In-Vehicle BLE Positioning for Precise Device Location Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in precisely locating electronic devices within or near vehicles, particularly those using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication, due to limitations in distance and position determination methods, which affect the efficient control of vehicle functions.
Innovation Solution
A phase-based distance determination method, specifically BLE channel sounding, is employed to determine multiple distance values from communication units within the vehicle, combined with triangulation and potentially machine-learning-based methods, to accurately locate the device using Bluetooth Low Energy connections, and sensor data from door and occupancy sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If phase-based distance determination method (BLE channel sounding) is used, then measurement precision of device location is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the vehicle into multiple zones (driver zone, front passenger zone, rear passenger zones) and assigns communication units to specific zones. Each communication unit independently performs phase-based distance determination for devices in its zone, segmenting the complex location task into manageable parts while maintaining high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control apparatus that acts as an intermediary between multiple communication units and the central processing system. This intermediary coordinates the phase-based distance determination processes, manages data from multiple BLE channel sounding operations, and reduces the overall system complexity by centralizing the coordination function.
2Measurement precision
If multiple wireless communication connections are established for location determination, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs BLE channel sounding operations periodically rather than continuously, establishing wireless communication connections only when needed for location determination. This periodic activation of multiple communication units reduces energy consumption while maintaining sufficient position precision through scheduled measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent activates only the necessary number of communication units based on the specific location determination needs. Instead of continuously using all available communication units, the system selectively engages the minimum required number (M≥2) to achieve the needed measurement precision, thereby reducing overall energy consumption.
3Measurement precision
If triangulation method is used with multiple distance values, then measurement precision of position is improved, but calculation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control apparatus automatically performs the triangulation calculations using the distance values obtained from phase-based determination. The system self-services by integrating the calculation function within the control apparatus, eliminating the need for external complex computation and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high position precision.
4Adaptability or versatility
If position information is used to control vehicle functions, then adaptability of vehicle system is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different vehicle functions to different spatial zones within the vehicle. Each zone has specific functions that can be controlled when a device is detected in that zone (e.g., driver zone controls driving functions, rear passenger zones control entertainment functions). This local quality approach enables adaptive vehicle control while keeping the system relatively simple by functionally segregating control logic.
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 enables precise and robust location of electronic devices within vehicles, allowing for efficient and position-dependent control of vehicle functions, optimizing resource utilization and reducing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The apparatus is configured to use a phase-based distance determination method, in particular a BLE channel sounding procedure, to determine M distance values for the distance of the electronic device from applicable M communication units of the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus is configured to locate an electronic device in or at a vehicle. The apparatus uses a phase-based distance determination method to determine M distance values for the distance of the electronic device from applicable M communication units of the vehicle, where M is greater than two. The apparatus determines position information relating to the position of the electronic device relative to the vehicle based on the M distance values.