Multi-Device GNSS Assistance for Faster Position Fixes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computer devices experiencing poor RF conditions face challenges in accurately and quickly determining their position due to signal interference or blockage, which is critical in emergency situations where precise location information is needed.
Innovation Solution
A second computer device with better RF conditions shares its position information with a first device experiencing poor conditions, enabling faster and more accurate positioning by assisting in the determination process through direct or indirect communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a computer device independently determines position using GNSS satellites, then the position determination process is self-contained and does not require external assistance, but the speed and accuracy of position determination deteriorates under poor RF conditions due to signal blockage or interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a second device as an intermediary that provides assistance information to the first device. This mediator device receives GNSS signals and shares position assistance data (such as satellite ephemeris, almanac, and time synchronization information) with the first device experiencing poor RF conditions, thereby improving the first device's ability to determine position quickly and reliably without direct satellite contact
2Ease of operation
If a computer device operates in poor RF conditions with signal blockage or interference, then the device maintains operational independence, but the measurement precision of position determination deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the second device pre-acquire and share assistance information with the first device before the first device attempts position determination. This includes pre-receiving satellite signal data, ephemeris information, and time references, which are stored and then used by the first device to quickly establish accurate position without having to independently process weak or blocked GNSS signals
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are described for multi-device position determination. An example method can include processing a request from an application executing on the first device, the request for a position of the first device. The method can further include accessing a memory of the first device to identify assistance information from a second device, the second device connected to the first device via a data connection, and the assistance information comprising information used to determine a position of the second device. The method can further include causing the first device to use the information used to determine the position of the second device to determine the position of the first device. The method can further include providing the position of the first device to the application.