Layered Communication System for Proximity Alerting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems between mobile devices and target devices, such as credit cards, are limited by short-range wireless protocols and insecure public networks, making it difficult to reliably alert users when the devices are separated beyond a certain distance, especially in public environments where theft is a concern.
Innovation Solution
A layered communication system that uses both direct short-range wireless protocols and indirect communication through a common network, allowing users to set customizable proximity thresholds and alert mechanisms, including alerts via noise or vibration, to notify users when the devices are separated beyond a predetermined distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If short-range wireless protocols are used for direct communication between mobile device and target device, then communication reliability is improved when devices are close, but the usable distance range is limited and alerts cannot be triggered beyond the protocol's range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a common network (Wi-Fi, cellular, or other communication networks) as an intermediary to enable indirect communication between the mobile device and target device when direct short-range wireless connection is unavailable. This allows the system to detect separation events even when devices are beyond the direct communication range, effectively extending the usable distance range while maintaining alert reliability.
2Length of stationary object
If public communication networks are used for indirect communication, then the usable distance range is extended, but security risks increase due to potential hacking and unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic selection of communication layers based on environmental conditions and security requirements. The system can switch between direct short-range wireless communication (more secure, limited range) and indirect network-based communication (extended range, potential security risks). Users can also manually select preferred protocols, making the system adaptable to different security contexts such as trusted environments versus public spaces.
3Reliability
If a layered communication system with multiple protocols and networks is implemented, then the usable distance range and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication system into distinct layers: direct short-range wireless protocol layer (Bluetooth, NFC, etc.) and indirect network-based layer (Wi-Fi, cellular, etc.). Each layer operates independently with its own protocols and mechanisms. This segmentation allows the system to leverage the strengths of each layer while managing complexity through modular architecture, where each layer can be configured and optimized separately.
4Reliability
If customizable alert settings and multiple alert mechanisms are provided, then user safety and security are improved, but ease of operation decreases due to configuration complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides pre-configured alert settings and mechanisms that are ready to use immediately upon system activation. Default proximity thresholds and alert preferences are established in advance, allowing users to benefit from enhanced safety without extensive configuration. Advanced customization options are available but not mandatory, enabling users to balance between safety features and operational simplicity based on their needs.
Data Source
AI summary
A target device is configured to communicatively connect to a common network and a mobile device. The mobile device includes a processor operable to determine that the mobile device is not within a proximity distance threshold to the target device as indicated by a lack of connectivity with the target device through a short-range wireless protocol. The processor is further operable to determine that both the mobile device and the target device are connected to the common network at a first time period, wherein the common network is designated as a safe zone for each of the target device and the mobile device. The processor is then operable to determine that at least one of the mobile device and the target device is not connected to the common network at a second time period after the first time period. An alert is produced via the mobile device as a result.