Coordinated Access Point Position Estimation Using ToF and AoA
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing location estimation techniques in wireless communication networks face challenges with limited accuracy, high bandwidth consumption, and infeasibility during high-demand events, such as sporting events, due to the need for multiple frequency measurements and synchronization of access points.
Innovation Solution
A method involving multiple access points that coordinate to estimate a device's location by measuring round trip time (RTT) using time of flight (ToF) and angle of arrival (AoA) without continuous frequency sweeps, reducing bandwidth consumption by reporting measurement information to an initiating access point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple frequency measurements and access point synchronization are used for location estimation, then measurement precision is improved, but bandwidth consumption increases and the system becomes infeasible during high-demand events
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the location estimation function from the data plane to the control plane. The initiating access point collects measurement information from coordinating access points and performs the actual location calculation, rather than having each access point independently perform frequency sweeps and measurements. This separation reduces bandwidth consumption by eliminating redundant measurement transmissions while maintaining location estimation accuracy through centralized processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary synchronization and configuration of access points before location estimation begins. The initiating access point configures coordinating access points with reference signal information and timing parameters in advance, so that measurements can be taken without requiring continuous synchronization during the actual location estimation process. This preliminary setup reduces real-time bandwidth requirements while maintaining measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If multiple frequency measurements are performed to improve location accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the location estimation functionality into a single initiating access point that coordinates multiple other access points. Instead of each access point independently performing complex frequency sweeps and calculations, the system combines measurement capabilities across multiple access points while centralizing the computation at the initiating access point. This reduces individual device complexity while maintaining or improving overall measurement precision through aggregated data.
3Measurement precision
If continuous frequency sweeps are performed for accurate location estimation, then measurement precision is improved, but bandwidth consumption increases making the system infeasible during high-demand events
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces continuous frequency sweeps with periodic measurement opportunities. The initiating access point sends location estimation requests at specific intervals, and coordinating access points provide measurement information only when needed. This periodic approach maintains measurement precision by ensuring sufficient sampling while dramatically reducing bandwidth consumption during high-demand events compared to continuous sweeps.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Improves location estimation accuracy to decimeters or centimeters, reduces bandwidth usage, and enables location estimation in high-demand scenarios by minimizing the number of transmissions and synchronizing access points.
Implementation Method 1
determining first time information based on a time of flight (ToF) of the request message and the response message, wherein the ToF corresponds to a distance of the wireless device from the access point
Implementation Method 2
measuring round trip time (RTT) using time of flight (ToF) and angle of arrival (AoA)
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are systems, apparatuses, methods, and computer-readable media for identifying a location of a wireless device. A method for identifying a location of a wireless device includes transmitting a request message to the wireless device for identifying a position of the wireless device; receiving a response message from the wireless device; determining first time information based on a time of flight (ToF) of the request message and the response message, wherein the ToF corresponds to a distance of the wireless device from the AP; receiving a second message from a second AP that includes second time information associated with the request message and the response message; receiving a third message from a third AP that includes third time information associated with the request message and the response message; and transmitting location configuration information to the wireless device for the wireless device to determine a position of the wireless device.