Mobile Network Geolocation Using Map-Matching Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for locating mobile devices in wireless telecommunications systems are inaccurate and unreliable, often providing approximate locations randomly selected from a range of possible locations.
Innovation Solution
A method that determines candidate locations of a mobile device based on multiple cell transitions, utilizing geographic map data and graph theory's shortest path problem to select the most likely route, incorporating signal propagation delay, radio power measurements, and distance estimates, and refining location estimates through map-matching analysis and iterative routing processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional location mechanisms are used to locate mobile devices, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but the location accuracy is poor and locations are randomly selected from a range of possible locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the location determination process into multiple distinct stages: cell transition detection, candidate location generation from multiple cells, map-matching analysis, and iterative routing optimization. Each stage processes specific data types and produces refined outputs for the next stage, transforming a single complex random selection into a structured multi-step analytical pipeline that progressively narrows down possible locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional cell coverage area selection to three-dimensional spatial reasoning by incorporating geographic map data, travel paths, and routing algorithms. Instead of randomly selecting locations within cell boundaries, the system embeds candidate locations within the context of real-world geography and transportation networks, adding temporal and spatial dimensionality to the location determination process.
2Measurement precision
If multiple cell transitions and geographic map data are used to determine candidate locations, then location accuracy is improved, but the computational complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-processing geographic map data to identify travel paths and pre-calculating routing options before location determination is needed. When a mobile device undergoes cell transitions, the system already has pre-prepared map-matching frameworks and routing algorithms ready to quickly evaluate candidate locations, reducing real-time computational burden while maintaining high accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements iterative feedback loops where initial candidate locations are generated, evaluated against map data and routing constraints, and then refined based on the results. The system continuously adjusts candidate locations by comparing them with travel paths and routing feasibility, using feedback from each evaluation cycle to improve the accuracy of subsequent location estimates without requiring exhaustive computation from scratch.
3Reliability
If conventional random location selection is used, then the system requires minimal processing, but the location reliability is poor and inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple independent data sources and analytical methods into a unified location determination system. It combines cell transition data from multiple cells, geographic map data, travel path information, and routing algorithms into an integrated framework where each component contributes to the final location estimate. This convergence of diverse data streams and processing methods creates a robust system where the final location is supported by multiple lines of evidence, significantly improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal location determination system that can handle various types of mobile devices, cell transition patterns, and geographic environments through a single multi-functional framework. The map-matching analysis and routing-based location determination can process different data formats and adapt to various scenarios, making the system broadly applicable and reliable across diverse conditions rather than requiring device-specific or scenario-specific implementations.
Data Source
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AI summary
Techniques for mobile network geolocation are disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the techniques may be realized as a system for mobile network geolocation. The system may comprise one or more processors communicatively coupled to a mobile communications network. The one or more processors may be configured to determine that a mobile device is on a travel path (1704). The one or more processors may also be configured to determine one or more candidate locations of the mobile device based on data associated with the travel path (1706). The one or more processors may further be configured to determine at least one candidate route associated with the mobile device along the travel path comprised from one or more candidate locations (1708).