Ultrasonic Array-Based Multi-Source Fusion Indoor Positioning Technology

Area of Science:

• Robotics and Automation
• Geospatial Technology
• Mining Engineering

Background:

• Underground mining presents significant safety risks due to environmental hazards.
• Lack of reliable positioning systems hinders automation and worker safety in subterranean environments.
• Satellite-based navigation is ineffective in underground mines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a high-precision indoor localization system for underground mining.
• To enhance safety and efficiency in automated mining operations.
• To overcome the limitations of satellite-based positioning in subterranean environments.

Main Methods:

• Integration of Bluetooth for coarse positioning and ultrasonic arrays for fine calibration.
• Implementation of an improved multi-transmitter-multi-receiver algorithm with ultrasonic receiver arrays.
• Incorporation of Geometric Dilution of Precision (GDOP) analysis for network optimization.
• Integration of an inertial navigation module for tracking object posture and trajectory.

Main Results:

• The proposed indoor localization system achieved a positioning accuracy within 10 cm.
• The system demonstrated a 20% reduction in error compared to conventional methods.
• The developed algorithm enabled accurate localization within complex mining environments.

Conclusions:

• The developed high-precision indoor localization system is highly beneficial for underground mining applications.
• This technology can significantly improve safety and operational efficiency in automated mining.
• The system provides a robust solution for navigation in GPS-denied subterranean environments.