidth signal only for the specific portion of the ranging process that requires high precision (the measurement phase), rather than applying it excessively throughout the entire process. This includes using the second bandwidth signal only during the second time unit for actual ranging, while relying on the first bandwidth signal for synchronization tasks.
3Reliability
If the receiver is always turned on to receive signals, then reliability of signal reception is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by configuring the receiver to operate in a wake-up pattern synchronized with the pulse repetition frequency of the second bandwidth signal. The receiver turns on only during the second time unit when the high-power ranging signal is transmitted, and remains in a low-power state during the first time unit when only the lower-power first bandwidth signal is transmitted, thereby maintaining reception reliability during critical phases while reducing overall power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the receiver turn on in advance before the second time unit begins, based on predefined timing information about when the second bandwidth signal will be transmitted. This allows the receiver to be ready to capture the high-power ranging signal immediately when it arrives, ensuring reliable reception without needing to remain continuously powered on.
Data Source
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AI summary
This application discloses a communication method and apparatus. The communication method includes: A second node sends a synchronization signal in a first time unit, and a first node sends a synchronization response signal in the first time unit in response to the synchronization signal; and the second node receives a first ranging signal in a second time unit, and the first node sends a first ranging response signal in the second time unit in response to the first ranging signal. The synchronization signal is used for time synchronization between the first node and the second node. Both the first time unit and the second time unit are included in a ranging time unit of the second node, the first time unit is configured to send a first bandwidth signal, and the second time unit is configured to send a second bandwidth signal. A bandwidth occupied by the second bandwidth signal is greater than a bandwidth occupied by the first bandwidth signal. This can reduce duration occupied by a large bandwidth signal compared with a manner in which the second bandwidth signal is exchanged in an entire ranging process, thereby reducing power consumption of the node.