Method and apparatus for ranging finding, orienting, and/or positioning of single and/or multiple devices

摘要

A method and apparatus for ranging finding of signal transmitting devices is provided. The method of signal reception is digitally based only and does not require receivers that are analog measurement devices. Ranging can be achieved using a single pulse emitting device operating in range spaced relation with a minimum of a single signal transmitter and a single digital receiver and processing circuitry. In general a plurality of transmitting pulsed emitters may be ranged and positioned virtually simultaneously in 3-dimensions (XYZ coordinates) using a configuration of a plurality of digital receivers arranged in any fixed 3-dimensional configuration. Applications may involve at least one single transmitter to receiver design to determine range, or at least one transmitted reflecting signal off from an object to determine range.

主权项

1. A device configured to convey a signal for determining a distance travelled by the signal between the device and a receiver, the device comprising a transmitter configured to transmit a series of pulses having a varying pulse strength that varies across the series of pulses in accordance with a designated pulse strength profile, wherein the series of pulses comprises a series of body pulses, and wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit a train of pulses including a series of preamble pulses having a substantially constant pulse strength, and the series of body pulses, and a signal processor configured to process the body pulses received by the receiver, and to output a value according to a number of said body pulses above a designated threshold value, representative of the distance travelled.