Indoor GPS via RF Anchor Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing GPS systems are ineffective in indoor environments due to signal blocking by building structures, necessitating the development of alternative methods for determining geo coordinates within enclosed spaces.
Innovation Solution
The method involves collecting and associating Global Positioning System (GPS) data with radio frequency (RF) data from various locations to create anchor points, which are then used to determine indoor geo coordinates by calculating the similarity and distance between RF data points, allowing for the extension of GPS coordinates into indoor locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional GPS satellite signals are used for location determination, then outdoor positioning accuracy is maintained, but indoor positioning becomes ineffective due to signal blocking by building structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces RF transmitting devices (such as Wi-Fi access points or Bluetooth beacons) as intermediary elements within indoor environments. These devices emit radio frequency signals that can penetrate building structures, serving as mediators between the indoor location and the positioning system. The mobile device receives these RF signals and uses them in conjunction with anchor point data to determine indoor geo coordinates, effectively bypassing the signal blocking problem of traditional GPS satellites.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates anchor points that copy the functionality of outdoor GPS reference points but are adapted for indoor use. Each anchor point stores the association between RF signal characteristics (from indoor transmitting devices) and known indoor locations. This copying approach allows the system to replicate the outdoor GPS positioning methodology using indoor-appropriate signal sources, enabling consistent positioning across both indoor and outdoor environments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If RF data from indoor transmitting devices is used to determine indoor location, then indoor positioning becomes feasible, but the system complexity increases compared to traditional GPS
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a preliminary setup phase where anchor points are created in advance. During this phase, RF signal data from indoor transmitting devices is collected and associated with known indoor locations, storing this mapping information in a database. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex real-time calculations during actual indoor positioning, as the system can simply query the pre-established anchor point database to determine location, thereby reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the positioning system to be universal by creating a unified architecture that can handle both outdoor GPS-based positioning and indoor RF-based positioning through a common interface. The system uses mobile devices that already possess GPS capabilities and extends their functionality to include RF signal reception and processing. This multi-functionality approach allows the same device and system framework to operate effectively in both indoor and outdoor environments without requiring entirely separate systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
In one aspect, information of multiple anchor points is received and stored. The information of each anchor point includes Global Positioning System (GPS) data of a particular location and radio frequency (RF) data that was obtained at a device at the particular location. A geo coordinate is determined for an indoor location based on the RF data obtained at the indoor location and the information of the anchor points. Various embodiments pertain to software, systems, devices and methods relating to anchor points and/or the obtaining of a geo coordinate for a location.