Emergency Call Routing Ledger for GNSS-Blocked UE Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the location of a UE during emergency calls, such as 911, are unreliable when GNSS signals are blocked, and service addresses mapped to Wi-Fi access points may be inaccurate due to non-updated information.
Innovation Solution
A blockchain-based communication system that maintains a ledger of emergency communications through cellular and ISP networks, allowing nodes to record and validate communication paths to determine the UE's location based on network routing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GNSS sensor is used to provide precise coordinates, then location accuracy is improved, but the system fails when GNSS signal is blocked within a building
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces blockchain-based location monitoring systems and network infrastructure (cellular towers, Wi-Fi access points) as intermediary elements to determine UE location when direct GNSS signaling is blocked. These intermediaries provide alternative location determination mechanisms that operate independently of satellite signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary location determination actions by maintaining blockchain ledgers that record communication paths and location data before emergency calls are placed. This allows the system to have location information ready and available immediately when emergency services are needed, rather than attempting to determine location during the emergency call.
2Loss of information
If service address is mapped to Wi-Fi access point, then location information is obtained, but the address may be inaccurate due to non-updated information
Solution Approach 1:
The blockchain-based location monitoring system continuously updates location information by monitoring communication paths and validating data against the network map. This feedback mechanism ensures that service addresses are kept current and accurate, resolving the issue of non-updated information.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static service address mapping to dynamic location determination by continuously monitoring communication paths and updating blockchain ledgers in real-time. This allows the system to adapt to changing network conditions and UE movements, maintaining address accuracy.
3Reliability
If blockchain-based location monitoring system determines location from communication path, then location accuracy is improved in GNSS blockage scenarios, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing network infrastructure (cellular towers, Wi-Fi access points, routers) perform multiple functions: their original communication functions plus location monitoring and validation functions. By making these elements multi-functional, the system avoids adding dedicated complexity while achieving reliable location determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges location monitoring functions with existing blockchain infrastructure and network operations. Rather than creating separate systems, the patent combines location determination, validation, and updating functions with the existing communication network and blockchain ledger systems, reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Various arrangements for performing blockchain-based emergency call origination are presented herein. An emergency communication can be routed between a piece of user equipment (UE) and a public safety answering point (PSAP) via a network, such as a cellular network or ISP network. One or more nodes of the network can update a blockchain ledger used to route the emergency communication. The blockchain ledger can be accessed to determine a communication path between the piece of UE and the PSAP. The location of the piece of UE can be estimated based on the communication path.