Device, system, and method for locating target

Abstract

A method is provided for locating a target. The method includes receiving a target signal indicative of a location of the target and determining a first signal strength value and a second signal strength value of the target signal. The method further includes comparing the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value and determining that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value. The method further includes generating a first output indicative of a first path of movement of the device. The method further includes generating a pattern of the first path and detecting a current location of the device. The method further includes determining a center of the pattern of the first path and generating a location output.

Description

[0001] DEVICE, SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR LOCATING TARGET

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to a method for locating a target. The present disclosure further relates to a device and a system for locating a target.

[0004] Background

[0005] Different types of portable devices are used for identifying locations of targets in physical spaces. The identification of the locations of the targets is performed by tracking signals. In some cases, radio frequency (RF) signals are transmitted by transmitting devices. The portable devices receive the RF signals for identifying the locations of the targets.

[0006] Summary

[0007] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for locating a target. The method includes receiving, by a device, a target signal indicative of a location of a target. The method further includes determining, by a processing circuitry, a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance. The method further includes determining, by the processing circuitry, a second signal strength value of the target signal at a second time instance. The second time instance is later than the first time instance. The method further includes comparing, by the processing circuitry, the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value. The method further includes determining, by the processing circuitry, that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value. The method further includes generating, by the processing circuitry, a first output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value. The first output is indicative of a first path of movement of the device. The method further includes generating, by the processing circuitry, a pattern of the first path. The method further includes detecting, by at least one sensor, a current location of the device. The method further includes determining, by the processing circuitry, a center of the pattern of the first path. The center of the pattern of the first path is indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the device. The method further includes generating, by the processing circuitry, a location output. The location output is indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device in order to locate the target.

[0008] In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a device for locating a target. The device includes a processing circuitry, at least one sensor, and a communication component. The processing circuitry is configured to receive a target signal indicative of a location of a target. The processing circuitry is further configured to determine a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance. The processing circuitry is further configured to determine a second signal strength value of the target signal at a second time instance. The second time instance is later than the first time instance. The processing circuitry is further configured to compare the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value. The processing circuitry is further configured to determine that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value. The processing circuitry is further configured to generate a first output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value. The first output is indicative of a first path of movement of the device. The processing circuitry is further configured to generate a pattern of the first path. The processing circuitry is further configured to receive a current location of the device from the at least one sensor. The processing circuitry is configured to determine a center of the pattern of the first path. The center of the pattern of the first path is indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the device. The processing circuitry is further configured to generate a location output. The location output is indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device in order to locate the target. The communication component is configured to receive the first output or the location output from the processing circuitry. The communication component is further configured to provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device or the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

[0009] In a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a system for locating a target. The system includes a transmitter associated with the target and configured to transmit a target signal. The system further includes the device of the second aspect.

[0010] In a fourth aspect, the present disclosure provides a device for locating a target. The device includes a receiver configured to receive a target signal indicative of a location of a target. The device further includes a signal strength detector and a signal strength comparator. The signal strength detector is configured to detect a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance and a signal strength value at a second time instance. The second time instance is later than the first time instance. The signal strength comparator is configured to compare the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value and determine, based on the comparison, that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value. The device further includes at least one sensor configured to detect a current location of the device. The device further includes a pattern generator, a graphical user interface (GUI) generator, and a communication component. The pattern generator is configured to, based on the comparison, generate a pattern of a first path of the device and determine a center of the pattern of the first path. The center of the pattern of the first path is indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the device. The GUI generator is configured to generate, based on the comparison, a first output and a location output. The first output is indicative of the first path of movement of the device and the location output is indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device in order to locate the target. The communication component is configured to receive the first output or the location output from the GUI generator. The communication component is further configured to provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device or the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

[0011] The details of one or more examples of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0012] Brief Description of Drawings

[0013] Exemplary embodiments disclosed herein may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description in connection with the following figures. The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Eike numbers used in the figures refer to like components. However, it will be understood that the use of a number to refer to a component in a given figure is not intended to limit the component in another figure labeled with the same number.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example system, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example device, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates an example user interface displaying an exemplary first output that may be presented on a screen of a device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates an example user interface displaying an exemplary location output that may be presented on a screen of a device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates an example user interface displaying an exemplary location output that may be presented on a screen of a device, according to other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates an example user interface displaying an exemplary second output that may be presented on a screen of a device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate a flowchart of a method for locating a target, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an example device, according to other embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an image processing system architecture.

[0022] FIGS. 10-11 illustrate example mobile computing devices that can be used in embodiments shown in previous Figures.

[0023] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a computing environment that can be used in embodiments shown in previous Figures.

[0024] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a computing environment that can be used in embodiments shown in previous Figures.

[0025] Detailed Description

[0026] In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying figures that form a part thereof and in which various embodiments are shown by way of illustration. It is to be understood that other embodiments are contemplated and may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. The following detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0027] In the following disclosure, the following definitions are adopted.

[0028] As used herein, all numbers should be considered modified by the term “about”. As used herein, “a,” “an,” “the,” “at least one,” and “one or more” are used interchangeably.

[0029] As used herein as a modifier to a property or attribute, the term “generally”, unless otherwise specifically defined, means that the property or attribute would be readily recognizable by a person of ordinary skill but without requiring absolute precision or a perfect match (e.g., within + / - 20 % for quantifiable properties).

[0030] The term “substantially”, unless otherwise specifically defined, means to a high degree of approximation (e.g., within + / - 10% for quantifiable properties) but again without requiring absolute precision or a perfect match.

[0031] The term “about”, unless otherwise specifically defined, means to a high degree of approximation (e.g., within + / - 5% for quantifiable properties) but again without requiring absolute precision or a perfect match.

[0032] As used herein, the terms “first” and “second” are used as identifiers. Therefore, such terms should not be construed as limiting of this disclosure. The terms “first” and “second” when used in conjunction with a feature or an element can be interchanged throughout the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0033] As used herein, “at least one of A and B” should be understood to mean “only A, only B, or both A and B”.

[0034] As used herein, the recitations of numerical ranges by endpoints include all numbers subsumed within that range as well as the endpoints (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, etc.). As used herein, the term “device” generally refers to a portable personal article carried by a user. The term “device” may be interchangeably referred to as “handheld device” or “portable device” herein. The handheld device may include one or more components therein. It is to be noted that the handheld device may be any portable device performing intended functionalities. In some examples, the portable device may be a device integrated with a facemask or a helmet of the user.

[0035] As used herein, the term “physical space” generally refers to a location inside a premises. Some non-limiting examples of the physical space are a building, a shopping center, a home, a mining site, and the like. The physical space may be considered to have an obscured environment having low or no visibility.

[0036] As used herein, the term “target” generally refers to a person, an injured team member or a coworker, a precious item, or an animal that is to be rescued from a physical space.

[0037] As used herein, the term “transmitter” generally refers to a device that is capable of transmitting or sending one or more information, data, and / or signal.

[0038] As used herein, the term “receiver” generally refers to a device that has capability of receiving information, data, and / or signal.

[0039] As used herein, the term “coupled” generally means either a direct connection between two or more elements that are connected or an indirect connection through one or more passive or active intermediary devices.

[0040] As used herein, the term “real-time” refers to data that is processed within milliseconds so that it is available virtually immediately. While some delay due to processing are inevitable, “realtime” is intended to cover systems and methods where data can be collected or entered, and a user can then interact with it without noticeable delay. For example, a user may make a data entry into a system, and the data entry is then substantially immediately available for viewing or editing.

[0041] Different types of portable devices are used to identify locations of targets in physical spaces. The identification of the locations is performed by tracking signals. In some cases, radio frequency (RF) signals are transmitted by transmitter devices. In hazardous situations, such as heavy fire, searchers are sent to rescue injured or downed firemen or team members. In an obscured environment having low or no visibility, it becomes difficult for a searcher to locate a downed fireman. In the hazardous situation, due to smoke, debris, and the low visibility, the searcher may tend to wander around same area in a physical space and may take more time to reach to the downed fireman. Such situation may result in significant damage, harm, or injury to the downed fireman.

[0042] The present disclosure relates to a device for locating a target. The device may be a handheld device carried by a searcher. The present disclosure further relates to a method for locating a target. The target may be located in a physical space. As mentioned hereinabove, the target may be a downed fireman or a team member needed to be rescued. The target may be still or motionless at a fixed location in the physical space and may be required to be rescued or recovered from the physical space having low or no visibility.

[0043] The device, in one embodiment, includes a processing circuitry, at least one sensor, and a communication component. The processing circuitry is configured to receive a target signal indicative of a location of a target. The processing circuitry is further configured to determine a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance. The processing circuitry is further configured to determine a second signal strength value of the target signal at a second time instance. The second time instance is later than the first time instance. The processing circuitry is further configured to compare the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value. The processing circuitry is further configured to determine that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value. The processing circuitry is further configured to generate a first output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value. The first output is indicative of a first path of movement of the device. The processing circuitry is further configured to generate a pattern of the first path and receive a current location of the device from the at least one sensor. The processing circuitry is further configured to determine a center of the pattern of the first path. The center of the pattern of the first path is indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the device. The processing circuitry is further configured to generate a location output. The location output is indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device in order to locate the target. The communication component is configured to receive the first output or the location output from the processing circuitry. The communication component is further configured to provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device or the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

[0044] Therefore, embodiments of the device of the present disclosure determine that a searcher, carrying the device, has traversed the same path in the physical space. This may be due to no or low visibility in a physical space where the target is located. As the processing circuitry of the device determines that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value, this may mean that the device, and hence the searcher, may not be following a correct approach for locating the target. Upon such determination by the processing circuitry, the device can then generate the pattern of the path followed by the searcher and display the generated pattern on the user interface. The searcher can then see their movement on the user interface and know that he is not moving towards the target that is to be rescued and may be wandering in a loop or a circular path.

[0045] The device can further generate the location output for the searcher to follow from the current location of the searcher to the target. Accordingly, the device may provide a new real-time solution for locating the target. Moreover, as the location output is indicative of the direction and the distance from the current location of the searcher to the target, the searcher may readily follow the location output, even in a visually obscured environment having low or no-visibility condition. Hence, a significant amount of time may be saved while locating the target, which is very crucial when the target is a downed fireman or an injured person that is to be rescued.

[0046] Referring now to the Figures, FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system 100 for locating a target 102, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The system 100 facilitates a searcher in locating the target 102 in a physical space 108. In some embodiments, the system 100 may be used in hazardous situations, such as, heavy fire, collapsed buildings, collapsed mines, and the like. Accordingly, the system 100 may facilitate the searcher to locate the target 102 in an obscured environment having low or no visibility.

[0047] The system 100 includes a transmitter 104. The transmitter 104 may be associated with the target 102. The transmitter 104 may be coupled with the target 102. In some embodiments, the transmitter 104 may be a part of a personal protective equipment (PPE) worn by the target 102. For example, the target may be a downed firefighter with a beacon 104 (or other suitable signal transmitter) configured to transmit a location indication in the event the downed firefighter is unmoving for a specified period of time that could indicate unconsciousness or distress.

[0048] Examples of PPE that could include such a beacon, or another suitable technology, may include, but are not limited to, respiratory protection equipment (including disposable respirators, reusable respirators, powered air purifying respirators, self-contained breathing apparatus, and supplied air respirators), facemasks, oxygen tanks, air bottles, protective eyewear, such as visors, goggles, filters or shields (any of which may include augmented reality functionality), protective headwear, such as hard hats, hoods, or helmets, hearing protection (including ear plugs and ear muffs), protective shoes, protective gloves, other protective clothing, such as coveralls, aprons, coat, vest, suits, boots, and / or gloves, protective articles, such as sensors, safety tools, detectors, global positioning devices, mining cap lamps, fall protection harnesses, exoskeletons, self-retracting lifelines, heating and cooling systems, gas detectors, and any other suitable gear configured to protect the wearer from injury. The PPE may also include any other type of clothing or device / equipment that may be worn or used by the wearer to protect against fire, extreme temperatures, reduced oxygen levels, explosions, reduced atmospheric pressure, radiation, and / or biologically harmful materials. Transmitter 104 may also be associated with a target 102 in another manner, for example transmitter 104 may be a mobile computing device, such as a cellular phone, associated with a target. Other suitable transmitting technology is expressly contemplated for transmitter 104.

[0049] In some embodiments, the transmitter 104 may be a part of a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) worn by the target 102. The SCBAs are devices used by, for example, first responders such as firefighters, law enforcement, military and other rescue and emergency workers, when operating in hazardous or dangerous environments. The SCBA may include several primary components including a pressure air tank or cylinder, at least one pressure regulator, a facemask, and a carrying frame or support assembly to support the cylinder and related items on the back of a user.

[0050] The transmitter 104 may be configured to transmit a target signal 106 indicative of a location of the target 102. In some embodiments, the target signal 106 includes radio waves and the transmitter 104 may be configured to transmit the radio waves indicative of the location of the target 102. However, it is expressly contemplated that the target signal 106 may include another signal technology. For example, wireless communication protocols (e.g. IEEE 802.11 p), loran, Bluetooth® communication, ultrasound waves, light waves (e.g. measuring intensity and / or embedding data within the light beam), magnetism and / or another suitable technology.

[0051] The system 100 further includes a portable device 110 which may, among other functionality, be used to locate the target 102 within the physical space 108. The portable device 110 is configured to receive the target signal 106 indicative of the location of the target 102. The portable device 110 may include a radio location device, or built into another device, such as a thermal imaging camera. The portable device may be built into another device that a user already carries, e.g. a flashlight, a cellular phone or other wearable computing device, etc. For example, an antenna within a cellular phone may be sufficient for determining location information needed for embodiments herein. At least some of the functionality of portable device 110 may be built into an SCBA, a PAPR or another article of PPE.

[0052] In some embodiments, the portable device 110 is configured to be held by a user, e.g. a handheld device 110. In other words, the device 110 may be a handheld device. However, it is expressly contemplated that portable device 110 may be configured to be worn by a user, for example integrated into a watch or other wrist / arm mounted device. Additionally, in some embodiments, portable device 110 is built into another device. For example, a searcher using portable device 110 may be wearing an SCBA unit or a full-face respirator. The functionality described herein with respect to device 110 may be incorporated into a heads-up display incorporated into an SCBA unit, a respiratory unit, or another full-face covering device having a suitable projection surface. Other configurations of device 110 are expressly contemplated.

[0053] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example device 200 according to embodiments herein. The device 200 may be similar to the device 110, discussed above with respect to FIG. 1. The device 200 may be carried by the searcher for locating a target (e.g., the target 102 shown in FIG. 1) within a physical space (e.g., the physical space 108 shown in FIG. 1). The device 200 may include, be, or be part of another mobile computing unit.

[0054] The device 200 includes at least one sensor 206, processing circuitry 202 and memory 208. Processing circuitry 202 may be communicably coupled with the memory 208. Further, processing circuitry 202 is communicably coupled with the at least one sensor 206. The at least one sensor 206 is configured to determine a current location of the searcher in the physical space as the searcher moves therewithin. In some embodiments, the at least one sensor 206 includes at least one of a position sensor, an accelerometer, a Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor, or a gyroscope.

[0055] Processing circuitry 202 is configured to receive a target signal 205 indicative of the location of the target. In some examples, processing circuitry 202 may include one or more devices, circuits, and / or processing cores configured to receive, store, and process the received target signal 205. Processing circuitry 202 may include, for example, one or more of a general-purpose processor (e.g., ARM-based processor), a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), a Programmable Logic Device (PLD), an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a fixed function circuitry, a programmable circuitry, any combination of fixed function circuitry, a programmable circuitry, an equivalent discrete logic circuitry or an integrated logic circuitry, and the like. Processing circuitry 202 may be local to the handheld device 200, in some embodiments, or may be remote from handheld device 200, such that the target signal 205 is received by the one or more processing circuitry, processed, and then a result is transmitted back to the handheld device 200. Processing circuitry 202 is intended to broadly cover both physical processing devices as well as cloud-computing solutions.

[0056] As such, whether configured by hardware or by a combination of hardware and software, processing circuitry 202 may represent an entity (e.g., physically embodied in circuitry) capable of performing operations according to some embodiments while configured accordingly. Thus, for example, when processing circuitry 202 is embodied as an executor of software instructions, the instructions may specifically configure processing circuitry 202 to perform the operations described herein. Alternatively, as another example, when processing circuitry 202 is embodied as the ASIC, FPGA, or the like, processing circuitry 202 may have specifically configured hardware for conducting the operations described herein.

[0057] In some embodiments, the memory 208 is configured to store information. The information may include the target signal 205, different signal strength values of the target signal 205, different time instances of measuring corresponding signal strength values, current location of the handheld device 200, and the like. In some embodiments, the memory 208 is further configured to store a floor plan or a site plan of the physical space. Processing circuitry 202 may retrieve data relating to parameters stored in the memory 208.

[0058] The memory 208 may include any form of memory for storing data and executable software instructions, such as random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable read only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), and flash memory. In some embodiments, the memory 208 and processing circuitry 202 may be integrated into a single hardware unit, such as a system on a chip (SoC) or integrated circuit (IC).

[0059] In some embodiments, device 200 further includes a user interface 214 for interaction with the searcher while identifying the target using device 200. The user interface 214 may include an input interface (not shown) configured to receive one or more user inputs, and an output interface (not shown) configured to display one or more outputs generated by device 200. In some embodiments, device 200 includes a speaker 216 for providing one or more outputs to the searcher in form of an audio as discussed hereinbelow. Both the user interface 214 and the speaker 216 may be included in an output module 215.

[0060] In some embodiments, device 200 includes a directional antenna 218. The directional antenna 218 is configured to receive the target signal 205. In other words, processing circuitry 202 is configured to receive the target signal 205 through the directional antenna 218.

[0061] Upon receiving the target signal 205, processing circuitry 202 is configured to determine a first signal strength value VI of the target signal 205 at a first time instance T1. Processing circuitry 202 is further configured to determine a second signal strength value V2 of the target signal 205 at a second time instance T2. The second time instance T2 is later than the first time instance T1.

[0062] In some embodiments, a time duration between the first time instance T1 and the second time instance T2 is at least about 1 second, at least about 10 seconds, at least about 30 seconds, at least about 1 minute, at least about 2 minutes, at least about 5 minutes, at least about 10 minutes, or at least about 30 minutes. In some embodiments, the time duration between the first time instance T1 and the second time instance T2 is less than about 1 second, less than about 5 seconds, less than about 10 seconds, less than about 20 seconds, less than about 30 seconds, less than about 1 minute, less than about 5 minutes, or less than about 10 minutes.

[0063] In some embodiments, processing circuitry 202 may be configured to determine a first location (not shown) at the first time instance T1 and a second location (not shown) at the second time instance T2. Accordingly, processing circuitry 202 may be configured to determine the first signal strength value V 1 of the target signal 205 at the first location, and the second signal strength value V2 of the target signal 205 at the second location within the physical space.

[0064] Processing circuitry 202 is further configured to compare the second signal strength value V2 to the first signal strength value VI. The comparison may indicate whether a searcher is getting closer to, or farther from, the target. A stronger second signal (i.e., the target signal 205 with a higher second signal strength value V2 as compared to the first signal strength value VI), for example, indicates that the searcher is closer to the target. A weaker second signal (i.e., the target signal 205 with a lower second signal strength value V2 as compared to the first signal strength value VI), for example, indicates that the searcher is farther from the target. A target signal of similar strength (i.e., the target signal 205 having the second signal strength value V2 that is same as the first signal strength value VI) may indicate that the user is circling the target without getting closer, or that the user has retraced their steps.

[0065] Processing circuitry 202 is further configured to determine that the second signal strength value V2 is not greater than the first signal strength value VI. In an example, processing circuitry 202 may determine that the second signal strength value V2 determined at the second location is not greater than the first signal strength value VI determined at the first location. Accordingly, processing circuitry 202 may determine that the second signal strength value V2 determined at the second location is less than or equal to the first signal strength value V 1 determined at the first location. This determination may indicate that the second location of the searcher is either at a same distance from the target as before if the second signal strength value V2 is equal to the first signal strength value VI, or is farther than the first location (i.e., away from the target) if the second signal strength value V2 is less than the first signal strength value V 1. In some embodiments, the first signal strength value VI, the first time instance Tl, the second signal strength value V2, and the second time instance T2 are stored in the memory 208.

[0066] Processing circuitry 202 is further configured to receive the current location of the searcher from the at least one sensor 206, e.g. a GPS or other location sensor. Processing circuitry 202 is configured to determine a center of the pattern of a first path. The center of the pattern of the first path is indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the handheld device 200.

[0067] However, while GPS is one optional technology for determining location of a device, it is expressly contemplated that other technology may be useful. GPS, for example, may not be reliable within a building, or may not have sufficient precision to be used. For example, sensor feedback indicating that a user is moving forward (e.g. an accelerometer and / or step counter) paired with the signal strength indication may be sufficient to determine that a user has moved from a first point, e.g. a location associated with VI, to a second point, e.g. a location associated with V2. Once sufficient datapoints are available, the system can determine that a user is circling the transmitter and provide a suggested path to follow.

[0068] Systems and methods herein may detect that a user, therefore, is circling a source of the transmission by detecting that the user has moved from a first point, to a second point, to a third point, etc. without getting closer to the transmitter. This may be done by detecting that the signal strength is substantially constant, or that the signal is weaker (e.g. the user has moved further away from the transmitter). Systems and methods herein are designed to detect when a user is circling a transmitter and provide direction for how to move closer to the target.

[0069] In some embodiments herein, the determined signal strength values (e.g. VI and / or V2) are associated with a GPS sensor, or using other available positioning information at a time that the signal is received, such that the signal strength values can be associated with a location. Based on the known location information of device 200 associated with each of the received signal strength values, a location of the target signal transmission may be determined. Additionally, a map of signal strength values may also be generated and updated.

[0070] Processing circuitry 202 is further configured to generate a location output based on the received location information from sensor 206 and the received signal strength value(s). The location output is indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the handheld device 200 in order to locate the target. After generating the first output, determining the first path, and generating the pattern of the first path, processing circuitry 202 is configured to generate the location output.

[0071] Processing circuitry 202 is further configured to generate outputs, such as a map based on received signal strength values and associated location data, based on the comparison for displaying using the user interface 214. The outputs may include representations or schematic of positions where the searcher has been, as determined based on recently received signal strength values. The outputs presented on the user interface 214 may then be periodically updated as new signal strength values are received and analyzed. Some example representations of various outputs, which are shown for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be understood as limiting the functionality of device 200, are illustrated in FIGS. 3-6.

[0072] In some embodiments, processing circuitry 202 may be configured to generate a first output based on the determination that the second signal strength value V2 is not greater than the first signal strength value V 1. The first output may indicate an initial movement and a first path of movement of the handheld device 200.

[0073] Processing circuitry 202 is further configured to generate a pattern of the first path and receive a current location of the handheld device 200 from the at least one sensor 206. Processing circuitry 202 may generate the pattern of the first path based on multiple locations of the handheld device 200. In some embodiments, processing circuitry 202 determines the movement of the device 200 through different locations. In doing so, processing circuitry 202 may determine, based on the locations of the device 200, that the searcher is making a repetitive movement between different locations in the physical space. Based on the repetitive movement of the searcher, processing circuitry 202 may generate the pattern that corresponds to the first path of the searcher. In some embodiments, the pattern may be an ellipsoid pattern, a triangular pattern, or a polygonal pattern.

[0074] In some embodiments, the user interface 214 may be a screen or a display of the device 200. In some embodiments, the device 200 may include a button 250 to activate and deactivate the user interface 214.

[0075] The device 200 further includes a communication component 204 (shown in FIG. 2). The communication component 204 may be communicably coupled with processing circuitry 202 and the output module 215. The communication component 204 is configured to receive the first output or the location output from processing circuitry 202. The communication component 204 is further configured to provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device 200 or the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device 200.

[0076] In some embodiments, the communication component 204 is configured to provide the first output and / or the location output in form of a communication signal indicative of a visual alert, an audio alert, an audio-visual alert, or a haptic alert. In some embodiments, the communication component 204 may be configured to generate an audio communication signal corresponding to the audio alert and provide the same to the speaker 216. Upon receiving the audio communication signal, the speaker 216 may be configured to generate a corresponding audio alert. In some embodiments, the audio alert produced by the speaker 216 increases in a frequency and / or an amplitude as the device points towards the target or the handheld device moves closer to the target.

[0077] In some embodiments, the communication component 204 may be connected to a remote server (not shown). The communication component 204 may send the first output and / or the location output to the remote server. The communication component 204 may be connected to the remote server using a wireless network (not shown). The network may be associated with transmission and / or reception of messages, packets, signals, and / or other forms of information between and / or within one or more network devices. In some examples, the network may include one or more wired and / or wireless networks operated in accordance with any communication standard that is or becomes known or practicable.

[0078] In some embodiments, the device 200 further includes a light source 212 (shown in FIG. 2) configured to illuminate the surroundings of the user in the physical space having low or no visibility. The light source 212 may include Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), Infrared (IR) light, and the like. In some embodiments, an intensity (e.g., a number of active LEDs) of light from the light source 212 may increase as the device 200 moves towards the target. It is to be noted that the light source 212 may have a specific number of lights turned ON at the time of locating the target. For example, while using a plurality of LEDs as the light source 212, a number of LEDs turned ON may be 3 or 4, and the number of LEDs that are turned ON increases to 5, 6, and the like as the searcher (and hence device 200) moves towards the target.

[0079] In some embodiments, device 200 further includes a power source 210. The power source 210 may be configured to provide a power to processing circuitry 202, the at least one sensor 206, the communication component 204, the user interface 214, the speaker 216, the memory 208, and the light source 212.

[0080] In some embodiments, processing circuitry 202 is configured to generate a plurality of instructions for locating and reaching the center of the pattern of the first path. Processing circuitry 202 is further configured to display the plurality of instructions on the user interface 214. The plurality of instructions may include a forwarding direction and movement for reaching the target. For instance, an exemplary plurality of instructions may include “Move forward 5 meters and turn left.”

[0081] For generating the plurality of instructions, processing circuitry 202 may be configured to retrieve the floor plan or the site plan of the physical space (e.g., the physical space 108 shown in FIG. 1) from the memory 208 and may further be configured to generate the instructions in association with the floor plan or the site plan. In some embodiments, a floor plan or site plan is retrieved from an external source, for example uploaded by a user, downloaded over a wireless network, accessed using a cloud network, etc.

[0082] In some embodiments, processing circuitry 202 may be configured to display the floor plan or the site plan on the user interface 214. The floor plan or the site plan may assist the searcher in determining a change in a structure of the physical space, such as, a higher or a lower elevation, a door or a wall, and the like. In some embodiments, the floor plan or the site plan may be displayed along with the location output. The floor plan or the site plan may be overlaid on the location output. Hence, the searcher may get an idea of the structure and geometrical parameters of the physical space. It is to be noted that the structure of the physical space may be different (such as damaged or broken, due to fire, building collapse, or mine collapse) in real time while the searcher is locating the target.

[0083] Therefore, the location output may readily guide the searcher to reach the target by following the direction and the distance indicated by the location output. Further, a time for the searcher to reach to the target may be reduced and the damage caused to the target (e.g., an injured person) may be addressed to more quickly. Furthermore, as the floor plan or the site plan may also be displayed on the user interface 214, the searcher may be more vigilant around some specific area of the physical space, such as, a door, a wall, a high or a low elevation, and the like. Hence, the handheld device 200 may provide a new real-time solution for locating and reaching the target. The searcher may readily follow the location output, even in a visually obscured environment having low or novisibility conditions.

[0084] FIGS. 3-6 illustrate some example user interfaces that may be presented to a user in accordance with embodiments herein. Specifically, FIG. 3 illustrates an example user interface displaying an exemplary first output that may be presented on a screen of a device, according to embodiments herein. The first output may indicate a first path followed by the handheld device in the physical space. FIG. 4 illustrates an example user interface displaying an exemplary location output that may be presented on a screen of a device, the location output being indicative of a direction and a distance of the device from the current location of the searcher to the target, according to embodiments herein. FIG. 5 illustrates an example user interface displaying an exemplary location output that may be presented on a screen of a device, according to embodiments herein. FIG. 6 illustrates an example user interface displaying an exemplary second output that may be presented on a screen of a device, according to embodiments herein.

[0085] FIG. 3 illustrates an example user interface 314 displaying an exemplary first output 320 that may be presented on a screen of a portable device 300, according to embodiments herein. The device 300 may be similar to device 200, discussed above with respect to FIG. 2. Portable device 300 may be a handheld device, for example, sized and configured to be held by a user, in some embodiments. Portable device 300 may be incorporated into a PPE or other device that includes a heads-up display, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, portable device 300 is configured to be worn, for example around a user’s wrist, forearm, shoulder, chest or neck. Device 300 further includes processing circuitry that may be similar to processing circuitry 202, discussed above with respect to FIG. 2.

[0086] As illustrated in FIG. 3, a first output 320 may illustrate an initial path 310 followed by the searcher, for example upon entering a building or a physical space 308. The first output 320 illustrates a location X0, a first location datapoint recorded. A target signal strength value may also have been received at location X0. For example, after reaching the location X0, due to low or no visibility in the obscured environment, the searcher may have moved to locations A0 and B0, different from the location X0, in an attempt to find a target 302.

[0087] Based on the known locations X0, A0, and B0, a first path 350 can be generated. In an example, a floor plan, a site plan, a map, or a structure of the physical space 308 may also be displayed using augmented reality on the heads-up display. The floor plan, site plan or map may be retrieved from a remote source using a wireless or cloud network, uploaded using a wired or wireless connect by a user, or may be retrieved from a local memory of device 300.

[0088] As the searcher moves between locations (e.g., locations A0, B0), device 300 moves with them, allowing for processing circuitry of device 300 to, based on signal strength values of received signals, generate the illustrated schematic representation of the first path 350.

[0089] The first path 350 may indicate that the portable device 300, and hence, the searcher is not moving towards their intended target 302, thereby indicating an incorrect approach followed by the searcher. However, while FIG. 3 illustrates the first path 350 that is arc or circular in shape, it is expressly contemplated that a generated path may differ in a shape from that illustrated, based on the movements of the searcher, for example a shape having angles such as a square, pentagon, hexagon, or higher level polygon, or an oval or other shape.

[0090] The shape of the first path 350 may be used to interpret whether the user is traveling closer to the target signal. For example, movement that passes back through previously recorded locations may further indicate that the searcher is moving in a repetitive loop.

[0091] Using the first output 320, a graphical user interface generator may generate a graphical user interface 314 for display on a screen or a display of device 300. In some embodiments, device 300 may include a user input / output (I / O) mechanism 330 to activate and deactivate the user interface 314. The user input / output mechanism 330 may include any suitable mechanism such as an actuatable button, switch, trackball or slider, as well as virtual representations of any of the above, for example accessible on a touchscreen of device 300.

[0092] FIG. 4 illustrates an example user interface 414 displaying an exemplary location output 430 that may be presented on a screen of a device 400 according to embodiments herein. The device 400 may be similar to device 200 and / or device 300, discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2-3. Device 400 further includes processing circuitry (not shown in FIG. 4).

[0093] The location output 430 illustrated in FIG. 4 may be generated based on movement of the searcher following an initial path 410 and passing through multiple locations XI, Al, and Bl within a physical space 408. It is to be noted that the locations X 1 , A 1 , and B 1 are different locations in the physical space 408.

[0094] Processing circuitry of the portable device 400 is configured to determine a first path 450 of the portable device 400 and generate a pattern 452 based on the first path 450. Processing circuitry is then configured to generate the location output 430 including the pattern 452 generated based on the multiple locations XI, Al, and B 1 of the searcher within the physical space 408. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, the pattern 452 of the first path 450 is a circular pattern. However, it is expressly contemplated that a pattern 452 may be generated and / or updated with any ovular or polygonal shape that fits the relative positions of the collected location data, e.g. locations of XI, Al, and Bl.

[0095] The portable device 400 may display a user interface 414 illustrating the pattern 452 of the first path 450 on a screen or display. The pattern 452 is generated based on a first output (e.g., the first output 320 shown in FIG. 3) and the first path 450 generated by processing circuitry of the portable device 400. Accordingly, processing circuitry of the portable device 400 is configured to generate the pattern 452 based on the movement of the portable device 400 through the multiple locations XI, Al, and Bl in the physical space 408. In the location output 430, the current location of the portable device 400 is assumed to be the location Al.

[0096] Processing circuitry of the portable device 400 is further configured to determine a center CO of the pattern 452 of the first path 450, e.g. a location of the target signal transmission. The processing circuitry is further configured to determine a direction DO and a distance SO from the center CO of the pattern 452 of the first path 450 relative to the current location of the portable device 400 in order to locate the target 402. In other words, the location output 430 is indicative of the direction DO and the distance SO of the center CO of the pattern 452 of the first path 450 relative to the current location of the searcher. It is to be noted that, in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, the portable device 400, and hence, the searcher is located at the location Al. The direction DO and the distance SO of the center CO of the pattern 452 of the first path 450 relative to the current location of the searcher may assist the searcher to locate and reach the target 402 easily and quickly. In some embodiments, a memory (not shown in FIG. 4) of the portable device 400 is configured to store the first path 450 of movement of the portable device 400. In some embodiments, processing circuitry of the portable device 400 is configured to retrieve information from the memory, such as historic location and signal strength information. For example, a memory may store a first signal strength value, associated with a first location, XI, captured at a first time instance, a second signal strength value, associated with a second location, Al, captured at a second time instance, etc. Such information can be used to generate, and periodically update, the first path 450 of movement of the portable device 400, and verify the current location of the portable device 400. Processing circuitry of the portable device 400 is further configured to generate, and periodically update, the pattern 452 of the first path 450 based on the retrieved information.

[0097] In some embodiments, processing circuitry of the portable device 400 is configured to determine the center CO of the pattern 452 of the first path 450 by applying Euclidean geometry, analytical geometry, machine learning techniques, or combination thereof on the pattern of the first path.

[0098] In some embodiments, the portable device 400 further includes a user input / output (I / O) mechanism 420 for activating and deactivating the user interface 414. The user input / output mechanism may include any suitable mechanism such as an actuatable button, switch, trackball or slider, as well as virtual representations of any of the above, for example accessible on a touchscreen of device 400.

[0099] In some embodiments, processing circuitry of the portable device 400 is configured to generate a plurality of instructions for locating and reaching the center CO of the pattern 452 of the first path 450. Processing circuitry of the portable device 400 is further configured to display a generated user interface 414, e.g. having location output 430 included therein, on a display or screen.

[0100] In some embodiments, a communication component (not shown in FIG. 4) of the portable device 400 is configured to send and receive data between device 400 and a remote data source (not shown in FIG. 4). The remote data source may include another device accessible over a wired or wireless network, or over a cloud-based network. In some embodiments, at least some of the processing functionality described herein is completed at a location remote from device 400, such as by a second device or by a cloud-based processing unit. A communication component may send and receive location information, e.g. Al, XI, Bl, and / or signal strength information (e.g. signal strength at each of Al, XI, and Bl), time stamp information associated with location and / or signal strength information, as well as generated information such as generated paths 450, patterns 452, calculated target locations (CO), and / or distances to target (e.g. SO).

[0101] In some embodiments, the communication component of the portable device 400 is configured to receive or provide an alert, e.g. a visual alert, an audio alert, an audio-visual alert, or a haptic alert to a second device. For example, a haptic alert signal may be communicated from device 400 to an SCBA unit in sufficient contact with user that a haptic signal would be detectable. A visual alert may be provided to a device having an actuatable light source, display, etc.

[0102] In some embodiments, the communication component may be configured to generate an audio communication signal corresponding to the audio alert and provide the same to a speaker associated with a second device. Upon receiving the audio communication signal, the speaker may be configured to generate a corresponding audio alert. In some embodiments, the audio alert produced by the speaker increases in a frequency and / or an amplitude as the portable device 400 points towards the target or the portable device 400 moves closer to the target.

[0103] It is also expressly contemplated that an alert may be provided using a visual / audio / haptic feedback component of device 400. For example, as described herein, a series of lights may be used to indicate how close or far away device 400 is from a target signal source.

[0104] In some embodiments, a communication component of the portable device 400 may send / receive the first output and / or the location output 430 to / from a remote server. The communication component may be connected to the remote server using a wireless network (not shown).

[0105] In some embodiments, the portable device 400 further includes a light source (not shown in FIG. 4) configured to illuminate the surroundings of a user in the physical space 408 having low or no visibility. In some embodiments, the portable device 400 further includes a power source. The power source may be configured to provide power to the processing circuitry, the at least one sensor, the communication component, the user interface 414, the speaker, the memory, and the light source.

[0106] FIG. 5 illustrates an example user interface 514 showing an exemplary location output 530. User interface 514 may be presented on a display or screen of a device 500, according to embodiments herein. The device 500 may be similar to the device 200, discussed above with respect to FIG. 2. The device 500 further includes processing circuitry (not shown in FIG. 5). Device 500 further may also include a communication component (not shown in FIG. 5) configured to send and receive data from a second device remote from device 500.

[0107] As illustrated in the location output 530, the searcher may follow an initial path 510 up to a location X2. After reaching the location X2, due to low or no visibility of the obscured environment, the searcher moves to multiple locations A2 and B2 in a physical space 508. Based on the detected movement of device 500, processing circuitry may generate a first path 550 of movement of the searcher. In some embodiments, a memory of the device 500 is configured to store the first path 550 of movement of the device 500.

[0108] As the searcher moves along the first path 550, device 500 also follows the first path 550. The first path 550 may indicate that device 500, and hence, the searcher is not moving towards a target 502 in the physical space 508 in the scenario illustrated in FIG. 5, thereby indicating an incorrect approach followed by the searcher. In some embodiments, the first path 550 may further indicate that the searcher is moving in a repetitive loop. Once processing circuitry of the device 500 determines the first path 550, processing circuitry is configured to generate a pattern 552 of the first path 550. Processing circuitry determines the movement of the device 500 through the locations X2, A2, and B2. Accordingly, processing circuitry determines a repetitive movement of the searcher, and hence, of the device 500 between the locations X2, A2, and B2 in the physical space 508. Based on the repetitive movement of the searcher, processing circuitry generates the pattern 552 of the first path 550 of the searcher within the physical space 508. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5, the pattern 552 of the first path 550 is a hexagonal pattern, however this is by example only. In some embodiments, the pattern may be an ellipsoid pattern, a triangular pattern, or a polygonal pattern.

[0109] The portable device 500 may display the pattern 552 of the first path 550 on the user interface 514. Accordingly, processing circuitry of the portable device 500 is configured to generate the pattern 552 based on collected location data during the movement of the portable device 500 through the locations X2, A2, and B2 in the physical space 508. Processing circuitry also collects signal strength values, for a signal generated from a target location 502, as device 500 moves through space 508. Based on the signal strength values and the known location data, processing circuitry is configured to determine a center Cl of the pattern 552 of the first path 550. The center Cl of the pattern 552 of the first path 550 is indicative of the location of the target 502 relative to the current location of the portable device 500. In the location output 530, the current location of the portable device 500 is assumed to be B2.

[0110] Processing circuitry of the portable device 500 is further configured to generate, based on collected location data and associated signal strength values, the location output 530 which is indicative of a direction DI and a distance SI of the center Cl of the pattern 552 of the first path 550 relative to the current location of the portable device 500 in order to locate the target 502. In other words, the location output 530 is indicative of the direction DI and the distance SI of the center Cl of the pattern 552 of the first path 550 relative to the current location of the searcher. It is to be noted that, in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5, the portable device 500, and hence, the searcher is located at the location B2, however the direction and distance data may be periodically updated as the device 500 moves through space 508. The direction DI and the distance SI of the center Cl of the pattern 552 of the first path 550 relative to the current location of the searcher may assist the searcher to locate and reach the target 502 easily and quickly.

[0111] In some embodiments, the portable device 500 further includes a user input / output (I / O) mechanism 520 for activating and deactivating the user interface 514. The user input / output mechanism may include any suitable mechanism such as an actuatable button, switch, trackball or slider, as well as virtual representations of any of the above, for example accessible on a touchscreen of device 500. FIG. 6 illustrates an example user interface 614 displaying an exemplary second output that may be presented on a display of a device 600, according to embodiments herein. Device 600 may be similar to the device 200, discussed above with respect to FIG. 2. The device 600 further includes processing circuitry (not shown in FIG. 6). Device 600 further includes a communication component (not shown in FIG. 6).

[0112] In some embodiments, processing circuitry of the device 600 is configured to determine that a second signal strength value of a target signal, for example generated by a device associated with a target 602 is greater than a first signal strength value of the target signal based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value. Processing circuitry is configured to generate a second output 640 based on the determination that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value.

[0113] The second output 640 is indicative of a second path 650 of movement of the portable device 600. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6, the searcher follows an initial path 610 up to a location X3 in a physical space 608. Upon reaching the location X3, the searcher follows the second path 650. The user interface 614 may be presented on a display, illustrating the second output 640 in which the searcher, and hence, the portable device 600 is shown as having moved from the location X3 towards a target 602. It is to be noted that the second output 640 is generated and displayed when the searcher, and hence the portable device 600, follows a correct approach. In other words, the searcher receives the second output 640 when the searcher, and hence the portable device 600, is moving towards the target 602. In some embodiments, the portable device 600 includes an input / output (I / O) mechanism 620 for activating and deactivating the user interface 614. The user input / output mechanism may include any suitable mechanism such as an actuatable button, switch, trackball or slider, as well as virtual representations of any of the above, for example accessible on a touchscreen of device 600.

[0114] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a flowchart of a method 700 for locating a target using a portable device or a handheld device, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0115] At block 702, the portable device receives at a first time, a target signal (e.g., the target signal 106 shown in FIG. 1) indicative of the location of the target. The target signal may be received using any suitable signal receiving technology.

[0116] At block 704, a first location of the portable device is determined. The location of the portable device may be determined at substantially the same time, or proximate the same time, that the target signal is received. The first location may be detected, in some embodiments, using a location sensor associated with the portable device. In some embodiments, a location signal is received from another source, for example a sensor associated with another device a user of the portable device is wearing. For example, an SCBA device may have a separate GPS or other location sensor. Global positioning systems (GPS) are described as one type of location sensor, however it is expressly contemplated that other location sensors, or location detecting systems, may be used, including, but not limited to, Wi-Fi positioning systems, cellular triangulation systems, beacon systems, etc.

[0117] At block 706, processing circuitry determines, based on the received signal, a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance. The first signal strength value is associated with the location of the portable device captured at the same, or near the same time.

[0118] At block 708, at a second time later than the first time, processing circuitry determines, based on the received signal, a second signal strength value of the target signal at a second time instance. The second time instance is later than the first time instance. In some embodiments, a time duration between the first time instance and the second time instance is at least about 1 second, at least about 10 seconds, at least about 30 seconds, at least about 1 minute, at least about 2 minutes, at least about 5 minutes, at least about 10 minutes, or at least about 30 minutes. In some embodiments, the time duration between the first time instance and the second time instance is less than about 1 second, less than about 5 seconds, less than about 10 seconds, less than about 20 seconds, less than about 30 seconds, less than about 1 minute, less than about 5 minutes, or less than about 10 minutes.

[0119] At block 710, a second location of the portable device is determined. The location of the portable device may be determined at substantially the same time, or proximate the same time, that the second target signal is received. The second location may be detected using the same, or a different, location sensor than that used to determine the first location. The second location may be a current location of the portable device.

[0120] At block 712, the processing circuitry compares the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value. The comparison is to determine whether the second signal strength value is larger than the first signal strength value (e.g. that a user is closer to the target signal at the second point in time than they were at the first), is smaller than the first signal (e.g. that a user is farther away from the target signal at the second point in time than they were at the first), or similar in value (e.g. that the user has not gotten closer or father away than they were before).

[0121] At block 714, the processing circuitry determines that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value.

[0122] At block 716, the processing circuitry generates a first output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value. The first output is indicative of a first path of movement of the portable device.

[0123] At block 718, the processing circuitry generates a pattern of the first path. In some embodiments, the method 700 further includes storing, by processing circuitry, in a memory, the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the portable device, and the current location of the portable device.

[0124] In some embodiments, the method 700 further includes retrieving, by processing circuitry, information from the memory. The information includes at least the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the portable device, and the current location of the portable device. The method 700 further includes generating, by processing circuitry, a pattern of the first path based on the retrieved information. In some embodiments, the pattern of the first path includes a circular pattern, an ellipsoid pattern, a triangular pattern, or a polygonal pattern.

[0125] At block 720, the processing circuitry determines a center of the pattern of the first path. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry determines the center of the pattern of the first path by applying Euclidean geometry, analytical geometry, machine learning techniques, or combination thereof on the pattern of the first path.

[0126] At block 722, the processing circuitry generates a location output indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the portable device in order to locate the target. In some embodiments, the method 700 further includes generating, using a graphical user interface generator, a user interface for display on a display or screen of the device. In some embodiments, the method 700 includes generating a plurality of instructions for locating and reaching the center of the pattern of the first path and displaying the plurality of instructions on the user interface.

[0127] Generating a graphical user interface for display on a screen or display of a device may also include retrieving known schematics of the space around the user interface and overlaying the generated path and path pattern over the known schematics.

[0128] The functionality illustrated in blocks 708-722 may be repeated periodically, for example producing updated maps and map patterns as a user moves throughout a space.

[0129] In some embodiments, the method 700 further includes providing, by a communication component, the first output and / or the location output in form of a communication signal indicative of a visual alert, an audio alert, an audio-visual alert, or a haptic alert.

[0130] In some embodiments, the method 700 further includes determining, by processing circuitry, that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value. The method 700 further includes generating, by processing circuitry, a second output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value. In some embodiments, the method 700 further includes displaying the second output on the user interface. FIG. 8 shows a block diagram of an example portable device 800 for locating a target according to other embodiments of the present disclosure. Device 800 includes a receiver 852 configured to receive a target signal 805 indicative of the location of the target.

[0131] Device 800 includes a signal strength detector 854 configured to detect a first signal strength value Va of the target signal 805 at a first time instance Ta and a second signal strength value Vb of the target signal 805 at a second time instance Tb. The second time instance Tb is later than the first time instance Ta.

[0132] Device 800 may also include a location sensor 802 configured to detect a current location of the device 800 when the target signal 805 is received at each of the first and second time instances Ta, Tb. However, while FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment where location sensor 802 is part of device 800, it is expressly contemplated that, instead, device 800 includes a location receiver 802 configured to receive an indication of a current location. The indication of the current location may be received, for example, from a different device that can provide a reliable indication of the location of the device 800. For example, a user of device 800 may be wearing an SCBA, other PPE, or other devices that include a GPS or other location-detecting module.

[0133] Device 800 further includes a signal strength comparator 855 configured to compare the second signal strength value Vb to the first signal strength value Va. The signal strength comparator

[0134] 855 is further configured to determine, based on the comparison, whether the second signal strength value Vb is not greater than the first signal strength value Va. Device 800 further includes at least one sensor 806 configured to detect a current location of device 800.

[0135] Device 800 further includes a path generator 853 configured to, based on location data for previous locations of device 800, generate a path indicative of where device 800 has recently traveled. The path may include time points from a limited history in some embodiments, for example the least 5, 10, 20, 50 or 100 received signals. The path may include all time points captured.

[0136] Device 800 also includes a pattern generator 856 configured to fit a pattern to the generated path. For example, the pattern may be circular, ovular, or polygonal in shape. The pattern generator

[0137] 856 is configured to generate a pattern (e.g., the pattern 452 shown in FIG. 4 and the pattern 552 shown in FIG. 5) of the first path of the handheld device 800. Pattern generator 856 may also determine a center (e.g., the center CO shown in FIG. 4 or the center Cl shown in FIG. 5) of the pattern of the first path. The center of the pattern of the first path is indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the handheld device 800.

[0138] Based on the generated pattern and the calculated center, pattern generator 856 may further generate a direction of travel from the location of device 800 toward a target location. Pattern generator 856 may also calculate a distance from the current location of device 800 to the center of the pattern, e.g. the target. Device 800 also includes a graphical user interface generator 858, configured to generate a user interface that includes first output and location output. For example, a user interface may present a first generated path of movement of device 800.

[0139] The graphical user interface generator 858 may also use known information about a physical space around device 800 in generating a user interface. For example, a floor plan or the site plan may assist the searcher in determining a change in a structure of a physical space, such as, a higher or a lower elevation, a door or a wall, and the like. In some embodiments, the floor plan or the site plan may be displayed along with the location output. In such embodiments, the floor plan or the site plan may be overlaid on the location output. Hence, the searcher may get an idea of the structure of the physical space. It is to be noted that the structure of the physical space may be different (such as damaged or broken, due to fire, or building collapse, or mine collapse) when the searcher is locating the target. Graphical user interface generator 858 may overlay path and / or pattern of path information over floor or site plan information.

[0140] Device 800 includes a memory 808. In some embodiments, the memory 808 is configured to store information as well as executable code that, when executed, causes processing circuitry to implement the functionality described herein with respect to FIGS. 1-8. Memory 808 may also include historic target signals 805, historic signal strength values, along with associated location data of device 800. Memory 808 may also store historic generated paths and / or patterns of paths for device 800.

[0141] In some embodiments, the pattern generator 856 is configured to retrieve historic location data information from the memory 808. The pattern generator 856 is further configured to generate the pattern of a given path based on the retrieved information.

[0142] In some embodiments, device 800 further includes a communication component 804 configured to send / receive data. For example, signal strength data, location data, generated paths and / or patterns of paths may be communicated from device 800 to a second device.

[0143] In some embodiments, the user interface 814 may be presented on a screen or a display of device 800. In some embodiments, device 800 may include a button 850 to activate and deactivate the user interface 814.

[0144] In some embodiments, device 800 further includes a speaker 816, a light source 812, and / or a power source 810. For instance, the speaker 816 of device 800 may be configured to receive a corresponding communication signal and generate the audio alert. Both the user interface 814 and the speaker 816 may be included in an output module 815.

[0145] The light source 812 may be configured to illuminate the surrounding in the physical space. The power source 810 may be configured to provide power to the communication component 804, the at least one sensor 806, the light source 812, the user interface 814, the speaker 816, the receiver 852, the signal strength detector 854, the signal strength comparator 855, the pattern generator 856, and the graphical user interface (GUI) generator 858.

[0146] It is to be noted that the receiver 852, the signal strength detector 854, the signal strength comparator 855, the pattern generator 856, the graphical user interface (GUI) generator 858, the user interface 814, the light source 812, the speaker 816, the at least one sensor 806, the power source 810, the memory 808, and the communication component 804 may be internally connected with each other using a bus (not shown) and may send and / or receive data therebetween.

[0147] In some embodiments, the signal strength comparator 855 is further configured to determine that the second signal strength value Vb is greater than the first signal strength value Va based on the comparison of the second signal strength value Vb to the first signal strength value Va. In such embodiments, the GUI generator 858 is configured to generate a second output based on the determination that the second signal strength value Vb is greater than the first signal strength value Va. The second output is indicative of a second path of movement of the handheld device 800. The communication component 804 is further configured to receive the second output from the GUI generator 858 and provide the second output indicative of a second path of movement of the handheld device 800.

[0148] Referring to FIGS. 1-8, the devices 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 800, the system 100, and the method 700 may guide a searcher in a visually obscured area having low or no visibility. Such devices display the first output (e.g., first output 320 as shown in FIG. 3) on a screen or a display. Hence, the searcher may understand their own repetitive movement within the physical space. Further, such devices display the location output (e.g., the location output 430, 530 as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, respectively) on a screen or a display. Hence, the searcher may readily receive a path to be followed to reach the target. Accordingly, a significant amount of time may be saved while locating the target, which is very crucial when the target is a downed fireman or an injured person that is to be rescued.

[0149] FIG. 9 is a block diagram providing an operating perspective of map generation system 906 when hosted as a cloud-based platform. In the example of FIG. 9, the components of the map generation system are arranged according to multiple logical layers that implement the techniques of the disclosure. Each layer may be implemented by one or more modules and may include hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0150] In some example approaches, computing devices 932, display 912, input devices 934, and / or other devices 915 operate as clients 930 that communicate with map generation system 906 via interface layer 936. Computing devices 932 typically execute client software applications, such as desktop applications, mobile applications, and / or web applications. Computing devices 932 may represent any of the computing devices described herein, either built into devices described herein or freestanding. Examples of computing devices 932 may include, but are not limited to, a portable or mobile computing device (e.g., smartphone, wearable computing device, tablet), laptop computers, desktop computers, smart television platforms, and / or servers.

[0151] In some example approaches, computing devices 932, display 912, sensors (e.g., cameras, scanners, barcode or other) 922, input devices 934 and / or image capture devices 915 may communicate with map generation system 906 to send and receive information important to a user of devices described herein. Client applications executing on computing devices 932 may communicate with system 906 to send and receive information that is retrieved, stored, generated, and / or otherwise processed by functionalities 940. In some examples, client applications may request and display information received or generated by system 906, such as captured thermal images with or without overlays or annotations. In addition, the client applications may interact with system 906 to query for analytics information about objects detected and / or identified. The client applications may output for display information received from system 906 to visualize such information for users of clients 930. Additionally, as described herein, system 906 may provide interactive experience for users using client applications.

[0152] Client applications executing on computing devices 932 may be implemented for different platforms but include similar or the same functionality. For instance, a client application may be a desktop application compiled to run on a desktop operating system, such as Microsoft Windows, Apple OS X, or Linux, to name only a few examples. As another example, a client application may be a mobile application compiled to run on a mobile operating system, such as Google Android, Apple iOS, Microsoft Windows Mobile, or BlackBerry OS to name only a few examples. As another example, a client application may be a web application such as a web browser that displays web pages received from system 906. In the example of a web application, system 906 may receive requests from the web application (e.g., the web browser), process the requests, and send one or more responses back to the web application. In this way, the collection of web pages, the client-side processing web application, and the server-side processing performed by system 906 collectively provides the functionality described herein.

[0153] In some examples, interface layer 936 may provide Representational State Transfer (RESTful) interfaces that use HTTP methods to interact with services and manipulate resources of systems 906. In such examples, functionalities 940 may generate JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) messages that interface layer 936 sends back to the client application that submitted the initial request. In some examples, interface layer 936 provides web services using Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP) to process requests from client applications. In still other examples, interface layer 936 may use Remote Procedure Calls (RPC) to process requests from clients 930. Upon receiving a request from a client application to use one or more functionalities 940, interface layer 936 sends the information to application layer 938, which includes functionalities 940. As shown in FIG. 9, system 906 also includes an application layer 938 that represents a collection of services for implementing much of the underlying operations of system 906. Application layer 938 receives information included in requests received from client applications that are forwarded by interface layer 936 and processes the information received according to one or more of functionalities 940 invoked by the requests. Application layer 938 may be implemented as one or more discrete software services executing on one or more application servers, e.g., physical or virtual machines. That is, the application servers provide runtime environments for execution of functionalities 940. In some examples, the functionality of interface layer 936 as described above and the functionality of application layer 938 may be implemented at the same server.

[0154] Application layer 938 may include one or more separate software functionalities 940 (e.g., processes) that may communicate via, for example, a logical service bus 944. Service bus 944 generally represents a logical interconnection or set of interfaces that allows different services to send messages to other services, such as by a publish / subscription communication model. For example, each of functionalities 940 may subscribe to specific types of messages based on criteria set for the respective service. When a service publishes a message of a particular type on service bus 944, other services that subscribe to messages of that type will receive the message. In this way, each of functionalities 940 may communicate information to one another. As another example, functionalities 940 may communicate in point-to-point fashion using sockets or other communication mechanism. Before describing the functionality of each of functionalities 940, the layers are briefly described herein.

[0155] Data layer 946 of system 906 includes one or more datastores 948. A datastore, generally, may be any data structure or software that stores and / or manages data; a datastore may store data in structured or unstructured form. For example, a datastore may be a remote datastore hosted by one or more remote compute servers coupled to the controller by a packet-switched network. As another example, the datastore may be locally cached within a computer-readable medium of the computing device. Example datastores include but are not limited to one or more of database management systems, online analytical processing database, map, table, hash tables, or any other suitable structure for storing data. In one example approach, data layer 946 of system 906 includes datastores 948 used to provide persistence for information in system 906. Data layer 946 may be implemented, for instance, using Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) software to manage information in datastores 948. The RDBMS software may manage one or more datastores 948, which may be accessed using Structured Query Language (SQL). Information in the one or more databases may be stored, retrieved, and modified using the RDBMS software. In some examples, data layer 946 may be implemented using an Object Database Management System (ODBMS), Online Analytical Processing (OLAP) database, or any other suitable data management system. In the example of FIG. 9, each of services 940A-940I is implemented in a modular form within system 906. Although shown as separate modules for each service, in some examples the functionality of two or more services may be combined into a single module or component. Each of functionalities 940 may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of hardware and software. Moreover, functionalities 940 may be implemented as standalone devices, separate virtual machines or containers, processes, threads, or software instructions generally for execution on one or more computer processors or processing circuitry.

[0156] Although generally described herein as captured images, identified objects, object images and / or training data, or any other stored information described herein being stored in datastores 948, in some examples, datastores 948 may additionally or alternatively include data representing said data or any other stored information described herein. As one example, encoded lists, vectors, or the like representing a previously stored image may be stored in addition to, or as an alternative, the previously stored image itself. In some examples, such data representing user data, captured images, sensed sensor signals, or any other stored information described herein may be simpler to store, evaluate, organize, categorize, or the like in comparison to storage of the actual user data, image data, or the like.

[0157] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of map generation system architecture. The remote server architecture 1000 illustrates one embodiment of an implementation of a PPE fit test system 1010. As an example, remote server architecture 1000 can provide computation, software, data access, and storage services that do not require end-user knowledge of the physical location or configuration of the system that delivers the services. In various embodiments, remote servers can deliver the services over a wide area network, such as the internet, using appropriate protocols. For instance, remote servers can deliver applications over a wide area network and they can be accessed through a web browser or any other computing component. Software or components shown or described in FIGS. 1-10 as well as the corresponding data, can be stored on servers at a remote location. The computing resources in a remote server environment can be consolidated at a remote data center location or they can be dispersed. Remote server infrastructures can deliver services through shared data centers, even though they appear as a single point of access for the user. Thus, the components and functions described herein can be provided from a remote server at a remote location using a remote server architecture. Alternatively, they can be provided by a conventional server, installed on client devices directly, or in other ways.

[0158] In the example shown in FIG. 10, some items are similar to those shown in earlier figures. FIG. 10 specifically shows that system 1010 can be located at a remote server location 1002. Therefore, computing device 1020 accesses those systems through remote server location 1002. Operator 1050 can use computing device 1020 to access user interfaces 1022 as well. While a single operator 1050 is illustrated as connecting to system 1010, it is expressly contemplated that multiple operators may access system 1010, using either device 1020 or another suitable device.

[0159] FIG. 10 depicts a remote server architecture. FIG. 10 shows that it is contemplated that some elements of systems described herein are disposed at remote server location 1002 while others are not. By way of example, storage 1030, 1040 or 1060 or module selector 1070 can be disposed at a location separate from location 1002 and accessed through the remote server at location 1002. Regardless of where they are located, they can be accessed directly by computing device 1020, through a network (either a wide area network or a local area network), hosted at a remote site by a service, provided as a service, or accessed by a connection service that resides in a remote location. Also, the data can be stored in substantially any location and intermittently accessed by, or forwarded to, interested parties. For instance, physical carriers can be used instead of, or in addition to, electromagnetic wave carriers.

[0160] It will also be noted that the elements of systems described herein, or portions of them, can be disposed on a wide variety of different devices. Some of those devices include servers, desktop computers, laptop computers, imbedded computer, industrial controllers, tablet computers, or other mobile devices, such as palm top computers, cell phones, smart phones, multimedia players, personal digital assistants, etc.

[0161] FIGS. 11-12 show examples of mobile devices that can be used in the embodiments shown in previous Figures.

[0162] FIG. 11 is a simplified block diagram of one illustrative example of a handheld or mobile computing device that can be used as a user's or client's handheld device 1116 (e.g., as computing device 1020 in FIG. 10), in which the present system (or parts of it) can be deployed. For instance, a mobile device can be deployed in the operator compartment of computing device 1020 for use in generating, processing, or displaying the data. FIG. 12 is another example of a handheld or mobile device.

[0163] FIG. 11 provides a general block diagram of the components of a client device 1116 that can run some components shown and described herein. Client device 1116 interacts with them, or runs some and interacts with some. In the device 1116, a communications link 1113 is provided that allows the handheld device to communicate with other computing devices and under some embodiments provides a channel for receiving information automatically, such as by scanning. Examples of communications link 1113 include allowing communication though one or more communication protocols, such as wireless services used to provide cellular access to a network, as well as protocols that provide local wireless connections to networks.

[0164] In other examples, applications can be received on a removable Secure Digital (SD) card that is connected to an interface 1115. Interface 1115 and communication links 1113 communicate with a processor 1117 (which can also embody a processor) along a bus 1119 that is also connected to memory 1121 and input / output (I / O) components 1123, as well as clock 1125 and location system 1127.

[0165] I / O components 1123, in one embodiment, are provided to facilitate input and output operations and the device 1116 can include input components such as buttons, touch sensors, optical sensors, microphones, touch screens, proximity sensors, accelerometers, orientation sensors and output components such as a display device, a speaker, and or a printer port. Other I / O components 1123 can be used as well.

[0166] Clock 1125 illustratively comprises a real time clock component that outputs a time and date. It can also provide timing functions for processor 1117.

[0167] Illustratively, location system 1127 includes a component that outputs a current geographical location of device 1116. This can include, for instance, a global positioning system (GPS) receiver, a LORAN system, a dead reckoning system, a cellular triangulation system, or other positioning system. It can also include, for example, mapping software or navigation software that generates desired maps, navigation routes and other geographic functions.

[0168] Memory 1121 stores operating system 1129, network settings 1131, applications 1133, application configuration settings 1135, contact or phone book application 1143, client system 1124, data store 1137, communication drivers 1139, and communication configuration settings 1141. Memory 1121 can include all types of tangible volatile and non-volatile computer-readable memory devices. It can also include computer storage media (described below). Memory 1121 stores computer readable instructions that, when executed by processor 1117, cause the processor to perform computer-implemented steps or functions according to the instructions. Processor 1117 can be activated by other components to facilitate their functionality as well.

[0169] FIG. 12 shows that a device 1200 can be a smart phone 1271. Smart phone 1271 has a touch sensitive display 1273 that displays icons or tiles or other user input mechanisms 1275. Mechanisms 1275 can be used by a user to run applications, make calls, perform data transfer operations, etc. In general, smart phone 1271 is built on a mobile operating system and offers more advanced computing capability and connectivity than a feature phone.

[0170] Note that other forms of the devices 1271 are possible.

[0171] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a computing environment 1300 that can be used in embodiments shown in previous Figures.

[0172] FIG. 13 is one example of a computing environment 1300 in which elements of systems and methods described herein, or parts of them (for example), can be deployed. With reference to FIG. 13, an example system for implementing some embodiments includes a general -purpose computing device in the form of a computer 1310. Components of computer 1310 may include, but are not limited to, a processing unit 1320 (which can comprise a processor), a system memory 1330, and a system bus 1321 that couples various system components including the system memory 1330 to the processing unit 1320. The system bus 1321 may be any of several types of bus structures including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. Memory and programs described with respect to systems and methods described herein can be deployed in corresponding portions of FIG. 13.

[0173] Computer 1310 typically includes a variety of computer readable media. Computer readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by computer 1310 and includes both volatile / nonvolatile media and removable / non-removable media. By way of example, and not limitation, computer readable media may comprise computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media is different from, and does not include, a modulated data signal or carrier wave. It includes hardware storage media including both volatile / nonvolatile and removable / non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by computer 1310. Communication media may embody computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a transport mechanism and includes any information delivery media. The term “modulated data signal” means a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal.

[0174] The system memory 1330 includes computer storage media in the form of volatile and / or nonvolatile memory such as read only memory (ROM) 1331 and random access memory (RAM) 1332. A basic input / output system 1333 (BIOS) containing the basic routines that help to transfer information between elements within computer 1310, such as during start-up, is typically stored in ROM 1331. RAM 1332 typically contains data and / or program modules that are immediately accessible to and / or presently being operated on by processing unit 1320. By way of example, and not limitation, FIG. 13 illustrates operating system 1334, application programs 1335, other program modules 1336, and program data 1337.

[0175] The computer 1310 may also include other removable / non-removable and volatile / nonvolatile computer storage media. By way of example only, FIG. 13 illustrates a hard disk drive 1341 that reads from or writes to non-removable, nonvolatile magnetic media, nonvolatile magnetic disk, an optical disk drive 1355, and nonvolatile optical disk 1356. The hard disk drive 1341 is typically connected to the system bus 1321 through a non-removable memory interface such as interface 1340, and optical disk drive 1355 is typically connected to the system bus 1321 by a removable memory interface, such as interface 1350. Alternatively, or in addition, the functionality described herein can be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware logic components. For example, and without limitation, illustrative types of hardware logic components that can be used include Field-programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), Application-specific Integrated Circuits (e.g., ASICs), Application-specific Standard Products (e.g., ASSPs), System-on-a-chip systems (SOCs), Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs), etc.

[0176] The drives and their associated computer storage media discussed above and illustrated in FIG. 13, provide storage of computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules and other data for the computer 1310. In FIG. 13, for example, hard disk drive 1341 is illustrated as storing operating system 1344, application programs 1345, other program modules 1346, and program data 1347. Note that these components can either be the same as or different from operating system 1334, application programs 1335, other program modules 1336, and program data 1337.

[0177] A user may enter commands and information into the computer 1310 through input devices such as akeyboard 1362, a microphone 1363, and apointing device 1361, such as amouse, trackball or touch pad. Other input devices (not shown) may include a joystick, game pad, satellite receiver, scanner, or the like. These and other input devices are often connected to the processing unit 1320 through a user input interface 1360 that is coupled to the system bus, but may be connected by other interface and bus structures. A visual display 1391 or other type of display device is also connected to the system bus 1321 via an interface, such as a video interface 1390. In addition to the monitor, computers may also include other peripheral output devices such as speakers 1397 and printer 1396, which may be connected through an output peripheral interface 1395.

[0178] The computer 1310 is operated in a networked environment using logical connections, such as a Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN) to one or more remote computers, such as a remote computer 1380.

[0179] When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer 1310 is connected to the LAN 1371 through a network interface or adapter 1370. When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer 1310 typically includes a modem 1372 or other means for establishing communications over the WAN 1373, such as the Internet. In a networked environment, program modules may be stored in a remote memory storage device. FIG. 13 illustrates, for example, that remote application programs 1385 can reside on remote computer 1380.

[0180] A method for locating a target is presented. The method includes receiving, by a device, a target signal indicative of a location of a target. The method also includes determining, by processing circuitry, a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance. The method also includes determining, by the processing circuitry, a second signal strength value of the target signal at a second time instance, the second time instance being later than the first time instance. The method also includes comparing, by the processing circuitry, the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value. The method also includes determining, by the processing circuitry, that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value. The method also includes generating, by the processing circuitry, a first output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value, the first output being indicative of a first path of movement of the device. The method also includes generating, by the processing circuitry, a pattern of the first path; detecting, by at least one sensor, a current location of the device. The method also includes determining, by the processing circuitry, a center of the pattern of the first path, the center of the pattern of the first path being indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the device. The method also includes generating, by the processing circuitry, a location output, the location output being indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device in order to locate the target.

[0181] The method may be implemented such that it further comprises determining, by the processing circuitry, that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value; and generating, by the processing circuitry, a second output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value, the second output being indicative of a second path of movement of the device.

[0182] The method may be implemented such that it further comprises displaying the second output on a display or a screen of the device.

[0183] The method may be implemented such that it further comprises storing, by the processing circuitry, in a memory, the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device.

[0184] The method may be implemented such that generating the pattern of the first path comprises retrieving, by the processing circuitry, information from the memory, the information comprising at least the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device. The method may also includes generating, by the processing circuitry, the pattern of the first path based on the retrieved information.

[0185] The method may be implemented such that the pattern of the first path comprises a circular pattern, an ellipsoid pattern, a triangular pattern, or a polygonal pattern.

[0186] The method may be implemented such that determining the center of the pattern of the first path comprises applying Euclidean geometry, analytical geometry, machine learning techniques, or a combination thereof on the pattern of the first path. The method may be implemented such that it further includes providing, by a communication component, the first output and / or the location output in the form of a communication signal indicative of a visual alert, an audio alert, an audio-visual alert, or a haptic alert.

[0187] The method may be implemented such that it further includes displaying the location output on a display or a screen of the device.

[0188] The method may be implemented such that it further includes generating a plurality of instructions for locating and reaching the center of the pattern of the first path and displaying the plurality of instructions on the display or the screen of the device.

[0189] The method may be implemented such that a time duration between the first time instance and the second time instance is at least about 1 second, at least about 10 seconds, at least about 30 seconds, at least about 1 minute, at least about 2 minutes, at least about 5 minutes, at least about 10 minutes, or at least about 30 minutes.

[0190] The method may be implemented such that a time duration between the first time instance and the second time instance is less than about 1 second, less than about 5 seconds, less than about 10 seconds, less than about 20 seconds, less than about 30 seconds, less than about 1 minute, less than about 5 minutes, or less than about 10 minutes.

[0191] The method may be implemented such that the device is a handheld device.

[0192] A device for locating a target is presented. The device includes processing circuitry, at least one sensor, and a communication component. The processing circuitry is configured to receive a target signal indicative of a location of a target; determine a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance; determine a second signal strength value of the target signal at a second time instance, the second time instance being later than the first time instance; compare the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value; determine that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value; generate a first output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value, the first output being indicative of a first path of movement of the device; generate a pattern of the first path; receive a current location of the device from the at least one sensor; determine a center of the pattern of the first path, the center of the pattern of the first path being indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the device; and generate a location output, the location output being indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device in order to locate the target. The communication component is configured to receive the first output or the location output from the processing circuitry; and provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device or the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

[0193] The device may be implemented such that the communication component is further configured to receive the first output and the location output from the processing circuitry; and provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device and the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

[0194] The device may be implemented such that the processing circuitry is further configured to determine that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value; and generate a second output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value, the second output being indicative of a second path of movement of the device.

[0195] The device may be implemented such that it includes a memory configured to store the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device.

[0196] The device may be implemented such that the processing circuitry is configured to retrieve information from the memory, the information comprising at least the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device; and generate the pattern of the first path based on the retrieved information.

[0197] The device may be implemented such that the pattern of the first path comprises a circular pattern, an ellipsoid pattern, a triangular pattern, or a polygonal pattern.

[0198] The device may be implemented such that the processing circuitry is further configured to determine the center of the pattern of the first path by applying Euclidean geometry, analytical geometry, machine learning techniques, or a combination thereof on the pattern of the first path.

[0199] The device may be implemented such that the communication component is configured to provide the first output and / or the location output in the form of a communication signal indicative of a visual alert, an audio alert, an audio-visual alert, or a haptic alert.

[0200] The device may be implemented such that it further comprises a speaker, wherein the audio alert produced by the speaker increases in frequency and / or amplitude as the device is pointing towards the target.

[0201] The device may be implemented such that it further comprises a display or a screen configured to display the location output. The device may be implemented such that the processing circuitry is configured to generate a plurality of instructions for locating and reaching the center of the pattern of the first path; and display the plurality of instructions on the display or the screen.

[0202] The device may be implemented such that a time duration between the first time instance and the second time instance is at least about 1 second, at least about 10 seconds, at least about 30 seconds, at least about 1 minute, at least about 2 minutes, at least about 5 minutes, at least about 10 minutes, or at least about 30 minutes.

[0203] The device may be implemented such that a time duration between the first time instance and the second time instance is less than about 1 second, less than about 5 seconds, less than about 10 seconds, less than about 20 seconds, less than about 30 seconds, less than about 1 minute, less than about 5 minutes, or less than about 10 minutes.

[0204] The device may be implemented such that the at least one sensor comprises at least one of a position sensor, an accelerometer, a Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor, or a gyroscope.

[0205] The device may be implemented such that it further comprises a light source.

[0206] The device may be implemented such that it further comprises a directional antenna configured to receive the target signal, wherein the target signal comprises radio waves.

[0207] The device may be implemented such that it is a handheld device.

[0208] A system for locating a target comprises a transmitter associated with the target and configured to transmit a target signal, and the device as described.

[0209] A device for locating a target is presented that includes a receiver configured to receive a target signal indicative of a location of a target, a signal strength detector configured to detect a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance and a second signal strength value of the target signal at a second time instance, the second time instance being later than the first time instance. The device also includes a signal strength comparator configured to compare the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value and determine, based on the comparison, that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value. The device also includes at least one sensor configured to detect a current location of the device. The device also includes a pattern generator configured to, based on the comparison, generate a pattern of a first path of the device, and determine a center of the pattern of the first path, the center of the pattern of the first path being indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the device. The device also includes a graphical user interface (GUI) generator configured to generate, based on the comparison, a first output, the first output being indicative of the first path of movement of the device, and a location output, the location output being indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device in order to locate the target. The device also includes a communication component configured to receive the first output or the location output from the GUI generator, and provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device or the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

[0210] The device may be implemented such that it further includes a memory configured to store the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device.

[0211] The device may be implemented such that the pattern generator is configured to retrieve information from the memory, the information comprising the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device; and generate the pattern of the first path based on the retrieved information.

[0212] The device may be implemented such that the communication component is further configured to receive the first output and the location output from the GUI generator; and provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device and the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

[0213] The device may be implemented such that the signal strength comparator is further configured to determine that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value; the GUI generator is configured to generate a second output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value, the second output being indicative of a second path of movement of the device; and the communication component is further configured to receive the second output from the GUI generator and provide the second output indicative of the second path of movement of the device.

[0214] The device may be implemented such that it is a handheld device.

[0215] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the specific exemplary embodiments, elements, structures, features, details, arrangements, configurations, etc., that are disclosed herein can be modified and / or combined in numerous ways. In summary, numerous variations and combinations are contemplated as being within the bounds of the conceived invention, not merely those representative designs that were chosen to serve as exemplary illustrations. Thus, the scope of the present invention should not be limited to the specific illustrative structures described herein, but rather extends at least to the structures described by the language of the claims, and the equivalents of those structures. Any of the elements that are positively recited in this specification as alternatives may be explicitly included in the claims or excluded from the claims, in any combination as desired. Any of the elements or combinations of elements that are recited in this specification in open-ended language (e.g., comprise and derivatives thereof), are considered to additionally be recited in closed- ended language (e.g., consist and derivatives thereof) and in partially closed-ended language (e.g., consist essentially, and derivatives thereof). Although various theories and possible mechanisms may have been discussed herein, in no event should such discussions serve to limit the claimable subject matter. To the extent that there is any conflict or discrepancy between this specification as written and the disclosure in any document that is incorporated by reference herein but to which no priority is claimed, this specification as written will control. In the present detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. The illustrated embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive of all embodiments according to the invention. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0216] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing feature sizes, amounts, and physical properties used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the foregoing specification and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by those skilled in the art utilizing the teachings disclosed herein.

[0217] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” encompass embodiments having plural referents, unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and / or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0218] Spatially related terms, including but not limited to, “proximate,” “distal,” “lower,” “upper,” “beneath,” “below,” “above,” and “on top,” if used herein, are utilized for ease of description to describe spatial relationships of an element(s) to another. Such spatially related terms encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the particular orientations depicted in the figures and described herein. For example, if an object depicted in the figures is turned over or flipped over, portions previously described as below or beneath other elements would then be above or on top of those other elements.

[0219] As used herein, when an element, component, or layer for example is described as forming a “coincident interface” with, or being “on,” “connected to,” “coupled with,” “stacked on” or “in contact with” another element, component, or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, directly coupled with, directly stacked on, in direct contact with, or intervening elements, components or layers may be on, connected, coupled or in contact with the particular element, component, or layer, for example. When an element, component, or layer for example is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” “directly coupled with,” or “directly in contact with” another element, there are no intervening elements, components, or layers for example.

[0220] Various examples have been described. These and other examples are within the scope of the following claims.

[0221] List of illustrative embodiments

[0222] Embodiment A.

[0223] A method for locating a target, the method comprising:

[0224] • receiving, by a device, a target signal indicative of a location of a target;

[0225] • determining, by a processing circuitry, a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance;

[0226] • determining, by the processing circuitry, a second signal strength value of the target signal at a second time instance, the second time instance being later than the first time instance;

[0227] • comparing, by the processing circuitry, the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value;

[0228] • determining, by the processing circuitry, that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value;

[0229] • generating, by the processing circuitry, a first output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value, the first output being indicative of a first path of movement of the device;

[0230] • generating, by the processing circuitry, a pattern of the first path;

[0231] • detecting, by at least one sensor, a current location of the device;

[0232] • determining, by the processing circuitry, a center of the pattern of the first path, the center of the pattern of the first path being indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the device; and

[0233] • generating, by the processing circuitry, a location output, the location output being indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device in order to locate the target.

[0234] Embodiment B.

[0235] The method of Embodiment A, further comprising:

[0236] • determining, by the processing circuitry, that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value; and

[0237] • generating, by the processing circuitry, a second output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value, the second output being indicative of a second path of movement of the device. Embodiment C.

[0238] The method of Embodiment B, further comprising displaying the second output on a display or a screen of the device.

[0239] Embodiment D.

[0240] The method of any of Embodiments A-C, and further comprising storing, by the processing circuitry, in a memory, the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device.

[0241] Embodiment E.

[0242] The method of Embodiment D, wherein generating the pattern of the first path comprises:

[0243] • retrieving, by the processing circuitry, information from the memory, the information comprising at least the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device; and

[0244] • generating, by the processing circuitry, the pattern of the first path based on the retrieved information.

[0245] Embodiment F.

[0246] The method of any of Embodiments A-E, wherein the pattern of the first path comprises a circular pattern, an ellipsoid pattern, a triangular pattern, or a polygonal pattern.

[0247] Embodiment G.

[0248] The method of any of Embodiments A-F, wherein determining the center of the pattern of the first path comprises applying Euclidean geometry, analytical geometry, machine learning techniques, or a combination thereof on the pattern of the first path.

[0249] Embodiment H.

[0250] The method of any of Embodiments A-G, and further comprising providing, by a communication component, the first output and / or the location output in the form of a communication signal indicative of a visual alert, an audio alert, an audio-visual alert, or a haptic alert.

[0251] Embodiment I.

[0252] The method of any of Embodiments A-H, and further comprising displaying the location output on a display or a screen of the device.

[0253] Embodiment J.

[0254] The method of Embodiment I, and further comprising generating a plurality of instructions for locating and reaching the center of the pattern of the first path and displaying the plurality of instructions on the display or the screen of the device.

[0255] Embodiment K.

[0256] The method of any of Embodiments A-J, wherein a time duration between the first time instance and the second time instance is at least about 1 second, at least about 10 seconds, at least about 30 seconds, at least about 1 minute, at least about 2 minutes, at least about 5 minutes, at least about 10 minutes, or at least about 30 minutes.

[0257] Embodiment L.

[0258] The method of any of Embodiments A-K, wherein a time duration between the first time instance and the second time instance is less than about 1 second, less than about 5 seconds, less than about 10 seconds, less than about 20 seconds, less than about 30 seconds, less than about 1 minute, less than about 5 minutes, or less than about 10 minutes.

[0259] Embodiment M.

[0260] The method of any of Embodiments A-L, wherein the device is a handheld device.

[0261] Embodiment N.

[0262] A device for locating a target, the device comprising a processing circuitry, at least one sensor, and a communication component; wherein the processing circuitry is configured to:

[0263] • receive a target signal indicative of a location of a target;

[0264] • determine a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance;

[0265] • determine a second signal strength value of the target signal at a second time instance, the second time instance being later than the first time instance;

[0266] • compare the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value;

[0267] • determine that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value;

[0268] • generate a first output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value, the first output being indicative of a first path of movement of the device;

[0269] • generate a pattern of the first path;

[0270] • receive a current location of the device from the at least one sensor;

[0271] • determine a center of the pattern of the first path, the center of the pattern of the first path being indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the device; and

[0272] • generate a location output, the location output being indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device in order to locate the target; and wherein the communication component is configured to:

[0273] • receive the first output or the location output from the processing circuitry; and

[0274] • provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device or the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device. Embodiment O.

[0275] The device of Embodiment N, wherein the communication component is further configured to:

[0276] • receive the first output and the location output from the processing circuitry; and

[0277] • provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device and the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

[0278] Embodiment P.

[0279] The device of any of Embodiments N-O, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to:

[0280] • determine that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value; and

[0281] • generate a second output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value, the second output being indicative of a second path of movement of the device.

[0282] Embodiment Q.

[0283] The device of any of Embodiments N-P, and further comprising a memory configured to store the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device.

[0284] Embodiment R.

[0285] The device of Embodiment Q, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to:

[0286] • retrieve information from the memory, the information comprising at least the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device; and

[0287] • generate the pattern of the first path based on the retrieved information.

[0288] Embodiment S.

[0289] The device of any of Embodiments N-R, wherein the pattern of the first path comprises a circular pattern, an ellipsoid pattern, a triangular pattern, or a polygon pattern.

[0290] Embodiment T.

[0291] The device of any of Embodiments N-S, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to determine the center of the pattern of the first path by applying Euclidean geometry, analytical geometry, machine learning techniques, or a combination thereof on the pattern of the first path.

[0292] Embodiment U.

[0293] The device of any of Embodiments N-T, wherein the communication component is configured to provide the first output and / or the location output in the form of a communication signal indicative of a visual alert, an audio alert, an audio-visual alert, or a haptic alert. Embodiment V.

[0294] The device of Embodiment U, and further comprising a speaker, wherein the audio alert produced by the speaker increases in frequency and / or amplitude as the device is pointing towards the target.

[0295] Embodiment W.

[0296] The device of any of Embodiments U-V, and further comprising a display or a screen configured to display the location output.

[0297] Embodiment X.

[0298] The device of Embodiment W, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to:

[0299] • generate a plurality of instructions for locating and reaching the center of the pattern of the first path; and

[0300] • display the plurality of instructions on the display or the screen.

[0301] Embodiment Y.

[0302] The device of any of Embodiments N-X, wherein a time duration between the first time instance and the second time instance is at least about 1 second, at least about 10 seconds, at least about 30 seconds, at least about 1 minute, at least about 2 minutes, at least about 5 minutes, at least about 10 minutes, or at least about 30 minutes.

[0303] Embodiment Z.

[0304] The device of any of Embodiments N-Y, wherein a time duration between the first time instance and the second time instance is less than about 1 second, less than about 5 seconds, less than about 10 seconds, less than about 20 seconds, less than about 30 seconds, less than about 1 minute, less than about 5 minutes, or less than about 10 minutes.

[0305] Embodiment AA.

[0306] The device of any of Embodiments N-Z, wherein the at least one sensor comprises at least one of a position sensor, an accelerometer, a Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor, or a gyroscope.

[0307] Embodiment AB.

[0308] The device of any of Embodiments N-AA, and further comprising a light source.

[0309] Embodiment AC.

[0310] The device of any of Embodiments N-AB, and further comprising a directional antenna configured to receive the target signal, wherein the target signal comprises radio waves.

[0311] Embodiment AD.

[0312] The device of any of Embodiments N-AC, wherein the device is a handheld device.

[0313] Embodiment AE.

[0314] A system for locating a target, the system comprising:

[0315] • a transmitter associated with the target and configured to transmit a target signal; and

[0316] • the device of any of Embodiments N-AD. Embodiment AF.

[0317] A device for locating a target, the device comprising:

[0318] • a receiver configured to receive a target signal indicative of a location of a target;

[0319] • a signal strength detector configured to detect a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance and a second signal strength value of the target signal at a second time instance, the second time instance being later than the first time instance;

[0320] • a signal strength comparator configured to compare the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value and determine, based on the comparison, that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value;

[0321] • at least one sensor configured to detect a current location of the device;

[0322] • a pattern generator configured to, based on the comparison:

[0323] - generate a pattern of a first path of the device; and

[0324] - determine a center of the pattern of the first path, the center of the pattern of the first path being indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the device;

[0325] • a graphical user interface (GUI) generator configured to generate, based on the comparison:

[0326] - a first output, the first output being indicative of the first path of movement of the device; and

[0327] - a location output, the location output being indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device in order to locate the target; and

[0328] • a communication component configured to:

[0329] - receive the first output or the location output from the GUI generator; and

[0330] - provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device or the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

[0331] Embodiment AG.

[0332] The device of Embodiment AF, and further comprising a memory configured to store the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device.

[0333] Embodiment AH.

[0334] The device of Embodiment AG, wherein the pattern generator is configured to:

[0335] • retrieve information from the memory, the information comprising the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device; and

[0336] • generate the pattern of the first path based on the retrieved information. Embodiment Al.

[0337] The device of any of Embodiments AF-AH, wherein the communication component is further configured to:

[0338] • receive the first output and the location output from the GUI generator; and

[0339] • provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device and the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

[0340] Embodiment AJ.

[0341] The device of any of Embodiments AF-AI, wherein:

[0342] • the signal strength comparator is further configured to determine that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value;

[0343] • the GUI generator is configured to generate a second output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value, the second output being indicative of a second path of movement of the device; and

[0344] • the communication component is further configured to receive the second output from the GUI generator and provide the second output indicative of the second path of movement of the device.

[0345] Embodiment AK.

[0346] The device of any of Embodiments AF-AJ, wherein the device is a handheld device.

Claims

Claims1. A method for locating a target, the method comprising: receiving, by a device, a target signal indicative of a location of a target; determining, by a processing circuitry, a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance; determining, by the processing circuitry, a second signal strength value of the target signal at a second time instance, the second time instance being later than the first time instance; comparing, by the processing circuitry, the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value; determining, by the processing circuitry, that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value; generating, by the processing circuitry, a first output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value, the first output being indicative of a first path of movement of the device; generating, by the processing circuitry, a pattern of the first path; detecting, by at least one sensor, a current location of the device; determining, by the processing circuitry, a center of the pattern of the first path, the center of the pattern of the first path being indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the device; and generating, by the processing circuitry, a location output, the location output being indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device in order to locate the target.

2. The method of claim 1, and further comprising: determining, by the processing circuitry, that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value; and generating, by the processing circuitry, a second output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value, the second output being indicative of a second path of movement of the device.

3. The method of any of claims 1-2, and further comprising storing, by the processing circuitry, in a memory, the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strengthvalue, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein generating the pattern of the first path comprises: retrieving, by the processing circuitry, information from the memory, the information comprising at least the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device; and generating, by the processing circuitry, the pattern of the first path based on the retrieved information.

5. The method of any of claims 1-4, wherein the pattern of the first path comprises a circular pattern, an ellipsoid pattern, a triangular pattern, or a polygonal pattern.

6. The method of any of claims 1-5, wherein determining the center of the pattern of the first path comprises applying Euclidean geometry, analytical geometry, machine learning techniques, or combination thereof on the pattern of the first path.

7. The method of any of claims 1-6, and further comprising: displaying the location output on a display or a screen of the device; generating a plurality of instructions for locating and reaching the center of the pattern of the first path and displaying the plurality of instructions on the display or the screen of the device.

8. The method of any of claims 1-7, wherein a time duration between the first time instance and the second time instance is at least about 1 second, at least about 10 seconds, at least about 30 seconds, at least about 1 minute, at least about 2 minutes, at least about 5 minutes, at least about 10 minutes, or at least about 30 minutes.

9. A device for locating a target, the device comprising a processing circuitry, at least one sensor, and a communication component; wherein the processing circuitry is configured to: receive a target signal indicative of a location of a target; determine a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance; determine a second signal strength value of the target signal at a second time instance, the second time instance being later than the first time instance; compare the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value;determine that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value; generate a first output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value, the first output being indicative of a first path of movement of the device; generate a pattern of the first path; receive a current location of the device from the at least one sensor; determine a center of the pattern of the first path, the center of the pattern of the first path being indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the device; and generate a location output, the location output being indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device in order to locate the target; and wherein the communication component is configured to: receive the first output or the location output from the processing circuitry; and provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device or the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

10. The device of claim 9, wherein the communication component is further configured to: receive the first output and the location output from the processing circuitry; and provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device and the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

11. The device of claim 9 or 10, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to: determine that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value; and generate a second output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value, the second output being indicative of a second path of movement of the device.

12. The device of any of claims 9-11, and further comprising a memory configured to store the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to: retrieve information from the memory, the information comprising at least the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device; and generate the pattern of the first path based on the retrieved information.

14. The device of any of claims 9-13, wherein the pattern of the first path comprises a circular pattern, an ellipsoid pattern, a triangular pattern, or a polygonal pattern.

15. A system for locating a target, the system comprising: a transmitter associated with the target and configured to transmit a target signal; and the device of any of claims 9-14.

16. A device for locating a target, the device comprising: a receiver configured to receive a target signal indicative of a location of a target; a signal strength detector configured to detect a first signal strength value of the target signal at a first time instance and a second signal strength value of the target signal at a second time instance, the second time instance being later than the first time instance; a signal strength comparator configured to compare the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value and determine, based on the comparison, that the second signal strength value is not greater than the first signal strength value; at least one sensor configured to detect a current location of the device; a pattern generator configured to, based on the comparison: generate a pattern of a first path of the device; and determine a center of the pattern of the first path, the center of the pattern of the first path being indicative of the location of the target relative to the current location of the device; a graphical user interface (GUI) generator configured to generate, based on the comparison:a first output, the first output being indicative of the first path of movement of the device; and a location output, the location output being indicative of a direction and a distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device in order to locate the target; and a communication component configured to: receive the first output or the location output from the GUI generator; and provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device or the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

17. The device of claim 16, and further comprising a memory configured to store the target signal, the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device.

18. The device of claim 17, wherein the pattern generator is configured to: retrieve information from the memory, the information comprising the first signal strength value, the second signal strength value, the first time instance, the second time instance, the first path of movement of the device, and the current location of the device; and generate the pattern of the first path based on the retrieved information.

19. The device of any of claims 16-18, wherein the communication component is further configured to: receive the first output and the location output from the GUI generator; and provide the first output indicative of the first path of movement of the device and the location output indicative of the direction and the distance of the center of the pattern of the first path relative to the current location of the device.

20. The device of any of claims 16-19, wherein: the signal strength comparator is further configured to determine that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value based on the comparison of the second signal strength value to the first signal strength value;the GUI generator is configured to generate a second output based on the determination that the second signal strength value is greater than the first signal strength value, the second output being indicative of a second path of movement of the device; and the communication component is further configured to receive the second output from the GUI generator and provide the second output indicative of the second path of movement of the device.

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