LiDAR UWB User Location Tracking for Power and Security Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices such as laptops and smartphones face challenges in conserving power and protecting confidential information when users are absent for extended periods, often entering power conservation modes at inappropriate times, which is time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a LiDAR camera and UWB sensor in electronic devices to track user movement and determine their location within a generated three-dimensional floorplan of the environment, allowing the device to perform predetermined actions such as locking or unlocking the screen and entering power conservation modes based on the user's presence or absence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the device enters power conservation mode automatically, then power consumption is reduced, but user convenience deteriorates due to inappropriate timing
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary actions by detecting user absence through sensors (motion sensors, proximity sensors) and environmental cues (calendar events, location data) before entering power conservation mode. This allows the system to proactively determine when it is appropriate to conserve power without disrupting user workflow, as the decision is made based on pre-analyzed contextual information rather than simple timeout mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where sensors continuously monitor user presence and environmental conditions, and this information feeds back to the power management controller. The controller adjusts power conservation decisions based on real-time feedback from motion detectors, proximity sensors, and contextual data sources, ensuring that power-saving actions are taken only when truly appropriate and not when the user may return soon.
2Reliability
If the device locks the screen frequently, then confidential information is protected, but productivity deteriorates due to repeated login requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary security assessments by analyzing contextual information such as location data, calendar events, and environmental sensors before locking the screen. For example, if the system detects the user is attending a meeting (via calendar integration) or is in a secure location (via GPS/geofencing), it may delay or skip the lock action, thereby maintaining security while avoiding unnecessary interruptions to productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes security parameters such as lock timeout duration and authentication requirements based on contextual conditions. When the environment is deemed secure (e.g., user's home office, verified location), the system extends lock timeout or reduces authentication complexity. When security risk is higher (e.g., public space, unusual location), it enforces stricter locking and authentication, thus adapting security measures to actual risk levels rather than applying fixed rules.
3Reliability
If manual login is required upon return, then security is maintained, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary authentication preparations by pre-verifying user identity through biometric data stored locally, proximity detection, or device pairing information before the user actually returns. When the user approaches the device, the system has already prepared authentication tokens or biometric verification routines, enabling rapid secure login without full authentication sequences, thus maintaining security while minimizing login time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service authentication mechanisms where the device automatically verifies user identity using stored biometric data, facial recognition, or paired device information without requiring manual credential entry. The authentication process serves itself by automatically comparing biometric inputs against stored templates and granting access when verified, eliminating the need for users to manually input passwords or PINs while maintaining robust security verification.
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
This solution effectively conserves power and protects confidential information by automatically managing device states based on user location, eliminating the need for manual login and reducing power wastage.
Implementation Method 1
a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) camera useful to capture optical data representing the environment
Implementation Method 2
an ultra-wide band (UWB) sensor useful to communicate with a second electronic device that the user carries with her, such as a smartphone in a purse or pocket. The UWB sensor is useful to determine a location of the second electronic device relative to the electronic device
Data Source
AI summary
In some examples, an electronic device comprises a camera to capture data representing an environment external to the electronic device; a sensor to determine a location of a second electronic device in the environment; and a controller coupled to the camera and the sensor. The controller is to generate a representation of the environment based on the captured data; determine a relationship between the location and the representation; and perform an action based on the relationship.