Vehicle UWB Antenna Layout for 3D Key Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle entry systems face challenges in accurately localizing mobile transceivers relative to a vehicle, particularly in three-dimensional space, due to limitations in angle of arrival measurement and 2D localization based on time-of-flight measurements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a vehicle system utilizing multiple ultra-wideband (UWB) antenna modules, divided into subsets for determining signal reception directions in different planes, enables accurate 3D positioning of transceivers by evaluating UWB signals and using polarization diversity for angle measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 2D localization based on time-of-flight measurements is used, then the localization process is simple, but the localization accuracy in three-dimensional space is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D localization to 3D localization by adding antenna modules arranged in perpendicular planes. The first subset of antenna modules determines position in a first plane, while the second subset determines position in a second plane perpendicular to the first, enabling accurate three-dimensional positioning of the transceiver.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna system is segmented into two distinct subsets: a first subset of antenna modules for determining receiving direction in a first plane, and a second subset for determining receiving direction in a second plane. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each plane's measurement capability while combining results for comprehensive 3D localization.
2Measurement precision
If conventional LF radio technologies are used for key localization, then the system is simple to implement, but the localization accuracy and ability to distinguish inside/outside vehicle position is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of radio frequency from conventional low frequency (LF) to ultra-wideband (UWB). This parameter change enables significantly improved localization accuracy through time-of-flight measurements and angle-of-arrival measurements, allowing precise determination of whether the key is inside or outside the vehicle.
3Adaptability or versatility
If high-frequency radio frequencies are used in smartphones for localization, then localization becomes difficult, but the system can leverage existing smartphone hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the UWB localization system universally compatible with smartphones by utilizing the UWB transceiver already integrated into modern smartphone hardware. The vehicle's antenna modules communicate with the smartphone's UWB transceiver, enabling accurate localization without requiring additional specialized hardware in the smartphone.
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 solution enhances localization accuracy, expands position determination to 3D, reduces ambiguities, and improves robustness, enabling novel features like ceremonial access and touchless operation of vehicle hatches.
Implementation Method 1
using polarization diversity for angle measurement
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle is disclosed herein including a plurality of antennas for communicating via ultra-wideband (UWB) and a controller for evaluating a UWB signal of a transceiver, which is received by means of the plurality of antennas. The plurality of antennas include a first subset of one or more antennas and a second subset of one or more antennas. The controller is configured to determine a receiving direction of the signal in a first plane based on signal components of the signal received by means of the antennas of the first subset, and determine a receiving direction of the signal in a second plane based on signal components of the signal received by means of the antennas of the second subset, wherein the first plane is aligned perpendicularly to the second plane. The controller is further configured to determine a position of the transceiver relative to the vehicle based on the receiving direction of the signal in the first plane and based on a receiving direction of the signal in the second plane.