Cell Characteristic Values Derivation Using Genetic Algorithms

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing geolocation techniques in wireless communication networks face challenges in accurately deriving and maintaining up-to-date cell-specific characteristic data, particularly in asynchronous networks and LTE systems where timing offset information is not consistently available, making precise location estimation difficult.

Innovation Solution

A method using a genetic algorithm to derive cell characteristic values based on measurement data from wireless communication subscriber units, which involves generating chromosome strings, calculating fitness scores, and iteratively refining cell characteristic values to model signal strength, timing offset, and other relevant parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If GPS is used for geolocation, then location precision is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocation precisionVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces cell characteristic data as an intermediary element that enables location estimation without directly using GPS. By measuring signal characteristics from multiple cells and comparing them with pre-stored cell characteristic data, the system derives location information through this intermediary data layer, avoiding the high power consumption of GPS while maintaining location estimation capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the GPS satellite-based positioning system with a ground-based cellular network measurement system. Instead of relying on satellite signals and complex GPS receiver processing, the system uses cellular signal strength measurements and timing information combined with pre-collected cell characteristic data to estimate location, substituting a simpler, lower-power mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If cell characteristic data is derived using traditional methods, then location estimation is possible, but accuracy deteriorates in asynchronous networks and LTE systems

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocation estimation accuracyVSAvoidnetwork compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the parameters used for location estimation from relying on timing offset information (which is unavailable in asynchronous networks) to using signal strength measurements and timing advance information that are available across different network types. By measuring reference signal received power (RSRP) and timing advance (TA) values, the system adapts to work in both synchronous and asynchronous networks including LTE systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the location estimation process into two independent parts: (1) collection and storage of cell characteristic data during normal operations, and (2) derivation of location estimates using measured signal characteristics compared against the stored data. This segmentation allows the system to work with different measurement types in different network environments without requiring complete redesign

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Measurement precision

If signal strength measurements are used for distance estimation, then location information can be derived, but precision deteriorates due to environmental variations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedistance estimation precisionVSAvoidenvironmental attenuation variations

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary action by collecting and storing cell characteristic data (signal strength, timing advance, and location information) during normal network operations before actual location estimation is needed. This pre-collected data serves as a reference that accounts for environmental conditions specific to each cell, allowing more accurate distance estimation when actual measurements are taken and compared against this pre-established baseline

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback by continuously measuring signal characteristics from subscriber units and comparing them with stored cell characteristic data to refine distance estimates. The measured values feed back into the location estimation process, allowing the system to adjust for environmental variations by comparing expected versus actual signal characteristics

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9479944B2Method and apparatus for deriving cell characteristic values

Publication Date: 2016.10.25 VIAVI SOLUTIONS UK LTD

AI summary

A method of deriving cell characteristic values for cells within a wireless communication network. The method for determining a set of cells for which cell characteristic values are to be derived, and using a genetic algorithm to derive cell characteristic values for the set of cells based at least partly on measurement data obtained by wireless communication subscriber units within the wireless communication network.