Dynamic Wi-Fi Mode Switching for Non-Line-of-Sight RTT Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless location systems in retail environments suffer from inaccuracies due to non-line-of-sight issues with Wi-Fi access points, leading to a lack of precision in determining the location of merchandise, which can result in theft or lost sales.
Innovation Solution
A management entity dynamically reconfigures Wi-Fi client devices to switch between station and beacon modes for precise RTT measurements, utilizing a coarse and fine location determination process to enhance localization accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Wi-Fi access points are used for location determination, then wireless connectivity is established, but line-of-sight issues cause location accuracy to deteriorate to 3-10 meters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically switches Wi-Fi client devices between station mode and beacon mode based on location determination needs. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt its operational state to optimize performance for different functions, resolving the contradiction between maintaining normal wireless operations and achieving accurate location determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of Wi-Fi client devices by switching their mode of operation (station mode vs. beacon mode). This parameter change enables the devices to function as precise ranging beacons when needed, improving location accuracy from 3-10 meters to within 1-2 meters by fundamentally altering how they transmit and handle wireless signals.
2Measurement precision
If Wi-Fi client devices switch to beacon mode for accurate RTT measurements, then location precision improves to 1-2 meters, but device operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service through automatic mode switching based on location determination requirements. The management entity coordinates the switching of Wi-Fi client devices between station and beacon modes, eliminating the need for manual configuration and reducing operational complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic switching between station mode and beacon mode rather than continuous operation in one mode. This periodic action allows devices to maintain their primary function while periodically providing precise location measurements, reducing overall operational complexity compared to permanent beacon deployment.
3Measurement precision
If dynamic mode switching is implemented for location determination, then measurement precision improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes Wi-Fi client devices multi-functional by enabling them to operate in both station mode (for normal wireless communication) and beacon mode (for precise location determination). This universality eliminates the need for separate dedicated beacon devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The management entity acts as an intermediary that coordinates the mode switching between Wi-Fi client devices. This intermediary manages the complexity of dynamic reconfiguration centrally, simplifying the overall system architecture compared to distributed autonomous switching while enabling precise RTT measurements.
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
The solution provides accurate location determination of wireless target devices within 1-2 meters, minimizing errors and improving inventory management by ensuring merchandise is tracked effectively.
Implementation Method 1
measure fine positional data from beacon signals of at least one wireless client device... wherein the at least one wireless client device is in a beacon mode
Data Source
AI summary
A management entity (ME) for determining a location of a wireless target device (WTD), where the ME is in signal communication with a plurality of base stations that are each in signal communication with a plurality of wireless client devices. The ME comprises at least one transceiver, at least one memory, and at least one processor. The at least one processor is configured to: obtain mine a coarse location of the WTD; and transmit a mode change command to at least one wireless client device, located near the WTD to switch to a beacon mode based on the coarse location of the WTD.