Estimation of 3D device position by analyzing ultrasonic reflection signals

In future domestic context aware applications the location of mobile devices is often required. Ultrasound technology enables high resolution indoor position measurements. A disadvantage of state-of-the-art ultrasonic systems is that several base stations are required to estimate 3D position. Since fewer base stations would lead to lower cost and easier setup, a novel method is presented that requires just one base station. The method uses information from acoustic reflections in a room, and estimates 3D positions using an acoustic room-model. The method has been implemented, and verified within an empty room. It can be concluded that ultrasonic reflection data provides useful clues about the 3D position of a device.