Mobile Network Signal Strength Identification Using Spectrum Analyzer Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network coverage analysis relies on prediction models that may inaccurately assess signal strength, particularly in areas like large steel buildings where devices cannot connect, leading to undetected poor coverage.
Innovation Solution
Equipping user equipment with a spectrum analyzer to collect signal strength information even when not connected to the network, using triggers like signal loss or battery thresholds, and aggregating this data to compare with prediction models, identifying areas with predicted good coverage but actual poor signal strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If network coverage analysis relies on prediction models based on cell tower location and power, then coverage can be estimated in advance, but the measurement precision deteriorates because actual signal strength cannot be detected in areas where devices cannot connect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement mechanism that allows signal strength to be measured indirectly through reference signals even when full network connection cannot be established. User equipment can measure reference signal received power (RSRP) and reference signal received quality (RSRQ) without requiring complete network connectivity, thus bridging the gap between prediction models and actual measurements in previously unreachable areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables user equipment to autonomously perform signal strength measurements and report them to the network without requiring network connection for the measurement process itself. The device can independently measure reference signals and provide feedback, allowing the network to self-optimize coverage based on actual conditions rather than relying solely on external measurement vehicles.
2Loss of information
If received signal levels are only collected when user device is connected to the telecommunications network, then data quality is maintained, but the area of coverage analysis deteriorates because disconnected areas cannot be measured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary measurement capability where user equipment can perform signal strength measurements before establishing full network connection. By measuring reference signals in advance during the connection establishment process, the system captures signal data from areas that would otherwise be excluded, expanding the coverage analysis area while maintaining data quality through structured measurement protocols.
3Device complexity
If prediction models assume good coverage in certain geographic areas, then network planning is simplified, but reliability deteriorates because actual poor coverage in those areas remains undetected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where actual signal strength measurements from user equipment are continuously reported to the network operator. This feedback loop allows comparison between predicted coverage and actual measurements, enabling identification of discrepancies where prediction models assume good coverage but actual conditions show poor coverage. The system can then trigger targeted measurements or network adjustments to resolve the reliability issue.
Data Source
AI summary
A processor-implemented method includes receiving, from a mobile device, signal strength information indicative of a signal strength of a signal between the mobile device and a network transceiver in a mobile device telecommunications network. The processor determines, based at least in part on the signal strength information, a coverage area associated with the network transceiver, determines, based at least in part on the signal strength information, an aggregated signal strength associated with a location within the coverage area, and determines a predicted signal strength associated with the location. The predicted signal strength is based at least in part on a signal strength estimation model. The processor determines a difference between the aggregated signal strength and the predicted signal strength, determines whether the difference meets or exceeds a signal strength threshold, and generates a message to update hardware component associated with the location.