Seamless Vehicle-to-Mobile Tracking Handoff
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle-based wireless device tracking systems face challenges in seamlessly transitioning tracking information from a vehicle to a mobile device when the user exits the vehicle, especially in scenarios where the mobile device needs to continue tracking objects outside the vehicle's range or in different environments.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a vehicle equipped with internal and external antennas, sensors, and an infotainment head unit that automatically transitions tracking information to a mobile device when the user exits, using signal strength indicators and GPS coordinates to determine the object's location and provide seamless tracking across different platforms, allowing the vehicle and mobile device to interchange tracking responsibilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the vehicle-based tracking system is used, then the tracking coverage and range are improved, but the continuity of tracking is lost when the user exits the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device serves as an intermediary between the vehicle-based tracking system and the user. When the user exits the vehicle, the mobile device takes over as the tracking intermediary, receiving tracking information from the vehicle system and maintaining continuous tracking of the wireless device. This intermediary role ensures no interruption in tracking coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches the tracking responsibility between the vehicle-based system and the mobile device based on the user's location status. When the user is inside the vehicle, the vehicle system handles tracking; when the user exits, the mobile device assumes tracking responsibility. This dynamic adaptation maintains both coverage area and tracking continuity.
2Reliability
If the tracking information is transferred to the mobile device, then the tracking continuity is maintained, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking system is segmented into two distinct components: the vehicle-based tracking system and the mobile device tracking system. Each component operates independently but can seamlessly transfer responsibilities. This segmentation allows the system to maintain continuity without requiring complete system redesign, thus limiting the increase in complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a communication device, a tracking receiver, and a backup tracking system. By making the mobile device universal, the system avoids adding separate dedicated hardware for tracking continuity, thereby reducing the overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Ease of operation
If the seamless handoff mechanism is implemented, then the user experience is improved, but the device complexity and transition management become more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automatic detection of user exit status using sensors (door sensors, seat sensors, GPS) and autonomously triggers the handoff process without requiring user intervention. The mobile device and vehicle system self-manage the transition of tracking responsibilities, simplifying the user experience while containing transition management complexity within the system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensor feedback (door open/close status, seat occupancy, GPS location changes) to automatically determine when handoff is needed. This feedback mechanism enables seamless transitions by continuously monitoring user status and triggering appropriate actions, improving user experience while managing complexity through automated decision-making rather than manual control.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus are disclosed for tracking a wireless device using a seamless handoff between a vehicle and a mobile device. An example vehicle includes internal and external antennas, a sensor, and an infotainment head unit with a display. The infotainment head unit tracks, using the external antenna, a wireless-enabled object exterior to the vehicle. The infotainment head unit also determines a location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle based on the sensor and the internal and external antennas. Additionally, when the mobile device exits the vehicle, the infotainment head unit automatically transitions tracking information to the mobile device.