HK1096810A - Symbiotic system for testing electromagnetic signal coverage in areas near transport routes - Google Patents

Description

Co-existing system for testing electromagnetic signal coverage in the vicinity of a transport path

Technical Field

The following disclosure relates generally to the field of area testing of signal coverage in wireless communication systems, and more particularly to the task of optimally distributing a plurality of portable signal testing units among a fleet of service vehicles traveling on a path that are assigned according to the needs of a service enterprise.

Background

Many wireless communication providers monitor signal coverage in a particular area by dispatching a vehicle with a signal testing unit to the area in response to customer complaints. Testing signal coverage based on ad hoc approach implies inefficient use of manpower, equipment and resources. Monitoring signal coverage only after a problem is reported does not promote customer confidence and it relies on customers to report coverage gaps quickly and accurately.

Designing an efficient and effective system for monitoring signal coverage poses numerous technical and logistical challenges. Many wireless providers maintain a small fleet of equipped vehicles to deploy these vehicles to a particular area when testing is required, such as when a new cell tower (cell) is established or sector configuration is updated. Testing may also be required during certain peak hours, such as the morning or evening peak hours.

Supporting and maintaining a controlled fleet of vehicles in various or major urban areas requires specially trained personnel and logistics support in addition to the cost of signal testing units. As the demand and use of wireless communication devices continues to increase, the task of signal coverage monitoring in each major market in a nationwide region represents a substantial logistical and economic burden for most wireless providers. Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an efficient and economical system that tests electromagnetic signal coverage within a geographic area when signal data needs to be collected. There is also a need for an efficient and scalable system that can test a specific target area or the entire area network, either at once or on a regular, continuous basis.

Certain illustrative and exemplary systems, methods, and apparatus are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. The described examples represent only a few of the many ways in which the principles of the disclosure may be employed and are thus intended to include equivalents. Other advantages and novel features may become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

Disclosure of Invention

The following summary is not an extensive overview and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of the devices, methods, systems, processes, etc., nor delineate the scope of such elements. This summary provides a conceptual introduction in simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

Certain illustrative example apparatuses, methods, systems, processes, etc., are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These examples are merely representative of the few of the various ways in which the principles of the devices, methods, systems, processes, etc. may be employed and are therefore intended to include equivalents. Other advantages and novel features may become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

The example systems, products, and methods described herein facilitate testing electromagnetic signal strength in or near a target area.

In one aspect of the invention, a system is provided for testing electromagnetic signal strength in the vicinity of a target area. The system may include: a plurality of electromagnetic signal test units; a wireless provider for creating test parameters; a service enterprise having a fleet of vehicles that provide services for areas proximate to a target area, each vehicle in the fleet being assigned to one of a plurality of routes according to a dispatch plan that includes vehicle data and plan data; means for comparing the test parameters to a dispatch plan for each of the plurality of paths; means for identifying one or more optimal paths from a plurality of paths based on the comparing means, the optimal paths including the path that most closely satisfies the test parameters, one of the plurality of test units being installed in a vehicle assigned to each of the one or more optimal paths; and a receiver for receiving data collected by each of the plurality of signal testing units.

In another aspect of the system, the means for identifying one or more optimal paths may further comprise means for selecting one or more additional paths whose purpose is only to more closely satisfy the test parameters.

In another aspect of the system, the test parameters may include geographic parameters, and the path data may include a start location, an end location, and one or more intermediate stop locations.

In another aspect of the system, the geographic parameter may include: one or more tower identifications, each tower identification defining a tower location; and one or more sector identities, each of the one or more sector identities comprising a sector location and an antenna configuration.

In another aspect of the system, the test parameters may include time parameters describing a time window, and the path data includes a start time corresponding to the start location, an end time corresponding to the end location, and one or more intermediate dwell durations corresponding to the one or more intermediate dwell locations.

In another aspect of the system, the time parameter can include one or more linger parameters, each of the one or more linger parameters including a linger duration, a transmit tower identification, and a sector identification.

In another aspect of the system, the test parameters may include: one or more unit parameters, each of the one or more unit parameters including a unit type and a unit feature; and a quantity parameter defining an available quantity of the units, and wherein the vehicle data may include a quantity of vehicles in the fleet.

In another aspect of the system, the system may further comprise a universal cradle in each vehicle of the fleet configured to removably receive any one of a plurality of types of the test units.

In another aspect of the system, the test parameters may include weights assigned to one or more of the test parameters, each of the weights being related to the importance of the one or more of the test parameters relative to other test parameters.

In another aspect of the system, the comparison means may comprise a computer software program product. In another aspect of the system, the identifying means may comprise a computer software program product.

In another aspect of the system, the wireless provider may be generally independent of the service enterprise.

In another aspect of the invention, a computer software program product is provided for testing electromagnetic signal strength in the vicinity of a target area. The product may include: a first executable portion configured to store test parameters; a second executable portion configured for storing a dispatch plan for a fleet servicing an area proximate the target area, each of the vehicles being dispatched to one of a plurality of routes according to the dispatch plan, the dispatch plan including vehicle data and route data; a third executable portion configured for comparing the test parameters to the dispatch plan for each of the plurality of paths; a fourth executable portion configured to identify one or more optimal paths from the plurality of paths based on results of the third executable portion, the optimal paths including paths that most nearly satisfy the test parameters; a fifth executable portion configured for identifying a vehicle assigned to each of the one or more optimal paths, the vehicle for housing one of a plurality of electromagnetic signal testing units; a sixth executable portion configured to receive data collected by each of the plurality of signal testing units.

In another aspect of the product, the fourth executable portion may be further configured to select one or more additional paths whose purpose is only to more closely satisfy the test parameters.

In another aspect of the product, the first executable portion may store test parameters including geographic parameters, and the second executable portion may store path data including a start location, an end location, and one or more intermediate stop locations.

In another aspect of the product, the first executable portion may store test parameters including geographic parameters including: one or more tower identifications, each tower identification defining a tower location; and one or more sector identities, each of the one or more sector identities comprising a sector location and an antenna configuration.

In another aspect of the product, the first executable portion may store test parameters including time parameters describing a time window, and the second executable portion may store path data including: a start time corresponding to the start position, an end time corresponding to the end position, and one or more intermediate dwell durations corresponding to the one or more intermediate dwell positions.

In another aspect of the article of manufacture, the first executable portion may store test parameters including a time parameter including one or more linger parameters, each of the one or more linger parameters including a linger duration, a tower identification, and a sector identification.

In another aspect of the product, the first executable portion may store test parameters including: one or more unit parameters, each of the one or more unit parameters including a unit type and a unit feature; and a quantity parameter defining an available quantity of the unit, and the second executable portion may store vehicle data including a quantity of vehicles in the fleet.

In another aspect of the product, the first executable portion may store weights assigned to one or more of the test parameters, each of the weights relating to the importance of the one or more of the test parameters relative to other test parameters.

These and other objects are achieved by the methods, products and systems described herein and will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like reference characters identify like elements.

Drawings

The invention will be more readily understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

fig. 1 illustrates a wireless communication system showing a number of cell towers and a set of hexagonal cells (hexagonal cells) in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates the wireless communication system shown in FIG. 1 superimposed over an illustrative view of a road map in a service area in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a dispatch plan including several paths superimposed on the road map illustrated in FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 graphically illustrates a cluster of dwell points (cluster) along a path, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a series of steps performed by a wireless provider and a service enterprise, according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates, in combination, the wireless system shown in FIG. 2 and the path illustrated in FIG. 3, further illustrating the system according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a signal testing unit mounted on a bracket in a selected vehicle, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description

1. Introduction to the design reside in

Exemplary systems, methods, and apparatus are now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the systems, methods, devices, etc. It may be evident, however, that such embodiment(s) may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, common structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to simplify the description.

As used in this application, the term "computer component" refers to a computer-related entity, namely: hardware, firmware, software, a combination thereof, or refers to software in execution. For example, a computer component can be, but is not limited to being, a server, a processor, a process running on a processor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution, a program, and a computer. By way of illustration, both an application running on a server and the server can be a computer component. One or more computer components may reside within a process or thread of execution and a computer component may be localized on a single computer and/or distributed between two or more computers.

"software", as used herein, includes but is not limited to one or more computer-readable and/or executable instructions that cause a computer, computer component, and/or other electronic device to perform functions, acts, and/or behave in a desired manner. These instructions may be implemented in a variety of forms, for example: routines, algorithms, modules, methods, threads, and/or programs. Software may also be implemented in a variety of executable and/or loadable forms including, but not limited to, a stand-alone program, a function call (local and/or remote), a servelet, an applet, instructions stored in a memory, part of an operating system or browser, etc. It should be appreciated that computer-readable and/or executable instructions can be located in one computer component and/or distributed between two or more communicating, cooperating, and/or parallel processing computer components and thus can be loaded in serial, parallel, massively parallel, and other manners. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the form of software may depend, for example, on the requirements of a desired application, the environment in which the software operates, and/or the desires of a designer or programmer or the like.

As used herein, "data store" refers to a physical and/or logical entity that can store data. The data store may be, for example, a database, a table, a file, a list, a queue, a heap (heap), and the like. The data store may reside in one logical and/or physical entity and/or be distributed between two or more logical and/or physical entities.

The systems, methods, apparatus, and objects described herein may be stored, for example, on a computer-readable medium. The medium may include, but is not limited to, an ASIC, CD, DVD, RAM, ROM, PROM, disk, carrier wave, memory stick, etc. Accordingly, an example computer-readable medium may store computer-executable instructions for a method of transportation asset management. The method includes designing a transportation asset path based on analyzing data found from an experience-based path database.

To the extent that the term "includes" is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" as "comprising" is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim. Also, to the extent that the term "or" (e.g., a or B) is used in the claims, it is intended to mean "a or B or both". When the author intends to mean "only a or B but not both", the author will take the sentence "a or B but not both". Thus, the term "or" as used herein is an inclusive rather than exclusive use. See Garner, A DICTIONARY OF MODERN LEGAL USAGE 624 (second edition 1995).

It should be appreciated that some or all of the processes and methods of the system involve electronic applications and/or software applications that may be dynamic and flexible processes and thus may be performed in other sequences than described herein. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that elements implemented as software may be implemented using various programming methods, such as: machine language, procedural, object oriented, and/or artificial intelligence techniques.

The processing, analyzing and/or other functions described herein may also be performed by functionally equivalent circuits, such as: a digital signal processor circuit, a software controlled microprocessor, or an application specific integrated circuit. Components implemented in software are not limited to any particular programming language. Rather, the description herein provides information that may be used by those skilled in the art to fabricate circuits or to generate computer software to perform the processing of the system. It will be appreciated that some or all of the functionality and/or performance of the present systems and methods may be implemented as the logic defined above.

Many modifications and other embodiments will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and alternative embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure and the exemplary inventive concepts. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

2. Wireless supplier

In general, a wireless communication system may include a network of multiple radio base stations or cell towers 100 supporting an array antenna, each of which broadcasts downlink signals 110 to various mobile devices (e.g., wireless telephones). As shown in fig. 1, downlink signals 110 may be directed to a particular region or sector 120. The space around the transmission tower 100 may be divided into any number of sectors 120. The signal 110 may have adjustable beamwidth, signal strength, pointing angle (poittingagle), and other variables that produce the desired amount of sector coverage from the signal 110.

The geographic area served by cell tower 100 may be divided into a plurality of hexagonal cells 200 as shown in fig. 1. In theory, it may be desirable for signal 110 to serve the entire cell 200. In practice, however, the signal 100 typically serves or covers a limited sector 120 due to interference from various sources including terrain and man-made buildings. As shown, the sector 120 may take various shapes.

Typically, the sectors 120 overlap slightly, providing continuous coverage between adjacent cells 100. However, in some cases, the sectors 120 do not provide full coverage, but rather leave gaps 130 as shown in FIG. 1. The gap 130 may cause a serious and significant failure in the coverage of an area, particularly if there are major roads or other active user aggregations within the gap 130. One such major road is shown in fig. 2, where a road map is superimposed over the network of cell towers 100 of fig. 1.

A road passing through the gap 130 in fig. 2 means an area where many customers may experience an unexpected interruption in coverage. The wireless provider may learn of the gap 130 from customer complaints, estimates or approximations of signal strength and sector shape, random tests, or by the system of the present invention in one embodiment. The gaps 130 may prompt the wireless provider to identify one or more of the transmission towers 100 or hexagonal cells 200 of interest that require further investigation or testing. The wireless provider may also select or define a target area 70 (as shown) near the gap 130, which may or may not include one or more cell towers 100 and other network components.

In fact, the target area 70 may or may not include gaps 130 of signal coverage. The wireless provider may or may not select the target area 70 for testing for any reason. For example, the selection of the target area 70 may be due to the installation of new equipment in the vicinity, or due to customer reports (whether these reports are not relevant to the gap 130 or are relevant to the gap 130 has not yet been determined). Also, the wireless provider may randomly select the target area 70, for example, as part of a system-wide testing and monitoring procedure. Once it is determined that testing is required, the wireless provider is tasked with testing signals and related equipment within or near the target area 70.

3. Service enterprise

In one embodiment, the system 10 according to the present invention may comprise a service enterprise, which may be generally independent of the wireless provider. The system 10 may include several service enterprises, or several related departments or subsidiaries of a single service enterprise. The service enterprise may service a region similar or nearby with respect to the area served by the wireless provider.

In one embodiment, the service enterprise may operate a fleet of service vehicles within the service area 20, as shown in FIG. 3. The service area 20 may include a single hub (hub) or several hubs 300, 361, 366, 367, 369. Vehicles in the fleet may be dispatched by a service enterprise along multiple paths 61-69 according to a dispatch plan 60 (e.g., the dispatch plan shown in FIG. 3). For example, a vehicle may be dispatched from hub 361 along first path 61. Other teams of vehicles may be dispatched from hub 300 along second path 62, third path 63, and so on.

The dispatch plan 60 may include the same or similar paths each day, or the plan 60 may change each day or in other forms. In one embodiment, the dispatch plan 60 may include one or more additional paths designed only to complete testing within the target area 70. For example, for a service enterprise such as the U.S. postal service, the daily path is typically fixed. However, for many other types of service enterprises, customer participation and daily needs are often random (ad libitum). A subset of customers with recurring or daily needs can sometimes be identified. However, typically, the list of addresses for participating customers will vary significantly on any given day. The type of service provided along the set of paths may also vary significantly. As described above, the service may include only tests within the target area 70 with no other action. In another embodiment, for example, the service may include a pick-up (pickup) and delivery. Further, the service type may include a specific pickup time or a guaranteed delivery time.

In one embodiment, the dispatch plan 60 may include vehicle data and path data. The vehicle data may include the number of vehicles to be dispatched, the type or size of each vehicle, the particular route number or identification of the route to which each vehicle was dispatched, and other data associating the vehicle with one or more routes in the plan. The path data may include geographic features such as a start location, an end location, and one or more intermediate stop locations. The path data may also include time data, such as a start time corresponding to the start location, an end time corresponding to the end location, one or more intermediate dwell durations corresponding to each intermediate dwell location.

System constraints for a service enterprise may include the number and capacity of vehicles in its fleet, the number of drivers, and the number of hours in a work day. The topography of the service area 20 also creates a unique set of constraints and difficulties. In one embodiment of the invention, the service enterprise may be any type of company or enterprise that generally provides services to an area or region along a definable path, such as a delivery company, a service and maintenance company, a private or public transportation system, rail, air, etc.

A method of servicing the region 20 may include, for example, dispatching vehicles from a central hub to a particular remote area or cluster 40, as generally shown in fig. 4. Within cluster 40, the travel path may include sub-paths 45 between one or more dwell points 42. Each stop 42 may (or may not) include one or more service activities, such as package delivery or pick-up. In this regard, the paths 61-69 shown in FIG. 3 may include one or more clusters 40 where multiple dwell points 42 are desired. In one embodiment, one or more dwell points 42 or clusters 40 may be assigned along one or more additional paths to be dedicated to signal testing within the target area 70.

The road shown in fig. 3 is based on the main road shown in fig. 2. As shown, paths 61 through 69 in fig. 3 pass through portions of the main road shown in fig. 2. If fig. 3 is superimposed on the enlarged portion of fig. 2, the result is shown in fig. 6.

Fig. 6 is a combined illustration of the wireless system and target area 70 shown in fig. 2 and the paths 61 to 69 shown in fig. 3. Nearby cell towers 100 and their corresponding coverage sectors 120 are also shown in fig. 6.

4. Symbiosis (commensal symbian)

In biological terms, symbiosis describes the situation where two distinct organisms live together. Types of symbiosis include parasitism (where one organism benefits from the loss of the other), symbiosis (where one organism benefits greatly while the other is not so affected), and reciprocal symbiosis (where both organisms benefit from this relationship).

Cohabitation is probably best illustrated by the relationship between fish and sharks. the fish is a small fish living on or near sharks. the fish has a suction dish-like pan on its dorsal side which enables it to be temporarily attached to sharks. Both organisms benefit from symbiosis, but fish benefit more than sharks. By eating the sharks' remaining debris, fish have a stable food source. Sharks benefit because fish also eat tiny, shrimp-like parasites that live on the skin of sharks.

In the context of an embodiment of the present invention, symbiosis describes the reciprocal and cooperative relationship between wireless providers and service enterprises in one embodiment of the system 10 according to the present invention. More specifically, in the system 10 as shown in FIG. 7, there may be a symbiotic relationship between the signal testing unit 80 and the selected service vehicle 96. As with fish attached to sharks, wireless providers may benefit by carrying test unit 80 with a selected service vehicle 96 of a service enterprise. In this regard, the wireless provider may be described as hiring a service enterprise to carry the test unit 80. Testing of signals within the target area is achieved by the symbiotic relationship between the test unit 80 and the selected vehicle 96, and thus the wireless provider can benefit from the fact that the unit is carried along a path that the vehicle has traveled for a substantially different purpose (e.g., delivery).

The test unit 80 may be portable and carried along a path within or near the target area 70 (shown in fig. 6) where signal testing is desired. In exchange, the service enterprise operating the selected service vehicle 96 may receive a fee or other consideration from the wireless provider.

In one embodiment, the path traveled by the vehicle is near a target area 70 where signal testing is desired. As used in this application, the term "proximate" includes paths that are wholly or partially within the boundaries of the target region, as well as paths or portions of paths that traverse a relatively short distance from the target region. The desired proximity of the path to the target area may be defined by the system as required by the test to be performed. For example, one test may require that the path be entirely within the target area, while another test may require that the path be within a range of one hundred miles of traversing the target area. In one embodiment, the test parameters described below may include geographic parameters, which may include an ideal proximity of the path to be selected near the target area. Thus, the term "nearby" as used herein represents a variable to be determined by a participant in the system of the present invention.

5. Method for distributing test units between selected vehicles

In one embodiment, the system 10 of the present invention includes a method of assigning each signal test unit 80 for temporary installation in a selected vehicle based on the logistics intersection between the set of test parameters 90 and the dispatch plan 60. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the wireless provider 150 may create the test parameter set 90 while the service enterprise 30 creates the dispatch plan 60. The nature of the intersection between the test parameters 90 and the dispatch plan 60 depends on a large number of variables, many of which are specific to the particular target area 70 selected for the test.

Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a series of steps performed by the service enterprise 30 and the wireless provider 150 according to one embodiment of the system 10 of the present invention. In general, the first few steps taken by each organization 30, 150 may be performed independently of the other steps. The service enterprise 30 may generate the dispatch plan 60 regardless of the actions taken by the wireless provider 150. Similarly, wireless provider 150 may create test parameters 90 regardless of the actions taken by service enterprise 30. In one embodiment, the wireless provider 150 and/or the service enterprise 30 may delegate the tasks described in the steps herein to different companies or organizations.

As shown, the service enterprise 30 may begin at step 31 by identifying a stopping point 42 within the service region 20. In step 32, the service enterprise 30 may execute one or more formal or informal path design algorithms 50. In one embodiment, the system 10 of the present invention may include a path design algorithm 50 such as described in U.S. non-provisional application No. 10/647,062 entitled "Core Area terrorist Planning for optimizing Driver family and Route Flexibility", filed on 22/8/2003, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In step 33, the service enterprise 30 may create a dispatch plan 60 designed to service the waypoint 42.

Wireless communication provider 150 may begin at step 151 by identifying one or more cell towers 100 or hexagonal cells 200 of interest. Depending on the area and need, the wireless provider 150 may select the target area 70 in step 152. In step 153, the wireless provider 150 may create a set of test parameters 90 to control aspects of the test to be completed.

5.1 testing parameters

In one embodiment, the system 10 of the present invention may accommodate a plurality of test parameters 90 or rules. The test parameters 90 may include few variables for a single plan, or they may include many variables for more complex plans. A simple plan may include, for example, testing one area at a time, testing multiple areas in a random manner, or testing areas served by new equipment. More complex planning may include, for example, testing a particular area in response to customer complaints or technical difficulties, or testing a particular area based on technical analysis of signal data.

The test parameters 90 may be set or created by the wireless provider, the service enterprise, both together, or by other organizations. The creation of test parameters 90 typically defines the desired characteristics and defines the limits of the test to be performed.

The test parameters 90 may include geographic parameters that describe the geographic features or boundaries of the target area 70. The geographic parameters may describe the area 70 in terms of values or illustrations, or both. The geographic parameters may relate to administrative divisions (e.g., zip codes and city limits), natural features (e.g., rivers), man-made features (e.g., roads), latitudes and longitudes, locations defined by Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) data, or any other reference that provides a reliable and defined location.

The test parameters 90 may also include tower parameters describing the location of each cell tower 100 of interest. The tower parameters may include latitude and longitude, a graphical location on a map, GPS coordinates, or any other indication of one or more particular towers 100 involved in the test.

The test parameters 90 may also include one or more sector identifications for each transmission tower 100, including data such as: (a) a geographic boundary or boundary of the designed or pre-measured sector 120 in two or three dimensions; (b) beam width, azimuth, boresight angle, or other data describing the configuration of the antennas for sector 120; and (c) other sector characteristics that may be particularly useful during testing.

Test parameters 90 may also include cell parameters that identify the type of signal testing cell 80 that is most suitable or selected for use in testing. The cell parameters may include an indication of the cell type, one or more cell characteristics, and other relevant characteristics of each test cell 80 that may be used. Test unit 80 may be defined by such factors as manufacturer, model number, serial number; which senses cellular, analog or digital transmissions; as well as other factors or characteristics required to perform a test within a particular target area 70.

Test parameters 90 may also include a quantity parameter that identifies the total number of signal testing units 80 required for use in the test. The quantity parameter may reflect the number of cells 80 needed to produce a statistically reliable data set 190 based on the type of analysis performed on the data. In one embodiment, the quantity parameter may be used to determine the daily access frequency; in other words, the number of test elements 80 within or near the target area 70 required within a particular day.

The test parameters 90 may also include time parameters, such as a preferred time window, which may include, for example, a particular start time and stop time for a particular peak time period. In one embodiment, the time parameter may be used to create a test duration that may vary from a few minutes to several entire days or longer. The time parameters may also include more general windows, such as morning or afternoon, morning rush hour, afternoon rush hour, and the like. In one embodiment, the time parameters may include day characteristics, such as weekdays, weekends, holidays, special events, rush days, and the like.

The test parameters 90 may also include a linger parameter, which may be expressed in units (e.g., minutes per hour over a plurality of sectors 120, total minutes over one sector 120, etc.) as well as other limits (e.g., a time range having a maximum and minimum value) and/or a linger time expressed as a percentage of the total test duration. The linger parameters may include linger duration, tower identification, sector identification, and other data describing the desired test duration in a particular area or region. In some applications, the duration of time spent in a particular area or sector 120 may be particularly useful for meeting the test parameters 90.

In one embodiment, to identify those parameters that are particularly important for a given test, an importance factor or weight may be assigned to one or more test parameters 90. For example, the minimum number of minutes per hour within a certain sector 120 as a linger factor may be identified by the wireless provider 150 as one of the more important test parameters 90. Thus, the linger parameter may be assigned a greater weight for use in the comparison in step 35.

In one embodiment, test parameters 90 may be stored manually or in a computer using a database or other software program to facilitate creation, storage, lookup, and transmission of test parameters 90. In use, the system 10 of the present invention in one embodiment may be implemented using a computer software program product having a plurality of executable portions or routines designed or programmed to perform the steps in the system.

5.2 comparison of test parameters with dispatch plan

Test parameters 90 may be communicated to service enterprise 30 as shown in step 154 of FIG. 5. Service enterprise 30 may receive test parameters 90 in step 34.

In one embodiment, the step 35 of comparing the test parameters 90 to the dispatch plan 60 may include applying a specially tailored algorithm to associate selected test parameters 90 with certain characteristics of the dispatch plan 60. In one embodiment, the algorithm may be performed manually if this is feasible, for example, for a simple test plan. In another embodiment, the algorithm may be stored and executed using software on a computer system.

Generally, in one example, the purpose of comparing the test parameters 90 to the dispatch plan 60 is to identify one or more optimal paths within the dispatch plan 60. The optimal path may be defined as a path that meets or nearly meets the test parameters 90. In one embodiment, the optimal path may include one or more additional paths, vehicles, and/or times outside of the dispatch plan 60 that are specifically designed to complete signal testing within the target area 70.

The extent to which test parameters 90 are met may be defined by the system according to the needs of the test to be performed. For example, one test may require a complete match between all of the features of the selected path and all of the test parameters 90, while another test may only require a relatively close match. Thus, the term "best path" as used herein refers to a path that meets the requirements of the test, as defined by the test parameters 90 and the degree of satisfaction required in the test.

In one embodiment, the task of identifying the best path may be performed by any of a variety of identification devices (e.g., those described herein) based on the complexity of the identification. For example, manual or graphical identification means may be used for relatively simple test parameters and simple dispatch plans, whereas digital or computer identification means may be required for more complex test parameters involving a larger geographical area or time window and dispatch plans including many paths and a large variety of fleet vehicles.

In one embodiment, execution of the algorithm in step 35 may generally involve comparison of geographic, device, and time factors.

A. Geography

In one embodiment, the test parameters 90 relating to geographic considerations may include geographic parameters, a tower identification, and a sector identification. The tower identification may include data defining the location of the tower, the capacity of the tower, and other data related to the performance of the tower. The sector identification may define sector location, antenna configuration, power specifications, and other data related to sector performance. The dispatch plan 60 may include, for example, geographic data for the service area 20 and the paths 61-69 to be traveled.

In one embodiment, the first step may be to select a dispatch plan 60 near the target area 70 to consider. The dispatch plan 60 may include multiple paths. It should be noted that paths from different dispatch plans 60 may be considered and selected when determining how best to cover a single target area 70. Also, as shown in FIG. 6, the paths may begin at different centers or hubs 300, 361, 366, 367, 369. In another embodiment, the route and dispatch plan 60 for a separate service enterprise may be included when considering which route best covers the target area 70.

In one embodiment, one or more paths in the dispatch plan 60 may be selected for analysis based on a visual comparison of the map of the target area 70 to a path map. For example, in FIG. 6, paths that are generally located within or near the target region 70 may be selected for closer technical analysis.

In one embodiment, the map of the target area 70 and the maps of the sets of paths 61 through 69 may be overlaid on one another for comparison, as generally shown in FIG. 6. These maps may be superimposed digitally or by other means sufficiently to allow comparison of features in each respective map.

Map comparison techniques may be utilized to satisfy test parameters 90 for certain target areas 70, while other target areas 70 may include parameters 90 that require additional analysis. In one embodiment, the comparison in step 35 may include analyzing the geographic features of each of the stagnation points 42 along each of the paths 61-69. As shown in fig. 4, the travel path may include one or more sub-paths 45 between one or more dwell points 42 in the cluster 40.

In one embodiment, the tower identification and sector identification may be compared to detailed location data describing each of the nearby paths (e.g., paths 61-69 shown in FIG. 6). The comparison of these locations may be done using data stored in a similar coordinate system (e.g., comparing GPS data), or the comparison may require transforming or converting the data into similar units (like units).

B. Device

In one embodiment, the test parameters 90 relating to device considerations may include unit parameters and quantity parameters. The dispatch plan 60 may include equipment data such as the number of service vehicles 26 in the fleet 24, and the number of vehicles equipped with suitable carriers 21 as shown in fig. 7.

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the signal testing unit 80 mounted to the carriage 21 on the selected service vehicle 96. Unit 80 may include an internal antenna for broadcasting data. Cradle 21 may include a connection to one or more antenna 23 connections so that when test unit 80 is inserted into cradle 21, unit 80 may communicate with antenna 23. The antenna 23 may include one or two antennas for collecting wireless data and a third antenna for transmitting or receiving location data (e.g., GPS signals). The carrier 21 may include a locking feature to prevent unauthorized removal or movement.

In one embodiment, the signal testing unit 80 may be temporarily mounted on a selected service vehicle 96 so that the unit 80 may be placed on any vehicle for a particular test. In this regard, the test units 80 may be placed in different vehicles on a daily basis depending on the target area 70 to be tested and the dispatch plan 60 to be followed.

In one embodiment, the carrier 21 may include various connection devices or adapter plates (adapters), such that the carrier 21 may serve as a universal base for various signal testing units 80. For portability, universal cradle 21 may include a plurality of attachment devices to removably receive any of a variety of types of test units 80. Universal carrier 21 may facilitate rapid movement of test unit 80 to different vehicles without having to match a particular unit manufacturer with a particular carrier installed in a vehicle. Universal bracket 21 may also facilitate the use of various units 80 for more than one wireless provider 150.

C. Time of day

In one embodiment, the test parameters 90 relating to time considerations may include a time parameter and a linger parameter. The dispatch plan 60 may include time data within the detailed description of each nearby path (e.g., paths 61-69 shown in fig. 6).

The comparison of the time-dependent test parameters 90 with the time-dependent path data from the dispatch plan 60 may involve complex algorithms for predicting the motion, travel time, and dwell time of each service vehicle in the dispatch plan 60. Thus, the analysis that compares the test parameters 90 to the nearby paths 61-69 may include a specific analysis of the projected duration (in minutes) of individual dwell points 42 within each sector 120 along each path in the dispatch plan 60. As shown in fig. 4, the travel path may include one or more sub-paths 45 between one and more dwell points 42 in the cluster 40. For example, when comparing the time-dependent test parameters 90 described above, the data regarding the dwell point 42 may include a time window, a duration, a daily access frequency, and other time-dependent data that may be particularly useful when comparing between each particular path and the target area 70. For example, if the test parameters 90 include a preferred time window around a particular sector 120, the expected time window for a particular dwell point 42 may be one of the important factors in selecting the path (and vehicle) best suited to carry the signal testing unit 80.

D. Performing a comparison step

In one embodiment, the comparison performed in step 35 of the present invention may include one or more algorithms designed to compare geographic data, device data, and temporal data, either independently or in relation to other data. In one embodiment, the algorithm may include accessing a relational database to facilitate and expedite comparison of large amounts of cross-correlated data. The one or more algorithms may also take into account the importance factors or weights assigned to one or more test parameters 90, resulting in results that are tailored to closely match those parameters that are particularly important for a given test.

In one embodiment, the task of comparing the test parameters 90 to the dispatch plan 60 may be performed by any of a variety of comparison devices, such as those described herein, depending on the complexity of the comparison. For example, a manual or graphical comparison device may be used for relatively simple tests, while a digital or computer comparison device may be used for more complex test conditions (regimes).

In one embodiment, the task of comparing the test parameters 90 and selecting a service vehicle 96 in step 35 may include the step of selecting one or more additional paths, vehicles, and/or times outside of the dispatch plan 60. In this regard, the additional paths may be specifically identified and selected for purposes of achieving signal testing within the target area 70, independent of any dispatch plan 60 and not for any other purpose of traveling along the additional paths.

The system 10 of the present invention may include one or more computers or processors, one or more computer networks, web servers, and various software applications to perform the comparison algorithm. As those skilled in the art can appreciate, the one or more computer networks facilitate communication between computer processors. The one or more computer networks may include any of a number of types of computer networks, such as the internet, a private intranet, a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), a Local Area Network (LAN), or any other type of network known in the art. In one embodiment, communication between the computer and the processor may be implemented using Internet Protocol (IP) or via the Internet using Internet protocol.

In one embodiment, the host processor or server may include a processor that communicates with other components via a system interface or bus. A display and input device for receiving and displaying data may also be included in the server. The display and input device may be, for example, a keyboard or pointing device used in conjunction with a monitor. The server may also include memory, preferably including Read Only Memory (ROM) and Random Access Memory (RAM). The ROM of the server may be used to store a basic input/output system (BIOS), which contains the basic routines that help to transfer information between elements within the server.

In addition, the server may also include at least one storage device, such as a hard disk drive, a floppy disk drive, a CD-ROM drive, or an optical disk drive, for storing information on a variety of computer-readable media, such as a hard disk, a removable magnetic disk, or a CD-ROM disk. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, each of these storage devices may be connected to the system bus by a suitable interface. These storage devices and their associated computer-readable media provide non-volatile storage. It must be noted that the computer-readable media described above may be replaced by any other type of computer-readable media known in the art. Such media include, for example, magnetic cassettes (magnetic cassettes), flash memory cards, digital video disks, and bernoulli cartridges (bernoullicartidge).

A number of program modules may be stored by the various memory devices and within RAM. Such program modules may include an operating system and other software applications. A network interface is also provided within the server for connecting and communicating with other components of the computer network. One skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more server components may be located geographically remote from other server components. Further, one or more components may be combined in a server, and additional components performing the functions described herein may be included in the server.

In general, the comparison step 35 results in the identification of the selected service vehicle 96 for carrying each signal testing unit 80. Because each service vehicle may be assigned to a particular route, selection of the route 61-69 best suited for the test target area 70 may result in identification of the selected service vehicle 96. For example, selection of the path 64 may entail identification of a service vehicle selected to carry the unit 80 along the path 64.

In one embodiment, the task of identifying a service vehicle carrying a unit may be performed by any of a variety of identification devices (such as those described herein), depending on the complexity of the identification. For example, manual or graphical identification means may be performed for relatively small fleets of vehicles, for example with reference to a list of vehicle numbers and route identifications. Digital or computer recognition devices, on the other hand, may be used for more complex tests involving larger fleets of vehicles and multiple paths including multiple vehicles.

In step 36, the signal testing unit 80 is assigned to the selected service vehicle 96, and in step 37, each unit 80 may be temporarily installed in each vehicle 96. Temporary installation is facilitated by the bracket 21 for receiving the unit 80, as shown in fig. 7.

6. Action symbiosis

In one embodiment, the signal testing unit 90 temporarily installed in the selected service vehicle 96 may collect data in or near the target area 70, as described in step 38 in FIG. 5. In one embodiment, no action by the driver is required other than traveling along the allotted path.

The signal testing unit 80 may include any type of equipment required by the wireless provider 150 or other participating organization. In one embodiment, test unit 80 may include a computer, software program, Global Positioning System (GPS), and modem capable of transmitting data 190 in a Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD) network.

Each signal testing unit 80 may be configured to collect data continuously, or it may be arranged to collect data during a certain time window in response to detection of an external command or signal, or otherwise programmed to operate in a desired manner. Unit 80 may transmit data 190 during the journey of the path (step 39). The data transmission may be continuous, real-time or near real-time, or it may be done in batches.

The data 190 may be received (step 155) and analyzed by the wireless provider 150. In one embodiment, the steps of FIG. 5 may be repeated daily or at other periods, depending on the target area 70 identified for the study. Target area 70 and/or its corresponding test parameters 90 may change daily or more frequently, or may remain constant for an extended period.

In one embodiment, the system 10 of the present invention is scalable in multiple dimensions. In this regard, the system 10 may accommodate a variety of sizes of target regions 70 and a variety of durations of the test parameters 90. For example, system 10 may be capable of "saturation testing" a relatively small target area 70 (e.g., gap 130 shown in fig. 6) over a relatively short period of time (e.g., a day or a particular time window, such as peak hours in the morning). On the other hand, the system 10 may be configured, for example, to "randomly test" a relatively large target area 70 (e.g., an entire wireless network serving a major city area) to collect data 190 continuously or instantaneously (ongoing), e.g., throughout the year or until further notice. The system 10 for so-called random testing may include truly random assignments of paths and vehicles 96, but may also include sequential assignments, random assignments, or assignments that are otherwise designed (based on the test parameters 90) to adequately investigate large target areas 70 in a statistically representative manner.

7. Forming collaboration

In one embodiment, the system 10 of the present invention provides an opportunity for symbiosis between the service enterprise 30 and any other organization or business that may benefit from a device, a person, or other object carried along one or more paths in the dispatch plan 60. In this regard, in one embodiment, the comparison of the test parameters 90 to the dispatch plan 60 (step 35) may include an analysis of factors other than those related to testing electromagnetic signal strength in the wireless network.

Although the embodiments of the system 10 of the present invention described herein are generally associated with delivery vehicles and wireless providers, other types of vehicles and providers are contemplated. The types of vehicles suitable for use in the system of the present invention range from pedestrians to automobiles, to aircraft and spacecraft. The target area 70 may be a neighborhood, ocean, or spatial area. For example, a fleet of aircraft may be used to carry signal testing units 80 to test electromagnetic signal strength along multiple flight paths. In other cases, a set of satellite carrying units 80 may be used, the units 80 being designed to sense radiation impinging on the planets from a particular region of space.

In this regard, any organization may, for example, create a parameter set 90 that is tailored to its particular data needs within a region. Symbiotic sharing of space on vehicles assigned to a particular path may benefit any number of organizations or businesses, including those not specifically listed here. Parameters 90 may be created and integrated into system 10, for example, for tasks related to daily delivery (e.g., distributing newspapers to subscribers). The signal testing unit 80 may be configured to, for example, broadcast messages to selected citizens within a particular target area 70 according to parameters 90, such as message content, message type (commercial, informative, political, public service), broadcast format (voice, video, text), duration, frequency and other characteristics 90. In one embodiment, the system 10 of the present invention may be configured to compare any such set of parameters 90 to known characteristics of the dispatch plan 60, efficiently and effectively dispatch the unit 80 to a selected vehicle 96, and accomplish the objectives defined by the parameters 90.

8. Conclusion

The described embodiments of the present invention are intended to be illustrative only. Many variations and modifications will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. All such variations and modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

The above includes several examples. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the systems, methods, computer-readable media, etc., for use in designing a path. However, one skilled in the art may appreciate that other combinations and permutations are possible. Accordingly, this application is intended to embrace alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, the above description is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Rather, the scope of the invention is to be determined solely by the appended claims and their equivalents.

While the systems, methods, and apparatus herein have been illustrated by description of examples and while these examples have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicants to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Other advantages and modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details, representative systems and methods, or illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the scope of applicant's general inventive concept.

Claims (20)

1. A system for testing electromagnetic signal strength in the vicinity of a target area (70), comprising:

a plurality of electromagnetic signal testing units (80);

a wireless provider (150) that creates test parameters (90);

a service enterprise (30) having a fleet (26) of vehicles (20) that provide services to an area proximate the target area (70), each of the vehicles in the fleet being assigned to one of a plurality of routes according to a dispatch plan (60), the dispatch plan including vehicle data and plan data;

means for comparing the test parameters (90) to the dispatch plan (60) for each of the plurality of paths;

means for identifying one or more optimal paths from the plurality of paths based on results from the comparing means, the optimal paths including the path that most closely satisfies the test parameter (90),

one of the plurality of test units (80) is installed in a vehicle assigned to each of the one or more optimal paths;

a receiver for receiving data collected by each of the plurality of signal testing units (80).

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the means for identifying one or more best paths further comprises:

means for selecting one or more additional paths whose purpose is only more nearly to meet the test parameters (90).

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the test parameters (90) include geographic parameters,

and wherein the path data comprises a start position, an end position, and one or more intermediate stop positions.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the geographic parameter further comprises:

one or more tower identifications, each tower identification defining a tower location; and

one or more sector identities, each of the one or more sector identities comprising a sector location and an antenna configuration.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the test parameters (90) further include a time parameter for a time window,

and wherein the path data comprises a start time corresponding to the start position, an end time corresponding to the end position, and one or more intermediate dwell durations corresponding to the one or more intermediate dwell positions.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the time parameter further comprises:

one or more linger parameters, each of the one or more linger parameters comprising a linger duration, a transmit tower identification, and a sector identification.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the test parameters (90) further include:

one or more unit parameters, each of the one or more unit parameters including a unit type and a unit feature; and

a quantity parameter defining an available quantity of the units,

and wherein the vehicle data comprises a number of vehicles in the fleet.

8. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a universal carrier (21) in each vehicle in the fleet, the carrier configured to removably receive any one of a plurality of types of the test units (80).

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the test parameters (90) further include:

weights assigned to one or more of the test parameters (90), each of the weights being associated with an importance of the one or more test parameters (90) relative to other test parameters.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the comparison means comprises a computer software program product.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the identifying means comprises a computer software program product.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the wireless provider (150) is generally independent of the service enterprise (30).

13. A computer software program product for testing electromagnetic signal strength in the vicinity of a target area (70), comprising:

a first executable portion configured to store test parameters (90);

a second executable portion configured for storing a dispatch plan (60) for a fleet (26) servicing an area (20) proximate the target area (70), each of the vehicles assigned to one of a plurality of routes according to the dispatch plan (60), the dispatch plan including vehicle data and route data;

a third executable portion configured for comparing, for each of the plurality of paths, the test parameters (90) to the dispatch plan (60);

a fourth executable portion configured to identify one or more optimal paths from the plurality of paths based on results of the third executable portion, the optimal paths including paths that most nearly satisfy the test parameters (90);

a fifth executable portion configured for identifying a vehicle assigned to each of the one or more optimal paths, the vehicle for housing one of a plurality of electromagnetic signal testing units (80);

a sixth executable portion configured to receive data collected by each of the plurality of signal testing units (80).

14. A computer software program product according to claim 13, wherein the fourth executable portion is further configured to select one or more additional paths whose purpose is only to more closely satisfy the test parameters (90).

15. A computer software program product according to claim 13, wherein the first executable portion is further configured for storing test parameters (90) including geographic parameters,

and wherein the second executable portion is further configured to store path data including a start location, an end location, and one or more intermediate stop locations.

16. A computer software program product according to claim 15, wherein the first executable portion is further configured to store test parameters (90) including geographic parameters including:

one or more tower identifications, each tower identification defining a tower location; and

one or more sector identities, each of the one or more sector identities comprising a sector location and an antenna configuration.

17. The computer software program product of claim 15, wherein the first executable portion is further configured for storing test parameters (90) including a time parameter describing a time window,

and wherein the second executable portion is further configured to store path data comprising: a start time corresponding to the start position, an end time corresponding to the end position, and one or more intermediate dwell durations corresponding to the one or more intermediate dwell positions.

18. A computer software program product according to claim 17, wherein the first executable portion is further configured to store test parameters (90) including a time parameter, the time parameter including:

one or more linger parameters, each of the one or more linger parameters comprising a linger duration, a transmit tower identification, and a sector identification.

19. A computer software program product according to claim 13, wherein the first executable portion is further configured to store test parameters (90) including:

one or more unit parameters, each of the one or more unit parameters including a unit type and a unit feature; and

a quantity parameter defining an available number of said units (80).

And wherein the second executable portion is further configured to store vehicle data including a number of vehicles in the fleet of vehicles.

20. A computer software program product according to claim 13, wherein the first executable portion is further configured to store weights assigned to one or more of the test parameters (90), each of the weights relating to the importance of the one or more of the test parameters (90) relative to other test parameters.