Mobile Device Position Fix Switching Between Network and Satellite

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mobile computing devices face challenges in obtaining position fixes when real-time wireless data is unavailable, such as in areas with no network coverage, and there is a need for a system that can provide configurable location determination methods to accommodate carrier preferences while ensuring position fixes are available even without wireless data.

Innovation Solution

A mobile computing device with a dual processor architecture and integrated GPS receiver that can switch between standalone and network-assisted location determination modes, allowing for position fixes using satellite data when wireless data is unavailable and utilizing wireless networks when available, with configuration options to prioritize network-based fixes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the mobile computing device uses real-time wireless data for location determination, then network usage and carrier revenue are maximized, but position fixes cannot be obtained when wireless service is unavailable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveavailability of position fixesVSAvoidadaptability to wireless network conditions

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between network-based and standalone location determination methods based on real-time detection of wireless network availability. When network service is detected, the system uses network-based methods to maximize carrier revenue. When network service is unavailable, the system automatically falls back to standalone GPS-based position fixes to maintain service reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the location determination parameter (method selection) based on network availability conditions. The processor monitors network service status and adjusts the location determination approach accordingly, switching between network-based and standalone methods to maintain continuous position fix availability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the mobile computing device uses standalone position fixes when wireless data is unavailable, then position fixes can be obtained in areas without network coverage, but carrier revenue is reduced due to decreased network usage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveavailability of position fixesVSAvoidnetwork data usage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides self-service location determination by automatically detecting network availability and selecting the appropriate method without user intervention. The processor monitors network service status and independently decides whether to use network-based or standalone position fixes, ensuring continuous service while optimizing network usage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the mobile computing device is configured to prioritize network-based position fixes, then carrier preferences are adhered to and network usage is maximized, but position fixes cannot be obtained when network service is temporarily blocked

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecarrier preference complianceVSAvoidavailability of position fixes

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system prepares for network failures by having standalone position fix capability ready as a backup. When network service is temporarily blocked, the system can immediately switch to standalone GPS-based position fixes, preventing service disruption. This beforehand cushioning ensures continuous location-based services while maintaining carrier preference compliance during normal operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables reliable position fixes in various scenarios, including areas with no network coverage, while adhering to carrier preferences by selectively using standalone or network-assisted methods, ensuring continuous location-based services.

Implementation Method 1

An alternative method uses an on-board global positioning system receiver to acquire satellite data and provide a standalone position fix

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTrilateration:

Data Source

PatentUS7991408B2Use of local position fix when remote position fix is unavailable

Publication Date: 2011.08.02 QUALCOMM INC

AI summary

A mobile computing device has a transceiver circuit, a location determination circuit, and a processing circuit. The transceiver circuit is configured to receive a remote position fix from a remote computer via a wireless network. The location determination circuit is configured to receive satellite data and to calculate a local position fix. The processing circuit is configured to operate an application, to receive a request for a position fix from the application, to determine whether the remote position fix is available, and to provide the local position fix to the application based on whether the remote position fix is available.