GPS Signal Amplifier Integration in Distributed Antenna Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Indoor location-based services for mobile devices are inconsistent or non-existent due to the lack of direct line of sight to GPS satellites and inability to decode weak GPS signals.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a real-time GPS combine and amplify system into radio frequency distributed antenna systems (DAS) to provide seamless GPS satellite signal visibility, estimate altitude, and offer spatial coordinates for enhanced indoor location services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS signals are used for indoor location services, then location accuracy is improved, but signal visibility and reliability deteriorate due to building obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces GPS signal amplifiers and repeaters as intermediary devices that receive weak GPS satellite signals, amplify them, and retransmit them indoors. This mediator system bridges the gap between outdoor GPS satellites and indoor devices, solving the signal visibility problem caused by building obstructions while maintaining location accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary signal amplification and conditioning before the GPS signals reach indoor devices. By pre-amplifying signals at strategic points (rooftops, near windows) before they penetrate into buildings, the system ensures reliable signal availability throughout the indoor environment
2Reliability
If GPS amplification systems are deployed indoors, then signal strength is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates GPS signal amplification functionality into existing cellular base stations and network infrastructure. By making the amplification system multi-functional (serving both cellular communication and GPS enhancement), the patent avoids adding dedicated GPS infrastructure, thereby reducing overall system complexity while improving signal strength
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges GPS signal processing with existing cellular network infrastructure. By combining GPS amplification functions with cellular base stations that already have rooftop installations and power supplies, the patent reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying deployment and maintenance
3Measurement precision
If real-time GPS amplification is implemented, then location service accuracy is improved, but response time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary signal amplification and prepares GPS signals in advance before location requests are made. By having amplified signals ready and available continuously rather than processing them on-demand, the system reduces the round-trip time for location responses while maintaining high accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The GPS amplification system operates continuously, maintaining constant signal availability and readiness. This continuous operation eliminates delays associated with signal acquisition and processing, ensuring that location services can be provided immediately with high accuracy when requested
Data Source
AI summary
Location information (e.g., GPS information) pertaining to the location of a device may be integrated into a distributed antenna system (DAS) to enhance location based services. This may be accomplished via a system that filters and combines GPS information with DAS information. Utilization of the enhanced location based services system may enhance accuracy performance of indoor location services and improve round-trip time (RTT) location responses associated with network assisted GPS (e.g., A-GPS) location requests for services from indoor calls.