Proximity Grid Tracking Toggle for Privacy Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for tracking individuals are cumbersome, requiring extensive form-filling and complex rule-setting, which impedes the establishment of tracking relationships.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows individuals to opt-in or opt-out of tracking by being 'on' or 'off' a proximity grid, using a simple button to connect or disconnect from a server, with location updates sent only when desired, enabling tracking without continuous monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If extensive form-filling and complex rule-setting are required to establish tracking relationships, then tracking precision and control are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the tracking control into two independent parts: (1) a simple on/off proximity grid toggle for basic tracking enablement, and (2) optional complex rule settings for advanced customization. This segmentation allows users to achieve functional tracking precision with minimal input, while still providing detailed control options for those who need them.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential tracking function from the complex rule-setting framework. By separating the core proximity-based tracking mechanism from the optional detailed rules, the system delivers accurate tracking with simple on/off control, removing the burden of extensive form-filling while preserving tracking precision.
2Reliability
If continuous tracking monitoring is implemented, then tracking reliability is improved, but loss of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic tracking updates only when the user is on the proximity grid, rather than continuous monitoring. The tracking operates in cycles: when proximity conditions are met, location updates are sent periodically; when conditions are not met, tracking is suspended. This periodic operation maintains tracking reliability during relevant periods while dramatically reducing energy consumption during irrelevant periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking system dynamically adjusts its operation based on proximity grid status. When the user enters the proximity grid, tracking activates and sends updates; when leaving, tracking deactivates and stops updates. This dynamic on/off mechanism ensures reliable tracking when needed while conserving energy when not needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex rules are agreed upon in advance for tracking, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The proximity grid on/off switch serves as a universal control mechanism that handles multiple tracking scenarios. A single binary control enables or disables tracking based on proximity conditions, replacing the need for multiple separate rule configurations. This universal control simplifies the device while maintaining adaptability to different tracking needs through optional detailed settings.
Data Source
AI summary
This specification generally relates to a method for tracking one or more persons in a relationship between a tracker and the one or more participants. The method can include using an event stamp function to activate the tracking system. The person being tracked determines when they are trackable by connecting to a proximity grid. When the person being tracked wants to be tracked, that person connects to a proximity grid, and when the person being tracked does not want to be tracked, that person disconnects from the proximity grid, thereby simplifying setting up rules for when the person being tracked can be tracked.