Wireless Access Point Model Update via Mobile Scan Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing location-based navigation systems in mobile devices, such as GPS, are ineffective indoors due to weak satellite signals, and rely on outdated or unreliable wireless access point data, leading to inaccurate maps and navigation.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine when wireless access point models do not meet quality thresholds by requesting current scan information from mobile devices within a specific range, updating the access point data to ensure accuracy and relevance, using a processor to identify and verify mobile device location and transmit requests for scan information to update indoor maps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS satellite signals are used for location-based navigation, then outdoor navigation accuracy is improved, but indoor navigation fails due to weak satellite signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces wireless access points as intermediary objects to enable indoor navigation. Instead of relying directly on GPS satellites which cannot penetrate buildings, the system uses access points as intermediate reference points that emit detectable signals, allowing mobile devices to determine location indirectly through signal strength measurement and triangulation with pre-stored access point location data
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the GPS satellite-based electromagnetic positioning system with a wireless network-based positioning system for indoor environments. The mechanical/electromagnetic field from satellites is substituted with wireless network signals from access points, creating a hybrid positioning approach that adapts to different environmental conditions
2Adaptability or versatility
If pre-generated databases of wireless access point data are used for indoor navigation, then indoor navigation capability is provided, but navigation accuracy deteriorates when data becomes outdated or insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where mobile devices continuously scan for wireless access points and report detected signals back to the server. The server compares current scan data with stored database information, identifies discrepancies or missing data, and automatically updates the database accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system ensures the navigation data remains current and accurate without manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-updating of the access point database through automated processes. Mobile devices autonomously scan for access points, and the server automatically processes scan results, identifies data quality issues, and updates the database without requiring manual data collection or system reconfiguration, allowing the system to self-correct and maintain accuracy
3Measurement precision
If manual updates of wireless access point data are performed, then data accuracy can be maintained, but system complexity and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs data quality verification and database updates without manual intervention. The server monitors data quality metrics, identifies when updates are needed, automatically processes scan information from mobile devices, and updates the access point database. This eliminates the need for manual data collection, verification, and updating processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous automated monitoring and updating of access point data. Instead of periodic manual updates, the system continuously receives scan information from mobile devices, processes it in real-time, and maintains an up-to-date database. This continuous automated process replaces discrete manual update actions, reducing complexity while maintaining data accuracy
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure relate to generating or updating an access point model. The model may be generated based in part on access point model data, e.g., collected scan information from devices that travel through an indoor space. The wireless access point model may include an indoor map of a location or building. At some point, it may be determined that the access point model data may not meet a predetermined quality threshold. For example, the data may be outdated or inaccurate. A request is generated and transmitted to a client device within a predetermined distance of the access point associated with the access point model. In response to the request, the device travels to the indoor space associated with the access point to collect scan information. The scan information is used to update or otherwise modify the access point model.