Mobile Station Position Estimation Using PEI Parameters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing position determination technologies for mobile stations in wireless communication networks face challenges in accurately estimating the location of mobile stations, particularly in scenarios where GPS signals are unavailable, and there is a need for more efficient methods to generate position estimate information (PEI) parameters for precise location identification.

Innovation Solution

A method and system where a mobile station collects and generates PEI parameters from location nodes, such as base stations and satellites, which are then used by a position determination entity to calculate a position estimate, allowing for accurate location identification using a combination of CDMA and GPS systems, even in areas with limited satellite visibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If GPS-based position determination is used, then position estimation accuracy is improved, but the system becomes unusable in areas with limited satellite visibility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition estimation accuracyVSAvoidusability in limited satellite visibility areas
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The position determination system is segmented into multiple independent components: GPS-based position estimation and network-based position estimation. Each component operates independently using different principles (satellite signals vs. network infrastructure), allowing the system to function in diverse environments including areas with limited satellite visibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a composite position determination system that combines GPS measurements with network-based measurements (such as cell tower triangulation and signal strength analysis). This composite approach integrates multiple positioning methodologies into a unified system that maintains accuracy across varying environmental conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Measurement precision

If hybrid position determination combining AFLT and GPS is used, then position estimation accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition estimation accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mobile station is designed with multi-functional capabilities to perform both GPS-based position estimation and network-based position estimation using AFLT techniques. This universal design allows a single device to execute multiple positioning functions, eliminating the need for separate specialized systems and reducing overall complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges GPS reception functionality with AFLT processing capabilities into a unified position determination system. By combining these functions within the same mobile station and using common processing resources, the system achieves high accuracy without proportionally increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If network-based position determination is used, then adaptability to different environments is improved, but position estimation accuracy deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenvironmental adaptabilityVSAvoidposition estimation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adapts its position determination methodology based on environmental conditions. When GPS signals are available and sufficient, the system uses GPS-based estimation for high accuracy. When GPS availability is limited, the system dynamically switches to or combines with network-based AFLT methods, adjusting its operational mode to maintain optimal performance across varying environments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mobile station acts as an intermediary that collects and processes both GPS measurements and network-based measurements (such as time of arrival from base stations). This intermediary role allows the system to integrate data from multiple sources, using the mobile station's processor to combine and reconcile measurements from different methodologies to achieve accurate position estimation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9020539B2Method and apparatus for calculating a position estimate of a mobile station using network information
Publication Date: 2015.04.28 QUALCOMM INC
  • US9020539B2 patent drawing
  • US9020539B2 patent drawing
  • US9020539B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for calculating a position estimate of a mobile station (MS) includes collecting in the MS position estimate information (PEI) transmitted by a location node. At some point, the MS generates PEI parameters which include information from which the location node can be located or identified. The MS generates the PEI parameters based upon the PEI transmitted by the location node. Once generated, the MS sends the PEI parameters to a position determination entity. The PEI parameters permit calculation of the position estimate of the mobile station.