Vehicle Location Tracking in Manufacturing Using Auxiliary Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Global navigation satellite system (GNSS) sensors are inaccurate in manufacturing environments, particularly indoor settings, leading to challenges in accurately tracking vehicle locations during manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize an auxiliary location detection system, which can include a GNSS repeater system, ultra-wideband (UWB) system, triangulation system, or charging station location detection (CSLD) system, to determine vehicle location by combining image-based and GNSS-based location parameters, activating the auxiliary system when the GNSS accuracy is compromised, and validating manufacturing routines based on location and time conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GNSS sensors are used to track vehicle location in manufacturing environment, then location tracking is enabled, but location accuracy deteriorates due to signal interference and indoor environment limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple location detection systems (GNSS, UWB, triangulation, CSLD) into a unified location tracking system. The system integrates data from different sources and selects the most accurate detection method based on the current environment, thereby maintaining reliable location tracking while improving accuracy in GNSS-challenged indoor manufacturing environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces auxiliary location detection systems as intermediaries to compensate for GNSS signal weaknesses. When GNSS accuracy is insufficient, the system activates alternative detection methods (UWB receivers, triangulation systems, or CSLD systems) that act as mediators to provide accurate location data in indoor environments where direct GNSS signals are blocked or interfered with.
2Measurement precision
If auxiliary location detection system is activated to improve location accuracy, then location precision is enhanced, but system complexity increases due to multiple detection systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic system that automatically selects and activates the most appropriate location detection method based on real-time environmental conditions and vehicle state. The system transitions between different detection systems (GNSS, UWB, triangulation, CSLD) as needed, rather than maintaining all systems continuously active, thereby improving accuracy when needed while managing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The location detection system is designed to self-manage by automatically determining when and which auxiliary detection system to activate based on GNSS signal quality and vehicle conditions. The system monitors its own performance and autonomously switches between detection methods without requiring external intervention, reducing the operational complexity of managing multiple detection systems.
3Measurement precision
If multiple location detection systems are integrated, then location accuracy in indoor environments is improved, but energy consumption increases due to additional systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic activation of auxiliary location detection systems only when GNSS accuracy is insufficient and vehicle movement requires precise tracking. The system activates UWB, triangulation, or CSLD detection methods periodically based on environmental conditions and vehicle state changes, rather than continuously operating all systems, thereby maintaining accuracy when needed while reducing overall energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different location detection methods to different spatial contexts within the manufacturing environment. GNSS is used in outdoor or well-covered areas, while auxiliary systems (UWB, triangulation, CSLD) are activated locally in specific indoor zones where GNSS signals are inadequate. This localized approach ensures high accuracy in critical indoor areas while minimizing energy consumption in areas where simpler GNSS tracking suffices.
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 reliable vehicle location determination in manufacturing environments, even when GNSS accuracy is inhibited, ensuring proper execution of manufacturing routines by selectively using auxiliary detection systems to enhance location precision.
Implementation Method 1
the one or more UWB receivers are configured to determine a time-difference of arrival (TDOA) based on the UWB signals, and the location parameter is based on the TDOA of the one or more UWB receivers
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a location of a vehicle includes a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) location system in a manufacturing environment. The method includes determining, when a key cycle transition condition of the vehicle and a vehicle gear transition condition of the vehicle are satisfied, a location parameter of the vehicle using an auxiliary location detection system, where the location parameter includes a location of the vehicle, identification information of the vehicle, and a timestamp of the vehicle. The method includes determining a vehicle time period based on the location parameter and a previous location parameter of the vehicle and validating a manufacturing routine of the vehicle when the location parameter satisfies a location condition and the vehicle time period satisfies a time condition.