Tracking Device Decoupling Detection with Multi-Protocol Confidence Alerts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining when a tracking device has been left behind by a user are inefficient and ineffective.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for detecting tracking device decoupling and recoupling events using multiple communication protocols, evaluating data to determine an out-of-range condition, and triggering alerts when confidence thresholds are met.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing methods are used to determine when a tracking device has been left behind, then the system can provide basic tracking functionality, but the detection accuracy and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection process into multiple independent evaluation capabilities (communication protocol detection, location determination, motion analysis) that operate separately and contribute to the overall confidence score. Each capability evaluates specific aspects of tracking device status independently, allowing the system to aggregate evidence from multiple sources rather than relying on a single detection method.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where detection results from multiple evaluation capabilities are constantly monitored and fed back into the confidence calculation. The confidence delay timer and last resort timer provide temporal feedback mechanisms that adjust alert generation based on the persistence and consistency of detection signals across multiple time intervals.
2Reliability
If multiple evaluation capabilities are used to improve detection accuracy, then the reliability of out-of-range detection improves, but the device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The user device is designed with multiple communication components that can serve dual purposes: primary communication for normal operation and secondary communication for tracking device detection. The same processing module that handles general device operations also manages the out-of-range evaluation process, combining multiple functions into unified hardware and software components to reduce overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary evaluations using available capabilities before triggering full alert sequences. Confidence delay timers and last resort timers are pre-configured with threshold values, allowing the system to quickly assess whether detection conditions warrant further investigation or immediate alert generation, reducing processing overhead for routine situations.
3Measurement precision
If continuous monitoring is implemented to ensure accurate tracking device detection, then detection precision improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic monitoring intervals rather than continuous monitoring, with evaluation capabilities activated at scheduled times to check tracking device status. The confidence delay timer and last resort timer create periodic evaluation cycles that balance detection accuracy with energy conservation, allowing the device to enter low-power states between evaluation intervals while maintaining effective surveillance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts monitoring parameters based on confidence levels and detection history. When confidence is high that a tracking device is properly coupled, monitoring intensity is reduced. When confidence decreases or decoupling events are detected, the system increases evaluation frequency and activates additional capabilities, optimizing energy usage based on actual detection needs rather than maintaining constant high-level monitoring.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for alerting users of out of range tracking devices are provided.