Communication Device Proximity Information System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of communication devices often lack sufficient information about nearby or connected devices, such as location details, which can be crucial for decision-making, especially in personal contexts like tracking family members or friends.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine the location of a communication device and provide proximity information, including addresses, maps, or nearest device locations, which are then displayed on another connected device, utilizing GPS and triangulation techniques, along with database queries to gather and present relevant data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If basic device identification information is provided (Caller ID), then communication functionality is maintained, but insufficient location and proximity information is available to users
Solution Approach 1:
A server acts as an intermediary between communication devices and users. The server receives location information from devices via GPS or triangulation, processes this data, and provides proximity information to users during communications. This intermediary approach allows comprehensive location tracking without requiring each device to independently perform complex location calculations and data management.
Solution Approach 2:
Communication devices automatically determine their own location using built-in GPS receivers or triangulation with network infrastructure. Each device independently performs location determination and transmits this information to the server, eliminating the need for manual location input or centralized location management, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining information completeness.
2Loss of information
If detailed proximity information is provided to users, then user awareness and control over communication contexts is enhanced, but privacy concerns and data security requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements permission-based feedback mechanisms where users can control what location information is shared. The server requests permissions from users before accessing their location data and only provides proximity information when appropriate permissions are granted. This feedback loop ensures user awareness and control over their personal information while still enabling proximity features when desired.
3Measurement precision
If location determination using GPS and triangulation is implemented, then accurate proximity information is obtained, but energy consumption and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses partial action by selecting appropriate location determination methods based on availability and power constraints. GPS is used when high accuracy is needed and power is available, while triangulation using existing network infrastructure is used as a lower-power alternative. The server performs the computationally intensive triangulation calculations rather than requiring full processing capability on mobile devices, reducing device energy consumption while maintaining measurement precision.
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
Enables users to receive detailed proximity information about connected or nearby devices, enhancing user awareness and control over communication contexts, while respecting privacy settings and permissions.
Implementation Method 1
The geographic location of the wireless communications device may be determined by a GPS receiver in the wireless device
Implementation Method 2
The geographic location of the wireless communications device may be determined by a transceiver that triangulates using known geographic locations and signal strengths of multiple transceivers
Data Source
AI summary
A location and mapping application takes device information and produces location information for display on a communication-enabled computing device (e.g., a personal digital assistant or wireless phone). A current location of a wireless device may be provided with an announcement of an incoming call or message and may be in the form of a street address or a map. Location information for a wired (or fixed-location) device may be provided in the form of a map. Location information for nearby wireless and wired devices may also be provided. Location information may be updated for wireless devices that are moving.