Emergency SMS Routing via Location-Based PSAP Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current mobile devices require users to manually identify and enter specific SMS numbers for PSAPs, which can be cumbersome and unsafe in emergency situations, especially when voice communication is undesirable or impossible.

Innovation Solution

A communication system that uses an accelerometer and software to detect device movement, convert gestures into text, and send messages via SMS or MMS, utilizing a universal short code like 'HelpMe' (435763) for emergency messaging, with automatic correction and translation capabilities, and a location-based routing mechanism to connect users with the appropriate PSAP.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If users manually identify and enter specific SMS numbers for PSAPs, then messaging communication can be established, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of establishing messaging communicationVSAvoidtime to identify and enter PSAP number

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically determines the user's location and identifies the appropriate PSAP without requiring manual user input. The mobile device or network automatically queries location information and matches it with the corresponding PSAP SMS number, enabling the system to serve itself rather than relying on user knowledge and action.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-establishes the mapping between geographic locations and PSAP contact information. When an emergency message is sent, the routing infrastructure already has the necessary information to automatically route the message to the correct PSAP, eliminating the need for real-time user lookup and entry.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If users manually enter PSAP numbers, then messaging can be established, but safety is compromised in emergency situations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesafety of emergency communicationVSAvoiddifficulty of quick messaging initiation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically handles the entire process of identifying and routing to the correct PSAP without requiring user interaction beyond sending the emergency message. This eliminates safety risks associated with manual operations during emergencies, such as inability to type, distraction, or incorrect number entry.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary routing system (including SMS gateway, location center, and switching system) that acts as a mediator between the user's emergency message and the PSAP. This intermediary automatically determines the correct routing based on location information, relieving the user of the burden of knowing or entering the correct PSAP number.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If a universal short code is implemented, then ease of operation improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of initiating emergency messageVSAvoidcomplexity of routing system

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of user lookup and number entry with an automated electronic system. The routing infrastructure uses electronic location querying and database matching to automatically determine the correct PSAP, substituting automated information processing for manual user actions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 quick and safe emergency messaging by eliminating the need for users to manually enter PSAP numbers, allowing silent communication and ensuring connection to the nearest PSAP, enhancing user safety and convenience.

Implementation Method 1

uses an accelerometer and software to detect device movement

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAccelerometer: Accelerometer

Data Source

PatentUS8195121B2Method and system for establishing messaging communication with a service provider, such as a PSAP (public safety answering point)

Publication Date: 2012.06.05 T MOBILE US INC

AI summary

Described in detail herein is a system and method for allowing a device, such as a cell phone, to establish a messaging dialogue with a service provider, such as SMS messaging with a 911 call center. Furthermore, the service provider can receive location data of the mobile device. Further details and features are described herein.