Bayesian Probability Maps for External Interference Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless communication networks face challenges in efficiently detecting and locating external interference sources due to limitations in existing geo-location techniques, which are often inaccurate and require precise timing sources not typically available for external interference.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a Bayesian approach to generate and refine probability maps for identifying interference sources, incorporating data from omnidirectional and multi-sector cell sites, and performing Delaunay triangulation to connect locations and create contour maps, allowing for accurate localization of external interference without relying on precise timing sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If time-based geo-location techniques (TOA, TDOA) are used to locate interference sources, then location capability is provided, but precise timing sources are required which are not available for external interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces time-based measurement systems with power-based measurement systems. Instead of using TOA/TDOA techniques that require precise timing synchronization, the system uses POA/PDOA techniques that measure signal power levels at multiple receivers to locate interference sources. This substitution eliminates the requirement for precise timing sources while maintaining location capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If power-based geo-location techniques (POA, PDOA) are used to detect and locate external interference sources, then location capability is achieved without precise timing sources, but accuracy is highly limited by fading and shadowing in the radio environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple measurement techniques and data sources to overcome the limitations of pure power-based methods. It combines power measurements from omnidirectional cell sites with interference data from directional sector antennas, and integrates these with network management data and topology information. This fusion of multiple measurement approaches compensates for fading and shadowing effects while maintaining independence from timing sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spectrum analysis server as an intermediary that processes and fuses measurements from multiple cell sites and antennas. This server collects power measurements, performs probabilistic analysis, and generates location estimates by combining data from omnidirectional and directional antennas, thereby mediating between the limited power-based measurements and accurate location determination.
3Measurement precision
If additional measurement systems are deployed to collect power data for accurate location determination, then location accuracy improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables existing wireless network infrastructure to serve dual purposes: its primary function of providing wireless service and its secondary function of detecting and locating interference sources. The existing cell sites, omnidirectional antennas, and sector antennas are utilized for interference measurements without requiring additional dedicated measurement devices. This self-service approach achieves accurate location determination while avoiding increased device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for localizing interference uses data available to wireless communication networks to determine probabilities of a source of external interference being located at a plurality of predetermined locations. In a heterogeneous network, data from sites using omnidirectional antennas can be combined with data from multi-sector sites to accurately locate a source of interference.