Method and apparatus for mobile station location estimation

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for estimating mobile station location include receiving reported signal strengths or other attachment indicator values from a mobile station. The reported signal strengths are compared with characteristic received signal strength values in a coverage area of a mobile network. A mobile switching center determines if a local function is requested and initiates a location estimation process by a mobile location module (MLM). The MLM receives the reported signal strength contours associated with the attachment points. Based on a comparison of the reported attachment indicator values with characteristic values, the MLM provides a mobile location estimate.

Description

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to US Provisional Patent Application 60 / 281,147, filed April 3,2001. technical field [0002] The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for determining the location of a mobile station in a wireless network. Background technique [0003] Mobile telephone systems, also known as cellular telephone systems, are becoming increasingly popular. These systems typically consist of cell sites that are configured to serve associated coverage areas, referred to as cells. A cell site is located within a cell where communication hardware such as antennas and wireless base stations are installed. A mobile station operating within a particular cell in the system communicates with the mobile telephone system through an associated cell site. The cell sites communicate with a mobile switching center, which connects the mobile telephone system to the landline telephone network. [0004] One reason for the popularity of cell...

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