Database Update for Indoor Location Using WLAN Signal Logs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pCell location determination techniques using base station information are inaccurate in GPS shadow zones and repeater environments, and lack precise location determination indoors.
Innovation Solution
A database update method and apparatus that collects and processes WLAN signal log data from mobile communication terminals to construct a database of location information about access points, such as routers and WLAN equipment, for accurate location determination without GPS.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If network-based location determination using base station information is used, then location determination can be provided in GPS shadow zones, but location determination accuracy deteriorates due to repeater environments and less dense base station distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines base station information with WLAN access point information to create a hybrid location determination system. The database stores both base station pCell data and WLAN AP data, allowing the system to merge these two sources of location information to achieve both availability in GPS shadow zones and improved accuracy by selecting the most reliable data source based on current signal conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces WLAN access points as intermediary reference objects for location determination. Instead of relying solely on base stations, the system uses WLAN APs as intermediate markers that can be densely distributed indoors and in GPS shadow zones, providing additional reference points for accurate location calculation without requiring direct GPS satellite visibility
2Measurement precision
If GPS is used for location determination, then high location determination accuracy can be achieved, but GPS does not work indoors in GPS shadow zones
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual GPS-like positioning system using WLAN access points as surrogate reference objects. By constructing a database of WLAN AP locations and using signal strength measurements to calculate position, the system replicates the functionality of GPS indoors without requiring actual satellite signals, effectively copying the outdoor positioning capability for indoor environments
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of trying to bring GPS signals indoors (which don't penetrate buildings), the patent inverts the approach by having mobile terminals emit or reflect WLAN signals and using the reflected/received signals to determine location. The mobile terminal becomes an active participant in the positioning process rather than a passive receiver, enabling indoor location determination where traditional GPS fails
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention relate to a database update method and apparatus for locating a pCell. An embodiment of the present invention provides a database update apparatus for locating a pCell, comprising: a database storing grid cells that are sorted by pCell ID; a DB collection unit collecting log data for a WLAN signal from a mobile communication terminal which performs communication using the WLAN signal; an information extraction unit extracting a WLAN parameter from the log data of the WLAN signal; and a DB update unit updating the grid cells by matching and storing the information based on the extracted WLAN parameter in the corresponding grid cell. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the data-based information for AP locations and its application to the determination of a location can enhance the location performance.