Electronic Device Search Relay Network
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for locating portable electronic devices are inefficient, especially when they are out of range of mobile networks or Bluetooth signals, requiring users to spend more time searching and potentially leading to loss or theft.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize collaborative searches among multiple electronic devices to expand the search range by broadcasting and modifying request packets according to wireless communication protocols, increasing the likelihood of the target device receiving the request and reducing search time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional Bluetooth searching method is used, then the user can find the target device within Bluetooth range, but the search range is limited and the user must move to multiple locations which increases search time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediary electronic devices (relay nodes) that receive and forward search request packets. When a user searches for a target device, other electronic devices in the network act as intermediaries to extend the search range beyond direct Bluetooth connectivity, thereby reducing the need for the user to physically move to multiple locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the search from a single-device, location-dependent process into a multi-device, network-wide process. By utilizing the spatial distribution of multiple electronic devices in the environment, the search operation extends from one-dimensional (user moving in space) to multi-dimensional (distributed network coverage), significantly expanding the effective search area.
2Reliability
If the target device is too far from the user, then the target device cannot respond to Bluetooth signals, but the user still needs to find the device quickly
Solution Approach 1:
Intermediary electronic devices relay search request packets to target devices that are beyond direct Bluetooth range. The relay mechanism ensures that search requests reach distant targets reliably, and response packets can be forwarded back to the user, maintaining high success rates even for far-away devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The search process is segmented into multiple hops through intermediate devices. Instead of requiring a single direct connection between user and target, the search packet journey is divided into segments passed through multiple electronic devices, enabling reliable communication over extended distances.
3Ease of operation
If mobile network calling method is used, then the user can locate the phone through sound or vibration, but the method fails when no mobile network is available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal search mechanism that works across different environments (with or without mobile network coverage) by utilizing the wireless communication capabilities of electronic devices themselves. The solution is multi-functional, providing device location services through peer-to-peer wireless communication independent of traditional mobile network infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
Electronic devices use their own wireless communication capabilities to perform the search function, rather than relying on external mobile network infrastructure. The devices self-organize into a search network, making the system adaptable to various environments including areas without mobile network coverage.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for searching an electronic device and an electronic device are provided. The method includes following steps. A request packet that is broadcasted by another electronic device according to a wireless communication protocol is received. It is determined whether the electronic device matches a target device indicated by the request packet according to target identification information in the request packet. If the electronic device does not match the target device indicated by the request packet, another request packet is generated and broadcasted according to the wireless communication protocol. If the electronic device matches the target device, indication for indicating location information of the electronic device is supplied.