Interference Localization via Probability Heatmaps in Wireless Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication networks face challenges in efficiently detecting and localizing external interference sources due to limitations in current geo-location techniques, which are often inaccurate in complex radio environments and require precise timing or additional measurement systems.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing network management data, including Configuration Management, Performance Management, and topology data, to generate a probability heatmap of possible interference locations, allowing for accurate localization of external interference sources by analyzing signal strength measurements and angle of arrival data from multiple cellular antennas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measured power-based techniques (POA/PDOA) are used to detect and locate external interference sources, then location determination can be achieved, but the accuracy is highly limited by fading and shadowing in the radio environment and additional measurement systems are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables existing cellular antennas and network management systems to perform interference detection and localization functions that were previously requiring dedicated measurement equipment. The system uses already-deployed infrastructure (cellular antennas, network management data) to serve the additional function of interference source localization, eliminating the need for separate measurement systems while maintaining accuracy despite radio environment challenges
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the approach by changing from direct power measurement to probabilistic analysis using multiple parameters including signal strength measurements, angle of arrival data, and network management information. This parameter transformation allows the system to overcome fading and shadowing effects by analyzing patterns across multiple data dimensions rather than relying on single power measurements
2Measurement precision
If time-based geo-location techniques (TOA/TDOA) are used to locate external interference sources, then location determination can be achieved, but precise timing sources such as common clocks or frequency references are required which are not typically present for external interference sources
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using time-based methods that require precise timing from the interference source (which doesn't exist), the patent inverts the approach by using signal strength and angle of arrival measurements from multiple receivers to probabilistically determine location. This reversal eliminates the need for timing synchronization with the external interference source while achieving location determination
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/time-based synchronization system with a probabilistic measurement system using signal strength and angle data. This substitution eliminates the requirement for common clocks or frequency references by using alternative physical measurements that don't depend on timing synchronization with the external source
3Measurement precision
If additional measurement systems are deployed to improve interference source location accuracy in complex radio environments, then measurement precision can be improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing cellular antennas and network management systems multi-functional by enabling them to perform both their original communication functions and the additional function of interference detection and localization. This universality eliminates the need for dedicated measurement equipment while achieving accurate interference source location through sophisticated analysis of existing data
Data Source
AI summary
A method for localizing interference uses data available to wireless communication networks to determine probabilities of a source of external interference being located at a plurality of predetermined locations.