Indoor Target Tracking via Wireless Distance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional indoor location tracking systems require multiple fixed reference nodes and sensor systems, leading to high installation costs and limited applicability in confined areas, as they are not optimized for accurate distance measurement in indoor environments without interference from ambient factors.
Innovation Solution
A method using two wireless distance measurers, where a location tracking apparatus determines its initial direction and moves to the minimum distance from a target, allowing direct tracking without fixed nodes or sensors, utilizing a fixed tag and a mobile tag to measure distances via Time of Arrival signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple fixed reference nodes and sensor systems are used for indoor location tracking, then tracking accuracy is improved, but installation cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of distance measurement from the complex reference node system and implements it using only two wireless distance measurers. By removing the need for multiple fixed reference nodes and sensor systems, the solution achieves tracking accuracy while significantly reducing installation complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The location tracking apparatus performs self-tracking by measuring distances to the target using wireless distance measurers without requiring external reference nodes or sensor systems. The mobile tag and fixed tag independently measure distances and exchange information to determine relative coordinates, eliminating the need for complex infrastructure.
2Ease of operation
If conventional infrared or ultrasonic tracking methods are used, then target tracking is achieved, but measurement accuracy is reduced due to ambient interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical and optical measurement systems (infrared, ultrasonic) with a wireless distance measuring system based on electromagnetic signals. This substitution eliminates interference from ambient factors such as sunlight and nearby lights, achieving higher measurement accuracy while maintaining ease of operation.
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 accurate and cost-effective tracking of a fixed target using minimal system resources within an indoor environment, eliminating the need for extensive equipment and reducing installation complexity.
Implementation Method 1
measuring the Time of Arrival (ToA) of a signal at the target
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for sensorless tracking of an indoor target using a wireless distance measuring technology. A location tracking apparatus is initially moved, and then it is determined whether or not an initial traveling direction of the location tracking apparatus is forward or backward with respect to the target. A minimum distance between the location tracking apparatus and the target during the movement is determined, the minimum distance is stored, and the location tracking apparatus is moved to a location corresponding to the minimum distance, where it is determined whether the location tracking apparatus is directed forward or backward with respect to the target at the location corresponding to the minimum distance. The location tracking apparatus is then moved to the target.