AR Network Device Mapping for Accurate Indoor Location Metadata
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing number of network devices in modern homes and workplaces necessitates more efficient mechanisms for accurately identifying their physical locations within a physical space to optimize network connectivity and provide location-based services.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing augmented reality (AR) computing devices to determine spatial coordinates of boundary points and network devices, transmitting metadata to a server for generating floorplan visualizations and signal strength maps, and providing location recommendations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional methods are used to identify network device locations, then the process is simpler, but the accuracy and efficiency of location identification deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an AR computing device as an intermediary tool between the user and the network devices. This device uses augmented reality technology to overlay virtual markers and spatial information onto the physical environment, enabling precise location identification of network devices without requiring complex manual surveying or specialized equipment. The AR device mediates the interaction by providing intuitive visual guidance and automated coordinate capture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or manual methods of location identification (such as physical measurement tools, manual mapping, or complex surveying equipment) with an optical and computational system based on AR technology. The AR computing device uses cameras, sensors, and image processing algorithms to automatically detect and record the spatial coordinates of network devices, eliminating the need for physical measurement instruments and manual data collection processes.
2Productivity
If manual methods are used to map network device locations, then the process is simpler, but the time and efficiency required deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The AR computing device performs location mapping autonomously by automatically detecting network devices, capturing their spatial coordinates, and generating location metadata without requiring continuous manual intervention. The system uses automated image recognition, spatial tracking, and data processing algorithms to complete the mapping task independently, significantly reducing the time required compared to manual methods while maintaining high accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous location mapping by allowing the AR computing device to continuously capture and record spatial information as the user moves through the environment. The system maintains an ongoing process of detecting network devices, updating their coordinates, and building the location map in real-time, rather than requiring discrete, time-consuming manual measurements at each location.
3Measurement precision
If detailed location metadata is collected for all network devices, then the precision of location information improves, but the quantity of data and processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential location metadata required for network device mapping, such as spatial coordinates, device identifiers, and relative position information. Rather than collecting all possible data about each device, the system selectively captures the specific parameters needed for location identification and network optimization, reducing the overall data volume while maintaining high precision for the critical location information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different levels of data collection precision to different network devices based on their importance and location. Critical devices or those in complex environments receive more detailed metadata collection, while less critical devices use streamlined data capture. This localized approach to data quality ensures high precision where needed while reducing overall data volume and processing requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Obtaining location metadata for network devices using augmented reality (AR) is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an AR computing device receives first user inputs indicating boundary points of a device region, and determines first spatial coordinates for each boundary point. The AR computing device next receives a second user input that indicates a network device within the device region, and determines second spatial coordinates for the network device. The AR computing device may also correlate the network device with a known connected network device. The AR computing device then transmits, to a server computing device, first metadata that includes the first spatial coordinates and an identifier of the device region, and second metadata that includes the second spatial coordinates and an identifier of the indicated network device. In some embodiments, the metadata may be employed, e.g., to generate a floorplan visualization and/or a signal strength map of the device region.