Emergency Call Station with Multi-Pathway Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
In areas where wireless networks are unreliable or unavailable, individuals may face difficulties in making emergency phone calls due to lack of access to telephonic or Internet-based services, which can be critical during emergencies.
Innovation Solution
A personal communication structure (PCS) system that includes a voice and video calling station with an E911 system, capable of placing emergency calls through wireless communications, wireline connections, or Internet connections, and equipped with sensors and an intelligent power system with battery backup, ensuring continuous service during outages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mobile computing devices and wireless networks are used for emergency calls, then convenience and functionality are improved, but reliability deteriorates in areas with poor network coverage or during network congestion
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides multiple communication pathways (wireless phone, wireline phone, VoIP) within a single emergency call station, allowing users to select the most reliable available connection method. This multi-functionality ensures that if one communication path fails, alternative paths remain available for emergency calls.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different communication modes (wireless, wireline, VoIP) based on network availability and conditions. By changing the communication parameter being used, the system maintains reliable emergency call service despite varying network conditions.
2Reliability
If conventional public telephone booths are used for emergency calls, then reliability is improved during power outages, but convenience and functionality deteriorate due to limited access and poor maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The emergency call station integrates multiple communication capabilities (wireless telephony, wireline telephony, VoIP, and public internet access) into a single unit, replacing the single-function conventional phone booth. This allows users to access emergency services through any available communication pathway without leaving the location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects available communication pathways and initiates appropriate emergency calls without requiring user intervention to select connection methods. The intelligent power system also automatically switches between power sources during outages, providing self-service operation.
3Ease of operation
If wireless networks are used for emergency calls, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates during network congestion or in areas with poor coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The system monitors network conditions and dynamically changes the communication parameter being used. When wireless networks are congested or unavailable, the system switches to wireline or VoIP parameters, maintaining reliable service while preserving ease of operation through automatic adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the status of wireless and wireline communication pathways and uses this feedback to automatically select the most reliable available connection for emergency calls, ensuring both ease of use and reliable service.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and method are described for making emergency phone calls using a personal communication structure (PCS). In one example, the PCS includes a telephone, an emergency call button, and a controller. When the emergency call button is pressed, the controller is configured to: (i) terminate an existing call being made on the telephone; (ii) place an emergency call using the telephone to a public safety answering point; and (iii) prevent the emergency call from being terminated at the PCS.