Mobile Device Proximity Detection with Periodic RFID Broadcasting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile communication systems lack the ability to efficiently identify and communicate online identifiers of geographically proximate devices independently of a buddy list, and to seamlessly integrate real-world interactions with online presence information.
Innovation Solution
A mobile communications device equipped with a controller, an electromagnetic interface, and memory that can detect geographic proximity and automatically broadcast and receive information using RFID or USB connectivity, enabling the creation of a buddy list and real-time presence updates, even when disconnected from a computer system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a mobile device continuously broadcasts and receives electromagnetic signals to identify geographically proximate online identifiers, then the ability to detect and communicate presence information is improved, but the energy consumption and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic broadcasting and receiving of electromagnetic signals at intervals rather than continuous operation. The controller is configured to periodically initiate signal exchanges with other mobile devices, maintaining proximity detection capability while allowing energy conservation during periods between signal exchanges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the core functionality of proximity detection from continuous operation by isolating specific detection events. The system separates the broadcasting and receiving functions into discrete, on-demand operations triggered by specific conditions (such as device proximity or user initiation), rather than maintaining constant active communication.
2Quantity of substance
If the device stores and processes multiple online identifiers and geographic proximity information, then the capability to identify and manage contacts is improved, but the memory requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the buddy list data structure into discrete, manageable entries, each containing an online identifier and associated geographic proximity information. The controller processes these segmented records individually, allowing efficient storage and retrieval without requiring complex bulk data structures. Each identifier-proximity pair is treated as an independent data unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simplified data copying mechanisms where geographic proximity information is transmitted as discrete data packets between devices. The controller copies and stores these proximity records in a structured format that enables rapid comparison and matching, reducing the computational complexity of processing multiple identifiers.
3Ease of operation
If the mobile device operates independently without constant connection to a computer system, then the portability and ease of use are improved, but the ability to synchronize and update presence information is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the device with broadcasting and receiving capabilities that function autonomously when disconnected. The controller is pre-programmed with the logic to detect geographic proximity, store online identifiers, and manage presence information independently, ensuring continuous operation without requiring real-time connection to a computer system for basic functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the device monitors its own operational state and connection status. When connected to a computer system, the device automatically synchronizes its stored presence information and updates its buddy list data. This feedback loop ensures data consistency between independent and connected modes without requiring constant user intervention.
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 efficient broadcasting and receiving of user information with minimal memory usage, creating a link between real-world interactions and online presence, allowing for rapid exchange of information and enhanced user interaction through automatic broadcasting and receiving of geographic proximity data.
Implementation Method 1
The interface device is coupled to the controller and configured to communicate an electromagnetic signal
Implementation Method 2
The interface device may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) interface
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile communications device includes a controller, a connector device configured to couple with a computer system, an interface device, and memory. The interface device is coupled to the controller and configured to communicate an electromagnetic signal. The memory stores instructions performed by the controller to cause the interface device to communicate an electromagnetic signal including information associated with a user of the mobile device or of another mobile device, and to cause the connector device to communicate the information associated with the user to or from the computer system.