Wireless Device Distance Estimation Using Beacon Signals
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication networks face challenges in efficiently determining the proximity and distance between devices, particularly in applications where continuous location tracking is required, as existing methods are inaccurate and power-consuming, and often rely on network infrastructure which may not be available or suitable for all scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the transmission of beacon and synchronisation signals between devices to estimate the distance based on round-trip time measurements, allowing devices to determine their separation without relying on network infrastructure, using a low-power mode for efficient power consumption and accurate timing measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current location services are used to determine distance between devices, then absolute location can be determined, but power consumption is high and accuracy is insufficient for proximity detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the distance measurement process into two distinct phases: a low-power beacon transmission phase where devices periodically send beacon signals, and an active measurement phase where timing measurements are performed. This segmentation allows devices to spend most time in low-power mode while achieving accurate distance measurements when needed, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic beacon transmissions at predetermined intervals rather than continuous signaling. Devices transition between wake states (for transmission/reception) and sleep states (for power saving), performing distance measurements periodically. This periodic action significantly reduces power consumption while maintaining the capability for accurate proximity detection when required.
2Reliability
If continuous location tracking is implemented, then proximity detection is improved, but power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts device operation states based on proximity detection needs. Devices transition between wake and sleep states, and between different measurement activities, rather than operating continuously. This dynamic state management maintains reliable proximity detection capability while optimizing power consumption by activating full functionality only when proximity events are detected or expected.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables devices to autonomously manage their own power states and measurement activities based on received beacon signals and local proximity detection requirements. Each device independently determines when to wake, transmit, receive, and measure, eliminating the need for continuous network-coordinated tracking and reducing overall power consumption while maintaining detection reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If network infrastructure is used for location determination, then location services are available, but the system becomes dependent on network connectivity which may not be available in all scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential distance measurement functionality from the network infrastructure context and implements it as a direct device-to-device protocol. By taking out the core timing measurement capability from network-dependent location services, the system achieves operational independence in offline scenarios while maintaining the measurement functionality through simplified peer-to-peer beacon exchange and timing analysis.
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 a reliable and efficient means to determine the distance between devices, reducing power consumption and eliminating the need for network connectivity, thus enhancing proximity detection in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
a first wireless communication device transmitting a first type signal as a beacon signal requesting a second wireless communication device to transmit a second type signal
Data Source
AI summary
A method for estimating a distance between first and second wireless devices, the method comprising while operating in a first mode of operation, receiving by the second wireless device a first type signal as a beacon signal requesting the second wireless device to transmit a second type signal, the beacon signal transmitted by the first wireless device, in response to receiving the beacon signal, the second wireless device transmitting the second type signal, the second type signal being a first synchronisation signal and indicating that the first wireless device is to transmit a second synchronisation signal, determining a first time at which the first synchronisation signal is transmitted, and operating in a second mode of operation in which the first device monitors for a second type signal transmitted by the first wireless device in response to the first synchronisation signal.