Vehicle Tracking Device Using Map Correlation for GPS-Denied Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing navigation systems for vehicles rely heavily on continuous GPS or inertial navigation systems, which are inaccurate over long distances and require external references, and lack a self-contained, autonomous solution that does not need constant data connection.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determines a vehicle's position by correlating its linear and angular velocities with a specially constructed map layer, using sensors like speedometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers, without relying on continuous GPS or inertial guidance systems, and is powered by solar energy with no wired connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS-based methods are used to determine vehicle position, then positional accuracy is improved, but the system cannot operate in situations where GPS signal reception is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces map data as an intermediary reference system. Instead of relying solely on GPS satellites, the system uses pre-stored map data containing road geometry information as a mediator to calculate vehicle position. The vehicle's traveled distance and direction from inertial sensors are correlated with map road networks to determine position, enabling operation without direct GPS signal reception.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-storing detailed map data including road geometries, intersections, and pathways in the vehicle's memory before GPS signal loss occurs. This pre-loaded geographic information serves as a reference framework that enables position calculation during GPS-denied environments, eliminating the need for real-time satellite reception.
2Adaptability or versatility
If inertial navigation systems are used to calculate position and direction, then the system can operate without external references, but errors are cumulative and become large over long distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously correlating the vehicle's inertially-derived position and orientation with pre-stored map data. The system compares the calculated traveled path against known road geometries and uses this comparison to detect and correct cumulative inertial errors. This closed-loop feedback mechanism maintains positional accuracy over long distances without requiring continuous GPS reception.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines multiple data sources into a composite positioning solution: inertial sensor data (accelerometers, gyroscopes) provide continuous motion measurement, while pre-stored map data provides geographic reference. By fusing these different data types with complementary strengths, the system achieves both operational independence and long-term positional accuracy that neither source could provide alone.
3Measurement precision
If combination of INS and GPS systems is used, then positional accuracy is improved, but the system still suffers from GPS errors and requires continuous external reference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the continuous GPS dependency from the navigation system while retaining the beneficial aspects of map-based correction. By using only pre-stored map data without requiring real-time GPS signal reception or processing, the system eliminates GPS-related errors and complexities while maintaining the ability to correct inertial drift through map correlation.
4Measurement precision
If map matching algorithms are used to correct positional errors, then accuracy is improved, but the system requires continuous data connection and external reference
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by downloading and storing complete map data sets locally in the vehicle's memory before deployment or during initial setup. This pre-loaded geographic information includes all necessary road geometries, intersections, and pathways needed for map matching, enabling the system to perform position correction algorithms entirely offline without requiring continuous data connection to external servers.
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 provides accurate and precise vehicle positioning with reduced energy consumption and no need for continuous external data, improving navigation accuracy and battery life while being cost-effective and easy to install.
Implementation Method 1
The tracking device is powered by solar energy
Data Source
AI summary
A self-contained integrated portable vehicle tracking system that does not comprise any wired connection to any device or location external to the container unit is disclosed. The tracking system comprises a microcontroller unit (MCU); a GPS receiver in communication with said MCU; a GPS patch antenna connected to said MCU; a wireless transceiver in communication with said MCU; a power source comprising a solar cell; and a power management system. In addition, a method for determining the position of a moving vehicle with high accuracy is disclosed. Unlike methods known in the art, the method disclosed herein does not require the use of an inertial navigation system or continuous operation of a GPS. The method comprises determining the velocity of the moving object from a determination of its speed and angular velocity and correlating the signals obtained from the velocity sensors with a map data layer.