Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To accurately determine a range for accessing a base station.SOLUTION: An information processing device comprises a processing unit. The processing unit uses intensity data expressing the intensity of wireless signals transmitted and received between one or more communication devices and a plurality of base stations, in order to extract one or more combinations including a plurality of base stations for transmitting and receiving a wireless signal between one or more first communication devices included in the one or more communication devices. The processing unit calculates a distance between a plurality of base stations respectively included in the combinations, and one or more first communication devices respectively, for each combination, by using the intensity data. The processing unit determines an access range expressing a range in which a wireless signal can be transmitted and received between the plurality of base stations, by using the calculated distances, and the positions of the plurality of base stations included in the combinations, for each combination.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] A method of measuring the number of communication devices within a specific range (area, space) using information on access to base stations by communication devices carried by individuals and calculating the number of communication devices as the number of people staying within that range has become increasingly widespread with the spread of portable communication devices such as smartphones. A specific method that has been proposed is to set in advance the range accessible by communication devices (access range) for each base station, and determine whether the communication device is located within the access range of the base station with the strongest signal strength from the communication device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6927936 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The signal strength of a communication terminal may be attenuated by obstructions (obstacles). For this reason, the communication terminal may not necessarily be located within the access range of the base station with the strongest signal. For example, in the method of presetting the access range for each base station as described above, the access range is set without taking into account the effects of obstructions, etc., and as a result, the number of communication terminals present within the access range may not be determined appropriately.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that can determine the accessible range of a base station with higher accuracy. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes a processing unit. The processing unit uses strength data representing the strength of wireless signals transmitted and received between one or more communication devices and the plurality of base stations to extract one or more combinations including a plurality of base stations that transmit and receive wireless signals to and from one or more first communication devices included in the one or more communication devices. For each combination, the processing unit calculates a distance between each of the plurality of base stations included in the combination and each of the one or more first communication devices using the strength data. For each combination, the processing unit determines an access range representing a range over which wireless signals can be transmitted and received between the plurality of base stations and the combination, using the calculated distance and the positions of the plurality of base stations included in the combination. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a communication system applicable to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of intensity data. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of intensity data. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart of information processing according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart of an extraction process. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a combination table. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of an intensity table. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart of a distance calculation process. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a distance table. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart of an access range determination process according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a circular range. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a circular range. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of access range data. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart of a distribution data calculation process. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of distribution data. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen output in the output process. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a loss / gain table. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which access ranges overlap. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which multiple circular ranges for multiple base stations do not overlap. [Figure 21] 13 is a flowchart of an access range determination process according to a fourth modification. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an access range obtained in Modification 4. [Figure 23] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of access range data according to Modification 4. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a hardware configuration diagram of an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of an information processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0009] An information processing device according to an embodiment estimates a range within which multiple base stations can be accessed (hereinafter referred to as an access range) by using the signal strength of a wireless signal when one or more communication terminals (communication devices) access multiple base stations. For example, the information processing device according to an embodiment inputs strength data describing the strength of a wireless signal that can be acquired from each of multiple base stations, and outputs access range data describing information about the access range. The information processing device according to an embodiment also calculates and outputs distribution data indicating the number of communication terminals present within the access range.

[0010] First, an example of connection between a communication terminal and a base station will be described. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a communication system 10 applicable to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the communication system 10 includes two base stations SA and SB, and five communication terminals x001 to x005.

[0011] The base stations SA and SB may be referred to as base station S when there is no need to distinguish them. The communication terminals x001 to x005 may be referred to as communication terminal x when there is no need to distinguish them. The configuration of the communication system 10 in FIG. 1 is an example and is not limited to this. The communication system 10 may include three or more base stations S, or one to four, or six or more communication terminals x.

[0012] The base station S and the communication terminal x transmit and receive information via wireless communication. The wireless communication may be of any type, but is realized by wireless communication technologies such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), the fifth generation mobile communication system (5G), and Bluetooth (registered trademark). When Wi-Fi is applied, the base station S corresponds to an access point, and the communication terminal x corresponds to a terminal such as a smartphone.

[0013] Hereinafter, each function of the information processing device 100 will be described mainly using the example of the communication system 10 in FIG.

[0014] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the information processing device 100 includes a storage unit 121, an acquisition unit 101, an extraction unit 102, a distance calculation unit 103, a determination unit 104, a distribution calculation unit 105, and an output control unit 106.

[0015] The storage unit 121 stores various types of information used in the information processing device 100. For example, the storage unit 121 stores various types of information acquired by the acquisition unit 101, intermediate data used in processing by each unit, output data by each unit, etc. The storage unit 121 can be configured using any commonly used storage medium, such as a flash memory, a memory card, a RAM (Random Access Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an optical disk.

[0016] The acquisition unit 101 acquires various types of information used in the information processing device 100. Any method for acquiring information by the acquisition unit 101 may be used, but for example, a method of receiving information via a network such as the Internet, or a method of reading information stored in a storage medium can be applied.

[0017] For example, the acquisition unit 101 acquires strength data indicating the strength of wireless signals transmitted and received between one or more communication terminals x and multiple base stations S. The acquisition unit 101 acquires the strength data via a network, for example, from each base station S or a server device that collects and manages strength data from each base station S.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of strength data. In the example of FIG. 3, strength data is created for each base station S. The strength data includes an ID and a signal strength. The ID is identification information that identifies the communication terminal x whose signal strength is observed. The signal strength represents the strength of the wireless signal between the corresponding communication terminal x and the base station S. Although FIG. 3 shows an example of strength data represented in a table format, the strength data is not limited to the table format and may be represented in any other format. The same applies to each data and each table described hereinafter.

[0019] The acquiring unit 101 stores the acquired strength data for each base station S in the storage unit 121. In the example of Fig. 3, strength data is acquired for each base station S. The acquiring unit 101 may acquire one piece of strength data including information on signal strengths acquired from multiple base stations S.

[0020] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the intensity data in such a case. As shown in Fig. 4, the intensity data includes an ID, a signal intensity, and a base station. The base station represents identification information that identifies the base station from which the intensity data was obtained. The acquisition unit 101 acquires the intensity data shown in Fig. 4 from, for example, a server device that collects and manages intensity data.

[0021] The extraction unit 102 uses the intensity data to extract one or more combinations including a plurality of base stations S that transmit and receive wireless signals to and from one or more communication terminals T1 (first communication devices) included in the communication terminal x.

[0022] The distance calculation unit 103 calculates the distance between the base station S and the communication terminal T1 for each combination. For example, for each extracted combination, the distance calculation unit 103 calculates the distance between each of the multiple base stations S included in the combination and each of the one or more communication terminals T1 that transmit and receive wireless signals to and from the base station S, using the intensity data.

[0023] For each combination, the determination unit 104 determines an access range that represents the range in which wireless signals can be transmitted and received between the multiple base stations S, using the calculated distance and the positions of the multiple base stations S included in the combination.

[0024] For example, the determination unit 104 calculates a representative value of the distance to the communication terminal T1 for each of the multiple base stations S included in each combination. The representative value is, for example, the maximum value of the distance from the base station S to the communication terminal T1. The representative value is not limited to the maximum value, and may be, for example, the average value, the median value, the third quartile value, or the like.

[0025] The determination unit 104 determines a range based on the position of the base station S and the representative value. The range based on the position of the base station S and the representative value is, for example, the range inside a circle (hereinafter referred to as a circular range) with the position of the base station S as its center and the representative value as its radius. The determination unit 104 determines, as the access range, a range where the multiple ranges determined for the multiple base stations S included in the combination overlap.

[0026] The distribution calculation unit 105 calculates distribution data indicating the number of communication terminals T1 included in the access range for each combination. Note that if there is no need to calculate distribution data, the distribution calculation unit 105 does not need to be provided.

[0027] The output control unit 106 controls the output of various information used in the information processing device 100. For example, the output control unit 106 outputs information indicating the access range obtained by the determination unit 104. When distribution data is calculated, the output control unit 106 may output the calculated distribution data.

[0028] At least a part of each of the above units (acquisition unit 101, extraction unit 102, distance calculation unit 103, determination unit 104, distribution calculation unit 105, and output control unit 106) may be realized by one or more processing units. Each of the above units is realized, for example, by one or more processors. For example, each of the above units may be realized by having a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) execute a program, that is, by software. Each of the above units may be realized by a processor such as a dedicated IC (Integrated Circuit), that is, by hardware. Each of the above units may be realized by a combination of software and hardware. When multiple processors are used, each processor may realize one of the units, or may realize two or more of the units.

[0029] The information processing device 100 may be physically configured as one device or may be physically configured as multiple devices. For example, the information processing device 100 may be built in a cloud environment. Furthermore, each unit within the information processing device 100 may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0030] Next, information processing by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment will be described. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of information processing according to the embodiment. Fig. 5 is based on the premise that the intensity data of each base station S has been acquired by the acquisition unit 101 and stored in, for example, the storage unit 121. The acquisition unit 101 may be configured to acquire the intensity data during the extraction process (step S101).

[0031] The extraction unit 102 extracts one or more combinations of base stations S using the strength data (step S101, extraction process). For example, the extraction unit 102 reads the strength data of each base station S from the storage unit 121, and finds one or more communication terminals T1 for which at least two or more base stations S have observed the signal strength of the communication terminal T1. For each of one or more communication terminals T1, the extraction unit 102 extracts combinations including two or more base stations S that have observed the signal strength of the communication terminal T1. Furthermore, the extraction unit 102 classifies communication terminals T1 for which the same combination (combination including the same base station S) has been extracted into the same group.

[0032] The distance calculation unit 103 calculates the distance between the base station S and the communication terminal T1 for each extracted combination (step S102, distance calculation process). For example, for each extracted combination, the distance calculation unit 103 calculates the distance between each of the multiple base stations S included in the combination and one or more communication terminals T1 classified into a group corresponding to the combination, using the intensity data.

[0033] The determination unit 104 determines the access range of each base station S for each combination (step S103, access range determination process). For example, the determination unit 104 calculates a representative value of the distance between each base station S included in each combination of base stations S. The determination unit 104 determines the access range using the position of each base station S and the representative value calculated for each base station S, and outputs access range data indicating the determined access range.

[0034] The distribution calculation unit 105 calculates, for each combination, distribution data indicating the number of communication terminals T1 included in the corresponding access range (step S104, distribution data calculation process). For example, the distribution calculation unit 105 calculates, as the distribution data, the number of communication terminals, which is the number of communication terminals T1 classified into the corresponding group, for each access range.

[0035] The output control unit 106 outputs the processing result (step S105, output processing) and ends the information processing. For example, the output control unit 106 outputs the access range data obtained in step S103 and the distribution data obtained in step S104.

[0036] Next, a detailed description will be given of the processing performed by each unit of the information processing device 100. First, a detailed description will be given of the extraction processing in step S101. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the extraction processing.

[0037] The extraction unit 102 acquires strength data of all base stations S, for example, from the storage unit 121 (step S201). The extraction unit 102 initializes a counter j for identifying a communication terminal x to 1 (step S202). The counter j takes a value from 1 to the number J of communication terminals (J is an integer equal to or greater than 1). The number J of communication terminals can be calculated, for example, from the number of types of IDs included in the strength data.

[0038] The extraction unit 102 extracts combinations of a plurality of base stations S for which the strength of the wireless signal from the j-th communication terminal x has been observed (step S203). The extraction unit 102 determines whether or not the combination has been extracted (step S204).

[0039] In the example of the strength data in FIG. 3, for example, the signal strength of communication terminal x having an ID of "x001" is observed only at base station SA. Therefore, the extraction unit 102 cannot extract a combination of multiple base stations S. In such a case, the extraction unit 102 determines that the combination has not been extracted. On the other hand, for example, the signal strength of communication terminal x having an ID of "x002" is observed at both base station SA and base station SB. Therefore, the extraction unit 102 can extract "base station SA, base station SB," which is a combination of multiple base stations S. In such a case, the extraction unit 102 determines that the combination has been extracted.

[0040] If a combination has been extracted (step S204: Yes), the extraction unit 102 determines whether a new combination has been extracted (step S205). For example, in the example of FIG. 1 (FIG. 3), there are two base stations S (base stations SA and SB), so once a combination is extracted for a certain communication terminal x, a new combination will not be extracted for a subsequent communication terminal x. Note that if there are three or more base stations S, multiple types of combinations are possible, so a new combination may be extracted.

[0041] If a new combination is extracted (step S205: Yes), the extraction unit 102 stores information indicating the extracted combination in the combination table (step S206).

[0042] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a combination table. As shown in Fig. 7, the combination table includes information on base stations included in the combination. In the example of Fig. 7, the identification information "SA, SB" of base station SA and base station SB is stored in the combination table as information on the base stations included in the combination.

[0043] Returning to the explanation of Fig. 6, the extraction unit 102 creates an intensity table (step S207). The intensity tables are created in the same number as the number of elements in the combination table.

[0044] After the intensity table is created, or if it is determined in step S205 that a new combination has not been extracted (step S205: No), the extracting unit 102 writes to the intensity table in steps S208 to S211.

[0045] That is, the extraction unit 102 initializes a counter k for identifying a base station to 1 (step S208). The counter k takes a value from 1 to the number K of base stations S included in the combination (K is an integer of 2 or more).

[0046] The extraction unit 102 stores the signal strength of the jth communication terminal at the kth base station S in the strength table (step S209). The extraction unit 102 determines whether all base stations S included in the combination have been processed (step S210).

[0047] If all base stations S have not been processed (step S210: No), the extracting unit 102 adds 1 to the counter k (step S211), and returns to step S209 to repeat the process.

[0048] When all base stations S have been processed (step S210: Yes), or when it is determined in step S204 that no combination has been extracted (step S204: No), the extraction unit 102 determines whether all communication terminals have been processed (step S212). For example, when the counter j reaches J, the extraction unit 102 determines that all communication terminals have been processed.

[0049] If all communication terminals have not been processed (step S212: No), the extraction unit 102 increments the counter j by 1 (step S213) and returns to step S203 to repeat the process. If all communication terminals have been processed (step S212: Yes), the extraction unit 102 outputs the combination table and the strength table (step S214) and ends the extraction process.

[0050] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of a strength table. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the strength table includes an ID and a strength for each base station. The ID is identification information of a communication terminal x whose signal strength has been observed at multiple base stations S included in the corresponding combination table. The same number of strength columns are set as the number of base stations S. That is, the strength table is a table in which, for a communication terminal x whose ID is described in the first column, the signal strength observed at each corresponding base station is described in the second and subsequent columns. In the example of FIG. 8, the signal strengths of communication terminals x002, x003, and x004 whose signals have been observed at both base stations SA and SB are stored in the corresponding columns for each base station SA and SB.

[0051] In this way, the extraction unit 102 classifies the communication terminals x002, x003, and x004 for which combinations including the same base stations SA and SB have been extracted into the same group, and can create a strength table for each combination corresponding to the group.

[0052] In addition, the extraction unit 102 may classify only communication terminals x whose signal strength is greater than a threshold into a group in order to exclude communication terminals x whose signal strength is low.

[0053] Next, the distance calculation process in step S102 will be described in detail below. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the distance calculation process.

[0054] The distance calculation unit 103 acquires the combination table and the strength table output from the extraction unit 102 (step S301). The distance calculation unit 103 acquires unprocessed combinations from the combinations stored in the combination table (step S302). The distance calculation unit 103 initializes a counter j for identifying a communication terminal x and a counter k for identifying a base station to 1 (step S303).

[0055] The distance calculation unit 103 calculates the distance between the j-th communication terminal and the k-th base station (step S304). For example, the distance calculation unit 103 assumes that there is no obstruction (obstacle) that blocks the wireless signal and calculates the distance d using the transmission loss in free space (free space transmission loss), as shown in the following equation (1): Distance d:=λ√(P-signal strength) / (4π) ···(1)

[0056] The signal strength can be obtained from a strength table. λ represents the wavelength of the wireless signal. P represents the signal strength at the time of transmission. The wavelength λ and the signal strength P at the time of transmission may be predetermined constants, or may be obtained from the strength data together with the signal strength. In the latter case, for example, the strength data is configured to include the signal strength at the time of transmission along with the observed signal strength. The strength data may include the type of communication terminal x (e.g., the type of smartphone) instead of the signal strength at the time of transmission. In this case, the distance calculation unit 103 obtains the type of communication terminal x from the strength data and calculates the distance d using the signal strength at the time of transmission that is predetermined for the obtained type.

[0057] The distance d calculated by equation (1) can be interpreted as an ideal distance calculated on the assumption that the signal strength is not attenuated by shields or obstacles, that is, that the signal is attenuated only by distance.

[0058] The distance calculation unit 103 creates a distance table for each combination and stores the calculated distance d in the distance table (step S305). Details of the distance table will be described later.

[0059] The distance calculation unit 103 determines whether all base stations S included in the combination have been processed (step S306). If all base stations S have not been processed (step S306: No), the distance calculation unit 103 adds 1 to the counter k (step S307) and returns to step S304 to repeat the process.

[0060] If all base stations S have been processed (step S306: Yes), distance calculation unit 103 determines whether all communication terminals have been processed (step S308). For example, distance calculation unit 103 determines that all communication terminals have been processed when counter j reaches J.

[0061] If all communication terminals have not been processed (step S308: No), distance calculation unit 103 increments counter j by 1 (step S309) and returns to step S304 to repeat the process. If all communication terminals have been processed (step S308: Yes), distance calculation unit 103 determines whether all combinations have been processed (step S310).

[0062] If all combinations have not been processed (step S310: No), the distance calculation unit 103 returns to step S302 and repeats the process for the next unprocessed combination. If all combinations have been processed (step S310: Yes), the distance calculation unit 103 outputs the distance table (step S311) and ends the distance calculation process.

[0063] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a distance table. As shown in Fig. 10, the distance table includes an ID and a distance d for each base station. The ID is identification information of a communication terminal x whose signal strength has been observed at multiple base stations S included in the corresponding combination. The number of distance columns is set equal to the number of base stations S. That is, the distance table is a table in which, for a communication terminal x whose ID is written in the first column, the distances to each corresponding base station are written in the second and subsequent columns. In the example of Fig. 10, the distances d for communication terminals x002, x003, and x004 are stored in the corresponding columns for each base station SA and SB.

[0064] Next, the access range determination process in step S103 will be described in detail with reference to a flowchart of FIG.

[0065] The determination unit 104 acquires the combination table output from the extraction unit 102 and the distance table output from the distance calculation unit 103 (step S401). The determination unit 104 acquires unprocessed combinations from the combinations stored in the combination table (step S402). The determination unit 104 initializes a counter k for identifying a base station to 1 (step S403).

[0066] The determination unit 104 calculates the maximum value (an example of a representative value) of the distances d calculated for the kth base station, and determines the calculated maximum value as the radius of a circle centered on the position of the base station (step S404).

[0067] The determination unit 104 determines whether all base stations included in the combination have been processed (step S405). If all base stations S have not been processed (step S405: No), the determination unit 104 increments the counter k by 1 (step S406) and returns to step S404 to repeat the process. If all base stations S have been processed (step S405: Yes), the determination unit 104 determines whether all combinations have been processed (step S407).

[0068] If all combinations have not been processed (step S407: No), the determination unit 104 returns to step S402 and repeats the process for the next unprocessed combination. If all combinations have been processed (step S407: Yes), the determination unit 104 outputs access range data including the determined radius (step S408) and ends the access range determination process.

[0069] The access range data indicates an access range created for each combination. The access range data includes, for example, identification information for each of the multiple base stations included in the combination and a radius determined for each base station. Such access range data indicates that the access range is an overlapping range of multiple circular ranges centered on the positions of the multiple base stations and defined by the determined radii. The access range data may further include location information indicating the positions of the base stations. Details of the access range data will be described later.

[0070] An example of determining the access range will be described. As described above, the distance calculation unit 103 calculates the distance (ideal distance) on the assumption that the signal attenuates only with distance. However, the signal strength may also be attenuated by an obstruction (an obstacle). For this reason, the actual communication terminal x is considered to be present in a circular range with the base station S at its center and the ideal distance as its radius.

[0071] Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a circular range. Fig. 12 shows an example of a circular range determined for communication terminal x004 in Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 12, communication terminal x004 is considered to be present in range 1201 where a circular range centered on base station SA and a circular range centered on base station SB overlap. Note that when there is only one communication terminal x (only communication terminal x004) whose signal strength is observed at base stations SA and SB, determination unit 104 can determine range 1201 as the access range.

[0072] When there are multiple communication terminals x whose signal strengths are observed at base stations SA and SB, determination unit 104 obtains a circular range by using a representative value (such as the maximum value) of the distances to the multiple communication terminals x. That is, determination unit 104 calculates the maximum value of the distance for each base station in a group of communication terminals x that have the same combination of base stations, and obtains a circular range with that base station as the center and the maximum value as the radius. Determination unit 104 determines the range where the multiple circular ranges obtained for the multiple base stations overlap as the access range.

[0073] Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a circular range when signal strength is observed at multiple communication terminals x. Fig. 13 shows an example of a circular range obtained for communication terminals x002, x003, and x004 in Fig. 3. Note that the dot-dash circle, dashed circle, and solid circle correspond to the circular ranges corresponding to communication terminals x002, x003, and x004, respectively.

[0074] In the example of Figure 13, the overlapping range 1301 between the outermost circular range centered on base station SA and having the ideal distance of communication terminal x003 as its radius, and the outermost circular range centered on base station SB and having the ideal distance of communication terminal x002 as its radius, is determined as the access range.

[0075] Although it has been assumed up to now that the range based on the position of the base station S and the representative value is a circular range, this is not limiting. Instead of a circular range, an elliptical range, a spherical range, or the like may be used.

[0076] The ellipse range represents the inner range of an ellipse whose center is the position of the base station S and whose major axis (semi-major axis) and minor axis (minor axis) are based on the representative value. The major axis and minor axis can be calculated by multiplying, adding, or subtracting a constant value from the representative value. The directions of the major axis and minor axis are determined, for example, according to prior knowledge.

[0077] The circular range and elliptical range correspond to a range on a two-dimensional plane that includes the base station S and the communication terminal x. The range is not limited to a range on a two-dimensional plane, but may be a range in three-dimensional space, such as a spherical range. The spherical range represents the range inside a sphere whose center is the position of the base station S and whose radius is a representative value.

[0078] Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of access range data. Fig. 14 shows an example of access range data determined for the example of Fig. 13. As shown in Fig. 14, the access range data includes identification information of base stations included in the combination and a radius determined for each base station. The number of radius columns is set to the same as the number of base stations S. In other words, the access range data is data in which, for the combination of base stations described in the first column, the radius determined for each base station corresponding to the second and subsequent columns is described.

[0079] In a communication system with three or more base stations S, there may be base stations that are included in a certain combination and base stations that are not included in the combination. In such cases, in the access range data, a value indicating that the base station is not included in the combination (such as an NA value) is set in the radius column.

[0080] Next, the distribution data calculation process in step S104 will be described in detail below. Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the distribution data calculation process.

[0081] The distribution calculation unit 105 acquires the combination table output from the extraction unit 102 and the distance table output from the distance calculation unit 103 (step S501). The distribution calculation unit 105 acquires unprocessed combinations from among the combinations stored in the combination table (step S502).

[0082] The distribution calculation unit 105 calculates the number of communication terminals in the distance table as the number of communication terminals within the access range corresponding to the combination (step S503). The distribution calculation unit 105 determines whether all combinations have been processed (step S504).

[0083] If all combinations have not been processed (step S504: No), distribution calculation unit 105 returns to step S502 and repeats the process for the next unprocessed combination. If all combinations have been processed (step S504: Yes), distribution calculation unit 105 outputs the calculated number of communication terminals for each combination as distribution data (step S505), and ends the distribution data calculation process.

[0084] Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of distribution data. Fig. 16 shows an example of distribution data calculated for the example of Fig. 13. As shown in Fig. 16, the distribution data includes identification information of base stations included in the combination and the number of communication terminals.

[0085] Next, an example of the output process of step S105 will be described. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen output in the output process. Fig. 17 shows an example of a display screen output for a communication system including three base stations SA, SB, and SC.

[0086] Access range 1701 corresponds to the access range determined for the combination of base stations SA and SB. Access range 1702 corresponds to the access range determined for the combination of base stations SA, SB, and SC. Access range 1703 corresponds to the access range determined for the combination of base stations SA and SC.

[0087] The output control unit 106 may display a display screen using, for example, map information indicating the position of each base station S. For example, the output control unit 106 generates and outputs display information for displaying a display screen including map information indicating the position of each base station S and access range data determined for each combination. The map information is information indicating the position of each base station using, for example, latitude and longitude. The map information may be written in any format, but is written in a format such as JSON (JavaScript (registered trademark) Object Notation).

[0088] (Variation 1) In the above embodiment, the distance is calculated using the free space transmission loss. In the first modification, the distance is calculated taking into consideration other losses and gains. An example of the loss is the loss due to the power supply line of the transceiver (communication terminal x, base station S) that transmits and receives the wireless signal. An example of the gain is the gain due to the amplification by the antenna or multipath.

[0089] For example, in this modification, distance calculation unit 103 calculates the distance using free space path loss and predetermined loss / gain information that indicates at least one of the gain and loss of a wireless signal. Since signal strength is increased by gain and attenuated by loss, distance calculation unit 103 calculates distance d, for example, using the following equation (2): Distance d:=λ√{P - (signal strength + Σ gain - Σ loss)} / (4π) ···(2)

[0090] The gain and loss in equation (2) can be obtained, for example, from a loss-gain table (an example of loss-gain information). FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the loss-gain table. As shown in FIG. 18, the loss-gain table includes an ID, a device type, a loss-gain type, and a loss-gain value. The ID is identification information that identifies the transceiver (communication terminal x, base station S). The loss-gain type is information that indicates whether it is a loss or a gain. The loss-gain value indicates the value of a loss or a gain.

[0091] Distance calculation unit 103 obtains, from the loss-gain table, loss-gain values ​​corresponding to communication terminal x and base station S for which distance d is to be calculated, and calculates distance d by using the sum of the obtained loss-gain values ​​in equation (2). By using the loss-gain table, it is possible to calculate distance with higher accuracy, taking into account gain or loss that varies depending on the characteristics of the transmitter and receiver, for example.

[0092] For a transceiver whose loss gain value is unknown, the loss gain value corresponding to the ID of the transceiver in the loss gain table may be set to 0, or the loss gain table may be configured not to store a record of the transceiver. In the latter case, the distance calculation unit 103 may calculate the distance d by setting the gain value and loss value of the transceiver not stored in the loss gain table to 0.

[0093] Distance calculation unit 103 may calculate distance d using, for example, constant values ​​of gain values ​​and constant values ​​of loss values ​​(an example of loss-gain information) without using a loss-gain table. In this case, for example, the term for the sum of gains (Σgain) in equation (2) is replaced with the constant value of gain, and the term for the sum of losses (Σloss) is replaced with the constant value of loss.

[0094] In addition, when the details of the loss and gain are unknown, the distance calculation unit 103 may calculate the distance taking the loss or gain into account by multiplying a predetermined constant value α (an example of loss and gain information) as shown in the following equation (3). Distance d:=λ√{α(P-signal strength)} / (4π) ···(3)

[0095] (Variation 2) If multiple combinations are extracted and the access ranges determined for the multiple combinations overlap, one of the access ranges may be output.

[0096] For example, when two or more access ranges overlap, the determining unit 104 of Modification 2 preferentially outputs the access range that includes the largest number of base stations in the corresponding combination. That is, when the access range determined for combination C1 (first combination) included in the multiple combinations and the access range determined for combination C2 (second combination) included in the multiple combinations include an overlapping range, the determining unit 104 outputs the access range determined for the combination that includes more base stations out of combination C1 and combination C2.

[0097] Fig. 19 is a diagram showing an example of overlapping access ranges, in which an access range 1901 determined for the combination of base stations SA and SB overlaps with an access range 1902 determined for the combination of base stations SA, SB, and SC.

[0098] 19, the determining unit 104 preferentially outputs the access range 1902 corresponding to the combination of base stations SA, SB, and SC, which is a combination with a large number of base stations. This process corresponds to giving priority to the access range for the combination of base stations SA, SB, and SC that includes base stations SA and SB.

[0099] (Variation 3) If the signal is amplified due to multipath or other reasons, the value of the distance d calculated by equation (1) may become small, and a situation may arise in which the ranges calculated for the multiple base stations S included in the combination do not overlap.

[0100] Fig. 20 is a diagram showing an example in which multiple circular ranges corresponding to multiple base stations do not overlap. Fig. 20 shows an example in which the circular range corresponding to base station SA obtained based on the signal strengths of communication terminals x006 and x007 does not overlap with the circular range corresponding to base station SB.

[0101] Taking such a situation into consideration, the determination unit 104 of variant example 3 may determine whether multiple ranges (such as circular ranges) obtained for multiple base stations overlap, and if they do not overlap, may output information (warning information) indicating that an access range cannot be obtained.

[0102] For example, the determination unit 104 calculates the distance d_s between the two base stations S using the location information of the two base stations S. If the sum of the representative values ​​calculated for each of the two base stations S is greater than the distance d_s, the determination unit 104 determines that the multiple ranges do not overlap.

[0103] The warning information includes, for example, identification information of the base station S included in the combination, a representative value of the calculated distance, and identification information of the communication terminal T1 whose distance was calculated.

[0104] (Variation 4) In the above embodiment, the determination unit 104 determines the access range using a circular range with the base station at its center and a representative value (e.g., the maximum value) of the distances calculated for the base station as its radius. The determination unit 104 in Modification 4 does not determine the representative value, but determines the access range for each communication terminal x, combines the access ranges for each communication terminal x, and outputs the combined access range as the final access range.

[0105] For example, the determination unit 104 of this modification determines, for each combination, a range R1 (first range) for each of one or more communication terminals T1 based on the position and distance of each of the multiple base stations S included in the combination. The determination unit 104 determines, for each communication terminal T1, a range R2 (second range) in which the multiple ranges R1 determined for the multiple base stations S included in the combination overlap. The determination unit 104 determines, as the access range, a range obtained by combining one or more ranges R2 determined for each of one or more communication terminals T1.

[0106] The access range determination process of this modification will be described in detail below. Fig. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of the access range determination process of the modification 4.

[0107] The determination unit 104 acquires the combination table output from the extraction unit 102 and the distance table output from the distance calculation unit 103 (step S601). The determination unit 104 acquires unprocessed combinations from the combinations stored in the combination table (step S602). The determination unit 104 initializes a counter j for identifying a communication terminal x to 1, and initializes a counter k for identifying a base station to 1 (step S603).

[0108] The determination unit 104 determines the distance between the j-th communication terminal x and the k-th base station S as the radius of a circle whose center is the position of the k-th base station (step S604).

[0109] The determination unit 104 determines whether all base stations included in the combination have been processed (step S605). If all base stations S have not been processed (step S605: No), the determination unit 104 increments counter k by 1 (step S606) and returns to step S604 to repeat the process. If all base stations S have been processed (step S605: Yes), the determination unit 104 determines whether all communication terminals have been processed (step S607). For example, the determination unit 104 determines that all communication terminals have been processed when counter j reaches J.

[0110] If all communication terminals have not been processed (step S607: No), the determination unit 104 increments the counter j by 1 (step S608) and returns to step S604 to repeat the process. If all communication terminals have been processed (step S607: Yes), the determination unit 104 determines whether all combinations have been processed (step S609).

[0111] If all combinations have not been processed (step S609: No), the determination unit 104 returns to step S602 and repeats the process for the next unprocessed combination. If all combinations have been processed (step S609: Yes), the determination unit 104 outputs access range data including the determined radius (step S610) and ends the access range determination process.

[0112] In the fourth modification, for the j-th communication terminal x, multiple ranges R1 are obtained, each having a radius equal to the distance between the j-th communication terminal x and multiple base stations (for example, step S604), and a range R2 is obtained, which is a range where the multiple ranges R1 overlap. Note that the determination unit 104 may obtain the range R2 after processing all base stations S (step S605: Yes). The access range data output in step S610 is data indicating the access range obtained by combining the ranges R2 obtained for all communication terminals x.

[0113] Fig. 22 is a diagram showing an example of an access range obtained in Modification 4. In the example of Fig. 22, the shaded area corresponds to the access range obtained by combining the three ranges R2 obtained for communication terminals x002, 003, and 004.

[0114] Fig. 23 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of access range data in Modification 4. Fig. 23 shows an example of access range data determined for the example in Fig. 22. As shown in Fig. 23, the access range data includes an ID that is identification information of communication terminal x, identification information of base stations included in the combination, and a radius determined for each base station. The number of radius columns is set equal to the number of base stations S. The access range data in this modification is data in which, for the combination of communication terminal x identified by the ID written in the first column and the base station written in the second column, the radius determined for each base station corresponding to the third column and thereafter is written. Note that a value (such as an NA value) indicating that the base station is not included in the combination is set in the radius column.

[0115] (Application example) The access range data output in the above embodiment and each modification can be used as input data for the following devices or systems, for example. Input data for a resident count estimation device that uses multiple sensors to estimate the number of people in an area of ​​any shape. For example, access range data can be used as input data that indicates the area (arbitrary shaped area) for which the number of people is to be estimated. Input data for a layout simulation system for base station installation that takes into account access range.

[0116] As described above, according to the embodiment, it is possible to determine the range within which a base station can be accessed with higher accuracy.

[0117] Next, the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 24. Fig. 24 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0118] The information processing device of the embodiment includes a control device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 51, a storage device such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) 52 and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 53, a communication I / F 54 that connects to a network and communicates, and a bus 61 that connects each part.

[0119] The programs executed by the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment are provided in advance in the ROM 52 or the like.

[0120] The program executed by the information processing device of the embodiment may be configured to be provided as a computer program product by being recorded in an installable or executable format on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R (Compact Disk Recordable), or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk).

[0121] Furthermore, the program executed by the information processing apparatus of the embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. Also, the program executed by the information processing apparatus of the embodiment may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0122] The programs executed by the information processing device of the embodiment can cause a computer to function as each of the above-mentioned parts of the information processing device. In this computer, the CPU 51 can read the programs from a computer-readable storage medium onto a main storage device and execute them.

[0123] A configuration example of the embodiment will be described below. (Configuration example 1) extracting one or more combinations including a plurality of base stations that transmit and receive wireless signals to and from one or more first communication devices included in one or more of the communication devices, using strength data that indicates strength of wireless signals transmitted and received between one or more communication devices and a plurality of base stations; calculating, for each of the combinations, a distance between each of the plurality of base stations included in the combination and each of the one or more first communication devices using the intensity data; determining an access range representing a range in which the wireless signal can be transmitted and received between the plurality of base stations and the plurality of base stations, for each of the combinations, using the calculated distance and the positions of the plurality of base stations included in the combination; Processing section An information processing device comprising: (Configuration example 2) The processing unit For each combination, calculate a representative value of the distance to one or more of the first communication devices for each of the plurality of base stations included in the combination, obtain a range based on the position of the base station and the representative value, and determine, as the access range, a range in which the plurality of ranges obtained for the plurality of base stations included in the combination overlap. The information processing device according to configuration example 1. (Configuration example 3) the representative value is a maximum value of the distances to one or more of the first communication devices; The information processing device according to configuration example 2. (Configuration Example 4) The processing unit For each combination, a circle is calculated with the position of the base station as its center and the representative value as its radius, and an overlapping range of the circles calculated for the base stations included in the combination is determined as the access range. The information processing device according to configuration example 2. (Configuration Example 5) The processing unit calculating distribution data representing the number of the first communication devices included in the access range for each of the combinations; The information processing device according to any one of configuration examples 1 to 4. (Configuration Example 6) The processing unit Assuming that there is no obstruction that blocks the wireless signal, the distance is calculated using transmission loss in free space. 6. The information processing device according to any one of configuration examples 1 to 5. (Configuration Example 7) The processing unit calculating the distance using a transmission loss in free space and predetermined loss / gain information representing at least one of a gain and a loss of the wireless signal; The information processing device according to any one of configuration examples 1 to 6. (Configuration Example 8) The processing unit When the access range determined for a first combination included in the plurality of combinations and the access range determined for a second combination included in the plurality of combinations include an overlapping range, output the access range determined for the combination that includes more of the base stations out of the first combination and the second combination. The information processing device according to any one of configuration examples 1 to 7. (Configuration Example 9) The processing unit For each of the combinations, for each of one or more of the first communication devices, a first range is calculated based on the position and the distance of each of the plurality of base stations included in the combination, a second range is calculated in which the plurality of first ranges calculated for the plurality of base stations included in the combination overlap, and a range obtained by combining the one or more second ranges calculated for each of the one or more first communication devices is determined as the access range. The information processing device according to any one of configuration examples 1 to 8. (Configuration Example 10) The processing unit outputting display information for displaying map information indicating the location of the base station and information indicating the access range; The information processing device according to any one of configuration examples 1 to 9. (Configuration Example 11) An information processing method executed by an information processing device, an extraction step of extracting one or more combinations including a plurality of base stations that transmit and receive wireless signals to and from one or more first communication devices included in one or more of the communication devices, using strength data representing strengths of the wireless signals transmitted and received between the one or more communication devices and a plurality of the base stations; a distance calculation step of calculating, for each of the combinations, a distance between each of the plurality of base stations included in the combination and each of the one or more first communication devices using the intensity data; a determining step of determining, for each of the combinations, an access range representing a range in which the wireless signal can be transmitted and received between the plurality of base stations, using the calculated distance and the positions of the plurality of base stations included in the combination; An information processing method including: (Configuration Example 12) On the computer, an extraction step of extracting one or more combinations including a plurality of base stations that transmit and receive wireless signals to and from one or more first communication devices included in one or more of the communication devices, using strength data representing strengths of the wireless signals transmitted and received between the one or more communication devices and a plurality of the base stations; a distance calculation step of calculating, for each of the combinations, a distance between each of the plurality of base stations included in the combination and each of the one or more first communication devices using the intensity data; a determining step of determining, for each of the combinations, an access range representing a range in which the wireless signal can be transmitted and received between the plurality of base stations, using the calculated distance and the positions of the plurality of base stations included in the combination; A program to execute.

[0124] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 10. Communication Systems 100 Information processing device 101 Acquisition Department 102 Extraction part 103 Distance calculation unit 104 Decision Section 105 Distribution calculation part 106 Output control section 121 Storage section

Claims

1. extracting one or more combinations including a plurality of base stations that transmit and receive wireless signals to and from one or more first communication devices included in one or more of the communication devices, using strength data that indicates strength of wireless signals transmitted and received between one or more communication devices and a plurality of base stations; calculating, for each of the combinations, a distance between each of the plurality of base stations included in the combination and each of the one or more first communication devices using the intensity data; determining an access range representing a range in which the wireless signal can be transmitted and received between the plurality of base stations and the plurality of base stations, for each of the combinations, using the calculated distance and the positions of the plurality of base stations included in the combination; Processing section An information processing device comprising:

2. The processing unit For each combination, calculate a representative value of the distance to one or more of the first communication devices for each of the plurality of base stations included in the combination, obtain a range based on the position of the base station and the representative value, and determine, as the access range, a range in which the plurality of ranges obtained for the plurality of base stations included in the combination overlap. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. the representative value is a maximum value of the distances to one or more of the first communication devices; The information processing device according to claim 2 .

4. The processing unit For each combination, a circle is calculated with the position of the base station as its center and the representative value as its radius, and an overlapping range of the circles calculated for the base stations included in the combination is determined as the access range. The information processing device according to claim 2 .

5. The processing unit calculating distribution data representing the number of the first communication devices included in the access range for each of the combinations; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

6. The processing unit Assuming that there is no obstruction that blocks the wireless signal, the distance is calculated using transmission loss in free space. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

7. The processing unit calculating the distance using a transmission loss in free space and predetermined loss / gain information representing at least one of a gain and a loss of the wireless signal; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

8. The processing unit When the access range determined for a first combination included in the plurality of combinations and the access range determined for a second combination included in the plurality of combinations include an overlapping range, output the access range determined for the combination that includes more of the base stations out of the first combination and the second combination. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

9. The processing unit For each of the combinations, a first range is calculated for each of one or more of the first communication devices based on the positions and the distances of each of the plurality of base stations included in the combination, a second range is calculated in which the first ranges calculated for the plurality of base stations included in the combination overlap, and a range obtained by combining the one or more second ranges calculated for each of the one or more first communication devices is determined as the access range. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

10. The processing unit outputting display information for displaying map information indicating the location of the base station and information indicating the access range; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

11. An information processing method executed by an information processing device, an extraction step of extracting one or more combinations including a plurality of base stations that transmit and receive wireless signals to and from one or more first communication devices included in one or more of the communication devices, using strength data representing strengths of the wireless signals transmitted and received between the one or more communication devices and a plurality of the base stations; a distance calculation step of calculating, for each of the combinations, a distance between each of the plurality of base stations included in the combination and each of the one or more first communication devices using the intensity data; a determining step of determining, for each of the combinations, an access range representing a range in which the wireless signal can be transmitted and received between the plurality of base stations, using the calculated distance and the positions of the plurality of base stations included in the combination; An information processing method including:

12. On the computer, an extraction step of extracting one or more combinations including a plurality of base stations that transmit and receive wireless signals to and from one or more first communication devices included in one or more of the communication devices, using strength data representing strengths of the wireless signals transmitted and received between the one or more communication devices and a plurality of the base stations; a distance calculation step of calculating, for each of the combinations, a distance between each of the plurality of base stations included in the combination and each of the one or more first communication devices using the intensity data; a determining step of determining, for each of the combinations, an access range representing a range in which the wireless signal can be transmitted and received between the plurality of base stations, using the calculated distance and the positions of the plurality of base stations included in the combination; A program to execute.

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