Wireless Object Tracking via Spatial-Temporal Information
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current outdoor target localization and tracking methods, such as GPS and inertial navigation systems, face limitations in accuracy and reliability due to the requirement for line-of-sight conditions and sensitivity to noise and distortion, while existing 5G technologies lack effective positioning methods.
Innovation Solution
A wireless object tracking system utilizing a massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) system that transmits and receives wireless signals through a multipath channel, processing spatial-temporal information from channel information to accurately track moving devices with multiple antennas, even in non-line-of-sight conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If GPS is used for outdoor localization, then positioning can be achieved, but accuracy deteriorates when line-of-sight conditions are not available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces wireless channel information as an intermediary medium to transfer spatial-temporal characteristics between transmitter and receiver. By analyzing the multipath components and time delay profiles of wireless signals, the system can infer position data without requiring direct line-of-sight, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and precision in GPS-denied environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical line-of-sight requirement with electromagnetic wave propagation analysis. Instead of relying on direct visual or radio line-of-sight, the system uses the modulation effects of wireless signals on multipath channels to extract positioning information, enabling accurate tracking without physical line-of-sight conditions
2Duration of action of stationary object
If inertial navigation systems are used for tracking, then positioning can be maintained, but reliability deteriorates due to sensitivity to noise and distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring wireless channel characteristics and comparing them with expected signal patterns. The system uses feedback from multiple wireless measurements to correct and validate inertial navigation data, filtering out noise and distortion while maintaining continuous tracking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the wireless communication system serve multiple functions: both data communication and positioning/tracking. By utilizing the same wireless infrastructure for both purposes, the system can cross-validate measurements and improve reliability through multi-functional data fusion, reducing sensitivity to noise and distortion
3Power
If existing 5G technologies are used, then high data rates are achieved, but positioning methods remain ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends 5G wireless infrastructure to perform dual functions: high-speed data communication and precise positioning. By analyzing the spatial-temporal characteristics of 5G signals in multipath environments, the system enables positioning capabilities to emerge from the same infrastructure that provides high data rates, resolving the contradiction between power and measurement precision
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatus and systems for outdoor target tracking are described. In one example, a described system comprises: a transmitter, a receiver, and a processor. The transmitter is configured for transmitting a first wireless signal through a wireless multipath channel. The receiver is configured for receiving a second wireless signal through the wireless multipath channel. One of the transmitter and the receiver is a located device at a known location. The other of the transmitter and the receiver is a moving device. The second wireless signal differs from the first wireless signal due to the wireless multipath channel which is impacted by a movement of the moving device. The processor is configured for: obtaining a plurality of time series of channel information of the wireless multipath channel based on the second wireless signal, computing a spatial-temporal information (STI), and tracking the moving device based on the STI.