GIS Coordinate Input for Wireless Reference Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for inputting Geographical Information System (GIS) coordinates into fixed position reference devices in wireless communications networks are inefficient and lack precision, requiring manual entry and reliance on GPS signals, which can be limiting in ad-hoc networks.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that uses a graphical mapping scheme to compute and load geographic location coordinates into fixed reference devices within an ad-hoc wireless communications network, where a GIS image with pixelated locations allows for accurate determination and messaging of device positions, enabling direct communication and storage of location data within the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual entry of GIS coordinates is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and accuracy of coordinate input deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing reference devices to automatically obtain and store their own GIS coordinates through wireless communication. The dispatcher device computes coordinates based on device positions in the graphical map, and these coordinates are automatically transmitted to and stored in the reference devices without manual intervention, making the system self-configuring.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispatcher device performs preliminary computation of GIS coordinates before the reference devices need them. By pre-computing coordinates based on the graphical map and device positions, the system prepares location data in advance, enabling rapid deployment and eliminating the need for manual coordinate entry during field operations.
2Ease of operation
If GPS signals are relied upon, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate in ad-hoc networks
Solution Approach 1:
The dispatcher device and graphical map system serve as intermediaries between the reference devices and the GIS coordinate data. Instead of relying on external GPS signals, the system uses the dispatcher device to compute coordinates based on positions within the graphical map representation, providing an alternative pathway for obtaining location data that is more reliable in ad-hoc network environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the geographical environment through the graphical map, which is then used to determine reference device positions and compute GIS coordinates. This virtual representation allows the system to derive location information from relative positions within the map rather than relying on external GPS satellite signals.
3Measurement precision
If graphical mapping scheme with pixelated locations is used, then measurement precision and productivity are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The graphical map is segmented into discrete graphical elements or pixels, each representing a specific location with associated GIS coordinates. This segmentation allows the system to determine device positions with high precision by identifying which graphical element a device occupies, while the complexity is managed by the dispatcher device rather than individual reference devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a graphical dimension to location determination by using a visual map representation where positions can be seen and identified. This graphical dimension provides intuitive position identification and precise coordinate computation, while the underlying computational complexity is handled centrally by the dispatcher device.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for providing geographic location information to of at least one fixed reference device in a wireless network, the method comprising: determining a geographic location of the at least one fixed reference device within an image, such as a Geographic Information System (GIS) image, where the GIS image comprises a plurality of pixels each having an absolute geographic location value associated with it, and where the geographic location of the at least one fixed reference device is defined with respect to the absolute position values associated with at least one pixel that is proximal to an image of the at least one fixed reference device within the GIS image; and providing the determined geographic location information to the at least one fixed reference device.