Distributed Wireless Object Location Across Personal Device Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless location systems for small objects are limited to a single fixed location and fail to effectively locate objects outside that area, even when using BLE or RFID technology, as they lack a broader network capability.
Innovation Solution
A distributed wireless network system that leverages a personal network of devices, including vehicles and home devices, and expands to a broader network of semi-public devices to locate missing objects, using BLE transceivers and a central search system to triangulate the object's location.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a single fixed location wireless location system is used, then the system complexity is low, but the search area is limited and cannot locate objects outside the fixed location
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the search area into multiple zones by deploying wireless devices at different locations (home, work, vehicle). Each device independently searches for the object in its local area, and results are aggregated by a central server. This segmentation allows the search area to expand from a single fixed location to multiple distributed locations without requiring a single complex centralized system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a two-dimensional search area (single fixed location) to a three-dimensional distributed network space by incorporating multiple devices at different geographical locations. The server coordinates these devices across spatial dimensions, enabling comprehensive coverage of multiple areas simultaneously while maintaining manageable individual device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a distributed network of devices is deployed to expand search area, then the location coverage is improved, but the system complexity and coordination requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A central server acts as an intermediary between the user and the distributed network of wireless devices. The server receives location requests from the user, distributes search tasks to appropriate devices in the network, collects results from multiple devices, and presents unified location information to the user. This intermediary architecture allows the system to achieve broad location coverage while shielding users from the complexity of network coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
Each wireless device in the network autonomously performs local object detection and reporting without requiring manual configuration or intervention. Devices automatically search for objects in their vicinity, generate location reports, and transmit results to the server. This self-service capability reduces the operational complexity of managing a distributed network, as devices independently contribute to the collective search effort.
3Loss of time
If manual searching is used, then no additional devices or networks are needed, but the time and effort required to locate objects is significant
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical searching with automated electronic detection using wireless devices equipped with sensors and communication capabilities. Instead of physically moving through spaces looking for objects, the system uses electronic signals and networked devices to automatically detect and report object locations, dramatically reducing search time while the server coordinates the technology infrastructure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables effective location of misplaced objects beyond the initial fixed location by utilizing a personal and broader network of devices, providing accurate and comprehensive search capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
devices now come with built-in locator functions, which often comprise a small radio frequency identifier (RFID) tag or BLUETOOTH low energy (BLE) chip
Implementation Method 2
The user will also possess a transponder or transceiver, which is capable of activation of the RFID tag and/or communication with a BLE chip
Data Source
AI summary
A server may receive a request from a remote device to wirelessly locate an object that includes a wireless identification device. The server may also instruct one or more wireless-search enabled devices, comprising a predefined requestor network of devices, to attempt to locate the object. The server may further receive responses from the one or more devices in the network reporting results of attempts to locate the object and notify the remote device of at least one result.