Bio-powered wearable locator for automatic tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing location tracking devices are not effectively utilized for individuals who cannot carry or reliably operate them, such as children, the elderly, and those with disabilities, as they require continuous power and manual operation, limiting their ability to track and monitor these individuals' locations and activities.
Innovation Solution
A locator assembly embedded in articles of wear, powered by bio-related electric generators, which recharge batteries and transmit location and motion data automatically when outside designated areas or upon request, using GPS and cellular technology, enabling continuous tracking without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional battery-powered tracking devices are used, then location tracking capability is achieved, but the devices require manual operation and continuous power supply which limits their use for individuals who cannot carry or operate them reliably
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device automatically activates and transmits location data without requiring manual operation by the wearer. The device self-activates when it detects the wearer has left a designated safe area, and automatically sends location information to caregivers, eliminating the need for the wearer to manually operate the device.
Solution Approach 2:
Safe areas and alert conditions are pre-configured in the device before use. The device is programmed with geographic boundaries and automatic activation parameters in advance, so that when the wearer leaves the safe area, the device is already prepared to automatically activate and transmit location data without requiring real-time manual intervention.
2Reliability
If continuous power supply is provided through traditional batteries, then location tracking can be maintained, but the devices are not suitable for individuals who cannot reliably carry or operate them
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs self-activation and automatic location transmission without requiring the wearer to carry, activate, or operate it. The wearable article itself contains the tracking device which automatically functions based on pre-set conditions, making it suitable for individuals who cannot reliably operate traditional tracking devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking device is integrated into the wearable article (such as clothing or accessories) rather than being a separate portable device. This merging eliminates the need for the wearer to separately carry or manage the tracking device, as it becomes part of the article they already wear.
3Productivity
If manual activation and operation are required, then device functionality is maintained, but the ability to track and monitor locations and activities is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically detects when the wearer leaves the safe area and initiates location transmission without manual activation. This self-service capability ensures continuous monitoring capability is maintained even when the wearer cannot or does not manually activate the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides automatic feedback to caregivers when the wearer leaves the designated safe area. The device continuously monitors location and automatically triggers location transmission and alerts when boundary conditions are met, enabling proactive monitoring without requiring manual checks or activation by the wearer.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides continuous, automatic location and motion tracking of individuals, ensuring their safety and allowing caregivers to monitor their activities and movements effectively, even when they cannot carry or operate traditional tracking devices.
Implementation Method 1
A bio-mechanical electric generator and at least one battery are embedded in the shoe
Implementation Method 2
The location sending device can incorporate GPS and cell technology
Implementation Method 3
The service operator provides cellular communications over a plurality of base stations (e.g. cell phone towers)
Data Source
AI summary
A locator assembly is provided. The locator assembly includes an article of wear and a location sending device embedded in the article of wear. A bio-related electric generator is connected to the location sending device for providing power for the location sending device. A system for locating a person and a locating method are also provided.