Wireless Mesh Location Estimation Using Adaptive Signal Signatures
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for location estimation in indoor environments without GPS signals, particularly in wireless mesh networks, are inadequate for accurately localizing mobile routers due to reliance on inaccurate channel modeling and lack of focus on fingerprinting-based approaches.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a network manager server to determine and compare wireless signal signatures across multiple locations within a wireless mesh network, allowing for adaptive re-characterization of signal profiles based on network conditions, enabling accurate location estimation of devices by matching current signal signatures with previously measured ones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If geometric methods are used for location estimation, then location can be determined using propagation properties of wireless signals, but the accuracy is significantly dependent on the accuracy of channel model which is often inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a fingerprint database by copying and storing actual measured signal characteristics (RSSI values from multiple access points) at known locations. Instead of relying on theoretical channel models, the system uses real measured signal fingerprints as references for location estimation, thereby eliminating the accuracy dependency on channel model predictions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the geometric method (which relies on mathematical channel models and propagation calculations) with a fingerprinting approach that directly measures and compares actual signal characteristics. This substitution eliminates the need for accurate channel modeling by using empirical signal fingerprints instead of theoretical calculations.
2Reliability
If fingerprinting-based approach is used, then location estimation is immune to channel modeling inaccuracies, but the system complexity increases due to signal signature collection and database management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling access points to automatically collect and store their own signal fingerprints when they are in known locations (such as during initial deployment or when manually positioned). The system automatically updates the fingerprint database without requiring external intervention, reducing the operational complexity of maintaining accurate location references.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by collecting and storing signal fingerprints at known locations before actual location estimation is needed. This pre-characterization of the environment creates a reference database that can be used for subsequent location estimations, eliminating the need for complex real-time measurements during the actual localization task.
3Productivity
If static fingerprint database is used, then location estimation can be performed, but the system cannot adapt to changing environmental conditions such as moved access points or structural changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamics by enabling the fingerprint database to be updated in response to detected changes in the wireless environment. When access points move or environmental conditions change, the system can re-collect signal fingerprints and update the database accordingly, transforming it from a static reference into a dynamic, self-updating structure that adapts to changing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system monitors changes in the wireless network environment (such as access point movements or signal characteristic changes) and uses this feedback to trigger updates to the fingerprint database. This feedback loop ensures the database remains accurate and current, allowing the system to adapt to environmental changes while maintaining location estimation accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods and apparatuses for estimating a location within an area are disclosed. One method includes determining a plurality of wireless signal signatures at a plurality of locations within the area, wherein each wireless signal signatures includes a characteristic of a plurality of wireless links between a device and a plurality of network access points at a one of the plurality of locations, wherein the plurality of wireless signal signatures are received by a network manager server. Further, the network manager server receives a present wireless signal signature of a current device. The method further includes estimating locations the current device, including comparing a present wireless signal signature of the current device with plurality of wireless signal signatures, and adaptively re-determining the plurality of wireless signal signatures based on at least one condition of a distributed wireless network that includes the plurality of network access points.