Tracking Device Beacon Broadcast Interval Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tracking devices have limited power supplies and consume power constantly, leading to rapid depletion when used for location tracking, which can result in reduced functionality and lifespan.
Innovation Solution
The tracking device dynamically adjusts its beacon signal broadcast intervals based on behavior models, increasing frequency when likely to be lost and decreasing when not, to balance detection probability with power conservation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the tracking device broadcasts beacon signals at a constant rate, then the location detection capability is maintained, but the power supply is depleted more quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the beacon signal broadcast interval variable rather than constant. The system dynamically adjusts the broadcast interval based on behavior models that predict loss probability, switching between different intervals (e.g., first interval when loss is unlikely, second interval when loss is likely) to optimize both power consumption and location detection capability under different operational conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of broadcast interval based on predicted loss probability. When the behavior model predicts a high probability of loss, the system changes to a shorter broadcast interval to improve detectability. When loss is unlikely, it changes to a longer interval to conserve power, thus adapting the system parameters to match operational needs
2Reliability
If the tracking device uses shorter broadcast intervals to increase detection probability, then the location tracking reliability improves, but the operational lifespan decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action with variable periods. Instead of continuous broadcasting at a fixed rate, the system uses periodic beacon signals where the period (broadcast interval) is adjusted based on the behavior model's prediction of loss probability, achieving reliable detection only when necessary and extending operational lifespan by reducing unnecessary transmissions
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects between different broadcast intervals based on real-time assessment of loss risk through behavior models, making the broadcast frequency adaptive rather than static, thus balancing detection probability with power conservation throughout the device's operational life
Data Source
AI summary
A tracking device broadcasts beacon signals that are separated in time by broadcast intervals. The tracking device determines the broadcast intervals based on a behavior model. The behavior model specifies one or more conditions, such as times of day within a 24-hour day, and associates a usage probability with each condition. A higher usage probability causes the tracking device to broadcast beacon signals at shorter broadcast intervals. A mobile device in communication with the tracking device can reconfigure the behavior model, either by modifying portions of the behavior model or by replacing the behavior model with a different behavior model. This allows the behavior model to adapt to different circumstances, such as different usage patterns during weekdays, weekends, and vacations.