Mobile Device Case Mesh Network Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current personal security and health monitoring systems are limited by their reliance on GPS networks, which are unavailable underwater and can be non-operational in overcast conditions, and lack integration with multiple detection methods and mesh networking capabilities, making them ineffective for seamless mobile use and accurate localization.
Innovation Solution
A mobile device case with a cradle and controller that functions as part of a mesh network, utilizing sensors like accelerometers and ultrasound transducers, and communication methods like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to provide personal security and health monitoring, independent of GPS, by calculating time of flight discrepancies to detect motion and position changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS networks are used for localization, then localization accuracy is improved, but the system becomes non-operational underwater and in overcast conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the localization method from GPS-based to time-of-flight-based acoustic signaling. By measuring the time it takes for acoustic signals to travel between devices, the system achieves reliable localization underwater and in overcast conditions where GPS fails, while maintaining reasonable accuracy through precise timing measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic satellite-based GPS system with an acoustic time-of-flight measurement system. This substitution allows localization to function in environments where electromagnetic signals from satellites cannot penetrate (underwater, overcast conditions), trading the high accuracy of GPS for universal operability across diverse environments
2Adaptability or versatility
If discrete personal security devices are used, then monitoring functionality is provided, but additional package space is required for travel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines personal security monitoring functionality with a mobile device case, integrating sensors, processors, and communication modules into the case structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate discrete security devices, providing comprehensive monitoring functionality while reducing the total volume required for travel
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device case serves multiple functions: it protects the mobile device, provides personal security monitoring through integrated sensors, enables localization via time-of-flight measurements, and facilitates mesh network communication. This multi-functionality consolidates what would traditionally require multiple separate devices into a single compact unit
3Ease of operation
If simple alarm devices are used, then basic security notification is provided, but automated communication and network aggregation capabilities are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated alert generation and notification without requiring manual intervention. When sensors detect abnormal conditions or when devices are separated beyond threshold distances, the system automatically generates alerts and communicates them through the mesh network to designated contacts, providing intelligent self-service security monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mesh network communication system as an intermediary between security events and notification recipients. This intermediary layer enables automated communication by routing alerts through multiple devices in the network, expanding reach and reliability beyond simple direct notification
4Ease of manufacture
If single probe sonograms or tomographs are used, then imaging is obtained, but confirmation of imaged features is unavailable due to single dimensionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-probe one-dimensional imaging to multi-probe three-dimensional imaging. By positioning multiple probes around the target object and collecting data from multiple angles and positions, the system creates comprehensive three-dimensional images that allow for feature confirmation and validation, significantly improving diagnostic accuracy while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
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 effective personal security and health monitoring in diverse environments, including underwater and overcast conditions, through accurate detection of motion and position changes, and allows for seamless integration with multiple sensors and mesh networking, enhancing user safety and monitoring capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
In one embodiment, the at least one sensor is an accelerometer
Implementation Method 2
In another embodiment, the at least one sensor is an ultrasound transducer
Implementation Method 3
by calculating time of flight discrepancies to detect motion and position changes
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile device case for functional connection and physical attachment to a mobile device, the mobile device case comprises an application adapted to run in the mobile device and a cradle configured for removable attachment with the mobile device, the cradle comprising a controller capable of functional connection with the application, where the cradle is adapted to protect the mobile device while attached to the mobile device and the cradle is adapted to functionally pair with the application to create at least a portion of a mesh network.