Network Transceivers for Real-Time Mobile Device Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Marketers face challenges in obtaining real-time analytic data for physical spaces, as existing methods require manual camera recording and analysis, which is time-consuming and inefficient compared to the real-time tracking capabilities available for web traffic.
Innovation Solution
A system using network transceivers disguised as hotspots to collect identifying data from mobile devices, such as Bluetooth and cellular signals, which is then analyzed in real-time to track and triangulate the location of mobile devices without the need for installed applications or opt-in, utilizing sniffer software and analytical software to provide metrics on user presence, frequency, and demographics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If cameras are used to record and analyze physical traffic, then real-time tracking data can be obtained, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient requiring manual review of footage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical review of camera footage with automated electronic detection systems. Network transceivers equipped with sniffer software automatically detect, capture, and analyze mobile device signals (WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular) in real-time, eliminating the need for manual camera footage review and dramatically improving data collection efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service through automated analytical software that processes detected mobile device signals without human intervention. The software automatically extracts identifying data, tracks device locations, analyzes user behavior patterns, and generates marketing insights, allowing the system to serve itself rather than requiring manual operation
2Productivity
If network transceivers are used to collect mobile device data, then real-time tracking is achieved, but privacy concerns arise from collecting data without opt-in
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses disposable, temporary detection methods where network transceivers collect only essential identifying data (MAC addresses, signal strength) needed for tracking purposes. The system processes and analyzes this data in real-time without storing unnecessary personal information, allowing data collection to occur without requiring user consent while minimizing privacy intrusion through selective data retention
Data Source
AI summary
Mobile devices emit signals in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and cellular (i.e. 2G, 3G, 4G, Edge, H+, etc.). These signals attempt to connect to paired devices, hotspots, cell towers, or other suitable wireless connection points to greater networks. In order to connect to connect to hotspots mobile devices send out identifying data to establish a connection. Hotspots may unobtrusively collect the identification data of the mobile device, and then reject the connection request. The hotspots collect data in real time on the mobile device, and by association, the human carrying the mobile device without having alerted or impeded the human carrier. The system uses analytical software to determine, for example, an approaching unique ID user's presence, history, frequency of visits, duration of presence and so on.