Radio Backscatter Occupancy Mapping Beyond Operator-Specific Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for estimating occupancy levels in a geographic area served by a mobile communication network are limited to specific network operators and do not account for the presence of both living beings and inanimate objects, nor can they provide a comprehensive occupancy level that is independent of the network operator.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilizes a base transceiver station to transmit radio signals, receive backscattered signals from both permanent and temporary bodies, and generate maps to determine the occupancy level by comparing these signals, allowing for the estimation of temporary bodies' presence independent of the network operator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If SIM-based techniques are used to measure connected users, then network operator-specific data can be obtained, but the solution is limited to customers of that specific network operator and cannot provide comprehensive occupancy levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the occupancy detection problem into two parts: permanent bodies (using historical data) and temporary bodies (using current measurements). This segmentation allows the system to differentiate between permanent structures and temporary occupants, enabling comprehensive occupancy estimation that is independent of network operator data while maintaining accuracy in detecting both living beings and inanimate objects
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal occupancy estimation system that works across multiple network operators by using radio signal backscattering from all bodies (not just SIM-based users). The system processes signals from permanent and temporary bodies universally, making it adaptable to different network operators and providing comprehensive occupancy data independent of any single operator's customer base
2Productivity
If extrapolation techniques based on historical traffic data are used, then occupancy estimation can be performed, but the solution remains limited to network operator customers and does not account for all bodies in the geographic area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by collecting historical measurement data during reference time periods to create a database of permanent bodies. This preliminary mapping of permanent structures enables the system to efficiently detect only temporary bodies during subsequent occupancy estimations, improving productivity while maintaining comprehensive detection accuracy for both permanent and temporary objects
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using radio signal backscattering as a mediator between the detection system and all bodies in the geographic area. This intermediary method captures signals from both permanent structures and temporary objects, enabling comprehensive occupancy detection that goes beyond network operator customer data while maintaining efficient processing through historical data comparison
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 accurate estimation of occupancy levels in a geographic area, including both living beings and inanimate objects, providing a comprehensive view that is independent of the network operator, facilitating better network management and public safety measures.
Implementation Method 1
receive corresponding second radio signals originated from a plurality of bodies within the geographic area by backscattering of the first radio signals hitting the plurality of bodies
Data Source
AI summary
A method for estimating an occupancy level of a geographic area includes transmitting first signals to and receiving second signals from bodies within the geographic area by backscattering of the first signals. The bodies include first bodies permanently within the geographic area and second bodies temporarily within the geographic area. According to the first and second signals, a first map of the first bodies within the geographic area is generated. At a specified time period, following a reference time period, transmission of the first signals, reception of the radio signals and generation of the first map is repeated. According to the first and second signals, a second map of the bodies within the geographic area is generated. A number of the second bodies within the geographic area during the specified time period is determined as the occupancy level based on comparing the first map to the second map.