Configurable Bluetooth Tracking Device for Power-Constrained Location Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tracking systems for objects and individuals are not effective in locating small lost items within a room or house, nor are they compatible or cost-effective for individual use, as they require large sensors that drain batteries quickly and lack features like audible or visual alerts, pairing sensors with location, remote control, and network communication.
Innovation Solution
Development of configurable tracking devices with sensors and control mechanisms that can emit alerts, conserve power and space, and use Bluetooth low energy transmitters, ceramic antennas, and optional GPS, allowing for remote monitoring and control via a network, enabling users to share sensor data and locate items globally.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS systems and transceivers are used for tracking, then location accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device updates location information periodically rather than continuously, transmitting data at scheduled intervals. This reduces power consumption while maintaining acceptable location accuracy for monitoring purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes existing infrastructure (Wi-Fi networks, cellular towers) for location determination instead of relying solely on power-intensive GPS. The device can obtain location information passively when connected to networks, reducing active power consumption.
2Adaptability or versatility
If sensors and transmitters are attached to small objects or pets, then tracking capability is improved, but device size increases and becomes difficult to attach
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (tracking, sensing, communication, power management) into a single integrated device. This consolidation reduces the overall volume compared to attaching separate sensors and transmitters to the object.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking device is designed to serve multiple purposes: location tracking, environmental sensing, communication, and power management. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate devices, thereby reducing overall size while maintaining comprehensive tracking capability.
3Measurement precision
If large sensors with GPS are used, then location tracking is improved, but maintenance burden increases due to frequent battery recharging
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs periodic updates and low-power sleep modes, activating high-power components only when needed for data transmission. This extends battery life significantly, reducing the frequency of recharging and maintenance interventions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system leverages existing power infrastructure (wall outlets, vehicle power) for recharging when available, and automatically manages power consumption based on environmental conditions and usage patterns, reducing the need for user intervention.
4Loss of information
If RFID tags are used for tracking, then identification capability is improved, but functionality is limited to identity information only
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device incorporates multiple sensing capabilities (motion, temperature, humidity, light) and communication methods (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular) in addition to identification functions. This multi-functionality allows the device to provide comprehensive monitoring data beyond simple identity recognition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges RFID identification capabilities with environmental sensors, wireless communication transceivers, and power management circuits into a single integrated unit. This combination enables the device to perform identification while simultaneously collecting and transmitting diverse environmental and location data.
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 a comprehensive tracking system that efficiently locates and monitors items and individuals, conserves power, and offers flexible alert mechanisms, enabling seamless sharing of data and location information across networks, enhancing the 'Internet of Things' capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
A reader generates an electromagnetic field in the tag and that field powers a small transmitter in the tag that emits a signal with the identity of the tag
Implementation Method 2
The device includes a Bluetooth low energy transmitter
Data Source
AI summary
In a tracking device system, a networked smart device is enabled to cause execution of an executable function if a trigger condition of a conditional rule is satisfied. The conditional rules are customizable on a user interface of the smart device. The trigger condition may be any information received in a signal from a tracking device, for example, sensor data, location, a time, a date, a button press, a proximity, and more generally a trigger condition can be any condition that has a truth value by which an IF/THEN conditional rule can be evaluated and either is satisfied or is not. Executable functions for use in conditional rules may be selected from functions of a smart device, but also may include any function of a remote machine, network or system. Bluetooth radiotag devices may also include a cellular radio modem for global networking. Network systems may include software for tracking groups of radiotags and for autoprovisioning location and tracking services.