Notebook Location Tracking via Lid State and Motion Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The continuous use of GPS modules in notebook computers for tracking purposes consumes significant battery power, and attempts to determine location when the lid is closed often fail due to interference from metal components, leading to rapid battery depletion and ineffective tracking.
Innovation Solution
A system incorporating a motion detector, GPS module, wireless network module, and lid detector that remotely wakes the notebook computer using WoW commands, only activates the GPS module when the lid is open, and uses the motion detector to update location when the lid is closed, minimizing battery usage and ensuring accurate tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS module is continuously activated for tracking, then location tracking accuracy is improved, but battery power is rapidly depleted
Solution Approach 1:
The system activates the GPS module periodically rather than continuously, specifically triggering GPS location determination when motion is detected or when the lid state changes. This periodic activation maintains location tracking capability while significantly reducing battery power consumption compared to continuous GPS operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The motion detector continuously monitors for movement in advance, and when motion is detected, it proactively triggers the GPS module to determine location. This preliminary detection approach ensures location is captured at the right moment while avoiding unnecessary GPS activations during stationary periods, optimizing both tracking accuracy and power consumption.
2Productivity
If GPS module attempts location determination when lid is closed, then tracking coverage is improved, but unsuccessful attempts deplete battery and reduce further tracking possibilities
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different tracking strategies based on the local condition of lid state. When the lid is open, GPS location determination is permitted; when the lid is closed, GPS attempts are blocked. This localized quality control based on lid state prevents unsuccessful tracking attempts that would deplete battery while maintaining effective tracking coverage during optimal conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid detector serves as an intermediary between the motion/GPS subsystems and the GPS module activation. It monitors the lid state and mediates whether GPS location determination should proceed, preventing unsuccessful attempts when the lid is closed and directing successful tracking when the lid is open, thereby protecting battery life while maintaining tracking effectiveness.
3Use of energy by moving object
If motion detector is used to trigger GPS updates, then battery power is conserved, but location updates may be delayed when notebook is stationary
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple triggering mechanisms for GPS location determination: both motion detection and lid state changes can initiate GPS updates. This multi-functionality ensures that location updates occur not only when motion is detected but also when the lid state changes, preventing delays while the notebook remains stationary with the lid open, while still conserving battery power by avoiding updates when the lid is closed.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for locating a notebook computer by sending a Wake on Wireless WAN (WoW) signal via a wireless network to the notebook computer to switch ON the notebook computer; instructing the notebook computer to determine its own location using GPS if the notebook computer lid is open.