Mobile Location Area Determination Using Probability Sub-Areas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the location area of mobile communication terminals in mobile radio networks are inaccurate and unreliable, especially in rural areas, as they often cover large geographical areas and require signal strength or time difference measurements, which are not always available or reliable.
Innovation Solution
The system divides the geographical area into sub-areas of equal shape and size, determining location probabilities based on expected field strengths and antenna usage, allowing for the definition of smaller elliptical location areas without the need for signal property measurements or extensive antenna coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the location area is determined using traditional antenna coverage calculations, then the coverage area is large, but the accuracy and reliability of location determination deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The geographical area is divided into multiple sub-areas, each associated with specific antennas. By segmenting the large coverage area into smaller sub-areas and calculating location probabilities for each, the system achieves more precise location determination while maintaining comprehensive coverage. This segmentation allows the system to identify the specific sub-area where the mobile terminal is located rather than relying on the entire antenna coverage area.
2Measurement precision
If signal strength or time difference measurements are used for location determination, then location accuracy improves, but the complexity of the system increases and measurements may not always be available
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses information that is already available in the mobile network (antenna identification and sub-area associations) to determine location probabilities. The mobile terminal itself provides the antenna identification information, and the network uses this along with pre-calculated field strength distributions to determine location without requiring additional measurements or complex equipment.
3Reliability
If the location area is reduced to improve accuracy, then the hit rate decreases, but the reliability of location determination improves
Solution Approach 1:
The system calculates location probabilities for multiple sub-areas based on field strength distributions and antenna associations. By changing from a deterministic location determination to a probabilistic approach, the system can provide reliable location information even when the terminal is at the boundary between sub-areas. The probability values allow the system to maintain high reliability while achieving accurate location determination.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for determining location area of mobile user devices. In a mobile device, a first area probability as a likelihood that the mobile device is located within a first area and a second area probability indicative of the mobile device being located within a second area may be determined, with the first area probability determined based on a first probability and a second probability, and the second area probability determined based on a third probability and a fourth probability. The first probability, second probability, third probability, and fourth probability are determined based on assessing strength received in the respective area from a first base station or a second base station. A determination of whether the mobile device is located in the first area or the second area is made based on the first area probability and the second area probability.