Methods and systems for improving the accuracy of expected error estimation in a hybrid positioning system

Abstract

This disclosure describes methods and systems for improving the accuracy of expected error estimation in a hybrid positioning system. In some embodiments, the method of determining an expected error in a location determination of a WLAN and satellite enabled device can include determining a WLAN location estimate and an expected error estimate for the WLAN location estimate, obtaining measurements from at least two satellites, and determining the expected error of the location determination by evaluating the consistency of the satellite positioning system measurements to the WLAN positioning system location estimation.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 059,580, filed on Jun. 6, 2008, entitled Integrated WLAN-based and Satellite-based Positioning System, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.[0002]This application is related to the following references:[0003]U.S. patent application Ser. No. (TBA), filed concurrently herewith and entitled “Method and System for Determining Location Using a Hybrid Satellite and WLAN Positioning System by Selecting the Best WLAN-PS Solution;”[0004]U.S. patent application Ser. No. (TBA), filed concurrently herewith and entitled “Systems and methods for Using Environmental Information in a Hybrid Positioning System;”[0005]U.S. patent application Ser. No. (TBA), filed concurrently herewith and entitled “Systems and Methods for Maintaining Clock Bias Accuracy in a Hybrid Positioning System;”[0006]U.S. patent application Ser. No. (TBA), filed co...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes methods and systems for improving the accuracy of location estimation in a hybrid positioning system that combines WLAN and satellite signals. The methods involve determining WLAN and satellite position estimates and evaluating the consistency of the satellite positioning system measurements to the WLAN positioning system location estimation. By consistent measurements, the expected error in location determination can be reduced. The patent also describes a system that includes a positioning module with a WLAN module and a satellite positioning module for obtaining information from WLAN access points and satellites to calculate position estimates and determine the expected error of the location determination. The technical effects of this patent are improved accuracy and reliability of location estimation in a hybrid positioning system.

Problems solved by technology

Each of these approaches has its strengths and weaknesses, depending upon the nature of the signals and measurements, and the positioning algorithms employed.

In some embodiments, consistent measurements between the WLAN location estimate and the satellite positioning system measurements can result in a lower expected error in the location determination.

In some embodiments, inconsistent measurements between the WLAN location estimate and the satellite positioning system measurements can result in a higher expected error in the location determination.

In some embodiments, consistent measurements between the WLAN location estimate and the satellite positioning system location estimate can result in a lower expected error in the location determination.

In some embodiments, inconsistent measurements between the WLAN location estimate and the satellite positioning system location estimate can result in a higher expected error in the location determination.

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