Adaptive WiFi Beacon Data Collection for Robust Location Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing location estimation methods, particularly in urban and indoor environments, face challenges due to poor GPS signal reception and multi-path interference, and rely on extensive and biased data collection for WiFi-based positioning systems, leading to inefficiencies and inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive method for collecting and associating WiFi beacon identity data, triggered by indicators such as signal loss or user movement, to focus data collection on areas where it is most useful, reducing redundant observations and power consumption, and creating a customized database tailored to individual usage patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS is used for location estimation, then location accuracy is improved, but reliability deteriorates in built-up areas due to poor signal reception and multi-path interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines GPS location estimation with WiFi-based location estimation to create a hybrid positioning system. When GPS signals are unavailable or unreliable in built-up areas, the system automatically falls back to WiFi-based estimation using access point signal strengths and a pre-collected database of AP locations, ensuring continuous reliable positioning across all environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces WiFi access points as intermediary reference objects for location estimation. By measuring signal strengths from multiple WiFi APs and comparing them against a database of known AP locations, the system can determine device position indirectly when direct GPS satellite signals are blocked by buildings.
2Reliability
If extensive war-driving is performed to populate the WiFi database, then database completeness is improved, but power consumption and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary war-driving actions to collect WiFi access point data and populate the database in advance, during periods when the device is already in use and power is available. This pre-collected data is stored for later retrieval during actual positioning operations, eliminating the need for continuous or on-demand scanning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic war-driving campaigns where the device collects WiFi database information at scheduled intervals or when specific conditions are met (such as when already connected to WiFi networks during normal operation). This approach balances database freshness with power conservation by not continuously scanning for APs.
3Reliability
If WiFi-based positioning is used as backup, then reliability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates compared to GPS
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor the quality and availability of GPS signals. When GPS precision falls below a threshold or becomes unavailable, the system automatically transitions to WiFi-based positioning. The system also provides feedback to users about the current positioning method being used and its estimated accuracy, allowing for informed decision-making.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of collecting information for supplementing a trusted estimate of position. The method comprises: receiving first information sufficient to derive a trusted estimate of a first position; receiving an indication that a supplementary estimate of a second position in the vicinity of the first position may be required; in response to the indication, sensing information comprising the identity of at least one terrestrial wireless source observable in the vicinity of the first position; and storing the sensed information in association with the first position. The method enables the trusted estimate of the first position to subsequently be used to estimate any said second position from which the at least one wireless source is observable.