Multi-Transceiver Wearable Tracker for Missing Persons
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wearable tracking devices for missing persons face limitations such as diminished accuracy and battery life, require specific equipment for search operations, and have non-permanent attachment methods, stigma concerns, and are ineffective in areas without cellular or GPS signals.
Innovation Solution
A geo-locating wearable device combining RF, GPS, and cellular technologies with Low-Power Long-Range (LoRa) radio frequencies and a secure, durable band with a locking mechanism, utilizing multiple transceivers and a microcontroller for extended battery life and secure attachment, and employing passive Wi-Fi scanning and cellular tower identification for location tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If RF technology is used for tracking, then battery life is extended, but location accuracy is diminished
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple tracking technologies (RF, GPS, cellular, Wi-Fi) into a single integrated system. The device uses RF transceivers for long-range communication and battery efficiency, while simultaneously employing GPS receivers and cellular/Wi-Fi transceivers for accurate location determination. This merging allows the system to achieve both extended battery life and high location accuracy by leveraging the strengths of each technology.
2Measurement precision
If GPS technology is used for tracking, then location accuracy is improved, but battery life is diminished
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by having the GPS receiver and cellular/Wi-Fi transceivers activate only when needed for location determination, rather than continuously. The microcontroller manages power by putting these components into sleep mode between uses, and唤醒 them periodically or on-demand to obtain location data. This periodic operation maintains high location accuracy when required while significantly extending battery life during idle periods.
3Ease of operation
If non-permanent attachment methods are used, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability is diminished
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the attachment mechanism's properties at different locations and aspects. The band uses soft, comfortable materials that contact the skin for ease of wear, while incorporating a locking mechanism at the closure point that provides secure, reliable attachment. This localized differentiation allows the device to be both easy to put on and reliably secure during use.
4Reliability
If multiple transceivers are included, then location tracking reliability is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the multiple transceivers (RF, cellular, Wi-Fi) to serve multiple functions. These transceivers not only provide location tracking through various methods but also enable bidirectional communication, allow remote device activation, and support fallback options when certain networks are unavailable. This multi-functionality justifies the increased component count by providing enhanced reliability and versatility rather than simply adding redundant single-purpose components.
Data Source
AI summary
A tracking device and system is provided. In one aspect the tracking device comprises more than one type of transceiver; a GPS receiver; a microcontroller which controls the transceivers and GPS receiver; a power source for providing power to the transceivers, GPS receiver and microcontroller; and a secure band for attachment to a wearer. The tracking system includes a tracking device comprising more than one type of transceiver and a GPS receiver; a user device configured to send a wakeup signal to the tracking device; and a communication channel for communication of a function command to the tracking device.