Wi-Fi Geolocation Tracker Using DNS Query Triangulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing GPS-based tracking devices are expensive, bulky, have limited autonomy, and are restricted to outdoor use due to the need for a clear line of sight to GPS satellites, while alternative Wi-Fi-based solutions are costly and require cellular subscriptions, limiting their applicability for low-cost, indoor, and outdoor tracking.
Innovation Solution
A geolocation tracker that uses open Wi-Fi networks to transmit data indirectly via DNS queries, leveraging the existing Wi-Fi environment for location determination, featuring a simple structure with a microcontroller and WiFi transmitter/receiver module, allowing for low-cost, energy-efficient, and indoor-outdoor tracking without dedicated infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS modules and operated network communication modules are used for tracking, then location accuracy is improved, but device cost and size increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of Wi-Fi access points and a location server that mediates the location determination process. Instead of using expensive GPS modules, the tracker uses readily available Wi-Fi access points as intermediaries to determine location through triangulation based on signal strength measurements, thereby achieving location accuracy without requiring costly dedicated GPS hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The patent copies the location determination functionality from GPS-based systems by using Wi-Fi signal triangulation instead of satellite-based positioning. The system replicates the essential location tracking capability using alternative, lower-cost infrastructure (Wi-Fi networks) that is already widely deployed in urban environments
2Measurement precision
If GPS modules with clear sky line of sight are used, then outdoor location accuracy is improved, but indoor tracking capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal location tracking system that functions both indoors and outdoors by using Wi-Fi access points as the basis for location determination. Since Wi-Fi networks are deployed both in outdoor urban environments and indoor locations, the same tracking mechanism works universally across both settings, eliminating the limitation of GPS-only outdoor operation
3Reliability
If three active elements (GPS module, communication module, microcontroller) are used, then location tracking functionality is achieved, but energy consumption increases and autonomy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the GPS module and operated network communication module from the traditional three-element architecture, retaining only the essential Wi-Fi communication capability. By removing the dedicated GPS hardware and using the device's existing Wi-Fi interface for both communication and location determination, the system significantly reduces energy consumption while maintaining tracking functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the location determination function with the existing Wi-Fi communication interface. The same Wi-Fi module used for data transmission also performs signal strength measurements for triangulation-based location calculation, eliminating the need for separate GPS and communication hardware, thereby reducing overall energy consumption
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for the geolocation of a product or of an individual, wherein a tracer associated with said product or with said individual implements the following steps: - detecting Wi-Fi networks and associated access points located within the range thereof, - collecting raw data relating to at least one detected Wi-Fi network and to at least one access point via which said network is made visible to said tracer, - when an open Wi-Fi network is detected, - connecting to this Wi-Fi network, - obtaining an IP address and the parameters of the DNS server associated with this network, - generating and transmitting, to the DNS server associated with said Wi-Fi network, a DNS request encapsulating said data with a domain name corresponding to a resolution server. The resolution server is able to process the request so as to recover said data and to use them to interrogate a location server that is itself able to supply an item of location information from raw data regarding a Wi-Fi environment.