Location Sharing Accuracy via Paired Device Status Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Location sharing applications often face inaccuracies when users are wearing or carrying devices that are out of communication range with their paired companion devices, leading to unreliable location tracking.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a server computer, companion device, and paired devices connected via wireless communications, where the companion device continuously monitors connection status and uses location processors to estimate the location of paired devices, even when they are out of range, by utilizing GNSS, wireless network signals, and beacon signals, and sends notifications to requesting devices with accurate location data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If location sharing is performed using only the companion device, then the system is simple to operate, but location accuracy deteriorates when the paired device is out of communication range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary status determination mechanism that detects whether the paired device is on or off the user's body. This intermediary status information mediates between the companion device and the location sharing system, allowing the system to select appropriate location determination methods based on the device status, thereby maintaining location accuracy even when devices are out of communication range
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its location determination strategy based on the real-time status of the paired device. When the device is detected to be on the user's body, the system uses alternative location determination methods (such as using the companion device's location as a reference) rather than relying solely on direct GNSS signals from the paired device, thus adapting to changing conditions to maintain location tracking reliability
2Reliability
If the system continuously monitors connection status to improve location accuracy, then location sharing reliability improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous monitoring, the system performs status detection periodically or at specific trigger events (such as when location sharing is initiated or when communication is lost). This periodic action reduces energy consumption while still maintaining the ability to detect device status changes and adjust location determination methods accordingly
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs status determination in advance before location sharing begins, and caches the status information. This preliminary action allows the system to have location determination strategies ready without needing to continuously monitor device status during the location sharing session, thereby reducing ongoing energy consumption while maintaining tracking reliability
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
Enhances location sharing accuracy by determining the status of paired devices, whether they are on or off the user's body, and provides reliable location data even when devices are disconnected, improving user experience in scenarios like jogging or fitness tracking.
Implementation Method 1
A user's location is determined by their mobile device using a global navigation satellite system (GNSS), a wireless network (e.g., Wi-Fi access point transmissions) or cellular positioning system (e.g., cell tower transmissions)
Implementation Method 2
a wireless network (e.g., Wi-Fi access point transmissions) or cellular positioning system (e.g., cell tower transmissions)
Data Source
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Figure 2
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AI summary
Systems, methods, devices and computer-readable storage mediums are disclosed for managing location sharing requests. In various implementations, a requesting device or a server computer in communication with the requesting device, receives a location sharing request associated with a user and, in response, sends a notification to a companion device associated with the user. A location of the companion device is received from the companion device together with a list of one or more devices associated with the user that are paired with the companion device and a connection status for at least one of the one or more paired devices. The connection status indicates if there is a direct communication link established between the paired device and the companion device. A notification is sent to each disconnected paired device based on the connection status. Each disconnected device that is worn or carried by the user responds with their location.