Outdoor Wireless Gunshot Detector Networks for Low-Power 3D Localization

The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with a wireless communication system. Sensors communicate gunshot detection data and location information through wireless signals instead of physical cables, eliminating the need for complex installation of wired arrays while maintaining the ability to accurately locate gunshots through triangulation algorithms.

The patent implements periodic synchronization where wireless sensors wake up at intervals to synchronize their internal clocks with a central base station, then return to sleep mode. This periodic operation allows the sensors to maintain accurate time-stamping for gunshot location calculation while consuming minimal power during sleep, thereby extending battery life from weekly/monthly replacement to much longer operational periods.

The patent implements preliminary clock synchronization before the sensors enter sleep mode. The base station sends synchronization signals that set the internal clocks of all sensors to a common time reference. This preliminary action ensures that even after extended sleep periods, the clocks remain sufficiently synchronized for accurate time-difference-of-arrival calculations, maintaining measurement precision while enabling energy-saving sleep operation.

The patent enhances the location calculation by incorporating three-dimensional spatial coordinates and elevation data in addition to the traditional two-dimensional triangulation. The base station receives signals with information about arrival time, signal strength, and angular direction, allowing it to calculate precise three-dimensional gunshot locations. This dimensional enhancement maintains accuracy even when sensors are spaced far apart for large area coverage.