Indoor Location Database Automation via RF Signal Integration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for building and maintaining indoor location-based services are costly and time-consuming due to the need for manual input of reference locations without GPS signals, requiring dense data collection and continuous maintenance of RF signal information.
Innovation Solution
A method that automates the building and maintenance of RF signal databases by integrating similar data sets from electronic devices to generate a logical path and map it to a physical path within a building, reducing the need for manual input and increasing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual input of reference locations is used in indoor areas without GPS signals, then location-based service can be provided indoors, but costs and time for database building increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables electronic devices to automatically collect and transmit RF signal measurement data and location information to the server without requiring manual data collection. The devices themselves perform the data gathering function, eliminating the need for dedicated data collectors to manually input reference locations at numerous indoor points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of data collectors physically moving through indoor areas with vehicles and manually inputting GPS coordinates with an automated electronic system. Electronic devices automatically measure RF signals, determine their locations using alternative methods, and transmit data wirelessly to the server, substituting human labor with automated electronic processes.
2Measurement precision
If dense data collection points are used for accurate indoor location information, then location accuracy improves, but costs and time for database building increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple electronic devices distributed throughout the indoor area automatically contribute their own measurement data to the database. Each device serves itself by collecting and reporting its local RF signal characteristics and location information, eliminating the need for a centralized team to systematically visit every location point.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the existing functionality of electronic devices (RF signal measurement capabilities already present in smartphones and other devices) for the additional purpose of building the location database. These devices serve multiple functions: their primary communication function and the secondary function of database contribution, without requiring specialized equipment or dedicated personnel.
3Reliability
If continuous maintenance of RF signal information is performed to account for changes over time, then service reliability improves, but ongoing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system establishes continuous data collection and automatic database updates through ongoing transmissions from electronic devices. Rather than periodic manual maintenance, the useful action of data collection continues uninterrupted as devices naturally operate in the environment, automatically adapting to RF signal changes over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The server receives continuous feedback from electronic devices about current RF signal conditions and automatically updates the database accordingly. This feedback mechanism enables the system to self-correct and adapt to environmental changes without human intervention, maintaining reliability while minimizing maintenance costs.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of implementing a location-based service within a building is provided. The method includes receiving, from at least one electronic device, a plurality of data sets indicating information of wireless signals which the at least one electronic device measures for each time or for each location within the building; determining a similarity between the plurality of data sets; generating a logical path by integrating similar data sets; and generating a wireless signal map within the building by mapping the logical path to a physical path of the building.