Location finding using cellular modal antenna

摘要

The instant disclosure concerns an antenna system and method for location-finding of a wireless communication device. A cellular multimode antenna is configured to analyze pilot signals from base station towers across a plurality of antenna modes. Information corresponding to the received signals and each antenna mode is analyzed to determine a location fix. In certain optional embodiments, the location fix determined by the cellular multimode antenna is used to determine an optimal mode for a second GPS modal antenna, such that the selected mode of the GPS modal antenna provides optimum signal quality with the global positioning system. In this regard, the cellular multimode antenna estimates the location of the device, and a mode for the GPS modal antenna is selected based on the location fix such that the GPS antenna is capable of quickly determining a precise position of the device.

主权项

1. A method for acquisition of a device location using base station transceivers of a cellular communication network, the method comprising:
with a cellular modal antenna of the device, the cellular modal antenna being selectable about a plurality of possible antenna modes, wherein the cellular modal antenna is configured to produce a distinct radiation pattern in each of said plurality of possible modes, the cellular modal antenna including:
a radiating element positioned above a circuit board forming an antenna volume therebetween;a tuning conductor element positioned within the antenna volume, the tuning conductor coupled to a first active element for varying a reactance of the tuning conductor; anda steering conductor positioned outside of the antenna volume and adjacent to the radiating element, the steering conductor coupled to a second active element for varying a current mode of the steering conductor;wherein the radiating element, tuning conductor, and steering conductor are each configured such that said corresponding radiation patterns of the cellular modal antenna in each of said plurality of possible modes produces a frequency response in cellular communication bands for connecting the device to the base station transceivers of the cellular communication network; configuring the cellular modal antenna in a first mode by adjusting the first and second active elements; receiving first pilot signals from the base station transceivers in proximity with the cellular modal antenna being configured in the first mode; for each first pilot signal received, measuring a received power level and storing data associated with said received power level and said first mode in memory coupled to the antenna; configuring the cellular modal antenna in a second mode by adjusting the first and second active elements; receiving second pilot signals from the base station transceivers in proximity with the cellular modal antenna being configured in the second mode; for each second pilot signal received, measuring a received power level and storing data associated with said received power level and said second mode in memory coupled to the antenna; comparing each of the received power levels for each pilot signal in each of said modes; determining an angle of arrival for each of the pilot signals received in each of said modes; and using the determined angle of arrival associated with the received pilot signals to determine a location fix.