Vehicle UWB Module Auto-Location Using Distance Ranging

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing systems for installing ultra-wide band (UWB) modules in vehicles require physical differences, such as unique connector configurations, to ensure correct placement, which increases manufacturing costs and resource requirements due to the need for multiple part numbers and complex part approval processes.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that utilize UWB modules with the same physical characteristics across different locations, employing a control module to automatically detect and assign unique network addresses based on distance measurements between modules, allowing for accurate location determination and authorization of vehicle functions without physical differentiation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If different physical characteristics are used for UWB modules at different locations, then installation accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation accuracyVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies homogeneity by making all UWB modules physically identical in terms of connector configuration and physical characteristics. Instead of using different physical configurations for different locations, the system uses uniform modules throughout, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining installation accuracy through automated identification methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #33Homogeneity

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical differentiation system (different connector configurations) with an electronic/algorithmic system. The control module uses automated identification algorithms and spatial relationship analysis to determine module locations, substituting physical mechanical differences with electronic identification and computational methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If different physical configurations are used for UWB modules, then location identification is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocation identification accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical differentiation (different connector configurations) with an electronic control system that uses automated identification algorithms. The control module receives identification information from all modules and uses spatial relationship analysis to determine locations, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining location identification accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service by allowing the control module to automatically identify module locations without manual configuration or physical differentiation. The modules self-identify through their identification information, and the system automatically determines spatial relationships and assigns locations based on measured distances and known module positions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If multiple part numbers are used for different UWB modules, then installation correctness is improved, but time and resource requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation correctnessVSAvoidpart approval time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by using a single part number for all UWB modules regardless of their installation location. All modules have the same physical characteristics and connector configurations, allowing them to be universally installed at any location. The control module then universally identifies and assigns locations to all modules using automated algorithms, eliminating the need for location-specific part numbers and reducing approval time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 cost-effective and efficient installation of UWB modules with the same physical characteristics at different locations, reducing manufacturing costs and resource requirements while ensuring accurate module placement and vehicle function authorization.

Implementation Method 1

each UWB module being configured to perform UWB distance ranging with a portable device and with every other UWB module of the plurality of UWB modules

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectUltra-wide band distance ranging: Time of Flight

Data Source

PatentUS11987208B2UWB module auto location in vehicle

Publication Date: 2024.05.21 DENSO INTERNATIONAL AMERICA INC

AI summary

Systems and method are provided and include ultra-wide band (UWB) modules located within a vehicle at module locations that are located at known distances relative to each other. The UWB modules perform UWB distance ranging with a portable device and with each other. A control module instructs each UWB module to perform distance ranging with every other UWB module of the plurality of UWB modules, receives a set of measurements associated with each UWB module, performs a comparison of the measurements with the known distances, and determines locations for each UWB module based on the comparison, the locations being one of the plurality of module locations.