초록 ▼

A method and apparatus for continuously locating moveable objects is presented. In one or more embodiments of the present invention, moving objects can be tracked in real-time anywhere in the world, including inside tunnels. A smart mobile unit in the object receives and uses GPS satellite positioni

A method and apparatus for continuously locating moveable objects is presented. In one or more embodiments of the present invention, moving objects can be tracked in real-time anywhere in the world, including inside tunnels. A smart mobile unit in the object receives and uses GPS satellite positioning data when available and relies on its built-in autonomous navigation capability when GPS is invalid to continuously determine its current position in map-ready units. The smart mobile unit transmits the position output, using an automatically selected wireless mode of communication, to a central processing station for map generation and display processing. Authorized clients may log onto the central processing station to view the object or multiple objects from anywhere in the world; all that is required is a computer equipment with a display device and a web browser. The client enters the object identification number for all the objects for which tracking is desired and the central processing station generates a map of the area where the objects are and sends an image of the map to the browser for display. The display is real-time, however, the client may view past history/trajectory of the objects.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A method for continuously locating an object comprising:obtaining initial position data at an object indicating a location of said object;determining if said initial data is valid;processing said initial data in said object to derive filtered position data, wherein said

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A method for continuously locating an object comprising:obtaining initial position data at an object indicating a location of said object;determining if said initial data is valid;processing said initial data in said object to derive filtered position data, wherein said processing occurs when said data is valid;obtaining inertial data when said initial data is invalid;using said inertial data to compute new position data at said object; storing said new position data at said object in a data repository.