US 12,425,871 B2
Methods and systems for access point placement optimization in low-signal worksite environments
Mason Cobb, Peoria, IL (US); and Joel Miller, Washington, IL (US)
Assigned to Caterpillar Inc., Peoria, IL (US)
Filed by Caterpillar Inc., Peoria, IL (US)
Filed on Jun. 15, 2022, as Appl. No. 17/841,315.
Prior Publication US 2023/0413065 A1, Dec. 21, 2023
Int. Cl. H04W 16/18 (2009.01); E02F 9/26 (2006.01); G06F 30/20 (2020.01); H04B 17/318 (2015.01); H04B 17/391 (2015.01); H04W 24/06 (2009.01); H04W 24/10 (2009.01); H04W 88/08 (2009.01)
CPC H04W 16/18 (2013.01) [E02F 9/262 (2013.01); G06F 30/20 (2020.01); H04B 17/318 (2015.01); H04B 17/3912 (2015.01); H04W 24/06 (2013.01); H04W 24/10 (2013.01); H04W 88/08 (2013.01)] 16 Claims
OG exemplary drawing
 
1. A method for worksite access point placement optimization, the method comprising:
generating a connectivity profile for a machine, including:
operating the machine in an area at least partially covered by one or more test access points; and
recording signal strength at the machine for each of the one or more test access points, orientation with respect to each of the one or more test access points, and distance from each of the one or more test access points;
receiving a worksite definition for a worksite;
simulating a machine path within the worksite according to the worksite definition;
estimating connection strength at the machine, based on the connectivity profile, for multiple locations along the machine path and for multiple access point locations around the worksite; and
providing a map of the worksite including an indication of relative overall connection strength for each of the multiple access point locations.