Wireless Access Point Social Network Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional GPS-based location tracking systems are complex, resource-intensive, and ineffective indoors, as they require GPS systems in each wireless device and substantial data transmission to maintain accurate location information for multiple subscribers.
Innovation Solution
A network management application creates dynamic social networks based on wireless access points, tracking subscribers within specific coverage regions by analyzing communications, and transmitting targeted information and advertisements to users based on their presence, attributes, and relationships.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS-based location tracking is implemented in each wireless device, then location tracking precision is improved, but device complexity and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces wireless access points as intermediary devices that perform location tracking functions. Instead of requiring GPS hardware in each mobile device, the access points act as mediators that detect and track device locations through wireless signal analysis, thereby reducing complexity in end-user devices while maintaining tracking precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/GPS-based location determination system with a wireless signal-based system. Location tracking is achieved through analyzing wireless communications and signals between mobile devices and access points, eliminating the need for GPS hardware and reducing device complexity
2Measurement precision
If GPS location information is continuously transmitted for multiple subscribers, then location tracking accuracy is improved, but data transmission overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges location tracking with existing wireless communication infrastructure. Location information is derived from routine wireless signaling and access point communications rather than separate GPS data streams, combining multiple functions into a unified system that reduces overall data transmission requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs location tracking using information already exchanged during normal wireless operations. Mobile devices and access points utilize existing communication protocols and signaling to determine location, eliminating the need for dedicated location data transmission and reducing energy overhead
3Reliability
If GPS systems are deployed in each mobile device, then location tracking capability is improved, but manufacturing cost and device resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless access points serve multiple functions including providing wireless connectivity, managing network communications, and performing location tracking. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated GPS hardware in mobile devices, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining location tracking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The access points act as intermediary devices that centralize the location tracking functionality. By moving the tracking capability from individual mobile devices to the network infrastructure, the patent reduces manufacturing complexity and cost for end devices while preserving reliable location tracking
4Area of stationary object
If conventional cellular base stations with large coverage areas are used, then network coverage area is improved, but location tracking precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the large cellular coverage area into smaller tracking zones based on wireless access point coverage. Each access point creates a localized tracking domain, allowing precise location determination within smaller regions while collectively covering a large geographic area through the network of access points
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements different tracking precision levels for different spatial scales. Within each access point coverage area, high-precision local tracking is achieved through detailed wireless signal analysis, while the overall network maintains broad coverage through the distributed arrangement of multiple access points
Data Source
AI summary
A network management application creates one or more maps representing social networks of participants that currently reside, have resided, or plan to reside in a region of wireless coverage provided by a wireless access point. The network management application updates a map to reflect changes in the social network in accordance with movement of the participants in and out of the region of wireless coverage. For example, if a subscriber moves outside the region, the respective subscriber is removed from the social network. If the subscriber moves into the region of wireless coverage, the respective subscriber is added to the social network. Inclusion of a subscriber in the social network can depend on factors such as whether a subscriber is a member of an organization. The wireless base station communicates information to the participants of the social network in accordance with one or more rules.