Title of Invention

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USING EQUIPMENT IDENTITY INFORMATION IN PROVIDING LOCATION SERVICES TO A WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE

Abstract

A system, apparatus, and method provides location services to a mobile station by employing equipment identity information. In one aspect of the present inventive concept, a location server uses the equipment identity information of a mobile station in order to select the best protocol for LCS communication. In another aspect of the inventive concept, a mobile station uses the equipment identity information of a location server to select the best protocol to use for LCS communication. Advantageously, the equipment identity information can be used to correct manufacturing defects, fix design flaws and software bugs, track performance, optimize performance, or any combinations thereof. Information about features and defects relating to equipment identity information may be determined and stored for future use.

Full Text

INFORMATION IN PROVIDING LOCATION SERVICES TO A WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE CROSS-REFERENCE TO PENDING PROVISIQXAL APPLICATION; This application claims prionty under 35 USC 129 to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/406,261. filed August 26, 2002 and entitled "System and method for using local equipment identity information in providing location services to a wireless communication device." BACKGROUND Field [0001] This invention relates to the field of location services for use in mobile devices or mobile stations, and more particularly to use of location services equipment identity information in providing location services in a wireless communication system. Description of Related Art [0002] Location services (abbreviated as LCS, for "LoCation Services") for mobile telephones and wireless digital communication devices (collectively referred to hereinafter as Mobile Stations) are an increasingly important business area for wireless communication providers. Location information can be used to provide a variety of location services to mobile station users. For example, public safety authorities can use location information to pinpoint the location of a wireless device. Alternatively, a mobile station user can use location information to find the location of the nearest automatic teller machine, as ".veil as the fee charged by the ATM. As another example, location information can assist a traveler in obtaining step-t>y-step directions to a desired destination v hilt en route, [0003] Technologies that permit a large number of system users to share a communication system, such as Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) and Wideband CDMA (WCDMA) technology, play an important role in meeting the ever-increasing demands of mobile computing, including the demands for location services. As is well known, CDMA and WCDMA communication devices are assigned a unique code and each mobile device uses its code to spread its communication signals across a common spread-spectrum bandwidth. As long as each communication device uses its correct code, it can successfully detect and select a desired signal from among other signals concurrently transmitted over the same bandwidth. [0004] Other multiple mobile station signal access techniques include time division multiple access (TDMA) and frequency division multiple access (FDMA). There are also analog frequency modulation (FM) based wireless communication systems, such as the well known Advanced Mobile Phone System (AMPS). In addition, many wireless communication devices combine communications capabilities with global position system (GPS) techniques. Some wireless communication systems are capable of operating using multiple techniques, such as CDMA and GPS, or on different frequency bands, such as cellular or Personal Communication Services (PCS) bands. For example, the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) uses a combination of TDMA and FDMA technology. GSM systems also frequently employ General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) technology to transmit data and to provide location services, [0005] Standards and functional specifications for LCS in wireless communication systems have been established. One exemplary reference relating to GSM and LCS is the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), Technical Specification Group (TSG) Services and System Aspects, Technical Specification Group GSM/EDGE Radio Access Network, Functional stage 2 description of Location Services (LCS) in GERAN, (3GPP TS 43.059). Another exemplar," reference is 3rd Generation Partnership Project, Technical Specification Group Radio Access Network, Stage 2 functional specification of User Equipment (UE) positioning in UTRAN, (3GPP TS 25.305). These technical specification documents are hereby fully incorporated by reference herein as though set forth in full, for teachings relating to mobile station location services. The incorporated references are referred to hereinafter as 3GPP TS 43.059 and 3GPP TS 25.305, respectively. (0006] In typical use. and as set forth m greater detail in the incorporated 3GPP TS 43.059 reference, a mobile station (MS), which may comprise a mobile phone, a laptop, palmtop, or other conventional mobile device, or combination thereof, establishes a communication link with a base station system (BSS). A BSS typicallv includes a plurality of base station transceiver systems (BTSs) and a base station controller (BSC). A location server, such as a Serving Mobile Location Center (SMLC) (in a GSM system), provides location services to the MS as needed, such as coordinating the exchange of information from which the location of the MS can be determined. The location server may be pan of a BSS, or it may be a separate server coupled to either a sole BSS or a system of BSSs. [0007] Any given MS may comply with various international equipment standards, and. may have accurate standard performance data available. In addition, any given communication system, such as one conforming to a current GSM specification, may not have adopted known equipment standards. In addition, any given MS may also have known manufacturing defects. An MS may be assigned an identification code, such as, for example, an "International Mobile Equipment Identifier" (rMEI) used in GSM systems and WCDMA systems, or an "Electronic Serial Number" (ESN), used in IS-95 and CDMA2000 systems. [0008] A communication system may also maintain a database on an equipment identification server (E1S), such as an equipment identity register (EIR) in a GSM system, correlating users with particular equipment. An E1S may be incorporated into other parts of a communication system, such as a mobile switching center (MSC) or a sateway switching server (GSS). Such a database may have a unique code assigned to the user or to the equipment. The particular equipment properties and method location services operation of an MS can have a significant impact on the ability of a location server to efficiently and accurately provide LCS capabilities. [0000] Another aspect of LCS relates to the use of an MS in geographical areas in which communication sen-ice provider networks employ differsm manufacturer models of location server equipment. Different loation servers models interact with the MS according to the particular design charactenstics of both the MS equipment and the location server equipment. For a given combination of MS equipment and location server equipment, there is a preferred set of messages and communication protocols that will enable determination of the MS location with optimal efficiency. By reading the Location Area Identifier (LAI), which is transmitted on the common channels, the MS can determine, using database information, which model of position location server is used in that particular network. Similarly, .the MS can also determine the Operator Identification (ID) based upon broadcast information. Tne Operator ID can be related through database information to the position location server equipment. [0010] In light of the foregoing, persons skilled in the wireless communications art shall recognize that significant improvements in providing LCS can be achieved by improving the messages exchanged between the MS and the location server. This can be advantageously accomplished by an inventive system, method and apparatus wherein the location server and the MS, either or both, obtain and use the LCS equipment identification information when providing LCS services. SUMMARY [0011] The system, apparatus, and method described herein are directed to the use of LCS equipment identification information in providing location services to a wireless communication device. [0012] In one aspect of the present inventive concept, the location server uses the equipment identify information of an MS in order to select the best protocol for LCS communication. Advantageously, the MS equipment identity information can be used to correct manufacturing defects, fix design flaws and software bugs, track performance, optimize performance, or any combinations thereof. Methods based on equipment identity information may be employed to detect whether a mobile station works correctly, and to generate location services control signals to correct or minimize MS faults. For example, the location server may detect or determine from stored equipment identity information whether an MS performs according to a requested Quality of Service (QoS) requirement such as location accuracy, speed of performing location determination, etc. Based on this determination, the location server may optionally [0013] In another aspect of the inventive concept, the MS uses the equipment identity information of the location server to select the best protocol to use for LCS communication. For example, based on the model of position location server, the MS can use a preferred set of message parameters to optimize the efficiency of determining the MS location. If the position location server is blown to have design defects or "bugs", the MS can act accordingly in order to avoid triggering these "buss". During the process, the MS can obtain information about features and bugs of a particular position location server and store this information for future use. [0014] In yet another aspect of the inventive concept, a location services apparatus for providing location services to a mobile station includes a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a memory coupled to the CPU, and an equipment identity processor coupled to the CPU and the .memory. The memory stores data relating location services equipment identity to location services equipment identifiers, The equipment identity processor is adapted for receiving location services equipment identifiers, retrieving location services equipment identity data from the memory, and generating location services control signals to control operation of the CPU responsive to an identified location services related characteristic of the location services equipment, wherein the location services equipment include either a location server or a mobile station. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS .FIGURE I is a functional block diagram of a wireless communication system for providing wireless communications including location services. FIGURE Z ;= another functional block diagram of a wireless communication system for providing wireless communica:ions including location services, showing additional elements. FIGURE 3 is another functional block diagram of a wireless communication system for providing wireless communications including location services, showing an alternative configuration of elements. FIGURE 4 is another functional block diagram of a wireless communication system for providing wireless communications including location services, showing a plurality of mobile stations. FIGURE 5 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary database of equipment information illustrated in tabular form that may be maintained by an embodiment of the wireless communications system. FIGURE 6 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method of retrieving equipment information. FIGURE 7 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplar)" method of using equipment information to provide location services to a mobile station. FIGURE S is another schematic illustration of an exemplary database of equipment information illustrated in tabular form that may be maintained by an embodiment of the wireless communications system, showing additional or alternative elements. FIGURE 9 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method of gathering location services performance data for an MS and using performance data table to generate location services control signals relating to Quality of Service for location services. FIGURE 10 is another functional block diagram of a wireless communication system for providing wireless communications including location services, showing a mobile station having an equipment identity processor. FIGURE 11 is an exemplary database in the form of a table that may be maintained by an equipment identity processor incorporated in a mobile station. FIGURE 12 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for providing location services, using a mobile station having an equipment identity processor. FIGURE 13 is flowchart illustrating another exemplary method for providing location services using a mobile station having an equipment identity processor, wherein performance data are stored and retrieved, DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0015] Throughout this description, embodiments and variations are described for the purpose of illustrating uses and implementations of the invention. The illustrative description should be understood as presenting examples of the invention, rather than as limiting the scope of the invention. [0016] The system, apparatus, and method described herein are directed to the use of mobile equipment identity information to facilitate providing location services to a wireless communication device. A mobile wireless communication device is referred to herein as a mobile station (MS), and may comprise a mobile phone, a laptop computer, a handheld computer, or any other mobile device that may be configured for wireless communication, or any combination thereof. As noted above, a number of different standards exist that govern wireless data communication. These standards may be implemented in a number of different ways to provide flexibility to the designer. The teachings herein are not limited to any specific standard. 10017] FIGURE 1 illustrates a simplified general wireless communication system 100 that supports a communication link employing location services. As shown in FIGURE 1, an MS 104 communicates with a Base Station System (BSS) 102 via one or more wireless links 312 and 114 to one or more Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs) 108 and 110 Although two BTSs are illustrated by way of example, location services may be provided to the MS 104 using only one BTS, or using a plurality of BTSs. The BTSs are operatively coupled for data communication to a Base Station Controller (BSC) 106. which is, in turn, connected to a location server 12S and a communication service pro\ider network 130. The MS 104 may also receive signals, such as GPS signals, from one or more satellites 124 and 126 via communication links 116 and 1 IS. The BSS 102 may optionally receive signals, such as GPS signals, from one or more satellites 124 and 126 via communication links 120 and 122. The location server 12S may also access the data transmitted by the satellites by means other than via the BTS/BSS. For example, a Wide Area Reference Network of satellite shown in the drawings, could provide the satellite data to the location server. Although two satellites are illustrated by way of example, only one satellite, or a plurality of satellites, or none (e.g., if a triangulation technique such as Enhanced Observed Time Difference (E-OTD) is used) may be employed when providing location services to a mobile station. [0018] When location services are required for the MS 104, information from the MS 104 and the ESS 102 may be provided to a location server 128. This information may include the locations of the BTSs 108 and 110, and information regarding signals received by the MS 104 and the BSS 102 from the satellites 124 and 126. The location server 128 uses this information to provide location services to the MS 104. The location server 128 may also provide information via the BSS 102 to the MS 104 to assist or improve determination of the location of the MS 104. The location server 128 may comprise a separate server, or alternatively, it may be incorporated into the BSS 102, or a control system located in the communication service provider network 130, or in some combination thereof. The communication connections illustrated may be wired (such as "POTS" or optical fiber), wireless, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. [0019] FIGURE 2 shows a communication system 200 in functional block form. The system 200 includes a location server 210 having a memory 214, and a central processing unit (CPU) 212 that controls operation of the location server 210. The term "CPU", as used throughout this description, is intended to encompass any processing device, alone or in combination with other devices (such as a memory), that is capable of controlling operation of a device (such as a location server 210, an MS 240, a BSS 250, or a portion thereof) in which it is included. For example, a CPU can include microprocessors, embedded controllers, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), state machines, dedicated discrete hardware, and the like. The system, apparatus, and method described herein are not limited by the specific hardware component selected to implement the CPU 212. Moreover, the location server 210 may be incorporated into other components of a communication system (such as a BSS, a communication service provider network 230, a mobile switching center (MSC) in a GSM system, a satellite, or some combination thereof)- The location server 210 may provide location services to multiple devices (such as the MS 240) communicating through multiple base station systems, such as the BSS 250. [0020] The memory 214. which may include both read-only memory (ROM) and/or random-access memories (RAM), stores and provides instructions and data to the CPU 212. A portion of the memory 214 may also include non-volatile random-access memory. [0021] The location server 210 also includes an equipment identity processor (EIP) 216. Typically, the CPU 2)2 implements the EIP 216 by executing a specific set of instructions stored in the memory 214. although in some embodiments a separate dedicated processor may be used to implement the EIP 216. The CPU 212 can execute instructions stored in the memory 214. The components of the location server 210 are linked together by a bus system 21S. [0022J The MS 240 has a CPU 242, a memory 244 and a transceiver 246 to allow transmission and reception of data, such as audio/video/text communication and programming data, between the MS 240 and a remote location, such as the BSS 250, or the satellite 260- An antenna 248 is electrically coupled to the transceiver 246. The MS 240 includes a bus system 249. The basic operation of the MS 240 is well-known in the art and need not be described herein. The MS 240 may use the memory 244 to store an IMEI or other identity information pertaining to the MS 240 and may transmit the information to the BSS 250. In accordance with GSM standards and technologies, the MS 240 may also include a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM, not shown) which stores an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI"l and a secret key together with other subscriber specific information such as preferences, settings, 3nd personal phone books. [0023] The BSS 250 includes a BSC 251 including a CPU 252 and a memory 254, and BTSs 255 and 256. The BTSs allow transmission and reception of data (such as audio/video/teKt communication and programming data) between the BSS 250 and a remote location (such as the MS 240 or a satellite 260). Antennas 257 and 258 are electrically coupled to the BTSs 255 and 25~. respectively. The BSC 251 has a bus svstem 259. The basic operation of the BSS 250 is well-known in the art and need not be described herein. As described above, the system and method described herein are not limited by the specific hardware component selected to implement the CPU 252 o other elements of the BSS 250. [0034] The location server 210, the MS 240: the BSS 250 and the satellite 260 communicate via communication links 270. 271, and 272. Athough one satellite is illustrated by way of example, persons skilled in the an will understand that a plurality of satellites may be employed, or none. As previously noted, the communication link 271 is optional, since other means for receiving the satellite data (e.g., 3 Wide Area Reference Network, not shown) may be employed. The BSS 250 provides any equipment identifying information received from the MS 240 via the communication link 272 to the location server 210. either directly or after processing. As is described in more detail below, the location server 210 may use the EIP 216 to process information regarding the identity of the MS 240 (for example, a unique equipment identifier such as an IMEI) and to generate control signals to control operation of the location request service provided for the MS, responsive to the equipment identity information. [0025] The location server 210, the MS 240, the BSS 250 and the satellite 260 may comprise other components, such as power supplies (not shown), input/output devices (not shown), and additional CPUs and buses. These components can be arranged in various configurations. The system and method described herein are not limited to the specific configuration and arrangement of components shown. [0026] FIGURE 3 illustrates an alternative communication system 300 that provides location services to an MS. This system is similar in many ways to the communication system 200 illustrated in FIGURE 2. The location server 310 is shown in FIGURE 3 as pan of the BSC 351 included in the BSS 350. The location server 310 includes an EIP 316. The BSC 351 also contains a CPU 352, a memory 354, and a bus system 359. The BSS 350 also includes BTSs 355 and 356. and respective antennas 357 and 35S. Typically, the CPU 352 implement the location server 310 by executing a specific set of instructions stored in the memory 354. However, in some embodiments, a separate dedicated processor may form the location server 310. The location server 310 and the EP 316 determine the services that the MS 340 requires for location determination, and instruct the CPU to provide the support services required by the MS 340. The BSS 350 (and BSC 551) are connected for data communication with a communication service provider network 330. [0027] The MS 340 includes a CPU 342. a memory 344, a transceiver 346, a bus system 349, and an antenna 34S. The system 300 includes a satellite 360. As noted above, location systems may employ a plurality of satellites, or none. The various parts Of the communication system 300 communicate using communication links 370, 371, and 372. As previously noted, the communication link 371 is optional, since other means for receiving the satellite data {e.g., a Wide Area Reference Network, not shown) may be employed. As is described in more detail below, the location server 310 may use the HIP 316 to process identity information received from the MS 340 for the purpose of generating control signals that implement location services for the MS 340. [0028] FIGURE 4 illustrates a communication system 400 wherein a location server 410 provides location services for a plurality of MS devices 440, 441, 443, 445, and 447, in communication with a plurality of BSSs 450, 451, and 452 via communication links 470. At any given time a single BSS communicates with a plurality of MSs, although the BSS may also use a plurality of BTSs not shown. However, as illustrated, at other times and under some circumstances, a plurality of BSSs may communicate with a single MS, The location server 410 communicates with the BSSs 450, 451, and 452 via the communication link 472. The MS devices 440, 441, 443, 445, and 447 and the BSSs 450, 451, and 453 may also communicate with a satellite 460 via communication links 471 and 473, respectively. As previously noted, the communication links 473 are optional, since other means for receiving the satellite data {e.g., a Wide Area Reference Network, not shown) may be employed. [0029] The system 400 shown in FIGURE 4 also includes an EIS 4S0 (in some embodiments- the EIS comprises an EIR, such as in a GSM system). The EIS 4S0 maintains a database correlating user and equipment information. For example, unique equipment identifiers, such as IMEIs, are correlated with individual subscribers (identified, for example, vie IMSIs or Electronic Senal Numbers"). The EIS 4S0 communicates with the location server 410 through communication link 472. In some-embodiments, the EIS 4S0 may be part of, or connected through, an MSC (not shown), a equipment. [0030] The location server 410 has a CPU 412, a memory 414, an EIP 416, and a bus system 41S. As will be described in more detaii below, the location server 410 may use the EIP 416 to process information regarding the identity of the MSs and to generate control signals that control the location server 410. A request for location services as received by the location server 410, may include equipment information, or user identifier information, or both, as part of the request. [0031] An EIP, such as the EIP 416 shown in FIGURE 4, may use information about the identity of an MS, such as the MS 440 shown in FIGURE 4, to generate control signals that control a location server, such as the location server 410, in a variety of different ways. For purposes of brevity, the operation of an EIP to control operation of a location server is illustrated below using a limited number of examples, with reference to components shown in FIGURE 4. [0032] An EIP, such as the EIP 416, may maintain a database, for example a relational database, that maps equipment information and equipment characteristics for communication sessions with various devices, such as the MS 440. For example, unique equipment identifiers may include IMEIs or other standard identifiers associated with the equipment or equipment type. Equipment characteristics may include a manufacturer, a model, bugs, errors, preferred methods, etc., associated with the equipment or the equipment type, and relating to location services properties of the equipment. Such equipment characteristics may also be referred to herein as location services characteristics of the equipment. The database may be stored in the memory 414 in one embodiment. The database may be updated for every request for location services information that is received by the location server 410 or it may be updated for only some requests, for example, to take a statistical sampling. It may also be updated to delete obsolete information, FIGURE 5 illustrates an exemplary daiabase in the form of a table 500 that may be maintained by an EIP. [0033] In the embodiment shown in FIGURE 5, the table 500 contains: a field 502 for storing mobile subscriber identity information, such as an International Mobile communication system or an Electronic Sena! Number (ESN) in an IS-95 and CDMA 2000 system; a field 504 for storing a mobile equipment identifier such as an 1MB in a GSM communication system: a field 506 for storms an equipment manufacturer identifier; a field 508 for storing a model identifier; a field 510 for storing known bug codes associated with the particular manufacturer and or model; a field 512 for storing correction codes; a field 514 for storing a code identifying a preferred method of providing location services; and a field 516 for storing error codes. Table 500 may contain additional fields and may refer to other databases or tables, or it may not contain all of the fields described herein. For example, a separate database containing the bug codes and corresponding correction codes may exist, in which case the table 500 might contain the field 510 for storing the bug code- In this embodiment, in operation, the location server 410 would look up the corresponding correction code in another database or table, rather than storing it in the field 512, Separate databases may be maintained by other servers, such as the EIS 4S0 and information retrieved by the location server 410 as needed. [0054] FIGURE 6 is a flow chart illustrating the operation of a system, such as the system 400 of FIGURE 4, to receive a location services request without knowing whether equipment identity information is included in the request. At a STEP 610, the method determines whether it received a request for location services. If the answer at step 610 is NO, the method returns to STEP 610. Otherwise, the method determines whether the request includes equipment identifying information for the MS which is to receive the requested location services in STEP 620. If the answer at STEP 620 is YES, the method proceeds to STEP 700, for further processing as illustrated in FIGURE 7, which is described below. [0035] If the answer at STEP 620 is NO, the method proceeds to a STEP 630. requesting identifying information from an EIS, such as the EIS 4S0 (FIGURE 4). As described abo\e, an EIS may comprise a stand-alone sener or it may be incorporated into another part of a communication system, such as an MSC, a GMLC, EIR, or the like. To implement this request, the method may employ user identic information (such as an IMS1 or ESN), provided via the location services request. At a STEP 640, the method determines whether equipment identifying information has been provided. If The answer at STEP 640 is YES, the method proceeds to STEP 700 for fu processing- If the answer at STEP 640 is NO. the method proceeds to a STEP 650. [0036} At the STEP 650. the method requests identity information from MSC/GMLC for the MS to which location services are to be provided, and proceeds STEP 660. At the STEP 660, the method determines whether equipment identify information was provided. If the answer at STEP 660 is YES, the method proceed STEP 700. If the answer at STEP 660 is NO, the method proceeds to a STEP 662. [0037] At the STEP 662, the method checks a database, such as the database 1 of FIGURE 5, to determine if equipment identity information for the MS has previou. been entered into the database. For example, the information may have been enter into the database during a previous attempt by the MS to obtain location informatii services. As described above, the database mav include information relating the us identity for the MS to the equipment identity information. If the information is in tl database, the system proceeds to the STEP 700. If the information is not in tr. database, the system proceeds to a STEP 670. [0038] At the STEP 670, the system updates the equipment information database to reflect that no equipment identity information is available for the session and ther proceeds to a STEP 680. At the STEP 680, the method generates control signals that cause the system to provide the requested location services in a default manner and then proceeds to a STEP 690. At the STEP 690, the method determines whether the request was successfully granted. If the answer at the STEP 690 is YES, the method proceeds to a STEP 699 and stops further processing of the request. If the answer at STEP 690 is NO, the method proceeds to the STEP 695. [0039] At STEP 695 the method updates the equipment information database to reflect the conditions of the request that was not successful. The method may also generate control signals to create an error log. The equipment information database and the error log may be used to generate fixes and/or determine preferred operational parameters for a receiving MS. The method then proceeds to the STEP 6QQ --"^ terminates processing of the identifying information with a request for legation services. In such a system, the method illustrated in FIGURE 6 may be omited [0041] FIGURE 7 illustrates the operation of a system that provides location services using equipment identifying information when a request for location services containing equipment identifying information is received. At STEP 700, the method receives a request for location services incorporating equipment identifying information for the MS to which the services are to be provided. [0042] At a STEP 702, the method updates the information in an equipment information database that reflects the equipment identifying information received with the request, and then proceeds to a STEP 704. The step of updating the database may include discarding outdated information. For example, in many systems, an IMEI may be paired with only one TJvlSl or ESN at a time, and vice-versa. Thus, if such a system receives a request pairing an IMEI with an LMSI or ESN, previous entries pairing the IMEI with a different FMS1 or ESN and previous entries paring the IMSI or ESN with a different MEI may be updated or deleted. [0043] At STEP 704. the method determines whether there are known preferred operational parameters associated with the equipment for which location services are to be provided. If the answer at STEP 704 is YES, the method generates control signals that cause the method to use the preferred parameters when responding to the request for location services in STEP 706, and proceeds to STEP 710. If the answer at STEP 704 is NO, the method generates control signals that cause the method to use default parameters in responding to the request for location services in STEP 708, and then proceeds to a STEP 710. [0044] At the STEP 710, the method determines whether there are known "bug" fixes for the equipment to which the location services are to be provided. If the answer at STEP 710 is YES. the method proceeds to a STEP 712. If the answer at STEP 710 is NO, the method proceeds to a STEP 7)4, At the STEP 712, the method generates control signals to implement the known bug fixes and proceeds to STEP 714. At STEP 714. the method generates control signals that provide the requested location services and proceeds to a STEP 716. At the STEP 716, the method determines whether the request was successfully granted. If the answer at STEP 716 is YES, the method proceeds to the STEP 720. If the answer is NO, the method proceeds to a STEP 713. [0045] At the STEP 71S. the method updates the equipment information database to reflect the conditions of the request that was not successful. The method may also generate control signals that create an error log. The equipment information table and the error log may subsequently be used to generate fixes and/or to determine preferred operational parameters for a receiving MS. The method then proceeds to a STEP 720. At STEP 720, processing of the request for location services is terminated by the method of FIGURE 7. [0046] As previously indicated, adequate performance data is not available for all makes and models of MS equipment. An EtP, such as the EIP 416 (in location server 410) of FIGURE 4, may maintain a performance database that maps equipment performance data for communication sessions with various devices, such as the MS 440. [0047] FIGURE S illustrates an exemplary performance database in the form of a table 800 that may be maintained by an EIP. The database can be used to gather performance data for various makes and models of MS equipment. The table may be conveniently stored in a memory, such as the memory 414 (FIGURE 4). The table S00 contains the following fields: a field S02 for storing mobile subscriber identity information, such as an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) in a GSM/GPRS or the Electronic Serial Number (ESN) in a WCDMA communication system; a field S04 for storing a mobile equipment identifier (such as an FMEI in a GSM communication system): a field S06 for storing an equipment manufacturer identifier; a field 80S for storing a model identifier; a field S10 for storing the time of the session; a field 812 for identifying the particular request for location services: a field 814 for storing a code identifying a preferred method of providing location services-, a field 816 for storing, error codes; a field S18 for storing a first quality of service parameter, such as an estimate oi the accuracy of a location determination; and a field S20 for storing a second quality of service parameter, such as the time required to prepare a location estimate. Additional fields may be added to the table S00. Not all of the fields shown need to be included in the table 800, Further, the system may employ other database schema. [0048] FIGURE 9 is a flow chart illustrating one method of gathering performance data for the MS devices that are provided with location services. At a starting STEP 900, the method receives a request for location services to be provided to an MS device and proceeds to STEP 902. [0Q49] At STEP 902, the method updates the information in an equipment information database, such as the database illustrated in FIGURE 8, to reflect the equipment identifying information received with the request, and proceeds to STEP 904. The act of updating the database may include, for example, the act of discarding outdated information. For example, in many systems, an IMEL may be paired with only one IMSI or ESN at a time, and vice-versa. Thus, if such a system receives a request pairing an IMET with an IMSI or ESN, previous entries pairing the JMEI with a different ILMSI or ESN, and previous entries pairing the IMSI or ESN with a different IMEI, may be updated or deleted. [0050] At STEP 904, the method determines whether performance data are desired for the MS for which location services are to be provided by checking whether the MS is on the check list. For example, performance data are recommended for the makes and models of MS devices that did not receive complete standard performance testing. If the answer at STEP 904 is YES, the method proceeds to a STEP 906. If the answer at STEP 904 is NO, the method proceeds to a STEP 950. At the STEP 950 the method proceeds to process the request for location services (see FIGURE 7), and subsequently proceeds to the termination STEP 999. At the STEP 906, the method determines whether there is an entry in the performance data table (e.g., the table 800 shown in FIGURE 8) for the manufacturer and model of the MS for which location services are to be provided. If the answer at STEP 906 is YES, the method proceeds to a STEP 908. If the answer at the STEP 906 is NO, the method proceeds to a STEP 922. [00511 At the STEP 908, the method determines from the performance data table whether additional information and/or preferred operating parameters are known for the MS to which the location services are to be provided. If the answer at STEP 908 is YES, the method proceeds to a STEP 910. If the answer at STEP 908 is NO, the method proceeds to a STEP 920. At the STEP 910, the method generates control signals that implement known additional information and/or preferred operating parameters and proceeds to a STEP 922. At the STEP 920, the method generates control signals that cause the system to use default operating parameters when responding to the request for location services and proceeds to a STEP 922. [0052] At the STEP 922, the method continues processing the request for location services (see FIGURE 7) and proceeds to a STEP 924. At the STEP 924, the method requests a response message from the MS to which location services were provided. One of skill in the wireless communications art will recognize that the STEP 924 may be omitted under certain testing situations. For example, a response may be automatically provided. The method then proceeds to a STEP 926. At the STEP 926, the method receives a response message from the MS to which location services were provided and proceeds to a STEP 928. At the STEP 92S, the method evaluates the performance of the MS receiving the location services and proceeds to a STEP 930. At the STEP 930 the method updates a performance table, such as the performance table S00 of FIGURE 8, to reflect the performance of the MS, and proceeds to a STEP 999. One of skill in the an will recognize that the performance data may comprise actual performance values. Alternatively, the performance data may comprise data indicating whether a target value was met. [0053] A request to provide location services associated with an MS need not originate with the associated MS. For example, one MS may request the location of a second MS. Alternatively, an MS may be connected to the communication system for other reasons, such as to place a telephone call, and the communication system may recognize that the MS is of a type for which location services performance data is desired. Thus, the communication system rruv automatically request location services for the MS. [0054] Those of skill in the wireless communications art shall recognize that the steps illustrated in FIGURES 6, 7, and 9 need not occur in the particular order illustrated, and that steps may be omitted, or additional steps may be performed without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention. Exemplar Implementation for GSM [0055] Mandatory futures and function- for GSM LCS axe documented in the incorporated reference 3GPP TS 43.059. However, a concern presently exists that existing MSs are unable to be accurately and fully tested for all of these mandatory features/functions. Particularly in the case of GPS and assisted-GPS (A-GPS) methods, the MS complete conformance tests are not standardized. Hence, when one of the untested features or functions is "switched on" in a network, there is a risk that some MSs will not work with the feature/function (or a combination of features/functions). Some solutions in mobile network system for such problems comprise: costly network patches {if at all possible), even mors costly mobile updates, or disabling the functionality until it is supported sufficiently by existing MS equipment. [0056] In prior art GSM systems, the IMEI has been employed for correcting coding errors and other faults unrelated to LCS. The MSC obtains IMEI of the target mobile via standard signaling between the MS and the MSC. However, the prior art methods cannot be employed for LCS because the IMEI is not available to the location determination network entity, which may be either mobile device or location server. The current inventive concept (as described hereinabove) advantageously overcomes the limitations of the prior art solutions. In one aspect, the location service request from the GMLC to the MSC may carry IMEI information to the MSC. The MSC may then transmit the complete IMEI message, or simply transmit the MS manufacturer and model information, to the location server and"or EIP. This information may be transmitted as an element in the standard location request message, or alternatively via a proprietary message between the MSC and the location server using the radio access network. If the GSM network cannot pro\ide ".he MS identity information to the location server using a standard or proprietary message, data tables may then be maintained in the location server and/or the EIP and/or the MS, as described previously. These data tables may employ the IMSI or ESN which may be obtained for each call by an MS), and may be adapted to relate the IMSI or ESN to the MS manufacturer/model, faults, and performance data. [0057] In one exemplary application of the present inventive concept, an MS may not function correctly, and hence the required location QoS {e.g. location accuracy) of location service cannot be confirmed. The location service has a wide range of applications based on QoS. For example, one application based on QoS comprises pinpointing an emergency user within a few meters. Another application comprises locating nearby restaurants in the.vicinity of a few kilometers. Failure to pinpoint emergency users may cause injury to users, whereas failure to provide QoS to subscribers may cause revenue loss to operators. An exemplary implementation of the performance method described in reference to FIGURE 9 relates to the problem of providing and confirming a required location QoS. If a location request specifies a location QoS (e.g., an MS location accuracy required to be within 50 meters), this cannot be achieved by default operating parameters and control signals. The inventive method may be used to improve the location accuracy to a required level by retrieving known additional information or operating parameters from the performance database and implementing control signals responsive to this data. For example, if a fault exists in implementing assisted-GPS in a particular MS, the method may employ an Enhanced Observed Time Difference (E-OTD) positioning method instead. Further, depending on the required QoS. the system may recruit fewer or greater numbers of BTS pairs for the E-OTD position determination. [0058} Thus, persons skilled in the wireless communication arts shall understand that the present inventive concept as described hereinabove advantageously address£s problems relating to MS equipment capabilities b> determining whether a particular MS supports the required service, and if not, optionally providing control signals or additional information that improve the LCS response. Another Embodiment [0059] Another aspect of the present inenive concept is illustrated in FIGURE 10. which depicts a simplified communication system 1000 in functional block form. The system 1000 of FIGURE 10 is similar to the system 200 of FIGURE 2. However, in this exemplary embodiment of the inventive concept, an MS 1040 includes an EIP 1045. Further, the MS 1040 is enabled for MS-assisted or MS-based location determination. As denned in the incorporated reference 3GPP TS 43.059, MS-assisted positioning is a mobile centric positioning method (e.g. E-OTD, A-GPS) inn [0060] As described in more detail below, the MS 1040 is enabled in this embodiment to determine equipment identity information relating to the manufacturer and model of a location server 1010. The MS 1040 uses this information to select a preferred set of messages and parameters for exchanging data with the location server 1010. If the location server 1010 is known to have "bugs", the MS 1040 optionally may employ data signals to avoid triggering the bugs. Further, when responding to location information requests, the MS 1040 may include a capability that learns about the features and bugs of a particular location server. The MS may store the information obtained by the MS for future use. 10061] As shown in FIGURE 10, the MS 1040 includes a CPU 1042, a memory 1044 and a transceiver 1046. The transceiver 1046 allows the transmission and reception of data, such as audio/video/text communication and programming data, between the MS 1040 and a remote location, such as the BSS 1050 or the satellite 1060. An antenna 1048 is electrically coupled to the transceiver 1046. Typically, the CPU 1042 implements the EIP 1045 by executing a specific set of instructions stored in the memory 1044, although in some embodiments a separate dedicated processor may be used to implement the EIP 1045. The CPU 1042 may execute instructions stored in the memory 1044. The components of the MS 1040 are linked together by a bus system 1049. [0062] The BSS 1050 includes a BSC 1051 having a CPU 1052, a memon 1054, and BTSs 1055 and 1056. The BTSs allow transmission and reception of data (such as audio/video/text communication and programming data) between the BSS 1050 and a remote location (such as the MS 1040 or the satellite 1060)- Antennas 1057 1058 are electrically coupled to the BTSs. The BSC 1051 includes a has system 1 The location server 1010, the MS 1040, the BSS 1050 and the satellite 1 communicate using communication links 1070. 1071, and 1072. As previously nc the communication link 1071 is optional, since other means for receiving the sate, data {e.g., a Wide Area Reference Network, not shown) may be employed. Altho" one satellite is illustrated by way of example, persons skilled in the communications: shall recogniie that a plurality of satellites may be employed to provide LCS to the A or none. The system 1000 includes a location server 1010 that has a memory 1014 an CPU 1012 that controls operation of the location server 1010. The memory 10 provides instructions and data to the CPU 1012 in a known matter. [0063] The components of the location server 1010 are linked together by a b system 1018. As noted above in reference to previous figures, although the Iocatic server 1010 is illustrated as external to the BSS 1050, it may be incorporated within BSS 1050 or the BSC 1051, or it may be located within the communication servic provider network 1030, Or in some combination thereof. [0064] The EIP 1045 may maintain a database, for example a reiationa database, that maps equipment information (for example, unique equipment identifier: such as Location Area Identifiers and Operator IDs) for communication sessions with various BSSs, such as the BSS 1050. The database may conveniently be stored in the memory 1044. The database may be updated for every request for location services received or initiated by the MS 1040, or it may be updated for only some requests, for example, to make a meaningful statistical sampling. It may also be updated to delete obsolete information. [0065] FIGURE 11 illustrates an exemplary database m the form of a table 1100 that may be maintained by an EEP incorporated in an MS. As shown ir= FIGURE 11, the table 1100 contains [he following fields: a field 1102 for sioring identity information relating to the geographical service area, such as the Location Area Identifier (LAI); a field 1104 for storing a service provider identifier such as an Operator ED; a field 1106 for storing a location server equipment manufacturer identifier; a field 11 OS for storing a location server model identifier; a field for storing a code identifying a preferred method of providing location services; a field 1112 for storing known bug codes associated with the particular manufacturer and or model; a field 1114 for storing correction codes; a field 1116 for storing error codes; a field 11 IS for storing a time of session; a field 1120 for storing a session ID relating to a location request; and a field 1122 for storing performance data. As noted above, by reading the Location Area Identifier (LAI), which is transmitted on the common channels, the MS can determine, using database information, which model of position location server is used in that particular network. Similarly, the MS can also determine the Operator Identification (ID) based upon broadcast information. The Operator ID can be related through database information to the position location server equipment. Table 1100 may contain additional fields and may refer to other databases or tables, or it may not contain all of the fields described herein and shown in FIGURE 11. For example, a separate database, containing the bug codes and corresponding correction codes, may exist. In this embodiment, table 1100 may contain a field 1112 for storing the bug code. In operation, the MS 1040 would look up the corresponding correction code in another database or table, rather than storing it in the field 1114. [0066] FIGURE 12 illustrates the operation of a method that provides location services using an MS such as the MS 1040 (having an ED? such as the HP 1045 and enabled for MS- assisted or MS-based positioning). At STEP 1200, a request for location services is received by the MS and processing commences. At STEP 1202, the MS obtains the LAI or operator ID, and the method proceeds to a STEP 1204. The LAI or operator ID may be obtained by receiving this information from the common broadcast channels. Alternatively, if the LAI and/or operator ID are known from previous communication sessions, and have not changed, these identifiers may retrieved from the MS memory. For example, these data may ha\e been previously stored in a database or table such as table 1100. At the STEP 1204. the EIP retrieves location server equipment identity information from a database or data table, such as the table 1100, and the method proceeds to a STEP 1205. At the STEP 1205, the database or table is updated. For example, the time of session and session ID may be entered in association with the LAI, etc. Entry of such data may facilitate future retrieval and use of equipment identity information as noted above. Proceeding to the STEP 1200, the whether there are known preferred operational parameters associated with the location server equipment employed by the network operator. If the answer at STEP 1206 is YES, the MS generates control signals that cause the method to use the preferred parameters when responding [o the request for location services in the STEP 1208. The method then proceeds to a STEP 1212. 10067] If the answer at the STEP 1206 is NO, the MS generates control signals that cause the method to use default parameters when responding to the request for location services at STEP 1210. The method then proceeds to a STEP 1212. [006S] At the STEP 1212, the EIP determines whether there are known bug fixes for the location server equipment. If the answer at STEP 1212 is YES, the method then proceeds to a STEP 1214. If the answer at STEP 1212 is NO, the method the proceeds to a STEP 1216. At the STEP 1214, the MS generates control signals that implement the known bug fixes and the method proceeds to a STEP 1216. At the STEP 1216, the MS generates control signals that provide the requested location services. The method then proceeds to a STEP 1218. At the STEP 121S, the MS determines whether the request was successfully granted. If the answer at STEP 1218 is YES, the method proceeds to a STEP 1222. If the answer is NO. the method proceeds to a STEP 1220. [0069] At the STEP 1220, the EIP updates the equipment information database or data table to reflect that the request was unsuccessful. The EIP may also generate control signals that create an error log. The equipment information table and the error log may subsequently be used to generate fixes and/or determine preferred operational parameters for subsequent location requests. By this means, the MS can generate information about features and bugs of a particular location server and store this information for future use. The method then proceeds to a STEP 1222 whereat processing b> the MS is terminated. [0070] FIGURE 13 is a flow chart illustrating one exemplary method of gathering performance data by an MS device re latin 2 to location server equipment. At a starting STEP 1300, the method receives a request for location information to be provided by an MS device to a location server, and proceeds to STEP 1301. At step 1301, the MS obtains the LAI or operator ID b\ reading the content of signaling messages transmitted by the BTS in the area where the MS is operating, and the method proceeds to a STEP 1302. A: the STEP 1302, the EIP retrieves location server equipment identity information from a database or data table, such as the table 1100 described above, and the method proceeds to a STEP 3303. [0071] At the STEP 1303, the method updates the information in an equipment information database, such as the database illustrated in FIGURE 11, to reflect the equipment location server identifying information, session ID, time of session, ere, and proceeds to a STEP 1304. [0072) At the STEP 1304, the method determines whether performance data are desired for the location server equipment. For example, performance data are recommended for location server equipment that has not been thoroughly tested in conjunction with the MS. If the answer at STEP 1304 is YES, the method proceeds to a STEP 1306. If the answer at STEP 1304 is NO, the method proceeds to a STEP 1350. At the STEP 1350 the method proceeds to process the request for location services (see FIGURE 12). and subsequently proceeds to the termination STEP 1399. At the STEP 1306, the method determines whether there is an entry in the performance data table (e.g., the table 1100 shown in FIGURE 11) for the manufacturer and model of the location server to which location information is to be provided. If the answer at STEP -1306 is YES, the method proceeds to a STEP 130S. If the answer at the STEP 1306 is NO, the method proceeds to a STEP 1322. [0073) At the STEP 1308, the method determines from the performance data table whether additional information and/or preferred operating parameters are known for the location server equipment to which the location data are to be provided. If the answer at STEP 1308 is YES, the method proceeds to a STEP 1310. If the answer at STEP 130S is NO. the method proceeds to a STEP 1320. At the STEP 1310. the method generates control signals that implement known additional information and/or preferred operating parameters and proceeds to a STEP 1322. At the STEP 1320, the method generates control signals that cause the system to use default operating parameters when responding lo the request for locauon sen ices and proceeds to a STEP 1322. [0074] At the STEP 1322. the method continues processing the request f location services {see FIGURE 12) and proceeds to a STEP 1324. At the STEP 132. the method requests a response message from the location server equipment to whic the location data were provided. One of skill in the wireless communications art wi recognize that the STEP 1324 may be omitted under certain testing situations. Fc example, a response may be automatically provided. The method then proceeds to STEP 1326. At the STEP 1326, the method receives a response message from tb location server equipment to which location data were provided and proceeds to a STE1 132S. At the STEP 1328, the method evaluates the performance of the location serve, equipment receiving the location data and proceeds to a STEP 1330. At the STEP 133( the method updates a performance table, such as the performance table 1100 of FIGURE II, to reflect the performance of the location server equipment, and proceeds to a STEP 1399. One of skill in the art will recognize that the performance data may comprise actual performance values. Alternatively, the performance data may comprise data indicating whether a target value was met. [00751 Those of ordinary skill in the communications and computer arts shall also recognize that computer readable medium which tangibly embodies the method steps of any of the embodiments herein may be used in accordance with the present teachings. For example, the method steps described above with reference to FIGURES 6, 7, 9, 12 and 13 may be embodied as a series of computer executable instructions stored on a the computer readable medium. Such a medium may include, without limitation, RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, floppy disk, hard disk, CD-ROM, etc. The disclosure also contemplates the method steps of any of the foregoing embodiments synthesized as digital logic in an integrated circuit, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array, or Programmable Logic Array, or other integrated circuits that can be fabricated or modified to embody computer program instructions. [0076] A number of embodiments of the present invention have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the methods of the present invention can be executed in software or hardware, or a combination of hardware and software embodiments. As another example, it should be understood that the functions described as being part of one module may in general be performed equivalently in another module. As yet another example, steps or acts shown or described in a particular sequence may generally be performed in a different order, except for those embodiments described in a claim that include a specified order for the steps. [0077] Accordingly, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited by the specific illustrated embodiments, but only by the scope of the appended claims. The description may provide examples of similar features as are recited in the claims, but it should not be assumed that such similar features are identical to those in the claims unless such identity is essential to comprehend the scope of the claim. In some instances the intended distinction between claim features and description features is underscored by using slightly different terminology. WE CLAIM : 1. A location services apparatus (210, 410) for providing location services to a mobile station (240, 440), comprising: a CPU (212, 412); a memory (214, 414) coupled to the CPU (212, 412), wherein the memory (214, 414) stores data pertaining to location services equipment identity and an equipment identity processor (216, 416) coupled to the CPU (212, 412) and to the memory (214, 414), wherein the equipment identity processor (216, 416) is configured to receive a location services request and to retrieve the location services equipment identity, and wherein the equipment identity processor (216, 416) is configured to selectively generate location services control signals that control operation of the CPU (212,412) characterized in that the location services request comprises a location services equipment identifier, and location services control signals are generated responsive to an identified characteristic of the location services equipment identity. 2. The location services apparatus (210, 410) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the location services equipment identity and the location services equipment identifier are associated with and correspond to a mobile station (240, 440). 3. The location services apparatus (210, 410) as claimed in claim 2, comprising an equipment identity server (480), wherein the equipment identity server is configured to provide the characteristic of the mobile station to the equipment identity processor (216, 416). 4. The location services apparatus (210, 410) as claimed in claim 2 wherein the characteristic comprises a manufacturer identifier of the mobile station (240, 440). 5. The location services apparatus (210, 410) as claimed in claim 2 wherein the characteristic comprises a model identifier of the mobile station (240, 440). 6. The location services apparatus (210, 410) as claimed in claim 2 wherein the characteristic comprises an error code associated with the mobile station (240, 440). 7. The location services apparatus (210, 410) as claimed in claim 6 wherein the location services control signals compensate for an error associated with the error code. 8. The location services apparatus (210, 410) as claimed in claim 2 wherein the location services control signals cause the CPU (212, 412) to store information in the memory (214, 414). 9. A communication system for providing location services to a mobile station (240, 440), the system comprising: a base station system (250, 350); and a location services apparatus (210, 410) as claimed in any of the claim 1 10. A method of providing location services to a mobile station, the method comprising the steps of: receiving a request for location services to be provided to the mobile station; identifying a location services equipment identity of the mobile station in response to the request, and selectively generating location services control signals based at least in part on the location services equipment identity, characterized in that the request comprises a location services equipment identifier, and location services control signals are generated responsive to an identified characteristic of the location services equipment identity. 30 11. The method as claimed in claim 10, comprising the step of storing data based at least in part on the location services characteristic of the mobile station. 12. The method as claimed in claim 10 wherein the location services characteristic comprises one or more of the following characteristics: a manufacturer, a model, a bug, an error code. 13. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the location services control signals compensate for an error associated with at least one of the following characteristics: a bug, an error code.

Documents:

249-chenp-2005 abstract-duplicate.pdf

249-chenp-2005 abstract.pdf

249-chenp-2005 claims-duplicate.pdf

249-chenp-2005 claims.pdf

249-chenp-2005 correspondence-others.pdf

249-chenp-2005 correspondence-po.pdf

249-chenp-2005 description (complete)-duplicate.pdf

249-chenp-2005 description (complete).pdf

249-chenp-2005 drawings-duplicate.pdf

249-chenp-2005 drawings.pdf

249-chenp-2005 form-1.pdf

249-chenp-2005 form-18.pdf

249-chenp-2005 form-26.pdf

249-chenp-2005 form-3.pdf

249-chenp-2005 form-5.pdf

249-chenp-2005 others.pdf

249-chenp-2005 pct search report.pdf

249-chenp-2005 pct.pdf