Flexible signal source location apparatus and method therefor

摘要

A subscriber unit (26) communicates with a satellite (12) using electromagnetic signals so that observations (102) of the signals are obtained. Surface contours are generated (104) based on the signal component measured. The surface contour intersections produce candidate locations on the earth's surface. The candidate locations seed a least-squares estimation to produce final locations. Data produced during the least-squares fit is used to generate confidence ellipses (116) about the final locations. Most likely actual locations are determined from the fit associated with the confidence regions. A variety of signal source measurements can be used while providing a best estimate of a signal source location when an exact solution is not mathematically possible. The location is converted to coordinates that can be used in a satellite communication system (10) for making decisions regarding the granting or denying of communication services, billing rate and the like.