Inventor(s): Lichuan Liu
Abstract
In wireless sensor networks (WSN), exact location and position information acquisition is critical for both performance and efficiency of network performance. The sensing of data without accurate positioning is limiting. This innovative WSN method utilizes two types of nodes. Reference nodes with known locations transmit linear frequency modulation continuous wave (FMCW) signals while general sensor nodes estimate the range difference to reference nodes based on the received signals “frequency difference.” Exact location information is then obtained by solving a set of hyperbolic equations and does not require the synchronizations of traditional GPS systems. Excellent performance and accuracy is obtained by utilizing the linear frequency modulation continuous wave (FMCW) and frequency difference of arrival (FDOA) techniques.
Potential commercial use and users:
Civilian and military areas; environmental monitoring and protection, tragedy rescue, wild animal protection
Advantages:
This new wireless sensor network (WSN) positioning method is cost-effective, scalable, and is easily implemented. Unlike Global Positioning Systems, which require access to a minimum of four satellites for accurate position location and thereby require high power, larger sizes and higher costs to utilize, this system does not rely on satellites and thereby can be utilized in many environments and applications that are challenging for traditional GPS nodes. These areas include urban areas with tall buildings, indoors, tunnels, as well as mountainous and forested areas. The reduced sensor nodes power and size requirements along with lower associated costs than traditional GPS nodes make this technology more adaptable to portable and wearable devices.
Status: Patent Pending
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