Embedded BLE Beacon in Composite Fabric for Secure Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable tracking and locator systems for children and lost articles are prone to removal, tampering, and detection, and lack integration into clothing or accessories that is washable and aesthetically pleasing, while also failing to provide identifying information or authenticity verification.
Innovation Solution
A composite fabric structure with an embedded Bluetooth Low Energy information beacon that is semi-permanently integrated into clothing or accessories using adhesive or stitching, providing location tracking and identification information without being impaired by washing or environmental factors, and featuring a protective shell for durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a locator beacon is placed in a pocket or loosely integrated into clothing, then the beacon is easy to install and remove, but it can easily be removed, misplaced, fall out, or become separated from the child
Solution Approach 1:
The beacon is merged with the fabric structure by embedding it within layers of fabric and securing it with adhesive and stitching. This combines the beacon with the clothing article into an integrated unit that cannot be easily separated, resolving the contradiction between ease of installation and attachment reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The beacon is nested within multiple layers of fabric (first layer, second layer, third layer) creating a pocket-like structure that contains the beacon. This nesting approach allows the beacon to be securely embedded while maintaining the flexibility of the fabric structure.
2Ease of operation
If prior art sensors are visible on the exterior, then the beacon can be easily located and accessed, but it may alert an abductor to the presence of the beacon
Solution Approach 1:
The beacon is positioned in a specific location within the fabric structure (embedded between layers) rather than being visible on the exterior. This local placement provides accessibility through the fabric while concealing the beacon from external detection, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and security.
3Reliability
If bulky hardware is used for tracking, then the beacon provides reliable location tracking, but it is unsightly and non-washable, detracting from the appearance and functionality of the clothing
Solution Approach 1:
The beacon is enclosed in a thin, flexible fabric structure that conforms to the clothing article. This thin-film approach maintains tracking reliability while preserving the aesthetic appearance and washability of the clothing, resolving the contradiction between reliability and appearance.
4Reliability
If the beacon is integrated into the fabric using adhesive and stitching, then the beacon is semi-permanently embedded and resistant to removal, but the integration process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The beacon is prepared in advance by placing it within the fabric layers and securing it with adhesive before final stitching. This preliminary action sequence simplifies the overall integration process while ensuring secure embedding, resolving the contradiction between integration security and integration complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A composite fabric is disclosed in which an information beacon is embedded within the composite fabric to assist with loss prevention, anti-counterfeiting, locating lost individuals or the like. In embodiments, layers of fabric may be joined using adhesive, stitching, quilted stitching, riveting, or other means to securely house an information beacon. In embodiments of the invention, an information beacon may be encased in a housing that provides resistance to environmental factors such as moisture and temperature and allows the fabric to be washed in a conventional laundry cycle. In embodiment, Bluetooth Low Energy device that utilizes a smartphone and mobile application software to provide the location of the beacon. In alternate embodiments, RFID or other technology may be used. The composite fabric of the present invention has myriad uses and may be used to fabricate articles such as clothing, handbags, wallets, shoes, and so forth.