Mobile Infrastructure Devices for Event Space Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Convention and trade show venues face challenges in providing effective communication infrastructure due to dynamic event spaces, where traditional wide-area wireless networks offer broad but indiscriminate coverage, leading to uneven signal patterns and reliance on paper-based communication methods for targeted information exchange between attendees and vendors.
Innovation Solution
A system of mobile infrastructure devices that broadcast unique identifiers, detect client mobile devices, and establish peer-to-peer communication, using technologies like Bluetooth LE, IR, and NFC to facilitate granular communication and data exchange between clients and vendors, forming a dynamic mesh network for real-time location tracking and information exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If broad-coverage Wi-Fi or cellular networks are used to provide wireless communication in event spaces, then wide area coverage is achieved, but signal coverage becomes uneven and unpredictable due to temporary structures and dynamic layout changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the event space into discrete zones, each equipped with its own Wi-Fi access point. This segmentation allows each access point to provide reliable coverage within its specific zone without being affected by layout changes in other areas. The modular approach enables independent placement and configuration of access points to match the dynamic event space requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed Wi-Fi access points are installed in un-configured event spaces, then broad wireless coverage is provided, but coverage patterns become uneven once the space is configured for events
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs mobile Wi-Fi access points that can be dynamically repositioned and reconfigured as event layouts change. Unlike fixed access points, these mobile units can adapt to new booth arrangements, temporary structures, and space reconfigurations, maintaining consistent coverage patterns throughout the event lifecycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The access points utilize adjustable transmission parameters including power levels, channel selections, and beamforming patterns. These parameters can be dynamically modified based on the event configuration, obstacle detection, and real-time signal quality measurements to optimize coverage consistency despite layout changes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional wide area wireless networks are used, then general connectivity is provided, but targeted information exchange between attendees and vendors requires paper-based methods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mobile computing devices and dedicated vendor communication devices as intermediaries between attendees and vendors. These devices enable direct wireless communication, allowing attendees to exchange information, business cards, and product details electronically without relying on paper brochures or manual card exchanges.
4Productivity
If mobile infrastructure devices are deployed for targeted communication, then real-time data exchange between clients and vendors is enabled, but device complexity and deployment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile infrastructure devices are designed to perform multiple functions including Wi-Fi access point, Bluetooth beacon, NFC reader, and mobile computing device. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single device, reducing overall infrastructure complexity while maintaining high communication efficiency for targeted information exchange.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment provides a system for event space communication infrastructure, including: a plurality of mobile infrastructure devices; each of the plurality of mobile infrastructure devices being associated with one or more predetermined users; each of the plurality of mobile infrastructure devices comprising a wireless communication device that: broadcasts a unique identifier associated with a predetermined user; detects a response from at least one client mobile device; switches into a communication mode after detecting the response; and establishes data exchange with the at least one client mobile device. Other aspects are described and claimed.