Abstract: A space efficient magnetic antenna is disclosed for use in tracking, positioning and other applications. In a preferred embodiment, a space efficient magnetic antenna system comprises a first magnetic antenna with a first null axis aligned within a predetermined plane and a second magnetic antenna having a second null axis aligned substantially orthogonal to a first null axis. A second magnetic antenna system lies in a minimal coupling orientation with respect to a first magnetic antenna system. Additionally, a first magnetic antenna may further comprise a plurality of interconnected magnetic antenna elements. A space efficient magnetic antenna system may include an RF module. An RF module may alternately utilize a first magnetic antenna and a second magnetic antenna, or an RF module may drive a second magnetic antenna in phase quadrature with respect to a first magnetic antenna.

Abstract: A tag-along microsensor device comprises a means for transmitting a signal, adhesion means, and sensing means. In a preferred embodiment, a means for transmitting a signal includes a nano-antenna apparatus. Adhesion means may include mechanical, magnetic, or static electric adhesion means. Mechanical adhesion means may include a hook or barb, or a chemical adhesion means such as glue or other sticky chemical adhesive. Sensing means may include sensing of audio signals, accelerometers, gyros, or other sensors. Alternatively, a tag-along microsensor method includes the steps of deploying a tag-along microsensor, transmitting a signal from a tag-along microsensor, receiving a signal, and acting on a signal.

Abstract: Near field signal properties are used to determine a location by utilizing two magnetic antennas arranged so that the null axes are perpendicular and lie in a plane of interest, such as the horizontal plane. The two antennas may be used as transmitting antennas or receiving antennas. The antennas may be driven so as to produce an equivalent of an omnidirectional pattern in the plane of interest by driving the antennas in an orthogonal manner. The orthogonal drive may be time orthogonal or phase orthogonal. A location is determined based on near field response which may include propagation properties, which may include amplitude, phase, relative amplitude, or phase, or other properties. In one embodiment, multiple transmitters are utilized to determine the location of a single receiver. In another embodiment, multiple receivers are utilized to determine the location of a single transmitter. A space efficient magnetic antenna is disclosed.