Ultra-wideband power usage optimization

Abstract

A computing device can determine, via ultra-wideband ranging, that the computing device is proximate to a second computing device paired with the computing device. The computing device can determine that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a particular set of one or more devices. The computing device can set an ultra-wideband component of the computing device to a power saving mode in response to determining that the computing device is proximate to the second computing device and that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with the particular set of one or more devices.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Ultra-wideband (UWB) is a short-range radio frequency technology for wireless communication that enables computing devices to accurately identify their relative position to other adjacent devices. UWB-enabled computing devices can periodically perform UWB ranging to determine the distance from the computing device to other UWB-enabled devices and / or to determine the angle of arrival of UWB signals between the computing device and other UWB-enabled devices. Summary of the Invention

[0002] Generally, the technology disclosed herein relates to optimizing the use of ultra-wideband (UWB) by computing devices in a way that reduces the amount of power consumed in performing UWB ranging. A user may use a first computing device and a second computing device, each of which periodically performs UWB ranging. When the first computing device performs UWB ranging, it can determine whether the second computing device is close to it. If the first computing device determines that the second computing device is close, it can determine whether the UWB ranging capability of the associated second device can be used to accurately determine the proximity of the user to other UWB-enabled devices. If the first computing device determines that the UWB ranging capability of the associated second device can be used to accurately determine the proximity of the user to other UWB-enabled devices, it can reduce the frequency at which it performs UWB ranging. By reducing the frequency at which the first computing device performs UWB ranging, it can reduce the amount of power consumed during operation while still being able to accurately determine the proximity of the user to other UWB-enabled devices.

[0003] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method comprising: determining, by a first computing device via ultra-wideband ranging, that the first computing device is close to a second computing device paired with the first computing device; determining, by the first computing device, that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices; and, in response to determining that the first computing device is close to the second computing device and that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with the specific set of one or more devices, setting the ultra-wideband component of the first computing device to a power-saving mode by the first computing device.

[0004] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a computing device comprising: a memory; an ultra-wideband component; an ultra-wideband communication component; and one or more processors communicatively coupled to the memory and the ultra-wideband component and configured to: determine, via ultra-wideband ranging, that the computing device is close to a second computing device paired with the computing device; determine that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices; and, in response to determining that the computing device is close to the second computing device and that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices, set the ultra-wideband component of the computing device to a power-saving mode.

[0005] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed, cause one or more processors of a computing device to: determine, via ultra-wideband ranging, that the computing device is close to a second computing device paired with the computing device; determine that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices; and, in response to determining that the computing device is close to the second computing device and that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices, set the ultra-wideband component of the computing device to a power-saving mode.

[0006] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus comprising: means for determining, via ultra-wideband ranging, that a computing device is close to a second computing device paired with the computing device; means for determining that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices; and means for setting the ultra-wideband component of the first computing device to a power-saving mode in response to determining that the computing device is close to the second computing device and that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices.

[0007] Details of one or more examples are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of this disclosure will be apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an environment in which a computing device performs ultra-wideband ranging according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating further details of a computing device for performing ultra-wideband ranging according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0010] Figure 3This is a flowchart illustrating an example technique for ultra-wideband optimization according to aspects of this disclosure.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an example operation of a computing device performing ultra-wideband ranging according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0012] Generally, the technology disclosed herein relates to optimizing the use of ultra-wideband (UWB) by computing devices in a way that reduces the amount of power consumed in performing UWB ranging. Users can carry, wear, or otherwise use computing devices performing UWB ranging to periodically determine the distance between the computing device and other UWB-enabled devices.

[0013] Users can use computing devices to perform ultra-wideband ranging with other devices, enabling those devices to detect when the computing device approaches. For example, a user can use a computing device to perform ultra-wideband ranging with an access control system such as a keyless entry system for a vehicle, allowing the computing device to act as a digital key to the vehicle. When a user moves toward a vehicle with a keyless entry system, the user's computing device can perform ultra-wideband ranging with the keyless entry system, allowing the system to determine the distance between the user and the vehicle. When the keyless entry system detects the user's approach, it can automatically unlock the doors.

[0014] Increasingly, people can carry, wear, or otherwise use multiple mobile computing devices, each performing ultra-wideband (UWB) ranging, to determine the distance from each mobile computing device to other UWB-enabled devices. For example, a user might carry a smartphone that performs UWB ranging while also wearing a wearable device (e.g., a smartwatch) that also performs UWB ranging.

[0015] If multiple computing devices, such as smartphones and smartwatches, are both carried, worn, or attached to a single user, the results of ultra-wideband ranging performed by each device (e.g., the distances determined to other ultra-wideband-enabled devices) may be very similar due to their proximity to each other. Therefore, frequently performing ultra-wideband ranging for each of the computing devices carried, worn, or attached to a single user may sometimes be redundant.

[0016] Different computing devices can have different UWB ranging characteristics. For example, smartphones may have a larger UWB range compared to wearable devices. Furthermore, since wearable devices typically have much smaller batteries than smartphones, performing UWB ranging may consume a larger percentage of battery life in wearable devices compared to smartphones. Therefore, when a user simultaneously uses both a wearable device and a smartphone performing UWB ranging, the redundant execution of UWB ranging by both devices may cause the wearable device's battery life to be unnecessarily depleted faster than that of the smartphone.

[0017] According to various aspects of this disclosure, when a first computing device being used by a user performs ultra-wideband ranging, the first computing device can determine whether a second computing device performing ultra-wideband ranging and paired with the first computing device is close to the first computing device. For example, the first computing device may be a wearable device such as a smartwatch, and the second computing device may be a mobile computing device such as a smartphone or a laptop computer, wherein the first computing device and the second computing device are used by the same user.

[0018] If the first computing device determines that the second computing device is close to the first computing device, the first computing device can determine whether the ultra-wideband ranging capability of the second computing device can accurately determine the proximity of users of the first and second computing devices to other ultra-wideband enabled devices. If the first computing device determines that the ultra-wideband ranging capability of the second computing device can accurately determine the proximity of users of the first and second computing devices to other ultra-wideband enabled devices, the first computing device can set its ultra-wideband component to a power-saving mode, thereby reducing battery usage and extending battery life.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an environment in which a computing device performs ultra-wideband ranging according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. For example... Figure 1 As shown, environment 100 includes computing devices 102 and 110, and ultra-wideband (UWB) enabled devices 120A-120E (“UWB-enabled device 120”). Computing devices 102 and 110, and UWB-enabled device 120, can each be configured to perform ultra-wideband ranging to determine relative distances to other computing devices within ultra-wideband communication range. In some examples, each computing device 102 and 110, and UWB-enabled device 120, can perform ultra-wideband ranging according to an ultra-wideband communication protocol (e.g., the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.15.4 protocol) to transmit data over a wide bandwidth, such as greater than approximately 499 MHz.

[0020] When a pair of computing devices communicates via an ultra-wideband communication protocol such as IEEE 802.15.4 to perform ultra-wideband ranging, the pair of computing devices can exchange timestamped messages via ultra-wideband communication. Each computing device in the pair can use the time-of-flight of the messages to determine the physical distance between the pair and / or the angle between the pair (e.g., the angle of arrival of an incoming radio frequency signal).

[0021] Computing device 110 may be a mobile computing device, such as a mobile phone (e.g., a smartphone), a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a wearable computing device, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or any other mobile computing device. Computing device 110 includes an ultra-wideband (UWB) component 118 and a communication module 114. UWB component 118 may include hardware such as circuitry, antennas, etc., for handling wireless communications using ultra-wideband communication protocols (e.g., the IEEE 802.15.4 protocol), such as radio frequency communications, to transmit data across a wide bandwidth (e.g., a bandwidth greater than approximately 499 MHz).

[0022] UWB component 118 can be configured to periodically perform ultra-wideband ranging to determine location information associated with computing device 110 using ultra-wideband communication. Specifically, UWB component 118 can be configured to perform ultra-wideband ranging to determine one or more devices (e.g., computing device 102, one or more devices 120, etc.) within the ultra-wideband communication range of computing device 110, which may be one or more devices with which UWB component 118 can exchange messages via ultra-wideband communication. By exchanging messages with one or more devices within the ultra-wideband communication range of computing device 110 via ultra-wideband communication, UWB component 118 may be able to determine the distance between computing device 110 and each of the one or more computing devices within the ultra-wideband communication range of computing device 110, and may enable each corresponding computing device within the one or more computing devices within the ultra-wideband communication range of computing device 110 to determine the distance between computing device 110 and the corresponding computing device.

[0023] UWB component 118 can periodically perform ultra-wideband ranging to determine location information associated with computing device 110, such as every second, every five seconds, every thirty seconds, every minute, etc. Communication module 114 can be software executed at computing device 110 to control the operation of UWB component 118. For example, communication module 114 can control the frequency of UWB component 118 performing ultra-wideband ranging by, for example, decreasing the frequency of UWB component 118 performing ultra-wideband ranging, increasing the frequency of UWB component 118 performing ultra-wideband ranging, etc.

[0024] Computing device 102 can be a mobile computing device, such as a mobile phone (e.g., a smartphone), a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or any other mobile computing device. In some examples, computing device 102 can be a wearable computing device, such as a computerized watch (e.g., a smartwatch), a computerized fitness band / tracker, computerized glasses, a computerized headband, a computerized glove, or any other type of mobile computing device that can be attached to and worn on a person's body or clothing.

[0025] In some examples where computing device 102 is a wearable computing device, computing device 102 may include an attachment component 106 and an electrical housing 105. The housing 105 of computing device 102 includes the physical portion of the wearable computing device that houses a combination of hardware, software, firmware, and / or other electrical components of computing device 102. For example, Figure 1 The computing device 102 shown within housing 105 may include a communication module 104 and a UWB component 108. Housing 105 may also include... Figure 1 Other hardware components and / or software modules not shown, such as one or more processors, memory, operating system, applications, etc.

[0026] The attachment component 106 may include a physical portion of the wearable computing device that comes into contact with the user's body (e.g., tissues, muscles, skin, hair, clothing, etc.) when the user wears the computing device 102 (although in some examples, a portion of the housing 105 may also come into contact with the user's body). For example, in the case that the computing device 102 is a watch, the attachment component 106 may be a strap that fits around the user's wrist and comes into contact with the user's skin. In examples where the computing device 102 is eyeglasses or a headdress, the attachment component 106 may be part of the frame of the eyeglasses or headdress that fits around the user's head, and when the computing device 102 is a glove, the attachment component 106 may be a glove material that conforms to the user's fingers and hands. In some examples, the computing device 102 may be gripped and held from the housing 105 and / or the attachment component 106.

[0027] The computing device 102 includes an ultra-wideband (UWB) component 108 and a communication module 104. The UWB component 108 may include hardware, such as circuitry, antennas, etc., for handling wireless communication (e.g., radio frequency communication) using an ultra-wideband communication protocol (e.g., the IEEE 802.15.4 protocol) to transmit data over a wide bandwidth (e.g., a bandwidth greater than about 499 MHz).

[0028] UWB component 108 can be configured to periodically perform ultra-wideband ranging to determine location information associated with computing device 102 using ultra-wideband communication. Specifically, UWB component 108 can be configured to perform ultra-wideband ranging to determine one or more devices (e.g., computing device 102, one or more devices 120, etc.) within the ultra-wideband communication range of computing device 102, which may be one or more devices with which UWB component 108 can exchange messages via ultra-wideband communication. By exchanging messages with one or more devices within the ultra-wideband communication range of computing device 102 via ultra-wideband communication, UWB component 108 can determine the distance between computing device 102 and each of the one or more computing devices within the ultra-wideband communication range of computing device 102, and can enable each corresponding computing device within the one or more computing devices within the ultra-wideband communication range of computing device 102 to determine the distance between computing device 102 and the corresponding computing device.

[0029] UWB component 108 can periodically perform ultra-wideband ranging to determine location information associated with computing device 102, such as every second, every five seconds, every thirty seconds, every minute, etc. Communication module 104 can be software executed at computing device 102 to control the operation of UWB component 108. For example, communication module 104 can control the frequency of UWB component 108 performing ultra-wideband ranging by, for example, decreasing the frequency of UWB component 108 performing ultra-wideband ranging, increasing the frequency of UWB component 108 performing ultra-wideband ranging, etc.

[0030] The UWB-enabled device 120 may include any computing device configured to communicate with computing devices 102 and / or 110 via an UWB protocol (e.g., via the IEEE 802.15.4 protocol) when computing devices 102 and / or 110 perform UWB ranging. The UWB-enabled device 120 may meet the technical specifications proposed by the FiRa Alliance and / or the Automotive Connectivity Alliance. Examples of devices 120 may include smart home devices, keyless entry systems for vehicles, point-of-sale terminals, UWB tags, UWB anchors, proximity sensing devices, computing devices, etc.

[0031] UWB-enabled devices that communicate with computing devices via ultra-wideband communication may be able to determine the distance between the computing device and the UWB-enabled device based on the communication. For example, when a computing device (e.g., computing device 102 or computing device 110) within the ultra-wideband range of a UWB-enabled device (e.g., any UWB-enabled device 120) performs ultra-wideband ranging, the UWB-enabled device can exchange timestamped messages with the computing device via ultra-wideband communication and can determine the time of flight of the messages to determine the physical distance and / or angle between the UWB-enabled device and the computing device.

[0032] Therefore, each UWB-enabled device in UWB-enabled device 120A can exchange messages with each computing device within UWB range via UWB communication to determine the distance between each computing device and the UWB-enabled device based on the messages. For example, if UWB-enabled device 120A communicates with computing device 102 via UWB communication while computing device 102 performs UWB ranging, both computing device 102 and UWB-enabled device 120A can determine the distance between computing device 102 and UWB-enabled device 120A based on UWB communication.

[0033] Therefore, a UWB-enabled device may be able to detect a computing device approaching (e.g., within a specific distance) a UWB-enabled device based on ultra-wideband communication with other computing devices, and may perform one or more actions in response to detecting that a computing device is approaching a UWB-enabled device. For example, if the UWB-enabled device 120A is a keyless entry system for a vehicle, and if the computing device 102 acts as a digital key card for the vehicle, the UWB-enabled device 120A may be able to determine the physical distance between the computing device 102 and the UWB-enabled device 120A via ultra-wideband communication (e.g., based on the time-of-flight of messages exchanged between the computing device 102 and the UWB-enabled device 120A) to determine whether the computing device 102 is approaching the vehicle (e.g., within a specified distance). When the UWB-enabled device 120A determines based on ultra-wideband communication that the computing device 102 is approaching the vehicle, the UWB-enabled device 120A may unlock one or more doors of the vehicle, thereby performing keyless entry of the vehicle using ultra-wideband communication.

[0034] In some examples, a UWB-enabled device can be paired with one or more computing devices. Each computing device paired with a UWB-enabled device can be a computing device that is recognized by the UWB-enabled device as an authorized or known computing device, which enables the UWB-enabled device to perform one or more actions in response to determining that a paired computing device is near the UWB-enabled device.

[0035] For example, if a computing device 102, acting as a digital car key, is paired with a UWB-enabled device 120A, which is a keyless entry system for the vehicle, then pairing the computing device 102 with the UWB-enabled device 120A enables the computing device to act as a digital car key for the UWB-enabled device 120A. Therefore, the UWB-enabled device 120A can unlock one or more doors of the vehicle in response to determining that the computing device 102 is near (e.g., within one meter) the UWB-enabled device 120A. Similarly, if the UWB-enabled device 120A determines that a computing device not paired with the UWB-enabled device 120A is near the UWB-enabled device 120A, then the UWB-enabled device 120A can avoid unlocking one or more doors of the vehicle.

[0036] exist Figure 1 In some examples, computing device 110 may be paired with, tethered to, or otherwise associated with computing device 102, such that computing devices 102 and 110 are communicatively coupled. In some examples, computing device 102 may be paired with or tethered to computing device 110 to act as a companion device to computing device 110. For example, if computing device 102 is a wearable computing device, such as a smartwatch, and if computing device 110 is a smartphone, then computing device 102 may be paired with computing device 110 to act as a companion device to computing device 110. In some examples, computing devices 102 and 110 may be paired with each other when associated with the same user and / or the same user account.

[0037] In the example where both computing devices 102 and 110 are used by the same user, the user of computing devices 102 and 110 can wear, attach, and / or carry computing devices 102 and 110, thus placing computing devices 102 and 110 with the user. For example, if computing device 102 is a wearable computing device, such as a smartwatch, and if computing device 110 is a smartphone, the user can wear computing device 102 on their body, for example, by attaching computing device 102 to the user's body or clothing via attachment part 106, while also carrying or holding computing device 102 in a pocket, handbag, or through the user's hand.

[0038] When a user travels with computing devices 102 and 110, both computing devices 102 and 110 can continue to periodically perform ultra-wideband ranging to communicate with one or more UWB-enabled devices 120 within the ultra-wideband communication range of computing devices 102 and 110, so that one or more UWB-enabled devices 120 can determine whether computing devices 102 and / or 110 are close to the one or more UWB-enabled devices.

[0039] However, if the user wears, holds, and / or carries both computing devices 102 and 110, then periodically performing ultra-wideband ranging on computing devices 102 and 110 may be redundant, as computing devices 102 and 110 are likely to be very close to each other (e.g., less than one meter). That is, if one of computing devices 102 and 110 is near a UWB-enabled device, the other of computing devices 102 and 110 is also likely to be near a UWB-enabled device.

[0040] In the example where the computing device is a battery-powered mobile computing device, the frequency with which the computing device performs ultra-wideband ranging may affect the battery life of the computing device. Specifically, reducing the frequency with which the computing device performs ultra-wideband ranging can reduce power consumption and increase battery life. In the example where computing device 102 is a wearable device (e.g., a smartwatch) and computing device 110 is a smartphone, computing device 102 may have a much smaller battery than computing device 110. Therefore, performing ultra-wideband ranging may have a greater impact on the battery life of computing device 110 than the battery life of computing device 102.

[0041] According to aspects of this disclosure, since the periodic execution of ultra-wideband (UWB) ranging by computing devices 102 and 110 may be redundant, computing device 102 may, in certain circumstances, reduce the frequency of performing UWB ranging based on determining whether the UWB ranging capability of computing device 110 can be used to accurately determine the proximity of users of computing devices 102 and 110 to UWB-enabled devices. If computing device 102 determines that the UWB ranging capability of computing device 110 can be used to accurately determine the proximity of users of computing devices 102 and 110 to UWB-enabled devices, then computing device 102 may reduce the frequency of performing UWB ranging, thereby reducing the power consumption of UWB component 108 and extending the battery life of computing device 102.

[0042] As part of determining whether the ultra-wideband ranging capability of computing device 110 can be used to accurately determine the proximity of users of computing devices 102 and 110 to UWB-enabled device 120, computing device 102 can determine whether computing device 110, which includes UWB component 118, is close to computing device 102. For example, if computing device 110 is less than one meter, less than half a meter, etc., relative to computing device 102, then computing device 102 can determine that computing device 110 is close to computing device 102.

[0043] Computing device 102 can use any suitable ranging or proximity detection technique to determine whether computing device 110 is close to computing device 102. In one example, computing device 102 can determine whether computing device 110 is close to computing device 102 by performing ultra-wideband ranging using UWB component 108. That is, computing device 102 can use UWB component 108 to exchange messages with computing device 110's UWB component 118 via ultra-wideband communication to determine the distance between computing device 110 and computing device 102 based on the message time-of-flight.

[0044] In some cases, even if computing device 110 is close to computing device 102, the ultra-wideband (UWB) ranging capability of computing device 110 may still be insufficient to accurately determine the proximity of the users of computing devices 102 and 110 to the UWB-enabled device 120. In the example where computing device 102 is a smartwatch and computing device 110 is a smartphone, the UWB antenna of computing device 102 may be approximately 10 dB weaker than the UWB antenna of computing device 110. However, when computing device 102 is worn on a user's wrist and computing device 110 is carried in the user's back pocket, the body absorption of the UWB signal from computing device 110 may significantly attenuate the UWB signal from computing device 110, for example, by reducing the gain of the UWB antenna of computing device 110 by 20-25 dB, which may result in the UWB ranging performance of computing device 110 being significantly worse than that of computing device 102.

[0045] Therefore, computing device 102 can, in response to determining that computing device 110 is close to computing device 102, determine whether computing device 110 is capable of accurately determining the proximity of users of computing devices 102 and 110 to UWB-enabled device 120. Specifically, computing device 102 can select a specific set of one or more UWB-enabled devices, and can, in response to determining that computing device 110 is close to computing device 102, determine whether computing device 110 is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices.

[0046] In some examples, a specific set of one or more devices might be each device paired with computing device 102 and computing device 110. That is, computing device 102 can determine whether computing device 110 is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to each device paired with computing device 102 and computing device 110 via ultra-wideband communication. For example, if UWB-enabled devices 120A-120C are paired with computing devices 102 and 110, computing device 102 can determine whether computing device 110 is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to each UWB-enabled device 120A-120C via ultra-wideband communication. If computing device 102 determines that computing device 110 is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to each UWB-enabled device 120A-120C via ultra-wideband communication, then computing device 102 can determine that the ultra-wideband capability of computing device 110 can be used to accurately determine the proximity of users of computing devices 102 and 110 to UWB-enabled device 120.

[0047] Computing device 110 may send an indication to computing device 102 that computing device 110 is capable of sending and receiving messages relative to one or more UWB-enabled devices via ultra-wideband ranging, and computing device 102 may determine whether computing device 110's ability to send and receive messages relative to one or more UWB-enabled devices via ultra-wideband ranging matches all UWB-enabled devices paired with computing devices 102 and 110. If computing device 102 determines that computing device 110's ability to send and receive messages relative to one or more UWB-enabled devices via ultra-wideband ranging matches all UWB-enabled devices paired with computing devices 102 and 110, then computing device 102 may determine that computing device 110's ultra-wideband ranging capability can be used to accurately determine the proximity of users of computing devices 102 and 110 to UWB-enabled device 120.

[0048] In some examples, a specific set of one or more devices might be one or more devices with which computing device 102 can perform ultra-wideband ranging. That is, computing device 102 can determine whether computing device 110 is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages via ultra-wideband communication relative to each device with which computing device 102 can perform ultra-wideband ranging.

[0049] For example, if computing device 102 is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to UWB-enabled devices 120A and 120B via ultra-wideband communication, then computing device 102 can determine whether computing device 110 is also capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to UWB-enabled devices 120A and 120B via ultra-wideband communication. If computing device 102 determines that computing device 110 is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to each of UWB-enabled devices 120A and 120B via ultra-wideband communication, then computing device 102 can determine that the ultra-wideband ranging capability of computing device 110 can be used to accurately determine the proximity of users of computing devices 102 and 110 to UWB-enabled device 120.

[0050] Computing device 110 may send an indication to computing device 102 that computing device 110 is capable of sending and receiving messages relative to one or more UWB-enabled devices via ultra-wideband ranging, and computing device 102 may determine whether computing device 110's ability to send and receive messages relative to one or more UWB-enabled devices via ultra-wideband ranging matches one or more UWB-enabled devices that computing device 102 is capable of sending and receiving messages relative to. If computing device 102 determines that computing device 110's ability to send and receive messages relative to one or more UWB-enabled devices via ultra-wideband ranging matches one or more UWB-enabled devices that computing device 102 is capable of sending and receiving messages relative to. Then computing device 102 may determine that computing device 110's ultra-wideband ranging capability can be used to accurately determine the proximity of users of computing devices 102 and 110 to UWB-enabled device 120.

[0051] Computing device 102 may, in response to determining that the ultra-wideband ranging capability of computing device 110 can be used to accurately determine the proximity of users of computing devices 102 and 110 to UWB-enabled device 120, set UWB component 108 to a power-saving mode. In some examples, setting UWB component 108 to power-saving mode by computing device 102 includes reducing the frequency at which UWB component 108 performs ultra-wideband ranging. For example, if UWB component 108 is performing ultra-wideband ranging at a frequency of once every five seconds, once every seven seconds, etc., computing device 102 may reduce the frequency at which UWB component 108 performs ultra-wideband ranging to once every thirty seconds, once per minute, etc. By reducing the frequency at which UWB component 108 performs ultra-wideband ranging, computing device 102 can therefore perform ultra-wideband ranging less frequently than computing device 110 in some examples.

[0052] When UWB component 108 is set to power-saving mode, UWB 108 can continue to periodically perform ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to one or more UWB-enabled devices 120 at reduced frequencies. As part of periodically performing ultra-wideband ranging when UWB component 108 is in power-saving mode, computing device 102 can periodically determine whether computing device 110 is close to computing device 102, for example via ultra-wideband ranging as described above or via any other suitable proximity detection technology (e.g., via Bluetooth).

[0053] If computing device 102 determines that computing device 110 is no longer approaching computing device 102, computing device 102 can set UWB component 108 to normal operating mode, thereby exiting power-saving mode. In some examples, setting UWB component 108 to normal operating mode by computing device 102 includes increasing the frequency at which UWB component 108 performs UWB ranging from the frequency at which UWB component 108 performs UWB ranging in power-saving mode. For example, if UWB component 108 performs UWB ranging in power-saving mode at a frequency of once every thirty seconds, once every minute, etc., computing device 102 can increase the frequency at which UWB component 108 performs UWB ranging to once every five seconds, once every ten seconds, etc.

[0054] When the UWB component 108 is in power-saving mode, if the computing device 102 determines that the computing device 110 is close to the computing device 102, the computing device 102 can determine whether the ultra-wideband ranging capability of the computing device 110 can be used to accurately determine the proximity of the users of the computing devices 102 and 110 to the UWB-enabled device 120, as described above.

[0055] As described above, computing device 110 is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices. If computing device 102 determines that the ultra-wideband ranging capability of computing device 110 can be used to accurately determine the proximity of users of computing devices 102 and 110 to UWB-enabled device 120, then computing device 102 can enable UWB component 108 to remain in power-saving mode. If computing device 102 determines that the ultra-wideband ranging capability of computing device 110 cannot be used to accurately determine the proximity of users of computing devices 102 and 110 to UWB-enabled device 120, then computing device 102 can set UWB component 108 to normal operating mode, as described above.

[0056] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating further details of a computing device 200 performing ultra-wideband ranging according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. The following will... Figure 2 The computing device 200 is described as follows Figure 1 An example of a computing device 200 is shown. Figure 2 The illustration shows only one specific example of computing device 200, and many other examples of computing device 200 can be used in other instances and may include a subset of the components included in example computing device 200 or may include... Figure 2 Additional components not shown.

[0057] like Figure 2 As shown in the example, computing device 200 includes one or more processors 240, one or more input components 242, one or more communication units 244, one or more output components 246, and one or more storage components 248. Input components 242 include sensor components 214. The storage components 248 of computing device 200 also include a communication module 204, an application module 224, and physical device information storage 228.

[0058] Communication channel 250 can interconnect each of components 240, 242, 244, 246, 248, and 214 for inter-component communication (physical, communicative, and / or operational). In some examples, communication channel 250 may include a system bus, a network connection, an inter-process communication data structure, or any other method for transmitting data.

[0059] One or more input components 242 of computing device 200 can receive input. Examples of input are tactile, audio, and video input. In one example, the input component 242 of computing device 200 includes a presence-sensitive display, touch-sensitive screen, mouse, keyboard, voice response system, camera, microphone, or any other type of device for detecting input from a person or machine.

[0060] One or more input components 242 include one or more sensor components 214. Numerous examples of sensor components 214 exist and include any input component configured to obtain environmental information about the environment surrounding the computing device 200 and / or physiological information defining the activity state and / or physical health of the user of the computing device 200. In some examples, the sensor component may be an input component that obtains the physical location, movement, and / or position information of the computing device 200. For example, sensor component 214 may include one or more location sensors (GPS component, Wi-Fi component, cellular component), one or more temperature sensors, one or more motion sensors (e.g., multi-axis accelerometer, gyroscope), one or more pressure sensors (e.g., barometer), one or more ambient light sensors, and one or more other sensors (e.g., microphone, camera, infrared proximity sensor, hygrometer, etc.). To name only a few other non-limiting examples, other sensors may include a heart rate sensor, magnetometer, glucose sensor, hygrometer sensor, olfactory sensor, compass sensor, pedometer sensor.

[0061] One or more output components 246 of computing device 200 can generate output. Examples of output are haptic, audio, and video output. In one example, the output component 246 of computing device 200 includes a presence-sensitive display, sound card, video graphics adapter card, speaker, liquid crystal display (LCD), or any other type of device for generating output to a person or machine.

[0062] One or more communication units 244 of computing device 200 can communicate with external devices via one or more wired and / or wireless networks by sending and / or receiving network signals on one or more networks. Examples of one or more communication units 244 include network interface cards (e.g., Ethernet cards), optical transceivers, radio frequency transceivers, GPS receivers, or any other type of device capable of sending and / or receiving information. Other examples of one or more communication units 244 may include shortwave radios, cellular data radios, wireless network radios, and Universal Serial Bus (USB) controllers.

[0063] One or more processors 240 may implement functions and / or execute instructions within computing device 200. For example, one or more processors 240 on computing device 200 may receive and execute instructions stored in storage component 248 to perform functions of modules 204 and 224. Instructions executed by one or more processors 240 may cause computing device 200 to store information in storage component 248 during program execution. Examples of one or more processors 240 include application processors, display controllers, sensor hubs, and any other hardware configured to act as processing units. One or more processors 240 may execute instructions of modules 204 and 224 to cause one or more output components 246 to render portions of display data as one of the user interface screenshots at one or more output components 246. That is, modules 204 and 224 may be operated by one or more processors 240 to perform various actions or functions of computing device 200.

[0064] One or more storage components 248 within computing device 200 may store information for processing during operation of computing device 200 (e.g., computing device 200 may store data accessed by modules 204 and 224 during execution at computing device 200). In some examples, storage component 248 is temporary memory, meaning that the primary purpose of storage component 248 is not long-term storage. Storage component 248 on computing device 200 may be configured to serve as short-term storage of information as volatile memory and therefore the stored contents are not retained if power is lost. Examples of volatile memory include random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), and other forms of volatile memory known in the art.

[0065] In some examples, storage component 248 also includes one or more computer-readable storage media. Storage component 248 can be configured to store a larger amount of information than volatile memory. Storage component 248 can be further configured to store information long-term as non-volatile memory space and retain information after power-on / power-off cycles. Examples of non-volatile memory include magnetic hard disks, optical disks, floppy disks, flash memory, or electrically programmable memory (EPROM) or electrically erasable programmable memory (EEPROM). Storage component 248 can store program instructions and / or information (e.g., data) associated with modules 204 and 224 and device information storage 228.

[0066] Application module 224 represents all the various individual applications and services that execute at computing device 200. A user of computing device 200 can interact with an interface (e.g., a graphical user interface) associated with one or more application modules 224 to enable computing device 200 to perform functions. Numerous examples of application modules 224 may exist and include digital car key applications, smart home applications, fitness applications, calendar applications, personal assistants or prediction engines, search applications, map or navigation applications, transportation service applications (e.g., bus or train tracking applications), social media applications, game applications, email applications, messaging applications, internet browser applications, or any and all other applications that can execute at computing device 200.

[0067] exist Figure 2 In this context, the communication module 204 can execute at one or more processors 240 to control the operation of the UWB component 208. For example, the communication module 204 can execute at one or more processors 240 to control the frequency at which the UWB component 208 performs ultra-wideband ranging, including increasing the frequency at which the UWB component 208 performs wideband ranging, decreasing the frequency at which the UWB component 208 performs wideband ranging, and / or setting the frequency at which the UWB component 208 performs wideband ranging in other cases.

[0068] The communication module 204 may execute at one or more processors 240 to determine, at least in part, whether to change the frequency at which the UWB component 208 performs ultra-wideband ranging based on: determining whether another computing device paired with computing device 202 and used by the same user as computing device 202, and possessing ultra-wideband ranging capabilities, can be used to accurately determine the proximity of the user of computing device 202 to UWB-enabled devices. For example, if computing device 202 is Figure 1 In the example of computing device 102, communication module 204 can determine Figure 1Whether computing device 110 can be used to accurately determine the proximity of users of computing devices 102 and 110 to UWB-enabled devices.

[0069] Each time the UWB component 208 performs ultra-wideband ranging, the computing device 202 can receive information that the communication module 204 can use to determine one or more devices within the ultra-wideband range of the computing device 202, and the distance between the computing device 202 and each of those devices. Such devices within the ultra-wideband range of the computing device 202 can be devices capable of exchanging messages with the computing device 202 via an ultra-wideband protocol (such as the IEEE 802.15.4 protocol). For example, the UWB component 208 can exchange timestamped messages with each of the one or more devices.

[0070] The message may indicate, for example, the identity of each of one or more devices. Communication module 204 can use the identity of each of the one or more devices indicated in the message received by UWB component 208 to determine whether one of the devices within the ultra-wideband range of computing device 202 is a paired device (referred to herein as a "paired device"). For example, communication module 204 may compare the identity of each of the one or more devices with the identity of the paired device stored in device information storage 228. If communication module 204 determines that none of the one or more devices within the ultra-wideband range of UWB component 208 is a paired device, then communication module 204 can avoid changing the frequency at which UWB component 208 performs ultra-wideband ranging.

[0071] Communication module 204 can use the time-of-flight of messages exchanged between UWB component 208 and each of one or more devices within its ultra-wideband range to determine the physical distance and / or angle of arrival between computing device 202 and each of the one or more devices. Thus, if communication module 204 determines that the one or more devices within the ultra-wideband range of UWB component 208 include a paired device, then communication module 204 can determine the distance between computing device 202 and the paired device.

[0072] Specifically, communication module 204 can determine whether the paired device is close to computing device 202. If the distance between computing device 202 and the paired device is within (e.g., less than or equal to) a proximity threshold, then communication module 204 can determine that the paired device is close to computing device 202. Examples of such proximity thresholds could be one meter, half a meter, twenty centimeters, etc. If communication module 204 determines that the paired device is not close to computing device 202, then communication module 204 can avoid changing the frequency at which UWB component 208 performs ultra-wideband ranging.

[0073] If the communication module 204 determines that the paired device is close to the computing device 202, the communication module 204 can determine whether the paired device is able to accurately determine the proximity of the user of the computing device 202 to the UWB-enabled device 120. Specifically, the communication module 204 can select a specific set of one or more UWB-enabled devices, and in response to determining that the paired device is close to the computing device 202, can determine whether the paired device is able to perform ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices selected by the communication module 204.

[0074] In some examples, a specific set of one or more devices may be each device paired with computing device 202 and the paired device via ultra-wideband communication. That is, computing device 102 may determine whether the paired device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages via ultra-wideband communication relative to each device paired with both computing device 202 and the paired device.

[0075] For example, device information storage 228 may store the identity of each device paired with computing device 202 and the paired device via ultra-wideband communication. Computing device 202 may receive from the paired device an indication of the identity of each device within the ultra-wideband range of that paired device, as determined during a recent ultra-wideband ranging operation performed by the paired device. Therefore, computing device 202 may compare the identity of each device within the ultra-wideband range of the paired device with the identity of each device paired with computing device 202 and the paired device via ultra-wideband communication, stored in device information storage 228, to determine whether the paired device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to each device paired with computing device 202 and the paired device via ultra-wideband communication.

[0076] In some examples, when computing device 202 communicates with a paired device during ultra-wideband ranging, computing device 202 can receive the identity of each device within the ultra-wideband range of the paired device. In some examples, computing device 202 can receive the identity of each device within the ultra-wideband range of the paired device when computing device 202 communicates with the paired device using a communication protocol other than ultra-wideband ranging (such as Bluetooth Low Energy or Wi-Fi).

[0077] If communication module 204 determines that the paired device cannot perform ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to each device paired with computing device 202 and the paired device via ultra-wideband communication, then communication module 204 can determine that the paired device cannot accurately determine the proximity of the user of computing device 202 to UWB-enabled devices, and can avoid changing the frequency at which UWB component 208 performs ultra-wideband ranging. If communication module 204 determines that the paired device can perform ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to each device paired with computing device 202 and the paired device via ultra-wideband communication, then communication module 204 can determine that the paired device can accurately determine the proximity of the user of computing device 202 to UWB-enabled devices.

[0078] In some examples, a specific set of one or more devices could be each device within the ultra-wideband range of UWB component 208. That is, computing device 202 can determine whether the paired devices are capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to each device within the ultra-wideband range of UWB component 208 via ultra-wideband communication.

[0079] The computing device 202 can therefore compare the identity of each device within the UWB range of the paired device with the identity of each device within the UWB range of the UWB component 208, as determined by the most recently performed UWB ranging by the UWB component 208, to determine whether the paired device is capable of performing UWB ranging to send and receive messages via UWB communication relative to each device currently within the UWB range of the UWB component 208.

[0080] If computing device 202 determines that the paired device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to each device within the ultra-wideband range of UWB component 208 via ultra-wideband communication, then communication module 204 can determine that the paired device cannot accurately determine the proximity of the user of computing device 202 to UWB-enabled devices, and can avoid changing the frequency at which UWB component 208 performs ultra-wideband ranging. If communication module 204 determines that the paired device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to each device within the ultra-wideband range of UWB component 208 via ultra-wideband communication, then communication module 204 can determine that the paired device can accurately determine the proximity of the user of computing device 202 to UWB-enabled devices.

[0081] If the communication module 204 determines that the paired device can accurately determine the proximity of the user of the computing device 202 to the UWB-enabled device, the communication module 204 can set the UWB component 208 to a power-saving mode. In some examples, setting the UWB component 208 to a power-saving mode includes reducing the frequency at which the UWB component 208 performs ultra-wideband ranging. For example, if the UWB component 208 performs ultra-wideband ranging at a frequency of once every five seconds, once every seven seconds, etc., the communication module 204 can reduce the frequency at which the UWB component 208 performs ultra-wideband ranging to once every thirty seconds, once per minute, etc. By reducing the frequency at which the UWB component 208 performs ultra-wideband ranging, the computing device 202 can therefore perform ultra-wideband ranging less frequently than the paired device in some examples.

[0082] When UWB component 208 is set to power-saving mode, UWB 208 can continue to periodically perform ultra-wideband ranging to send and receive messages relative to one or more UWB-enabled devices at reduced frequencies over the ultra-wideband range. As part of periodically performing ultra-wideband ranging when UWB component 208 is in power-saving mode, communication module 204 can determine whether a paired device is close to computing device 202, as described above.

[0083] If the communication module 204 determines that the paired device is no longer close to the computing device 202, the communication module 204 can set the UWB component 208 to normal operating mode, thereby exiting the power-saving mode. In some examples, setting the UWB component 208 to normal operating mode by the communication module 204 includes increasing the frequency at which the UWB component 208 performs UWB ranging from the frequency at which it performs UWB ranging in power-saving mode. For example, if the UWB component 208 performs UWB ranging at a frequency of once every thirty seconds, once per minute, etc., in power-saving mode, the communication module 204 can increase the frequency at which the UWB component 208 performs UWB ranging to once every five seconds, once every ten seconds, etc.

[0084] When the UWB component 208 is in power-saving mode, if the communication module 204 determines that the paired device is close to the computing device 202, the communication module 204 can determine whether the ultra-wideband ranging capability of the paired device can be used to accurately determine the proximity of the user of the computing device 202 to the UWB-enabled device, as described above.

[0085] If the computing device determines that the paired device's ultra-wideband ranging capability can be used to accurately determine the proximity of the user of computing device 202 to a UWB-enabled device, then communication module 204 can enable UWB component 208 to remain in power-saving mode. If the computing device determines that the paired device's ultra-wideband ranging capability cannot be used to accurately determine the proximity of the user of computing device 202 to a UWB-enabled device, then communication module 204 can set UWB component 208 to normal operating mode, as described above.

[0086] In some examples, communication module 204 may use additional or alternative techniques to change the frequency at which UWB component 208 performs ultra-wideband ranging. In some examples, communication module 204 may perform activity recognition to identify the physical activities being performed by the user of computing device 202 and may change the frequency at which UWB component 208 performs ultra-wideband ranging based on the physical activities being performed by the user.

[0087] For example, communication module 204 can use data generated by one or more sensor components 214 to determine whether the user is moving (e.g., walking, running, riding in a vehicle, etc.) or not moving (e.g., sitting, standing, etc.). If the user is not moving, it may not be necessary to determine whether the user is moving toward a UWB-enabled device. Therefore, if communication module 204 determines that the user is not moving, it can set UWB component 208 to a power-saving mode. Similarly, if communication module 204 determines that the user is moving, it can set UWB component 208 to a normal operating mode.

[0088] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating an example technique for ultra-wideband optimization according to aspects of this disclosure. For illustrative purposes only, the following... Figure 1 The example operation is described in the context of computing device 102, which is a wearable device that can be tethered to computing device 110. When computing device 102 is a wearable device, computing device 102 can be worn by a user or otherwise attached to computing device 102, and can be in an unlocked state.

[0089] like Figure 3As shown, computing device 102 can determine whether computing device 102 is connected to computing device 110 (302). If computing device 102 is tethered to computing device 110 or otherwise wirelessly coupled to computing device 110 (e.g., via UWB, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Wi-Fi, etc.), then computing device 102 can be connected to computing device 110. If computing device 102 determines that computing device 102 is not connected to computing device 110, then computing device 102 can normally perform UWB ranging via UWB component 108 (312).

[0090] If computing device 102 determines that it is connected to computing device 110, then computing device 102 may periodically perform ultra-wideband ranging with computing device 110 as part of periodically performing ultra-wideband ranging with UWB-enabled device 120 using UWB component 108 to determine the distance between computing devices 102 and 110 (304). Computing device 102 may determine whether computing device 102 is close to computing device 110 based on the distance between computing devices 102 and 110 (306).

[0091] If computing device 102 determines that computing device 102 is not close to computing device 110, then computing device 102 can normally perform ultra-wideband ranging via UWB component 108 (312). If computing device 102 determines that computing device 102 is close to computing device 110, then computing device 102 can determine whether computing device 110 can communicate via ultra-wideband communication with all UWB-enabled devices paired with computing devices 102 and 110 when performing ultra-wideband ranging, or determine whether computing device 110 can communicate via ultra-wideband communication with all UWB-enabled devices with which computing device 102 can communicate via ultra-wideband communication when performing ultra-wideband ranging (308).

[0092] If computing device 102 determines that computing device 110 cannot communicate via UWB communication with all UWB-enabled devices paired with both computing devices 102 and 110, and computing device 110 cannot communicate via UWB communication with all UWB-enabled devices with which computing device 102 can communicate via UWB communication, then computing device 102 can normally perform UWB ranging via UWB component 108 (312). If computing device 102 determines that computing device 110 can communicate via UWB communication with all UWB-enabled devices paired with both computing devices 102 and 110, or computing device 110 can communicate via UWB communication with all UWB-enabled devices with which computing device 102 can communicate via UWB communication, then computing device 102 can set UWB component 108 to power-saving mode, thereby reducing the frequency at which UWB component 108 periodically performs UWB ranging (310). Computing device 102 can therefore return to periodically performing ultra-wideband ranging with UWB-enabled device 120 using UWB component 108, including periodically performing ultra-wideband ranging with computing device 110 to determine the distance between computing devices 102 and 110 (304).

[0093] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an example operation of a computing device performing ultra-wideband ranging according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. For illustrative purposes only, the following... Figure 1 Example operations are described in the context of computing device 110.

[0094] like Figure 4 As shown, a first computing device 102 can determine, via ultra-wideband ranging and in the case of a determined or uncertain angle of arrival, that the first computing device 102 is approaching a second computing device 110 paired with the first computing device 102 (402). The first computing device 102 can determine that the second computing device 110 is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices (404). In response to determining that the first computing device 102 is approaching the second computing device 110 and that the second computing device 110 is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices, the first computing device 102 can set the ultra-wideband component 108 of the first computing device 102 to a power-saving mode (406).

[0095] In some examples, a specific set of one or more devices includes all UWB-enabled devices paired with the first computing device 102 and the second computing device 110. In some examples, a specific set of one or more devices includes all UWB-enabled devices with which the first computing device 102 can perform UWB ranging.

[0096] In some examples, the first computing device 102 may determine via ultra-wideband ranging that the first computing device 102 is no longer approaching the second computing device 110 in response to setting the ultra-wideband component 108 to a power-saving mode. In response to determining that the first computing device 102 is no longer approaching the second computing device 110, the first computing device 102 may set the ultra-wideband component 108 to a normal operating mode to perform ultra-wideband ranging.

[0097] In some examples, the first computing device 102 may, in response to setting the ultra-wideband component to a power-saving mode, determine, via the first computing device 102 and ultra-wideband ranging, that the first computing device 102 is still close to the second computing device 110 and that the second computing device 110 cannot perform ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices. The first computing device 102 may, in response to determining that the second computing device 110 cannot perform ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices, set the ultra-wideband component 108 to a normal operating mode for performing ultra-wideband ranging.

[0098] In some examples, to set the ultra-wideband component 108 to a power-saving mode, the first computing device 102 may reduce the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component 108 performs ultra-wideband ranging. In some examples, to set the ultra-wideband component to a normal operating mode, the first computing device 102 may increase the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component performs ultra-wideband ranging.

[0099] In some examples, in order to determine that the first computing device 102 is close to the second computing device 110, the computing device 102 may use the ultra-wideband component 108 to periodically determine the corresponding physical distance between the first computing device 102 and each of one or more ultra-wideband-enabled devices within the ultra-wideband range of the first computing device 102.

[0100] In some examples, computing device 102 can identify bodily activities being performed by users associated with the first computing device 102 and the second computing device 110. The computing device can, in response to identifying bodily activities being performed by users associated with the first computing device 102 and the second computing device 110, change the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component 108 performs ultra-wideband ranging.

[0101] In some examples, the first computing device 102 includes a wearable device, and the second computing device includes a smartphone.

[0102] This disclosure includes the following examples.

[0103] Example 1: A method includes: determining, by a first computing device and via ultra-wideband ranging, that the first computing device is close to a second computing device paired with the first computing device; determining, by the first computing device, that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices; and, in response to determining that the first computing device is close to the second computing device and that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices, setting the ultra-wideband component of the first computing device to a power-saving mode by the first computing device.

[0104] Example 2: The method of Example 1, wherein a particular set of the one or more devices includes all ultra-wideband enabled devices paired with the first computing device and the second computing device.

[0105] Example 3: The method of Example 1, wherein a specific set of the one or more devices includes all UWB-enabled devices that the first computing device can utilize to perform UWB ranging.

[0106] Example 4: The method of any one of Examples 1-3 further includes: in response to setting the ultra-wideband component to the power-saving mode, determining by the first computing device and via ultra-wideband ranging that the first computing device is no longer close to the second computing device; and in response to determining that the first computing device is no longer close to the second computing device, setting the ultra-wideband component to a normal operating mode for performing ultra-wideband ranging by the first computing device.

[0107] Example 5: The method of any one of Examples 1-3 further includes: in response to setting the ultra-wideband component to the power-saving mode, determining by the first computing device and via ultra-wideband ranging that the first computing device is still close to the second computing device and the second computing device cannot perform ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of the one or more devices; and in response to determining that the second computing device cannot perform ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of the one or more devices, setting the ultra-wideband component to a normal operating mode for performing ultra-wideband ranging by the first computing device.

[0108] Example 6: The method of any one of Examples 1-5, wherein setting the ultra-wideband component to the power-saving mode further includes: reducing the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component performs ultra-wideband ranging by the first computing device.

[0109] Example 7: The method of any one of Examples 4-6, wherein setting the ultra-wideband component to the normal operating mode further includes: increasing the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component performs ultra-wideband ranging via the first computing device.

[0110] The method of any one of Examples 1-7, wherein determining that the first computing device is close to the second computing device further includes: periodically determining, by the first computing device and using the ultra-wideband component, a corresponding physical distance between the first computing device and each of one or more ultra-wideband-enabled devices within the ultra-wideband range of the first computing device.

[0111] Example 9: The method of any one of Examples 1-8 further includes: identifying, by the first computing device, a physical activity being performed by a user associated with the first computing device and the second computing device; and, in response to identifying the physical activity being performed by the user associated with the first computing device and the second computing device, changing the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component performs ultra-wideband ranging.

[0112] Example 10: A method of any one of Examples 1-9, wherein the first computing device includes a wearable device, and wherein the second computing device includes a smartphone.

[0113] Example 11: A computing device includes: a memory; an ultra-wideband component; an ultra-wideband communication component; and one or more processors, the one or more processors being communicatively coupled to the memory and the ultra-wideband component and configured to: determine via ultra-wideband ranging that the computing device is close to a second computing device paired with the computing device; determine that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices; and, in response to determining that the computing device is close to the second computing device and that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices, set the ultra-wideband component of the first computing device to a power-saving mode.

[0114] Example 12: The computing device of Example 11, wherein a particular set of the one or more devices includes all ultra-wideband enabled devices paired with the computing device and the second computing device.

[0115] The computing device of Example 11, wherein a particular set of the one or more devices includes all UWB-enabled devices that the computing device can use to perform UWB ranging.

[0116] Example 14: A computing device of any of Examples 11-13, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to: determine, via ultra-wideband ranging, that the computing device is no longer near the second computing device in response to setting the ultra-wideband component to the power-saving mode; and set the ultra-wideband component to a normal operating mode for performing ultra-wideband ranging in response to determining that the computing device is no longer near the second computing device.

[0117] Example 15: A computing device of any one of Examples 11-13, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to: determine, in response to setting the ultra-wideband component to the power-saving mode, via ultra-wideband ranging that the computing device is still close to the second computing device and the second computing device cannot perform ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of the one or more devices; and in response to determining that the second computing device cannot perform ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of the one or more devices, set the ultra-wideband component to a normal operating mode for performing ultra-wideband ranging.

[0118] Example 16: A computing device of any of Examples 11-15, wherein, in order to set the ultra-wideband component to the power-saving mode, the one or more processors are further configured to: reduce the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component performs ultra-wideband ranging.

[0119] Example 17: A computing device of any of Examples 14-16, wherein, in order to set the ultra-wideband component to the normal operating mode, the one or more processors are further configured to: increase the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component performs ultra-wideband ranging.

[0120] Example 18: A computing device of any of Examples 11-17, wherein, in order to determine that the computing device is close to the second computing device, the one or more processors are further configured to: periodically determine, using the ultra-wideband component, a corresponding physical distance between the computing device and each of one or more ultra-wideband-enabled devices within the ultra-wideband range of the computing device.

[0121] Example 19: A computing device of any of Examples 11-18, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to: identify physical activities being performed by a user associated with the computing device and the second computing device; and, in response to identifying the physical activities being performed by the user associated with the computing device and the second computing device, change the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component performs ultra-wideband ranging.

[0122] Example 20: A computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed, cause one or more processors of a computing device to: determine, via ultra-wideband ranging, that the computing device is close to a second computing device paired with the computing device; determine that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices; and, in response to determining that the computing device is close to the second computing device and that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices, set the ultra-wideband component of the first computing device to a power-saving mode.

[0123] In one or more examples, the described functionality may be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functionality may be stored or transferred as one or more instructions or code to a computer-readable medium and executed by a hardware-based processing unit. A computer-readable medium may include a computer-readable storage medium corresponding to a tangible medium such as a data storage medium, or a communication medium that facilitates the transfer of a computer program from one place to another, for example, according to a communication protocol. In this way, a computer-readable medium may generally correspond to (1) a non-transitory tangible computer-readable storage medium or (2) a communication medium such as a signal or carrier wave. A data storage medium may be any available medium accessible by one or more computers or one or more processors to retrieve instructions, code, and / or data structures for implementing the techniques described in this disclosure. Computer program products may include computer-readable media.

[0124] By way of example and not limitation, such computer-readable storage media may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disc storage, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, flash memory, or any other medium that can be used to store required program code in the form of instructions or data structures and is accessible by a computer. Furthermore, any connection is appropriately referred to as a computer-readable medium. For example, if instructions are transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition of medium. However, it should be understood that computer-readable storage media and data storage media do not include connections, carrier waves, signals, or other transient media, but rather refer to non-transient tangible storage media. Disks and optical discs used include compact discs (CDs), laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs, where disks typically reproduce data magnetically, while optical discs reproduce data optically using lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0125] Instructions can be executed by one or more processors, such as one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), general-purpose microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable arrays (FPGAs), or other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuits. Therefore, the term "processor" as used can refer to any of the foregoing structures or any other structure suitable for implementing the described techniques. Additionally, in some aspects, the described functionality can be provided within dedicated hardware and / or software modules. Moreover, these techniques can be implemented entirely within one or more circuit or logic elements.

[0126] The techniques disclosed herein can be implemented in a wide variety of devices or apparatuses, including wireless handheld devices, integrated circuits (ICs), or a set of ICs (e.g., chipsets). Various components, modules, or units are described in this disclosure to emphasize functional aspects of a device configured to perform the disclosed techniques, but implementation by different hardware units is not necessarily required. Rather, as described above, various units can be combined within hardware units or provided by a collection of interoperable hardware units (including one or more processors as described above) combined with suitable software and / or firmware.

[0127] It should be recognized that, depending on the embodiment, certain actions or events of any method described herein may be performed in a different order, and may be added, combined, or omitted entirely (e.g., not all of the described actions or events are necessary for the practice of the method). Furthermore, in some embodiments, actions or events may be performed, for example, through multithreaded processing, interrupt handling, or simultaneous execution by multiple processors, rather than sequentially.

[0128] In some examples, computer-readable storage media include non-transitory media. In some examples, the term "non-transitory" means that the storage medium is not embodied in a carrier wave or propagating signal. In some examples, non-transitory storage media stores data that may change over time (e.g., in RAM or cache). While some examples are described as outputting various types of information for display, the techniques of this disclosure can output such information in other forms (such as audio, holographic, or haptic forms, to name just a few).

[0129] Various examples have been described. These and other examples are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for optimizing ultra-wideband power use, comprising: The proximity of the first computing device to a second computing device paired with the first computing device is determined by the first computing device and via ultra-wideband ranging. The first computing device determines that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices; as well as In response to determining that the first computing device is close to the second computing device and that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of the one or more devices, the first computing device sets its ultra-wideband component to a power-saving mode. After the ultra-wideband component is set to the power-saving mode, the first computing device determines, via ultra-wideband ranging, that the first computing device is still close to the second computing device and that the second computing device cannot perform ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of the one or more devices. as well as In response to determining that the second computing device cannot perform ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of the one or more devices, the first computing device sets the ultra-wideband component to a normal operating mode for performing ultra-wideband ranging.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The specific set of the one or more devices includes all ultra-wideband enabled devices paired with both the first computing device and the second computing device.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The specific set of the one or more devices includes all ultra-wideband-enabled devices with which the first computing device can perform ultra-wideband ranging.

4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: In response to setting the ultra-wideband component to the power-saving mode, the first computing device determines, via ultra-wideband ranging, that the first computing device is no longer approaching the second computing device. as well as In response to determining that the first computing device is no longer close to the second computing device, the first computing device sets the ultra-wideband component to a normal operating mode for performing ultra-wideband ranging.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Setting the ultra-wideband component to the power-saving mode also includes: The first computing device reduces the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component performs ultra-wideband ranging.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Setting the ultra-wideband component to the normal operating mode also includes: The first computing device increases the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component performs ultra-wideband ranging.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Determining that the first computing device is close to the second computing device further includes: The first computing device, using the ultra-wideband component, periodically determines the corresponding physical distance between the first computing device and each of one or more ultra-wideband-enabled devices within the ultra-wideband range of the first computing device.

8. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The first computing device identifies bodily activities being performed by a user associated with the first computing device and the second computing device; as well as In response to recognizing the physical activity being performed by the user associated with the first computing device and the second computing device, the first computing device changes the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component performs ultra-wideband ranging.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first computing device includes a wearable device, and the second computing device includes a smartphone.

10. A computing device, comprising: Memory; Ultra-wideband components; Ultra-wideband communication components; as well as One or more processors, which are communicatively coupled to the memory and the ultra-wideband component and configured to: The proximity of the computing device to a second computing device paired with the computing device is determined via ultra-wideband ranging. It is determined that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices; In response to determining that the computing device is close to the second computing device and that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of the one or more devices, the ultra-wideband component of the computing device is set to a power-saving mode; After the ultra-wideband component is set to the power-saving mode, it is determined via ultra-wideband ranging that the computing device is still close to the second computing device and the second computing device cannot perform ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of the one or more devices; as well as In response to determining that the second computing device cannot perform ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of the one or more devices, the ultra-wideband component is set to a normal operating mode for performing ultra-wideband ranging.

11. The computing device according to claim 10, wherein, The specific set of the one or more devices includes all ultra-wideband enabled devices paired with both the computing device and the second computing device.

12. The computing device according to claim 10, wherein, The specific set of the one or more devices includes all ultra-wideband-enabled devices with which the computing device can perform ultra-wideband ranging.

13. The computing device according to claim 10, wherein, The one or more processors are further configured to: In response to setting the ultra-wideband component to the power-saving mode, determining via ultra-wideband ranging that the computing device is no longer close to the second computing device; and In response to determining that the computing device is no longer close to the second computing device, the ultra-wideband component is set to a normal operating mode for performing ultra-wideband ranging.

14. The computing device according to claim 10, wherein, In order to set the ultra-wideband component to the power-saving mode, the one or more processors are further configured to: Reduce the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component performs ultra-wideband ranging.

15. The computing device according to claim 10, wherein, In order to set the ultra-wideband component to the normal operating mode, the one or more processors are further configured to: Increase the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component performs ultra-wideband ranging.

16. The computing device according to claim 10, wherein, To determine that the computing device is close to the second computing device, the one or more processors are further configured to: The ultra-wideband component is used to periodically determine the corresponding physical distance between the computing device and each of one or more ultra-wideband-enabled devices within the ultra-wideband range of the computing device.

17. The computing device according to claim 16, wherein, The one or more processors are further configured to: Identify bodily activities being performed by a user associated with the computing device and the second computing device; as well as In response to recognizing the physical activity being performed by a user associated with the computing device and the second computing device, the frequency at which the ultra-wideband component performs ultra-wideband ranging is changed.

18. A computer-readable storage medium storing instructions, which, when executed, cause one or more processors of a computing device to: The proximity of the computing device to a second computing device paired with the computing device is determined via ultra-wideband ranging. It is determined that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of one or more devices; In response to determining that the computing device is close to the second computing device and that the second computing device is capable of performing ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of the one or more devices, the ultra-wideband component of the computing device is set to a power-saving mode; After the ultra-wideband component is set to the power-saving mode, it is determined via ultra-wideband ranging that the computing device is still close to the second computing device and the second computing device cannot perform ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of the one or more devices; as well as In response to determining that the second computing device cannot perform ultra-wideband ranging with a specific set of the one or more devices, the ultra-wideband component is set to a normal operating mode for performing ultra-wideband ranging.

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