Multi-Mode Location Determination Using Segmented Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current location determination methods using GPS and software-only positioning systems face limitations in accuracy and response time, especially when applied sequentially to minimize overall location determination time in dual-mode or multi-mode mobile devices.
Innovation Solution
The method combines different location determination technologies such as Cell-ID, MS-Assist, and MS-Based modes to generate and display location data, allowing for a quick initial coarse location fix followed by successive more accurate fixes, optimizing response time and accuracy by sequentially using these modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS receivers are used for location determination, then location accuracy is improved, but response time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the location determination process into multiple phases: first obtaining coarse location data quickly from cell tower triangulation, then progressively refining the location accuracy using GPS and other methods. This segmentation allows the system to provide timely location information initially while continuing to improve accuracy without delaying the initial response.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary location determination using faster methods (cell tower triangulation) before deploying more accurate but slower methods (GPS). This preliminary action provides immediate location data to meet response time requirements, while subsequent refined measurements improve accuracy without compromising the initial timely response.
2Measurement precision
If multiple location determination technologies are combined, then location accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal location determination system that can operate with multiple different technologies (GPS, cell tower triangulation, Wi-Fi positioning) but selectively activates them based on availability and requirements. This multi-functionality approach allows the system to achieve high accuracy when needed while maintaining operational simplicity by using available resources rather than requiring all technologies simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges multiple location determination technologies into a unified framework that coordinates their use. Rather than maintaining separate complex systems, the patent combines cell tower-based location, GPS, and other methods into a single integrated system that manages them sequentially and selectively, reducing overall complexity while maintaining accuracy benefits.
3Loss of time
If sequential location determination methods are used to reduce overall time, then response time is improved, but location accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The location determination process is segmented into sequential phases where each phase builds upon the previous one. The first phase provides quick coarse location data, and subsequent phases refine this data with more accurate measurements. This segmentation ensures that time is reduced by having multiple phases running or being prepared in sequence, while accuracy is maintained through progressive refinement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuity of useful action by ensuring that while faster methods provide initial location data, more accurate methods continue to operate and refine the location information. This continuous refinement process ensures that accuracy is not compromised even as response time is improved through parallel and sequential operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for location determination of a multi-mode device using a plurality of GPS fixation processes, each fixation process using a different mode (e.g. Cell-ID, MS-Assist, and MS-based) of the device is provided. The invention relates to methods for quickly obtaining and displaying geographic location of a mobile device on its display. These methods can be performed by applying successive fixation steps as outline herein.