Device Relocation Detection via Location Fingerprint Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting the relocation of customer premise equipment (CPE) devices away from designated premises are inadequate, as they rely on comparison of direct network information which can change with device movement or network access, leading to false negatives or inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
Generating a location fingerprint that includes information from proximal devices, comparing it to a baseline fingerprint established when the device is within the designated premise, and alerting potential relocation based on significant differences, using analytics to identify transient and non-transient changes over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If direct network information comparison is used for device relocation detection, then the detection method is simple, but the reliability is low due to information changes and replication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the device environment into multiple observable components (proximal devices, networks, signals) and creates a composite fingerprint from these segments. This allows reliable detection by comparing multiple independent elements rather than relying on a single direct network information point that can change or be replicated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary electronic fingerprint analysis system that indirectly observes the device environment through proximal devices and network signals. This intermediary layer provides more reliable relocation detection compared to direct network information, as it captures the environmental context without being subject to the same changes and replication issues.
2Measurement precision
If electronic fingerprint analysis with proximal devices is used, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the CPE device multi-functional by enabling it to perform both its primary communication function and secondary environmental observation function. The device uses its existing radio frequency capabilities to detect proximal devices and networks, creating fingerprints without requiring dedicated monitoring hardware. This universal approach improves measurement precision while limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the CPE device to self-monitor its environment and self-generate electronic fingerprints using its own observation capabilities. The device independently identifies proximal devices, networks, and signals, and compares these against baseline fingerprints. This self-service approach reduces the need for external monitoring infrastructure, improving precision without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer readable media can be operable to facilitate the monitoring and detection of a device relocation. A location fingerprint may be generated for a device, wherein the location fingerprint includes information associated with proximal devices. Proximal devices may be identified based on communications received by the device from the proximal devices, and may include devices that are determined to be near in proximity to the device. A baseline location fingerprint may be generated at an instance when the device is expected to be within a designated premise. Subsequent captures of a location fingerprint of the device may be periodically or conditionally taken, and the subsequent location fingerprints may be compared to the baseline location fingerprint. If a significant difference exists between a subsequent location fingerprint and the baseline location fingerprint, a determination may be made that the device has potentially been relocated away from a designated premise.