U.S. patent application number 15/063980 was filed with the patent office on 2016-06-30 for electronic luggage tag and system.
The applicant listed for this patent is TreeFrog Developments, Inc.. Invention is credited to Gary A. Rayner.
Application Number | 20160189507 15/063980 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48783363 |
Filed Date | 2016-06-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160189507 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Rayner; Gary A. |
June 30, 2016 |
ELECTRONIC LUGGAGE TAG AND SYSTEM
Abstract
An electronic luggage tag includes an attachment mechanism for
attaching the electronic luggage tag to luggage, a wireless
receiver, a wireless transmitter, a computer processor, a battery,
and a housing. The wireless receiver is configured for wirelessly
receiving a trigger signal when the electronic luggage tag is in
proximity to luggage handling equipment. The wireless transmitter
is configured for wirelessly transmitting an electronic
notification message in response to receiving the trigger signal at
the wireless receiver. The computer processor is in communication
with the wireless receiver and the wireless transmitter. The
battery powers at least one of the wireless receiver, the wireless
transmitter, and the computer processor.
Inventors: |
Rayner; Gary A.; (Henderson,
NV) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
TreeFrog Developments, Inc. |
Fort Collins |
CO |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
48783363 |
Appl. No.: |
15/063980 |
Filed: |
March 8, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13929717 |
Jun 27, 2013 |
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15063980 |
|
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61665278 |
Jun 27, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
340/572.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 13/18 20130101;
G08B 21/24 20130101; G08B 13/1427 20130101; G07C 2209/63 20130101;
H04W 4/12 20130101; G07C 2209/62 20130101; G08B 13/2462 20130101;
G07C 9/00896 20130101; A45C 13/24 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G08B 13/24 20060101
G08B013/24; H04W 4/12 20060101 H04W004/12; G07C 9/00 20060101
G07C009/00 |
Claims
1. An electronic luggage tag comprising: an attachment mechanism
for attaching the electronic luggage tag to luggage; a wireless
receiver configured for wirelessly receiving a trigger signal when
the electronic luggage tag is in proximity to luggage handling
equipment; a wireless transmitter configured for wirelessly
transmitting an electronic notification message in response to
receiving the trigger signal at the wireless receiver; a computer
processor in communication with the wireless receiver and the
wireless transmitter; a battery for powering at least one of the
wireless receiver, the wireless transmitter, and the computer
processor; and a housing containing the wireless receiver, the
wireless transmitter, the computer processor, and the battery,
wherein the attachment mechanism is affixed to the housing.
2. The electronic luggage tag of claim 1 wherein the luggage
handing equipment comprises a baggage claim carousel and wherein
the trigger signal is wirelessly received from a transmitter
associated with the baggage claim carousel when the electronic
luggage tag arrives at the baggage claim carousel.
3. The electronic luggage tag of claim 1 wherein the electronic
notification message comprises a text message transmitted for
delivery to a mobile communication device associated with an owner
of the luggage indicating that the luggage has arrived at the
luggage handling equipment.
4. The electronic luggage tag of claim 1 wherein the electronic
notification message comprises a wireless data communication
transmitted for delivery to a software application running on a
mobile communication device associated with a party responsible for
the luggage, wherein the software application comprises
non-transitory computer instructions executable by a computer
processor of the mobile communication device.
5. The electronic luggage tag of claim 1 wherein the wireless
transmitter transmits the electronic notification message using at
least one of Bluetooth and Bluetooth Smart.
6. The electronic luggage tag of claim 1 wherein the electronic
notification message is transmitted for delivery to a smartphone
over a wireless communication network.
7. The electronic luggage tag of claim 1 wherein the electronic
notification message includes location information indicating a
location of the electronic luggage tag.
8. The electronic luggage tag of claim 7 further comprising
location determination circuitry for determining the location
information of the electronic luggage tag.
9. The electronic luggage tag of claim 7 wherein the trigger signal
received by the electronic luggage tag includes the location
information.
10. The electronic luggage tag of claim 1 further comprising a
visual notification device activated in response to the receiving
of the trigger signal.
11. The electronic luggage tag of claim 1 further comprising an
audible notification device activated in response to the receiving
of the trigger signal.
12. The electronic luggage tag of claim 1 wherein the wireless
receiver is further configured for wirelessly receiving an
electronic command from a mobile communication device and conveying
the electronic command to the computer processor.
13. The electronic luggage tag of claim 12 further comprising a
locking mechanism affixed to the housing, the locking mechanism for
locking and unlocking the luggage, wherein the locking mechanism is
responsive to the electronic command received from the mobile
communication device.
14. The electronic luggage tag of claim 13 further comprising
circuitry for recording when the locking mechanism is locked or
unlocked.
15. The electronic luggage tag of claim 13 further comprising
circuity for receiving a code and unlocking the locking mechanism
in response to receiving the code.
16. The electronic luggage tag of claim 15 wherein the code is
configured as a one-time use code.
17. The electronic luggage tag of claim 13 further including a
sensor for capturing data associated with unlocking of the locking
mechanism.
18. The electronic luggage tag of claim 17 wherein the sensor
includes at least one of a microphone and a camera.
19. An electronic luggage tracking system comprising: a software
application for providing information about luggage to a user of
the software application, the software application comprising
non-transitory instructions executable by a computer processor of a
portable electronic device; and an electronic luggage module
including: an attachment mechanism for attaching the electronic
luggage module to the luggage; a wireless receiver for wirelessly
receiving a trigger signal from a trigger device when the
electronic luggage module is in proximity to luggage handling
equipment; a wireless transmitter for wirelessly transmitting an
electronic notification message for delivery to the software
application on the portable electronic device in response to
receiving the trigger signal; and a power source for powering at
least one of the wireless receiver and the wireless
transmitter.
20. An electronic luggage tag system comprising: a triggering
device for transmitting a trigger signal, the triggering device
associated with a luggage carousel; and an electronic luggage tag
including: an attachment mechanism for attaching the electronic
luggage tag to luggage; a wireless receiver for wirelessly
receiving the trigger signal from the triggering device when the
electronic luggage tag is in proximity to the luggage carousel; and
a wireless transmitter for wirelessly transmitting an electronic
notification message for delivery to a smartphone of an owner of
the luggage in response to the receiving of the trigger signal.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/929,717, filed Jun. 27, 2013, which claims
priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/665,278 filed Jun.
27, 2012, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by
reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Knowing the location and status of personal effects can be
important to a responsible person (e.g. a traveler, a commuter, a
caregiver, a person wishing to efficiently go about his or her
daily life activities, or the like). For the purposes of this
disclosure, the term "personal effects" can include one or more
items, animals, persons, or the like for which or for whom the
responsible person has an ownership, possession, or other
responsibility relationship. Items can include things such as
luggage, backpacks, messenger bags, purses, wallets, electronic
devices, such as computers, tablets, phones, and the like, small
modes of transportation (e.g. bicycles or skateboards), and the
like. Animals can include pets and livestock. Persons for whom the
responsible person has a responsibility relationship can include
any of children, adults who are afflicted by dementia, other
cognitive illnesses, diseases, and the like.
[0003] In view of the foregoing, there is a need for improved
devices and systems to monitor, track, and/or control various
personal effects.
SUMMARY
[0004] The present disclosure describes systems, apparatuses, and
methods for the monitoring, tracking, and/or controlling of
personal effects, such as luggage, electronic devices, animals,
and/or persons, and the like. In one aspect, a monitoring article,
such as a monitoring article body includes a computer readable
medium that is capable of storing identifying information regarding
the monitoring article body, e.g., monitoring device, or a personal
effect to which the monitoring device is attached. The monitoring
article body may further include a location assessment component
for determining the location of the monitoring device and producing
location data, and/or may include a signaling component for
performing at least one of providing information regarding the
monitoring device to and receiving information and/or commands from
a controlling device.
[0005] In one aspect, an apparatus, such as a monitoring article
body, is provided for communicating with at least one external
receiver, such as a controller, to monitor, track, and/or control
one or more personal effects. For instance, in one instance, the
instant technology provides a monitoring article body, such as a
tag, for tracking a personal effect wherein the personal effect may
include one or more of a structure for transferring goods, such as
those commonly known as luggage, for example, backpacks, messenger
bags, purses, wallets, and the like. Other types of personal
effects may include electronic devices, such as computers, tablets,
phones, and the like. More types of personal effects that may be
monitored, tracked, and/or controlled in accordance with the
technologies described herein may include small modes of
transportation such as bicycles, skateboards, scooters, skates, and
the like. Additional personal effects that may be monitored,
tracked, and/or controlled may include animals such as pets and
livestock. The devices, methods, and systems described herein may
also be deployed to monitor and/or track persons, such as children
and/or adults.
[0006] In one particular instance, an electronic luggage tag
includes an attachment mechanism for attaching the electronic
luggage tag to luggage, a wireless receiver, a wireless
transmitter, a computer processor, a battery, and a housing. The
wireless receiver is configured for wirelessly receiving a trigger
signal when the electronic luggage tag is in proximity to luggage
handling equipment. The wireless transmitter is configured for
wirelessly transmitting an electronic notification message in
response to receiving the trigger signal at the wireless receiver.
The computer processor is in communication with the wireless
receiver and the wireless transmitter. The battery powers at least
one of the wireless receiver, the wireless transmitter, and the
computer processor
[0007] In another instance, a monitoring article apparatus, such as
a monitoring tag may be employed in addition so as to monitor,
track, and/or control a personal effect such as luggage. Although
the following disclosure is set forth herein below in connection
with monitoring, tracking, and/or controlling a particular personal
effect, such as luggage, it is understood that this is simply for
the sake of ease of understanding and the pertinent disclosure may
be applicable to monitoring, tracking, and/or controlling other
types of personal effects such as those described herein above and
throughout this disclosure. Accordingly, in one instance, a tag for
monitoring, tracking, and/or controlling a personal effect, such as
luggage, is provided. The luggage may be any type of luggage such
as that commonly known in the art, and in some instances may
include a securing mechanism, such as a securing mechanism used to
secure the luggage and/or the contents therein.
[0008] In certain instances, the tag may include and/or communicate
with a locking mechanism, such as a locking mechanism that may be
attached to the securing mechanism, e.g., a zipper or other such
securing mechanism, of the luggage, or a securing mechanism that is
integral to the luggage itself. In particular instances, the
locking mechanism may include one or more actuators. The tag may
include one or more data inputs capable of receiving data from one
or more corresponding data collecting sources that may be in
communicative association with the personal effect, e.g., the
luggage, and may include one or more control outputs capable of
outputting a control signal, such as to the one or more actuators.
The tag may further include one or more additional components,
including but not herein limited to: one or more wireless
communication modules, such as for wireless data communication, for
instance, with at least one external controller; a non-transient
storage device such as for storing instructions; and/or a processor
responsive to the instructions. The processor may be any suitable
processor that is capable of being responsive to the instructions
from the controller and/or capable of receiving the data from the
one or more data inputs; and/or generating a control signal for one
or more control outputs; and/or generating wireless data
communication for the at least one wireless data communication
module which data may be based on the data from the one or more
data sources and/or the data communicated by the control signal
from the one or more control outputs.
[0009] In another aspect, an apparatus, such as a monitoring
article body, is provided for communicating with at least one
receiver, such as a controller, to monitor, track, and/or control
one or more personal effects, wherein the monitoring controlling
body includes a locking mechanism, in some instances, the locking
mechanism functioning to secure a compartmented article in a closed
or open position. For instance, in some instances, the locking
mechanism, referred to herein for convenience as a lock, may be any
mechanism capable of functioning to secure an item in an open or a
closed configuration. Accordingly, in various embodiments, the
locking mechanism may be any suitable lock known or to be known in
the art that is capable of being adapted so as to function in the
prescribed manner set forth herein. In certain instances, the lock
is adapted to traverse from a closed or locked configuration to an
opened or unlocked configuration, wherein access to a compartmented
space is controlled. In various instances, the lock is further
adapted so as to be capable of being attached to a personal effect,
such as a personal effect disclosed herein.
[0010] Suitable locks may be a variation of a mechanical lock, such
as a pad lock, for instance, a pad lock that unlocks using a
combination or a key; a magnetic lock; an electronic lock; an
inductive or conductive lock; and the like. Hence, in particular
instances, the lock may include a disk and tumbler for unlocking
the lock; rotating segments which, when aligned in a specific
order, unlock the lock; magnetic or electronic circuits that are
capable of effectuating the locking and/or unlocking of the lock in
response to the presence or flow of magnetic and/or electronic
fields, such as through conduction and/or induction. Such locking
mechanisms may be manipulated and/or controlled by the application
of a key, which key may be a mechanical or virtual key that locks
and/or unlocks in response to a combination, such as an
alpha-numeric combination, numeric combination, or the use of
symbols as a combination. In certain instances, a suitable locking
mechanism may be configured so as to function in a manner that
locks two moveable members in place relative to one another, such
as in a closed, open, or semi-opened, e.g., angled, relationship to
one another. In other instances, a suitable locking mechanism is
configured for securing two items, such as two items moveable in
relation to one another, together, such as in a fixed or semi-fixed
position, e.g., relative to one another.
[0011] In certain embodiments, the locking mechanism, e.g., a lock,
may include one or more additional components including, but not
limited herein to: a memory, a location assessment component,
and/or a signaling component, as described in greater detail below.
Accordingly, in various instances, the locking mechanism has an
unlocked state and a locked state, wherein the locked and unlocked
state is capable of being responsive to a control signal from one
or more control outputs. For instance, the locking mechanism may be
associated with an item wherein the item includes a lockable
compartment, and the locking mechanism is connected with one or
more of the bounding members of the compartment to secure the
compartment in the locked or unlocked state, and regulate and/or
control access to the compartment, such as in the unlocked state.
Hence, as described herein, in certain instances, a user may wish
to use a location and status monitoring device that is a lock, to
secure a personal effect, such as when the personal effect, or
other such item, has a means to be opened and closed and further
can be secured in such open or closed configuration with a locking
mechanism, such as where the personal effect is a piece or pieces
of luggage, a money containment system, e.g., a purse or money box,
a food container, and the like. In certain instances, the use of a
locking location and status device, as disclosed herein, may be
desirable in order to aid in preventing removal of the location and
status device from an item to which the locking device is attached,
regardless of whether the item is locked closed by the device, for
instance, the locking mechanism may be configured so as to be used
to secure two or more items together, without regard to whether the
items themselves are capable of being opened or closed. In such an
instance, the locking mechanism may be configured to associate with
an auxiliary securing mechanism such as a strap, a rope, a chain,
etc. and the like.
[0012] In a further aspect, an apparatus, such as a monitoring
article body, is provided for communicating with at least one
receiver, such as a controller, to monitor, track, and/or control
one or more personal effects, wherein the monitoring controlling
body includes a piece or pieces of luggage, in some instances the
luggage having a securing and/or locking mechanism to secure the
luggage and/or the contents therein. The apparatus may include one
or more data inputs to receive data from one or more corresponding
data sources associated with the luggage, and/or one or more
control outputs to output a control signal to corresponding one or
more components, such as actuators associated with the securing
and/or locking mechanism. The apparatus may also include at least
one wireless communication module for wireless data communication
with the at least one external controller, and/or may include a
non-transient storage device such as for storing instructions. The
apparatus may also include a processor, such as a processor
described herein, responsive to the instructions to perform one or
more of the following: receive data, such as from one or more data
inputs; generate the control signal for the one or more control
outputs; and/or generate the wireless data communication for the at
least one wireless data communication module such as that based on
the data from the one or more data sources and/or the control
signal from the one or more control outputs.
[0013] In some embodiments of the foregoing aspect, the securing
mechanism may be any form of securing mechanism, such as those
commonly known in the art to secure the contents within the luggage
therein, such as a zipper, and the like, wherein the securing
mechanism may further include a locking mechanism, such as a
locking mechanism that has an unlocked state and a locked state. In
various instances, the unlocked state and the locked state of the
locking mechanism may be configured, as described herein, so as to
be responsive to a control signal from one or more control outputs.
Accordingly, in some instances, the luggage includes a securable
and lockable compartment, and the locking mechanism is connected
with the compartment to secure the compartment in the locked state,
and allow access to the compartment in the unlocked state. In some
embodiments, the luggage includes at least one wheel and/or at
least one extendable handle, and the locking mechanism includes a
wheel and/or handle stop associated with the at least one wheel
and/or handle respectively, wherein the wheel and/or handle stop
functions to lock the at least one wheel and/or handle,
respectively, in the locked state, and unlocking the at least one
wheel and/or handle, respectively in the unlocked state.
[0014] In some embodiments, a tag, locking mechanism, and/or
transportable or non-transportable compartmented space, e.g., piece
or pieces of luggage, may be configured for being modulated,
tracked, and/or controlled, such as by communicating with an
external controlling device. Accordingly, in certain instances, the
tag, locking device, and/or luggage, disclosed herein, may include
one or more of a wireless communication module, which may include a
transmitter and/or receiver, such as for wireless data
communication, for instance, with at least one external controller;
a non-transient storage device such as for storing instructions,
e.g., a memory; a location assessment component, e.g., a GPS
device; a status module, such as for generating and/or receiving
data from a data generating device, and further for determining the
condition and/or status of the device or a personal effect to which
the monitoring article body is associated with, or is otherwise in
communication therewith; a signaling component; and/or a processor
capable of controlling various functions of the tag, locking
mechanism, or luggage and/or further being responsive to
instructions, such as instructions from a controlling device.
[0015] Accordingly, in certain instances, the processor may be any
suitable processor that is capable of being responsive to
instructions from a controller and/or capable of receiving data
from one or more data generating and/or inputting devices; and/or
generating a control signal for one or more control outputs; and/or
generating wireless data communication for the at least one
wireless data communication module which data may be based on the
data from the one or more data sources and/or the data communicated
by the control signal from the one or more control outputs. In some
instances, the one or more data sources associated with the luggage
include a geolocation data source. In some embodiments, the one or
more data generating sources associated or otherwise in
communication with the monitoring article body may include one or
more environmental sensors. In some instances, the one or more
environmental sensors may include one or more of a temperature
sensor, a humidity sensor, a moisture sensor, a light sensor, a
velocity sensor, an orientation sensor, a movement sensor, an
accelerometer, an air pressure sensor, a camera and/or a
microphone, and the like. Accordingly, in certain instances, the
wireless data communication from the wireless data communication
module may include a notification representing a change in state of
data from the one or more data sources. In some embodiments, the
notification may include an alert formatted so as to be
communicated to the at least one external controller. In some
embodiments, the alert is related to a geographical position of the
monitoring article body and may include one or more reports as to
its current, historic, or predicted future status.
[0016] In another aspect, a system is provided that includes a
monitoring article body, such as a tag, lock, or luggage, having a
securing mechanism to secure the monitoring article body, e.g.,
tag, lock, or luggage, and a location and/or status monitoring
subsystem that can be in communication with the monitoring article
body, e.g., luggage. The location and/or status monitoring
subsystem may include one or more data input mechanisms configured
so as to receive data from associated or otherwise corresponding
one or more data sources in communication with the monitoring
article body, e.g., tag, lock, or luggage, and one or more control
outputs to output a control signal to a corresponding one or more
actuator associated with the securing mechanism. The system may
include one or more of: one or more wireless communication modules
configured for wireless data communication with one or more
external controllers; a non-transient storage device configured for
storing instructions; and/or a processor responsive to instructions
and/or capable of generating command operations, which command
operations may be controlled by the controller and effectuated by
one or more operator mechanisms. Accordingly, the processor may be
configured to be responsive to the instructions and/or data it
receives from the controller and/or one or more data inputs;
configured for generating control signals for the one or more
control outputs; and generating wireless data communications, such
as for the at least one wireless data communication module, which
may be based on the data from the one or more data sources and/or
the control signal from the one or more control outputs, such as
from the controller.
[0017] In some embodiments, such as of the foregoing aspect, the
system may further include an application program for being run on
the at least one external controller. The application program may
be configured to: receive wireless data communication from a
wireless communication module such as of the location and status
monitoring subsystem; and to generate a visual and/or audible
notification, for example based on wireless data communication,
such as that received from a wireless communication module. In some
embodiments, the application program may be run on the at least one
external controller and may be configured to generate and transmit
one or more external control signals to monitor, modulate, and/or
control the monitoring article body. For instance, where the
monitoring article body is a locking mechanism and/or a piece of
luggage, the application program may be configured to monitor
and/or lock the securing mechanism of the luggage.
[0018] In some embodiments, the one or more data generating sources
may include a geolocation data source. The data generated by the
geolocation data source may include geolocation data, and the
wireless data communication from the wireless communication module
may include generated geolocation data.
[0019] In some embodiments, the securing mechanism may be
configured as and/or may include a locking mechanism having an
unlocked state and a locked state. The unlocked state and the
locked state of the locking mechanism therefore may be configured
for being responsive to the control signal from the one or more
control outputs. In some embodiments, the monitoring, tracking, and
security subsystem may include a housing to house one or more of at
least part of the one or more data inputs, at least part of the one
or more control outputs, the at least one wireless communication
module, the non-transient storage device storing instructions, the
at least one data generating sensor module, and the processor. In
some embodiments, the luggage includes a compartment, and the
securing mechanism includes locking mechanism to lock and/or unlock
the compartment based on the one or more external control signals
from the application program running on the at least one external
controller.
[0020] In some embodiments, the luggage includes at least one wheel
and/or a translatable handle, and the securing mechanism includes a
locking mechanism to lock and/or unlock the at least one wheel
based on the one or more external control signals from the
application program running on the at least one external
controller. In some embodiments, the luggage includes a handle, and
the securing mechanism includes a locking mechanism to lock and/or
unlock the handle based on the one or more external control signals
from the application program running on the at least one external
controller. In some embodiments, the luggage includes an alarm
responsive to the one or more control signals from the application
program running on the at least one controller. The alarm may
indicate when the wheels are moving, non-moving, and/or locked or
unlocked; when the handle is extended, non-extended, and/or locked
or unlocked; and/or when the luggage enters or leaves a zone
proximate to the controlling device.
[0021] Further, as described above, in yet another aspect, the
instant technology may provide a tag for luggage, which
additionally may have a securing mechanism, e.g., a closure, such
as a zipper, to secure and otherwise participate in the closing of
the luggage. Such a tag, in various embodiments, may include a
locking mechanism for attaching to the securing mechanism of the
luggage or may communicate with such a locking mechanism, and the
locking mechanism may include at least one locking element, such as
an actuator. The tag and/or associated locking mechanism may
include one or more data inputs to receive data from one or more
data sources associated or otherwise in communication with the
luggage, and may include one or more control outputs to output a
control signal to the at least one locking element or actuator. The
tag and/or associated locking element may include: at least one
wireless communication module for wireless data communication with
at least one external controller; a non-transient storage device
storing instructions; and a processor responsive to the
instructions. Such a processor may be configured for being
responsive to the instructions to: receive the data from the one or
more data inputs; generate the control signal for the one or more
control outputs; and generate wireless data communication for the
at least one wireless data communication module based on the data
from the one or more data sources and/or the control signal from
the one or more control outputs.
[0022] In some embodiments of the foregoing aspect, where the tag
and/or associated locking mechanism is attached to or is otherwise
in communication with a mobilized compartment for the storage of
goods, such as luggage, the luggage may include a bounded space,
such as a storage compartment, which storage compartment may be
configured for being opened and closed, and further may be
configured for being secured or otherwise locked in a closed and/or
opened configuration. Accordingly, such luggage may include
securing mechanism that in turn includes an engagement mechanism.
In such embodiments, the securing and/or locking mechanism may
include a locking element, such as an actuator, that is configured
to lock and/or unlock the engagement mechanism based on a control
signal received from or otherwise transmitted by a controller. In
some embodiments, such luggage may include at least one wheel and a
securing mechanism, which may be in addition to the aforementioned
securing mechanism, may include a wheel stop, where said actuator
may be configured to activate, e.g., lock and/or unlock, the wheel
stop based on a received control signal. In some embodiments, the
luggage includes an extendable and retractable handle and may
further include a securing mechanism wherein the securing mechanism
includes a handle lock, wherein the actuator is configured to
activate, e.g., lock and/or unlock the handle lock based on a
received control signal. Accordingly, in such embodiments, the at
least one wireless communication module is configured to receive an
external control signal from the at least one external controller,
and the actuator of the locking mechanism of the tag and/or
associated locking mechanism is responsive to the external control
signal.
[0023] In some embodiments, the one or more data sources associated
with the compartmented containment device, e.g., luggage, may
include one or more environmental sensors. In some embodiments, the
one or more environmental sensors may include one or more of a
temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a moisture sensor, a light
sensor, a velocity sensor, a movement sensor, an accelerometer, a
directionality sensor, a pressure sensor, a camera, a microphone, a
speaker, and other sensors capable of generating data, e.g.,
electronic data, and communicating the same to a controller.
Accordingly, in some embodiments, the wireless data communication
by the at least one wireless data communication module includes a
notification representing a change in state of data from the one or
more data sources. In some embodiments, the notification includes
an alert formatted for the at least one external controller and/or
an alert formatted for an associated tag and/or associated locking
mechanism. In some embodiments, such a tag and/or locking mechanism
may include a housing to house at least part of the one or more
data inputs, at least part of the one or more control outputs, the
at least one wireless communication module, the non-transient
storage device storing instructions, and the processor.
[0024] In yet another aspect, an apparatus is provided for
communicating with at least one external controller to control a
personal effect, such as luggage, the personal effect being
configured for associating with a securing mechanism, which
securing mechanism functions to secure the personal effect in a
given state and/or configuration. The apparatus may include an
input device that receives status data from one or more data
sources associated with the personal effect, and a wireless
communication device that communicates the status data with an
external controller. The wireless communication device may be
configured to receive and/or transmit one or more instruction
signals from or to, respectively, the external controller. The
apparatus may also include a processing device that receives and
processes the status data from the input device, and may further
generate a control signal for controlling one or more control or
secure features associated with the personal effects, such as a
securing mechanism of luggage, the control signal being based on
the status data from the one or more data sources and/or
instruction signals received from the external controller. The
apparatus may also include an output device that outputs a signal
such as in response to data obtained from one or more data
generating sensors and/or in response to the control signal,
received from the controller, which output signal may be employed
to communicate with an associated securing and/or locking mechanism
such as to control the securing mechanism of the personal effect in
a given state and/or configuration.
[0025] In some embodiments of the foregoing aspect, the securing
mechanism includes or is otherwise in communication with a locking
mechanism having a locked and an unlocked state, the unlocked state
and the locked state of the locking mechanism being actuated in
response to a control signal received from an output device, such
as an output device associated with an external controller and/or
tag, as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, such as where the
personal effect includes a lockable compartment, and the locking
mechanism may be connected with the bounding members of the
compartment to secure the compartment in the closed or opened
locked state, and to further allow access to the compartment in the
unlocked state.
[0026] Further, in some embodiments of the foregoing aspect where a
data source is included, the one or more data sources associated
with the personal effect may include a geolocation data source. In
some embodiments, the one or more data sources associated with the
personal effect may include one or more environmental sensors. In
some embodiments, the one or more environmental sensors may include
one or more of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a moisture
sensor, a light sensor, a velocity sensor, a movement sensor, an
accelerometer, a directionality sensor, a pressure sensor, a
camera, a microphone, a speaker, and other sensor capable of
generating data, e.g., electronic data, and communicating the same
to an output device and/or a controller. In some embodiments, a
wireless data communication module may further be included wherein
the module is configured for communicating wireless data, such as
data generated by such an environmental sensor, to a controller
wherein the wireless data communicated by the at least one wireless
data communication module may include a notification representing a
change in state of data from the one or more data sources. In some
embodiments, the notification may provoke an alert formatted for
the at least one external controller. In some embodiments, the
alert is related to a geographical position or environmental status
of the personal effect.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 shows a schematic of an exemplary location and status
monitoring tag.
[0028] FIG. 2 shows a schematic of an exemplary location and status
monitoring lock.
[0029] FIG. 3 shows a schematic of an exemplary location and status
monitoring luggage.
[0030] FIG. 4 shows an exemplary diagram of implementation of one
or more location and status monitoring tags.
[0031] FIG. 5 shows an exemplary diagram of implementation of one
or more location and status monitoring locks.
[0032] FIG. 6 shows an exemplary diagram of implementation of a
location and status monitoring luggage.
[0033] FIG. 7 shows an exemplary interaction between a location and
status monitoring tag, lock, or luggage, a controlling device, and
an external signal source.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0034] The ability to keep track of personal effects utilizing a
readily available device, such as for example home or laptop
computer or a small handheld electronic device, for instance, a
mobile computing device, such as a tablet computer or mobile smart
phone, or the like, can be desirable for modulating, tracking,
and/or controlling the personal effect thereby easing the mind of a
person responsible for the personal effect. Current location and
status monitoring systems are often cumbersome, not capable of
being handheld, and can typically require a unique monitoring
device for each type of personal effect and/or environmental status
thereof, and may actually discourage users from fully utilizing
such a system once implemented.
[0035] Implementations of the current subject matter can include
one or more features relating to location and status monitoring
devices, systems, methods, and the like for modulating, controlling
and/or tracking the location and/or status of at least one personal
effect. The current subject matter is primarily described herein in
the context of personal effects such as luggage. However, it should
be appreciated that the current subject matter can be used in a
simpler configuration, such as with a location and/or status
monitoring tag or lock. The current subject matter can, in some
implementations, be realized as one or more location and/or status
monitoring devices that communicate with one or more controlling
devices, such as home or mobile computing devices, to allow a user
to have knowledge of the whereabouts and condition of one or more
personal effects.
[0036] When a user has a personal effect that is to be monitored,
tracked, and/or controlled, it can be desirable for the user to
know, or to be able to find out with minimal effort, one or more of
where the personal effect is, what state it is in, how it is being
or has been handled or treated, and the like. As an illustrative
example, when traveling, a user might like to know when luggage or
another personal effect leaves his or her vicinity prior to
checking-in or stowing the items. The user might also like to know
what is happening or what has happened to the personal effect when
it is out of his or her sight, such as whether or not it is opened
or unlocked, dropped, placed under something heavy, exposed to
extreme temperatures, ultraviolet light, exposed to moisture, and
the like.
Tags for Monitoring Personal Effects
[0037] In accordance with the above, in one aspect, a location,
control, and/or monitoring device may be provided wherein the
location, control, and/or status monitoring device may be
configured as a tag that attaches or affixes to a personal effect.
A suitable tag may be fabricated from any suitable material such as
a plastic, a metal, a ceramic, a cloth, a natural plant-based
material, a composite material, or any combination thereof. A
natural plant-based material may be bamboo, wood, resin, or the
like. A composite material may include glass reinforced polymer
composites, carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites,
polyimide-fiber reinforced polymer composites, metal reinforced
ceramic composites (cermets), and the like. In certain embodiments,
the tag may be fabricated from metal, such as aluminum, steel,
copper, bronze, silver, gold, platinum, a combination thereof and
the like; or a rigid or semi-rigid plastic, such as a thermoplastic
elastomer, polypropylene, PVC, polycarbonate; or a rubber in
accordance with fabrication processes well known in the art such as
machining, welding, casting, molding, and the like. Accordingly,
such a tag may be formed using one or more of heat or chemical
welding, die casting, injection molding, sewing, riveting, vacuum
molding, spin coating, hand lay-up, mechanical or electronic
machining, and the like. In some implementations, a tag may be of
any suitable shape and of any suitable size dependent on the shape
and size of the personal effect to be monitored, modulated,
tracked, and/or controlled. For instance, a suitable tag may be
circular, tubular, conical, triangular, pyramidal, square,
rectangular, a cube, etc. Further, the dimensions may be of any
suitable extension. Such as having a length from about 1 or 2 feet
or about 5 feet or more, to about 1 or 2 cm or less, including
about 10 or 8 inches to about 5 to 10 centimeters, such as from
about 6 or 4 inches to about 1 or 2 inches or the like. Such as
having a width from about 1 or 2 feet or about 5 feet or more, to
about 1 or 2 cm or less, including about 10 or 8 inches to about 5
to 10 centimeters, such as from about 6 or 4 inches to about 1 or 2
inches or the like. Such as having a thickness from about 10 or 12
inches or about 15 inches or more, to about 1 or 2 mm or less,
including about 8 or 6 inches to about 5 to 8 mm, such as from
about 4 or 3 inches to about 2 or 1 inches, including about 2 cm to
about 1 cm or less. For example, in one instance, a suitable tag,
such as for use with a personal effect such as luggage, may have
the following exemplary dimensions 3 or 4 cm by 3 or 4 cm square
(or rectangular). In some implementations, a suitable tag may be
larger than or equal to a 3 cm by 3 cm square. In some
implementations, a tag may be smaller than a 3 cm by 3 cm
square.
[0038] A user may wish to use a tag when tracking, controlling and
monitoring a transportable compartmented article, such as a piece
of luggage, and in some embodiments a user may wish to use a tag
when tracking and monitoring a person, such as a child, in a
crowded or unconfined area, such as park. Such a tag may be worn as
a bracelet or necklace, or be attached to a piece of clothing. A
tag may also be attached to a pet collar for tracking or monitoring
an animal such as a pet. A tag may be attached to a housing or a
container for electronics, such as an electronic device, for
example a camera or laptop or tablet computer or a mobile computing
device. In addition, a tag may be used with a purse, a school bag,
athletic equipment while at a competition, or the like. In some
embodiments, a tag may be affixed to a personal effect by any
suitable attachment mechanism or combination of mechanisms known to
those of skill in the art. Exemplary mechanisms of attachment
include, but are not limited to: an adhesive, such as a sticky
backing; a magnet, or an attachment component, such as a loop,
clip, ring, tether, leash, or hook and loop fabric (e.g.
Velcro.TM.)
[0039] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram representing one
implementation of a location and status monitoring and/or
controlling device that is configured as a tag 100. The tag 100
includes a tag body 105. The tag body 105 can include visible
identifying information regarding the personal effect associated
with it and/or its ownership and can optionally include some or all
of such information encoded as data that can be read optically
(e.g. in the form of a bar code or QR code or the like) or as data
in a machine-readable memory that can be exchanged with a
compatible device via one or more wireless or wired communication
modes. The tag 100 can be attached to a personal effect through an
attachment component 110. The attachment component 110 may
optionally include one or more of a ring, a strap, a belt, a loop,
a band, a cable, an adhesive, or the like, or any combination
thereof. Those having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate
other attachment schemes. The tag body can also include a location
assessment component 115 and a signaling component 120 for
providing information regarding the article to a controlling
device, and a memory 125 for recording a status detected by the tag
10. The tag may additionally include features that signal an alarm
and/or a visual feature such as a feature that lights up in one or
more colors and/or in one or more sequences thereof in accordance
with a random or predetermined pattern, such as when the tag comes
into or goes out of the proximity of a controller device.
Lock for Monitoring and Protecting Personal Effects
[0040] The location, control, and/or status monitoring device may
also be a lock that attaches to a personal effect. A lock may be a
variation of a pad lock, such as a pad lock that unlocks using a
combination or a key, but with additional components including a
memory, a location assessment component, and a signaling component,
as described in greater detail below. A lock may include a disk and
tumbler for unlocking the lock. Alternatively, the lock may include
rotating segments which, when aligned in a specific order, unlock
the lock. Such combination locks may use alpha-numeric
combinations, numeric combinations, or symbols as a combination. In
certain instances, the lock may be an electronic, conductive,
inductive, and/or magnetic lock. A lock may be fabricated from a
metal, a plastic, a ceramic, a composite, or any combination
thereof. A user may wish to use a location, controlling, and/or
status monitoring device that is a lock when the personal effect,
or item, has a means to be closed which can be secured with a lock,
such as a purse or money box, or when two or more items need to be
coupled together in a locked position. In other instances, a
locking location, controlling, and/or status device is desirable in
order to aid in preventing removal of the location and status
device from the item, regardless of whether the item is locked
closed by the device.
[0041] FIG. 2 is a schematic showing one implementation of a
location, controlling, and/or status monitoring device implemented
to include a locking mechanism. The location, controlling, and
status monitoring device 200, has a lock body 205 that is attached
to a personal effect through an attachment component 110. In FIG.
2, the attachment component 110 is shown as a loop or partial ring.
The lock body 205 can include visible identifying information
regarding the personal effect associated with the lock, such as
luggage or the like, or information about the lock itself and can
optionally include some or all of such information encoded as data
that can be read optically (e.g. in the form of a bar code or QR
code or the like) or as data stored in the memory or in another
machine-readable memory that can be exchanged with a compatible
device via one or more wireless or wired communication modes. The
lock body 205 further includes a location assessment component 115,
a signaling component 120 for providing information regarding the
article to a controlling device, and a memory 225 for recording the
locked/unlocked status switching of the locking mechanism. The tag
may additionally include features that signal an alarm and/or a
visual feature such as a feature that lights up in one or more
colors and/or in one or more sequences thereof in accordance with a
random or predetermined pattern, such as when the tag comes into or
goes out of the proximity of a controlling device.
Luggage for Monitoring Personal Effects
[0042] In various aspects, the location, controlling, and status
monitoring device may be included with a piece or pieces of luggage
that surrounds a personal effect or which is itself the personal
effect. The luggage may include one or more pieces of luggage, and
may include a trunk, a valise, a suitcase, a hat box, a steamer
box, an electronics case, a duffle bag, an overnight bag, a purse,
a tote bag, a garment bag, a knapsack, a rucksack, a backpack, a
briefcase, an attachecase, a sporting goods bag, a cooler, a lunch
box, a jewelry case, a toiletries case, a gym bag, a pet crate, a
sporting goods bag, or the like. The sporting goods bag may include
a golf bag, a surfboard case, a bowling bag, a tennis racket bag,
or the like. Many materials may be used to fabricate the luggage.
Materials used to fabricate luggage may include a textile, a
polymer, a metal, a plastic, a composite, a fabric, a foam, a
rubber, a ceramic, a natural plant-based material, or any
combination thereof. A natural plant-based material may be bamboo,
wood, resin, or the like. A composite material may include glass
reinforced polymer composites, carbon fiber reinforced polymer
composites, polyimide-fiber reinforced polymer composites, metal
reinforced ceramic composites (cermets), and the like. Such
materials may include a framework material, such as that composed
of a metal frame or plastic frame, such as a steel or aluminum or
polycarbonate or PVC or polypropylene frame, which frame may
further be associated with a covering such as a material covering
such as canvas, or other woven material and the like. A user may
wish to use the luggage to track and monitor a personal effect when
the item to track is unwieldy or difficult to attach a tag to, such
as a bowling ball. Also, a user may wish to use the luggage for
tracking and monitoring many smaller items together, such as
clothes, papers, or jewelry. The luggage is also useful for
tracking and monitoring items that need to be protected in travel,
such as cameras or other electronic equipment. In some
implementations, the device is built into the luggage itself, e.g.
integrated into the walls, wheels, or handles of such luggage. In
other implementations, the device may be a modular device that can
be removably attached to the luggage.
[0043] FIG. 3 is a schematic showing an implementation of a
location and status monitoring device as a suitcase or luggage. The
luggage 300 has a luggage body 305. A user may pull the luggage 300
by a handle 310 that is attached to the luggage body 305. The
luggage body 305, the handle 310, or some other part of the luggage
can include a location assessment component 115, a sensing and/or
signaling component 120 for providing information regarding the
article to a controlling device, and a memory 225 for recording the
locked/unlocked status switching of the locking mechanism and/or
any other status information gathered by additional features or
sensors. Wheels 335 are attached to the luggage body 305 and may be
used both as a way to aid or impede movement of the luggage 300 and
to recharge a rechargeable battery.
Controlling Device
[0044] Implementations of location, control, and status monitoring
devices consistent with the subject matter described herein can
optionally communicate with a controlling device and possibly one
or more other location, control, and status monitoring devices to
alert a user to the location of the location, control, and status
monitoring device. The controlling device can optionally be a
standalone, dedicated device such as a device solely or at least
primarily dedicated to communicating with and/or controlling the
location, control, and status monitoring devices; or the control
device may be a general purpose communication device (e.g. a home
or portable computing device, such as a smartphone, a tablet
computer, a laptop computer, a mini-tablet device, or the like).
The controlling device may be a single device or the user may
switch between two or more controlling devices. In some
implementations, features and functions described elsewhere herein
as part of a controlling device can be provided by one of a
plurality of devices associated with multiple personal effects. For
example, the personal effects disclosed herein, e.g., tags, locks,
luggage, etc. can optionally include a processor and communications
hardware that can permit the personal effect to communicate with,
and in some embodiments to act as, the controlling device.
Detection of Location and Proximity by Tags, Locks, and Luggage
[0045] In some examples, a user may require location data, or
proximity information, and/or status data regarding his or her
personal effect(s). The user may wish to know if the personal
effect is at a certain location, or within a certain radius of a
controlling device that is synced or otherwise linked via one or
more wireless communication protocols to a location monitoring
device associated with the personal effect, and/or to know the
status of one or more conditions of the personal effect, as
described in greater detail below. In certain of such examples, the
controlling device may, e.g., on a pre-determined schedule or
intermittently, be programmed to expect a wireless communication
signal from the location and/or status monitoring device that is
associated with a personal effect and in potential communication
with the control device. Consistent with the present disclosure,
the controlling device and/or location and/or status monitoring
device may emit an alarm or warning if such a signal is present
after a period of being absent, or absent after a period of being
present. Additionally, the controlling device and/or location
monitoring device may emit a signal, such as a visual indication or
vibratory warning when such a wireless communication signal from
the location and/or status monitoring device is detected, after a
period of absence, or not detected, after a period of presence. The
wireless communication signal may be arbitrarily received or may be
received in response to a communication sent to the controlling
device. The communications may use one or more communication
protocols such as variants described in the IEEE 802 standard, or
proprietary wireless communication techniques. For example, the
controlling device and location monitoring device may use variants
and/or combinations of wireless communications signals, such as
Bluetooth.RTM., ANT, Wi-Fi, cellular data (e.g., LTE), etc.
[0046] In some implementations, the controlling device may instead
locate the location monitoring device using longer-distance
wireless communication schemes, by comparing absolute locations of
the controlling device and the location monitoring device. Absolute
or near absolute location data may be obtained or derived by
detecting and analyzing signals from a Global Navigation Satellite
System (GNSS), such as the Global Positioning System (GPS). Signals
from other known-location transmitters, for example cell phone
signal towers, may be used in place of, or to augment GNSS signals.
In some implementations, the controlling device may transmit to
and/or receive location information from the location/status
monitoring device by use of wireless data networks, such as Wi-Fi,
or cellular data networks, or wireless direct communications. Such
wireless communications over a network may utilize dynamically
assignable addresses such as one or more of those used in TCP/IP
protocols, the controlling device may use IP and/or typically
more-persistent and device-specific MAC addresses for direct
controller-to-location/status device communication, or for network
communication via a routing device. The signal strength of a radio
signal communicated between the controlling device and the location
and status monitoring device may also be used to determine the
distance between the luggage and the controlling device.
[0047] Determining the geolocation of the location and status
monitoring device may be aided with the addition of a magnetic
compass or magnetometer that detects changes in direction of the
monitoring device, which components may be part of the controller
and/or status monitoring device, e.g., the tag, lock, and/or
luggage. Determining the location of the location/status monitoring
device may be accomplished using the location/status device itself,
which can house a power source, such as a battery, and a circuit
board with a processor. Alternatively, the device may transmit the
location data to the controlling device, and the controlling device
can analyze the location data to determine the location of the
location/status monitoring device. In another implementation, the
location data collected by the monitoring device may be stored on
the device, and then accessed at a later time for analysis to
determine locations of the monitoring device over time. Preferably,
the monitoring and/or status, and/or controlling device can
determine and/or store the date and time and/or condition of the
device when location data is collected.
[0048] The controlling device may also utilize a known location of
the location and status monitoring device, compare this known
location to its own known location, and issue a warning or emit an
alarm when the location and status device is farther away from the
controlling device than a predetermined threshold distance or is
within a predetermined proximity of the controlling device. The
location, control, and status device, such as a tag, a lock, or
luggage, etc., may issue a warning or emit an alarm or other signal
when the location, control, and status device is farther away from
the controlling device than a predetermined threshold distance or
is within a predetermined proximity of the controlling device, such
as an electronic device such as a mobile computing device, tablet
computer, or mobile phone. For instance, a location, control, and
status device, such as a tag, lock, or luggage may be configured
for lighting up when it approaches a user holding the controlling
device, and/or vice versa, i.e., the control device may be
configured for lighting up, vibrating, sounding an alarm or
otherwise signaling when the location, control, and/or status
monitoring device approaches the controller. An alarm can include,
but is not limited to, an audio alarm, a visual alarm, a vibratory
alarm, a haptic signal, a message sent to another device, or any
combination thereof.
[0049] Besides being notified of the proximity or distance between
the controlling device and the location, control, and status
device, a user may wish to actively track the movement of the
location, control, and status device in real-time. The controlling
device may have the ability to actively track the location of the
location, control, and status device, such as on a map of the area
surrounding a user or the area surrounding the
location/control/status monitoring device. The controlling device
may alternatively have the ability to actively track the location
of the location, control, and status device such as by indicating
the time and the distance between the user and location, control,
and status device on a chart or table. Such active tracking may be
accomplished via a dedicated software application on the
controlling device and/or tracking device, a software application
running on remote server, or via a website.
[0050] In some implementations, the location, control, and status
monitoring device may communicate directly or indirectly with a
server via a private or public network (e.g., the Internet). For
example, an airport or airline, shopping mall, town, or city may
provide communication nodes or relays at strategic locations for
collecting information about/from a location and status monitoring
device. The node/relay may detect a location, control, and status
monitoring device and report such detection to a computer server.
In some instances the node or relay may obtain information
specifically identifying the location status monitoring device,
along with its status. A location of the location and status
monitoring device may be derived with respect to proximity of the
node/relay, or may be reported from the location and status
monitoring device to the node/relay. The identifying information
may be recorded at the node/relay for future use, or may be
forwarded to a computer server for any of several purposes.
[0051] For example, location and/or status information obtained by
the node/relay may permit statistical evaluation of tag, lock,
baggage location and status to aid an airport, airline, travel
security agency or the like in addressing inefficiencies,
evaluating location or status history, e.g., for a suspicious bag,
or the like. Such a system may be employed by towns and/or cities
to monitor locations and/or status of other personal effects
including animals and/or persons. Moreover, specific obtained
location, control, and/or status information may be presented on an
access-controlled website for access by an enrolled private owner
of the location, control, and status monitoring device. In certain
instances, the provider of the information may require a user to
subscribe to a service in order to access the information. This
service may be offered for valuable consideration. All, or a part
of collected location, control, and/or status information for one
or more location and status monitoring devices may be made
available, in various levels of specificity and/or aggregation for
purchase by third parties. A software application executed by the
controlling device may provide a user interface that can display
information from or about location, control, and/or status
monitoring device(s). The interface may further provide input
portions that permit the user to enter information and/or
commands.
[0052] Such a software application may be in the form of a "mobile
app" for use on or execution by a mobile smartphone or dedicated
device or processor thereof, or may be in the form of a software
application for execution in a conventional personal computer
(e.g., desktop or laptop or tablet) or enterprise computer system.
In any case, the application's display features may include input
mechanisms including mechanical or virtual: buttons, sliders,
switches, text inputs, menu selections, and the like for entering
data or changing settings. Accordingly, input mechanisms may
include physical or virtual inputs such as keys, buttons, sliders,
switches, etc. Moreover, the software application may utilize
sensors provided in the controlling device itself and/or the
monitoring and/or status device, including, but not limited to
attitude, altitude, barometric and/or temperature sensors,
accelerometers, gyroscopes, light sensors, user proximity sensors,
microphones, speakers, etc. The display may present information
textually and/or graphically. Graphics may include use of
geographic maps, graphs, arrows, contour maps, level meters or
charts, dials, gauges, and the like, or combinations thereof. Those
having ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of
approaches, not limited to the above-described, for presenting a
user with a view of data and/or means to interact with the software
application for control of a location, control, and status
monitoring device or data associated therewith.
[0053] For example, an exemplary software application may present a
user with a one or more menus or screens configured at least for
permitting viewing and/or selection of user preferences or
settings, for viewing data received from or related to one or more
location and status monitoring devices, and for controlling
functions and/or determining the status of the location, control,
and/or status monitoring device(s). The application may include
communication settings such as for pairing/bonding a location and
status monitoring device with a relay and/or controlling device
(e.g., the device executing the software application). In addition
to such control and presentation of wireless (or wired)
"handshaking", communication features may include transmission of
commands and settings, receipt of sensor data or historical data,
alarm/warning notifications (e.g., at loss or attainment of
proximity), etc. In one example the communication features may
permit a user to select among multiple available signals for use in
calculating a location of a location and status monitoring device.
Additionally, the user may be presented with a list of typical use
scenarios that correspond to a particular set of available signals.
For example, the user might select from among "air travel", "child
tracker", and/or "proximity" settings, where an "air travel"
setting selection may permit utilization of signals typical of an
airport (e.g., various radar, cellular, and/or other signals). In
contrast, selecting a "child tracker" setting may utilize GPS
and/or cellular signals more typically available for outdoor use,
while selecting a "proximity" setting may use only a
device-specific type of communication (e.g., Bluetooth.RTM. Smart).
Such communication modalities may also be useful in determining the
status of or otherwise controlling the tracking, controlling,
and/or status determining device.
[0054] For display settings a user may, in certain software
application implementations, select from among color schemes, graph
types, data types for display, analysis types for calculation and
display, percentage vs. absolute amounts, etc. The software
application may present options for whether, and in what way, to
display certain information. For example, the settings may permit
overlap of certain data (e.g., location and proximity) for
presentation in a single screen, or may permit selection of the
type and number of screens that a user may scroll through, each
screen presenting different data, or a different view of data.
[0055] Moreover, the communication features of the software
application may permit a user to interact with a third-party server
or website in order to view sensor data, comparative data (e.g.,
with other users, similar items, similar locations or destinations,
etc.). Communications with a third party may include a subscription
component permitting the user of the software application to
initiate and maintain a subscription to third party services. That
is, a party other than the software application user may provide
subscription services for which the user may enroll. The
communication features of the software application may directly or
indirectly provide the user with a way to securely transmit
personal and/or financial information for such subscription.
[0056] The communication features of the software application may
also permit a user to detect changes in the geolocation or status
of a location and status device in tags, locks, or luggage in
real-time. In some implementations, the software includes a feature
that allows the user to select whether updates from a location and
status device are transmitted in real-time or on a scheduled or
random basis.
[0057] The software application may be used to manage features of a
controlling device that utilizes a non-graphical information
display, which may include various light emitting devices (e.g.
LEDs), speakers, vibratory elements, and the like configured to
provide appropriate information to a user. For example, the
software application may control use of dedicated arrows or
meter-bars to indicate direction and/or proximity of a location and
status monitoring device. The software application may manage
operation of an audio component for producing sound in response to
particular events. As noted elsewhere in this disclosure, sounds
and/or visual and/or vibratory notification signals may be
generated and emitted from the controlling device and/or from a
location and status monitoring device. The software application
executed by the controlling device may cause the controlling device
to emit sounds/visual/vibratory notifications, or may transmit a
command or other notification-causing data to the location and
status monitoring device for emission of such notifications by the
location, control, and/or status monitoring device. That is, in
some implementations the software application may cause
transmission of a command to the location, control, and/or status
monitoring device to emit a sound/visual/vibratory notification in
which the sound/notification content is previously stored at the
location and status monitoring device. On the other hand, the
software application may cause the controlling device to transmit
sound/notification content data to the location and status
monitoring device such that the location and status monitoring
device may emit the notification transmitted. In this way, the
sound/visual/tactile notification for a particular location and
status monitoring device may be customized according to user
preference or circumstance.
[0058] In implementations in which the controlling device includes
a graphical display, the display may be integrated with a touch
screen or may be distinct from user input mechanisms. The graphical
display may be controlled to present any combination of at least
location, proximity/direction, status, maps, etc. Location may be
presented at least as a description and/or as a map showing
geographic location. The location may appear as a predetermined
identifier on a map. For example, a graphical representation of the
personal effect (e.g., tag, lock, luggage piece) may appear on a
map to help distinguish and identify the personal effect for visual
confirmation of location. When multiple personal effects are
monitored, each personal effect may appear separately in the
graphical representation.
[0059] Proximity/direction may be presented by showing both the
user and the proximate device (e.g., location, control, and status
monitoring device) on a map, by providing a textual description,
and/or a graphic representation of distance. For example, the
proximity may be presented as a distance (e.g., "20 ft"), as a
level meter, and/or as a color-coded indicator (e.g., red=near,
blue=distant). Direction may be indicated via a map, or by
direction indicators (e.g., arrows) showing where the user may go
to get closer to the location and status monitoring device(s). In
implementations having multiple location and status monitoring
devices the proximity and direction indicators may include
identifiers for each location and status monitoring device. For
example, an arrow tagged with a preset or user-selected identifier
may point in the direction of a particular personal effect. The
size, shape, and or color of the arrow may provide information
regarding distance to the personal effect. Multiple personal
effects (e.g., a plurality of luggage pieces) may have
corresponding identifiers.
[0060] The software application may include a "library" of personal
effects from which a user may select to monitor location and/or
status. For example, a user may, according to circumstance, choose
to monitor one or several luggage piece(s) being used for a
particular trip. In another circumstance, the user may choose to
monitor a location and status monitoring device associated with a
different item, person, or pet. This permits the user to monitor
the location and status of the personal effect, e.g., luggage, a
pet, etc., having a location, control, and status monitoring device
during one portion of a trip, and to monitor the location and
status of a location and status monitoring device associated with
another personal effect, e.g., a pet, during a different part of
the trip. The user may further have the option of concurrently
displaying information for all or a subset of monitored location
and status monitoring devices. In yet other implementations, the
user may be able to query a specified number of personal effects
from the library and confirm that all selected personal effects are
within a specified range of the controlling device or within a
specified range of a geolocation and/or within a specified
predetermined status, etc.
[0061] The software application may include a screen that presents
location and/or status in a historical manner. For example, the
application may cause display of past and present locations over
time, thus providing a route of the monitored location and status
monitoring device. Similarly, historical information may include
status over time. For example, presenting the number of times that
a lock associated with a location and status monitoring device has
been opened may further present, for example, a list or map of
locations and/or times at which the openings took place. In
location and status monitoring device implementations having an
associated image capture device, a list or map showing historic
openings may selectably permit display of a photo or video captured
during one or more of such openings. Moreover, historic data may
include any combination of information collected over time. Thus,
the historic data may include any combination of data collected
over time, including at least location, proximity, altitude,
pressure, battery level, etc. The historic data may be presented in
any (or any combination) of graphs, charts, maps, color contours,
lists, text descriptions, tactile presentations, vibrations,
braille, audio descriptions or notifications, etc. Those having
skill in the art will recognize that patterns and trends in data
may be analyzed and presented for further consideration.
[0062] The software application may also include a feature that
communicates with a processor of a location and status monitoring
device to update software or firmware stored in the location,
control, and status monitoring device. For example, the software
application may update firmware periodically, or in response to a
user command. Firmware updating may include obtaining, e.g., by
download, an updated firmware version, determining a
software/firmware version currently in a location and status
monitoring device, transmitting the update firmware if the firmware
version is different from the obtained firmware version, and
causing the location and status monitoring device to use the
transmitted firmware version. The location and status monitoring
device may be updated wirelessly or may in some implementations be
configured for wired connection. Such wired connection may also be
used for download of data to a computer and/or for charging a
battery of the location and status monitoring device.
[0063] The software application may also be configured to monitor a
software repository for an update version of the software
application. Upon detecting an update version, the software
application may prompt a user to update the software.
Alternatively, the software application may be configured to
receive a notification of update version, the notification being
pushed from a software repository when an update version is
available.
[0064] In some implementations, the predetermined threshold
distance between the location, control, and status monitoring
device and the control device may be about 3 meters or less, about
2 meters or less, or even about 1 meter or less, such as about 1 or
2 feet or less. In other implementations, the predetermined
threshold distance can be about 10 meters or more or less. In still
other implementations, the predetermined threshold distance can be
about 50 or about 40 or about 30 or about 20 or about 15 meters or
more or less. In some implementations, a user-configurable
threshold distance can be set by the user through a user interface,
or other input device, associated with, or otherwise in
communication with, the controlling device. As an example, a
controlling device can include one or more of software-based (e.g.
a touch screen, a voice activated control, a keyboard, a trackball,
a mouse, a stylus, or the like) and hardware based (e.g. physical
buttons or switches, etc.) controls that can allow variation of the
user-configurable threshold distance. Such controls can allow a
user to configure the user-configurable threshold distance directly
in terms of a distance or indirectly in terms of some other
criteria (e.g. by providing choices based on factors that can
include, but are not limited to, the importance of the personal
effect, security of the area in which the personal effect is
located, a desired level of caution, or the like), which correlate
to an actual threshold distance. In some implementations, the
threshold distance can be based upon the available communications
technology (e.g., a functional range over which a reliable wireless
communication link can be achieved between the controller and the
personal effect), the importance of the personal effect to which
the location and status monitoring device is attached, or the
like.
[0065] In yet other implementations, the threshold distance can be
based in part on the environment around the personal effect, for
example, a location of the personal effect such as luggage within a
baggage claim area of an airport or relative to a particular
baggage claim carousel or conveyance machine. In some
implementations, a triggering device at a particular location of a
baggage claim carousel can trigger the tag on the luggage to cause
transmission of a signal to notify a user of the luggage's present
location and/or impending arrival. Circuitry such as an RFID or
barcode scanner at a known location in the luggage's path (e.g.,
baggage handling pathway) may scan or detect the tag, causing a
signal to be sent to its owner. Depending on implementation, the
signal may be sent from the scanning device or from the tag
directly to a user's controlling device or to an
enrollee-accessible webpage, e.g., on an airline website, that is
configured for such purpose.
[0066] In some examples, a user may wish to know a precise
geolocation of a personal effect. Consistent with one or more
implementations of the current subject matter, the controlling
device may receive data from a corresponding location and status
device indicating such location. In such cases, the location and
status monitoring device may employ location sensors, receivers, or
transceivers. Such location sensors can optionally include one or
more technologies such as a Global Navigation Satellite System
receiver (GNSS). Exemplary GNSS systems that enable accurate
geolocation can include the Global Positioning System (GPS) in the
United States, Globalnaya navigatsionnaya sputnikovaya sistema
(GLONASS) in Russia, Galileo in the European Union, and BeiDou
System (BDS) in China. Wireless signals from any signal emitter
having a known location may be received and used for calculating
location. Of particular use are signals that themselves include
location information or a unique identifier that can be indexed to
a known location. For example, alternatively or in addition to
navigation satellite information, location sensors consistent with
this disclosure can include radio frequency (RF) and/or microwave
power sensors, such as heat-based (thermistor or thermocouple power
sensors) or diode detector sensors. RF and microwave power sensors
can allow radio frequency triangulation with respect to
known-location transmitters such as cellular communication relay
locations (e.g. cell towers), or other devices with known
positions. Such signals, for non-limiting example, maybe based on
the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers' (IEEE)
802.11 standards (WiFi), IrDA (Infrared Data Association),
ZigBee.RTM. (communications based upon IEEE 802 standard for
personal area networks), Z-wave, wireless USB, or the like, and may
include an identifier such as a Media Access Control (MAC) and/or
Internet Protocol (IP) address of the transmitting device, or other
typically unique identifier.
[0067] Other exemplary RF and microwave signal sources that may be
used by a location/status monitoring device for determining
location or proximity include those used for aviation, such as
radar systems (e.g. high power radar or ground control radar for
aviation), VHF omnidirectional radio range (VOR) stations,
microwave landing systems (MLS), instrument landing systems (ILS),
automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B), and ground
control radios. RF signals from radio and television stations, as
well as wireless utility meters for electricity, gas, and water can
also be used. Depending on the type and strength of the RF or
microwave signal that is detected, one or more antennas may be
built into the luggage. In some implementations, the one or more
antennas can be provided on the exterior of the luggage or just
under the outer layer of the luggage; in certain implementations,
the one or more antennas form a decorative design on the exterior
of the luggage. For example, a location/status monitoring device
may receive signals from two or more transmitting devices, where
the signals include an identifier for the transmitter (e.g., Media
Access Control (MAC) address), from which an absolute location of
the transmitter can be determined by lookup. Analysis of the two or
more signals can then be performed to calculate a location of the
location/status monitoring device. In some such examples, a
location and status monitoring device may include a processing unit
that coordinates determination of the location of the device, such
as using RF fingerprinting of one or more RF signal generators. The
processing unit may also facilitate synchronization between a
location and status monitoring device and a controlling device.
[0068] RF fingerprinting of radio frequency or microwave signals
from an RF source can allow for more accurate triangulation by
accurately identifying RF or microwave emitting sources having
known locations by characteristics of those signals. In some
implementations, multiple sensors for multiple types of RF or
microwave signals can be used to identify and triangulate an
accurate location. Geolocation can be correlated with an RF
fingerprint of multiple RF or microwave sources, and known
correlations of RF fingerprints and geolocations can be stored in a
database. When RF or microwave signals from multiple sources are
received by sensors on luggage, the RF fingerprint can be
determined and compared with the database in order to determine the
geolocation of the luggage.
[0069] RF signal analysis for proximity may include measurement of
the received signal strength (or amplitude) of the radio signal. In
some implementations, proximity of location and status monitoring
device can be determined by reference to an object, such as another
location and status monitoring device or a controlling device. For
example, a Bluetooth.RTM. Smart signal from a location and status
monitoring device may be analyzed to detect an approximate distance
and direction from a controlling device. In another example,
proximity may be obtained using Doppler principles. That is, a
transceiver in the luggage may send a radio signal from the luggage
to an object having a known location. The radio signal is then
reflected from the object back to the transceiver. The returning RF
waveforms are detected by matched-filtering, and delay in the
return of the RF waveform is measured in order to determine
distance from the object. In still another non-limiting
implementation, a magnetic or electric field may be analyzed to
detect disturbances in the field caused by movement of a relatively
large dielectric object (such as a person or personal effect).
Sensors can passively (and thus at low power) detect changes in
spatial potential within the field and thus provide position,
movement, and direction within the field.
[0070] Geolocation can also be determined by using inertial sensors
(e.g. accelerometers and gyroscopes; see infra) either in addition
to, or in place of GNSS, RF fingerprinting, or other location
systems. If suitable RF or microwave signals are not available or
have insufficient strength for detection, information from inertial
sensors associated with the tag/lock/luggage disclosed herein can
be used to calculate relative location using dead reckoning with
respect to a previous location, or absolute location with respect
to a last-known absolute location. As known by those of ordinary
skill in the art, inertial sensor data on the current angular
velocity and the current linear acceleration of a piece of luggage
can be used to determine the angular velocity and inertial position
of a device having such sensors. In some implementations, inertial
sensors may be combined with a compass associated with the luggage
to increase accuracy of direction calculations.
[0071] A user may wish to link or associate multiple location and
status monitoring devices (e.g., multiple luggage pieces, pets,
persons) to the same controlling and/or monitoring device. A user
may additionally wish to link or associate multiple location and
status monitoring devices to each other. In such scenarios, the
user may designate one location and status monitoring device to be
a dominant device that communicates to the controlling device,
while the other location and status monitoring devices communicate
to the dominant device. Such linkages may be unidirectional or
bidirectional. An example of this would be the use of a location
and status monitoring piece of luggage designated by a user to be
the dominant device. The user could additionally have one or more
tags and/or one or more locks on additional personal effects. The
user may have synchronized the dominant device, e.g., the piece of
luggage, with the controlling device. The tags and/or locks
communicate their location and/or status information to the piece
of luggage, which in turn communicates this information along with
its own location and status to the controlling device. Such an
approach can allow use of lower power communication devices (e.g.
Bluetooth.RTM. Low Energy [BLE, a.k.a. Bluetooth.RTM. Smart], ANT+,
RFID, IrDA, Zigbee.RTM., etc.) on the location and status
monitoring devices other than the dominant device, which can
optionally include a higher power communication device such as a
cellular transceiver or WiFi transceiver for communication over
longer distances. In this manner, the dominant device can
communicate with the controller device over longer distances and
can communicate with the other location and status monitoring
devices associated with other personal effects over shorter
distances. In some implementations, a wireless mesh network may be
used to allow the monitoring devices to route data and signals
efficiently to and from the controlling or dominant device.
[0072] Synchronization or association of the controlling device
with a location and status monitoring device or between two or more
location and status monitoring devices may include an exchange of
electronic data. The exchange of electronic data may notify an
associated device (e.g., controlling device) of a unique identifier
for each of the other devices, or may provide a code shared in
common by all of the associated devices. A controlling device or
primary location and status monitoring device may use unique
identifiers to individually communicate with any or all of several
associated location and status monitoring devices, and may obtain
device-distinguishable data from each associated location and
status monitoring device. On the other hand, when all devices share
a common code for identification, the controlling device may treat
a group of location and status monitoring devices as a single unit.
In such implementations, a controlling device may learn of, e.g.,
proximity or location from any one of the associated location and
status monitoring devices. This may be useful and efficient in
instances where all of the associated location and status
monitoring devices are typically considered together, such as a
pallet or container of goods.
[0073] Implementations consistent with this disclosure may combine
the use of unique identifiers and common codes in order to make use
of the advantages of both schemes. A common code may alternatively
be used to uniquely secure communications between the controlling
device and location and status monitoring device(s). For example,
the common code/password/key/token may be used as a part of an
encryption scheme such as wireless access protocol (WAP), wired
equivalent privacy (WEP), Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA), variants
thereof, or other standard or proprietary security protocols
permitting secured communications. Such security protocols may
implement cryptography algorithms such as advanced encryption
standard (AES), data encryption standard (DES), RSA, and the like.
In addition, communications may implement compression algorithms
and/or hashing functions in order to reduce the amount of data
transferred and to ensure data integrity. The encryption schemes
may be implemented using dedicated circuitry and/or general purpose
processors, and may further utilize processors, magnetic and/or
solid state memory devices, electronic fobs, electronic dongles,
SIM cards and the like, or any combination thereof.
Environmental Sensors used with Tags, Locks, and Luggage
[0074] In addition to geolocation of luggage and/or a personal
effect using a location, control, and/or status monitoring device,
a variety of other physical and environmental conditions may be
detected using a location and status monitoring device in addition
to, or instead of, the geolocation of luggage and/or another
personal effect associated with a location/status monitoring
device. For example, environmental sensors such as thermometers,
hygrometers, and barometers may be included with the monitoring
device to measure changes in the temperature, humidity, or
atmospheric pressure, respectively, of the local environment. The
sensors may be integrated with or separate from the monitoring
device but in data communication with the location, control, and/or
status monitoring device. For instance, the sensors may be located
internal to the location, control, and/or status monitoring device,
e.g., tag, lock, or luggage or otherwise associated with a personal
effect being monitored, to detect changes inside or around the tag,
lock, or luggage or other personal effect.
[0075] Consistent with this disclosure, the location/control/status
monitoring device may detect changes in the composition of the air
or atmosphere surrounding or inside of the luggage or other
personal effect associated with the location/control/status
monitoring device. For example, the levels of oxygen, carbon
monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, methane, hydrogen sulfide, and
other gases may be detected using one or more chemical,
electrochemical, catalytic, or infrared sensors, which amounts may
be communicated to a suitably coupled control device. In addition,
microfluidic and/or micro-electro-mechanical (MEMS) devices can be
used to detect the presence of biological organisms or by-products
in the air, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other organisms,
as well as pollen or aerosolized protein for communication with
said linked control device. In certain implementations such sensors
may detect the presence of medicinal or recreational
pharmaceuticals in or near the location/control/status monitoring
device. A magnetometer can be used to sense increases or decreases
in magnetic field and thus the magnetometer's proximity to a
magnetic substance. In some implementations, radiation sensor and
dosimeters may also be used to detect changes in x-rays, alpha
particles, beta particles, and gamma particles.
[0076] Movement of luggage or other personal effects can also be
detected with a location and status monitoring device by
integrating or linking a variety of different inertial sensors. A
gyroscope and/or accelerometer may be used to detect changes in the
orientation and rate of movement in a given direction of luggage
and/or other personal effects associated with the location,
control, and/or status monitoring device. Such sensors can be used
to estimate approximate location from a known or estimated
geolocation, or can be used to determine relative proximity to
other location and status monitoring devices. In some
implementations, movement input data from gyroscopes and/or
accelerometers can be analyzed to determine the number of steps
that a person carrying the luggage or other personal effect has
taken over time, acting as a pedometer. Luggage or other such
conveyance implementations having wheels that allow for rolling
conveyance of the personal effect, e.g., luggage can have
mechanical or digital odometers that measure the rotation of the
wheels, allowing calculation of the distance that the wheels have
been used to convey the luggage.
[0077] Pressure sensors and/or strain gauges linked to the
location, control, and status monitoring device can be included in
luggage and/or personal effects to detect pressure and/or deformity
of luggage. Luggage or other containment vessels with a location,
control, and/or status monitoring device may further be able to
assess the weight of the personal effects, or items, within the
luggage. This can be accomplished using pressure plates or other
sensors in the base of the luggage, using strain gauges on the
handles or walls of the luggage, or the like. For example, if an
item is removed from the luggage and thus reduces pressure on the
pressure sensor, the pressure sensor can detect the change and
report the change to the status monitoring device using a wired or
wireless data connection, as described herein above. In another
example, one or more pressure sensors in the bottom of luggage can
detect whether the luggage has been picked up or set down and/or
dropped. In addition, or alternatively, a pressure sensor in the
handle(s) of the luggage can detect whether a person has touched
the handle and for how long. The luggage may also have fullness
sensors to indicate the degree to which the volume of the luggage
is occupied. Fullness sensors may be pressure based, deformation
based, motion based, sonic frequency based (e.g. device that sends
and receives ultrasonic signals to determine distance), or
optically based sensors (e.g. three-dimensional scanners).
Deformity or crushing of luggage may also be detected by pressure
sensors and/or strain gauges included in the surfaces of luggage;
such sensors and strain gauges may be used to determine if a
personal effect, such as luggage, has been dropped and/or the
magnitude of the impact from the drop.
[0078] In some implementations, one or more sensors are disposed on
at least one handle on the luggage or personal effect. When a
person touches the handle of the luggage, health and physiologic
data of the person may be measured, analyzed, and recorded.
Exemplary sensors may include an optical pulse oximeter (to
non-invasively measure oxygenation of the user's blood, as well as
heart rate and/or blood pressure), or an electrical heart rate
monitor that measures changes in electrical signals (such as an
R-wave, related to heart rate) from the skin of the hand.
[0079] In some implementations, an electrochemical sensor is
integrated with at least one handle of the luggage or personal
effect, or to a portion of the luggage or personal effect, such as
a lid. The electrochemical sensor may take in body fluids (e.g.
blood, saliva, perspiration, or tears) from a person handling the
luggage via capillary action into a microfluidic device, and
electrochemically detect one or more components of the secretion.
Alternatively, the electrochemical sensor may be integrated with a
woven or nonwoven material (e.g. textile or felt) or wearable
polymer (e.g. Gore-Tex.RTM. or neoprene). An electrochemical sensor
may detect the presence, absence, or amounts of biomarkers such as
cells, lipids, carbohydrates, mineral salts, trace metals, amino
acids, proteins, nucleic acids, dissolved gases, drugs or drug
metabolites, or other chemical compounds in the body fluids of the
person. The sensor may utilize polymerase chain reaction to amplify
nucleic acid components of the secretion. The sensor may include
nucleic acids (e.g. single stranded nucleic acids or aptamers),
proteins, or other compounds to detect specific analytes in the
secretions.
[0080] A microphone, speaker, and/or a camera can be integrated
with or linked to the location, control, and status monitoring
device to monitor sound and images inside the luggage, as well as
outside the luggage. The camera, speaker, and microphone can be
integrated into a lock or tag that is attached to the luggage or
can be integrated into the luggage itself. The microphone can
detect sounds in response to a change in the location or status of
the luggage, and either record the sounds for later retrieval or
transmit a data representation of the sounds to a controlling
device. Similarly, a camera on a lock or a camera integrated with
luggage can take still or moving images of the interior, exterior,
or immediate vicinity of the luggage in response to a change in
location or status, and either record the images for later
retrieval or transmit the images to a controlling device. A
photodetector can also be used in conjunction with a status
monitoring device to detect changes in light levels either inside
the luggage, or outside the luggage. In one example, the microphone
and/or photodetector positioned inside the luggage may be used to
detect when luggage has been opened by noting a change in loudness
or clarity of sounds, or by detecting a change in available light.
Suitable photodetectors include complementary
metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) active pixel sensors,
charge-coupled devices (CCD), chemical photo plates, photodiodes
(such as reverse-biased light emitting diodes), photoresistors,
photovoltaic cells, and the like.
[0081] A biometric scanner or sensor can also be integrated with
luggage or personal effect of the present technology, and linked
and/or integrated with the status monitoring device. A biometric
scanner, such as a fingerprint scanner, may be implemented to
capture biometric data using a variety of implementations,
including optical detection (using visible light or infrared
light), capacitance, or ultrasonic detection. Biometric features
detected by a scanner may include fingerprints, handprints, iris,
retina, blood vessel, or a face. Optical detection methods use a
form of light to illuminate a body part, and the light reflected
from the body part is detected and analyzed to image the body part.
For example, visible light can be projected onto a fingertip, and
light reflected back from the fingertip can be detected using a
charge-coupled device to image the fingerprint associated with that
finger. Alternatively, a finger, hand, or retina can be illuminated
with infrared light (700 nm to 1000 nm wavelength) in order to
detect blood vessels in the tissue, which are unique to a given
individual. Similarly, the iris of the eye can be imaged using
infrared light, visible light, or a combination of visible and near
infrared light. Ultrasonic imaging of fingerprints can be done with
piezoelectric transducers that produce high frequency sound waves
to penetrate the epidermis and are reflected by the dermis.
Piezoelectric transducers then detect the reflected sound waves and
the data are interpreted to image the fingerprint. Fingerprint
images can also be obtained using either passive or active
capacitance techniques. In passive capacitance, the dermis of a
finger acts as a capacitor plate, the epidermis is a dielectric,
and the sensor is a second capacitor plate (e.g. a silicon chip
with an array of capacitors). Differences in capacitance between
the valleys and ridges of a fingerprint allow imaging of the
fingerprint. In active capacitance, the sensor/capacitor plate is
charged, creating an electromagnetic field. The skin of the finger
interferes with the electromagnetic field to change the effective
capacitance, which is sensed and imaged.
[0082] In some implementations, a biometric sensor acts to analyze
the voice of a person (a speaker) and includes a microphone that
senses one or more voices. The biometric sensor may further include
circuitry to process data representing the one or more voices in
order to identify the person(s) speaking. Alternatively, the
microphone may relay the voice data to the status monitoring
device. The status monitoring device, or a computing device linked
to the monitoring device, can analyze a detected voice or voices
for unique features and compare those features or qualities to
those of one or more enrolled voices to determine if they match. In
some implementations, more than one biometric sensor is used with
the luggage, such as a speaker recognition system and a fingerprint
scanning system, to allow for multi-factor authentication of an
authorized user.
[0083] In some implementations of the present technology, the
luggage or personal effect includes an optical scanner that detects
data contained in one-dimensional data block (e.g. bar codes) or
two-dimensional data block, such as QR codes or periodic
self-clocking glyph shape codes (e.g. DataGlyphs.RTM. or
Microglyphs.RTM.). In some implementations, the luggage or personal
effects have a unique tag identifier that is encoded in a one-,
two-, or three-dimensional data block. For example, one-dimensional
data blocks, two-dimensional data blocks, or three-dimensional data
blocks may be included with the luggage or tag to allow
identification of the tag using an optical scanner configured to
detect the code.
Actuators & Outputs
[0084] In some instances, it is desirable for tags, locks, and
luggage of the present disclosure to have signal outputs that allow
a user to determine whether any environmental or interior changes
with the luggage have occurred. Signal outputs may include lights,
sounds, tactile, haptic signals, electrical discharge, visual
displays, scent emitters, or mechanical actuators.
[0085] For example, tags, locks, and luggage contemplated herein,
and/or the controlling device can include one or more lights (e.g.
light emitting diodes) that are activated in response to certain
threshold level of input data or to changes in relative levels of
input data. For example, one or more lights on the interior or
exterior of the tag, lock, or luggage may be activated if the
personal effect or luggage has come within or been moved away from
a specified distance, such as a specified distance in relation to
the controlling device. Multiple lights may be used that flash in a
specified or random sequence, e.g., sequence of colors or flashing
sequence, or the lights may modulate their intensity depending on
the proximity and/or environmental change sensed by the personal
effect, e.g., luggage. In some implementations, a bright light may
be activated to illuminate the interior or exterior of the luggage
in response to a specified input. Lights used with the luggage may
emit colored light (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo,
violet, etc.), white light, ultraviolet light, or infrared light.
In some implementations, the personal effect, e.g., luggage, can be
configured to turn on a sterilizing ultraviolet light on the
interior of the luggage (or proximate the exterior of a luggage
handle) in response to exposure to hazardous organisms, such as
bacteria.
[0086] Audible sound, ultrasonic, and subsonic frequency signals
can also be emitted from the tag, lock, or luggage, and/or
controlling device in response to a certain threshold level of
input data or to changes in relative levels of input data. For
example, one or more audible sounds, near ultrasonic frequencies,
ultrasonic frequencies, or subsonic frequencies may be emitted. The
one or more sound frequencies may vary in amplitude and duration.
Ultrasonic (higher than 20,000 Hz) or subsonic (lower than 20 Hz)
frequencies can, at sufficient amplitudes, be used to transmit
information inaudibly. In some implementations, the sound
frequencies emitted constitute an audible siren. In some
implementations, the sound frequency signal is near ultrasonic and
is emitted at an amplitude that causes discomfort to people in
close proximity. In some implementations, the sonic frequencies
emitted may be a representation or recording of a human voice, an
animal sound, such as a dog bark, or some other recorded sound.
Subsonic frequencies also can, at sufficient amplitude, be used to
cause discomfort in people in close proximity.
[0087] Tactile or haptic signals are another type of signal output
that can be created by the tag, lock, or luggage and/or controlling
devices of the instant technology in response to a predetermined
movement or change in the environment. The amplitude, timing, and
duration of the haptic signal can be varied to indicate to a user
the nature of the changed input. For example, a controlling device
can vibrate in response to a data signal from a monitoring device
when luggage or personal items associated with the monitoring
device is within a certain range of the controlling device.
Similarly, the luggage can be configured to send vibrations to the
handle or other specific portion of the luggage to alert a person
carrying the luggage that the controlling device is inside or
outside a predetermined area. The haptic signals can include
vibrations as well as direct electric discharge. Direct electric
discharge can be a low current discharge that is detected on the
skin, or a higher discharge that causes physical discomfort. Haptic
actuators can include, but are not limited to, vibrating motors,
electrically conductive surfaces coupled with a charge creator,
subsonic sound waves, electroactive polymers, piezoelectric
actuators, electrovibration actuators (e.g. indirect charge
actuators such as TeslaTouch.TM.) and the like.
[0088] Tags, locks, and luggage and/or controlling devices of the
present technology can also have a display to communicate to a user
that the luggage has experienced one or more environmental or
internal changes. Suitable displays include electronic paper
(e-paper), passive-matrix or active-matrix organic LED displays,
thin film polymer LED displays (e.g. poly(p-phenylene vinylene)),
quantum dot displays, standard or cholesteric LCD displays,
interferometric modulator displays, electroluminescent displays,
fluorescent displays, and the like.
[0089] Mechanical actuators can also be integrated with the
personal effect, e.g., luggage, and respond to signals generated by
sensors in the personal effect, e.g., luggage. For example, a motor
can move wheels of luggage or other conveyable personal effect
having wheels and enhance or impede movement of the wheels in
response to sensing movement of the personal effect. Alternatively,
a wheel motor can manage movement of the luggage in response to the
luggage being moved outside of a given radius, e.g., in order to
steer the luggage back within the desired radius, or even to a
specific location. A mechanical actuator can extend or retract one
or more handles in the luggage in response to a signal from one or
more sensors. For example, if a monitoring and/or controlling
device is detected within a given radius of the luggage, a handle
can extend from the luggage automatically, allowing a user to grasp
the handle. Similarly, the handle actuator can retract the
handle(s) of the luggage and prevent extension of the handle if a
controlling device is not detected within a certain radius. A lock
actuator can also be integrated with a personal effect, e.g.,
luggage, such that the lock engages (locks) when a controlling
device is not detected by the luggage within a certain radius, and
disengages (unlocks) only if a signal from a controlling device is
detected by the luggage. In some implementations, the lock is
integrated with the luggage and lock actuator, in other instances
it is not. In some implementations, the lock actuator is capable of
locking a purely mechanical lock (such as a padlock) that is not
specifically configured for use with the lock actuator.
[0090] Another example of a mechanical actuator is a vacuum pump in
the luggage that can create a vacuum in the luggage, making it
difficult to open the luggage. Alternatively, an air pump actuator
included with the luggage can fill a bladder that facilitates
closing and/or locking of the luggage. In some implementations, the
luggage includes a marking actuator that releases a marking dye or
ink after sensing the opening of the door of the luggage or
disabling/breaking the lock.
Securing Features
[0091] A user may wish to have additional information regarding his
or her personal effect, such as whether or not the personal effect
was tampered with while out of his or her sight or otherwise not in
his or her possession or control. In such instances, the user may
employ a location, control, and/or status monitoring device that
includes a securing and/or locking mechanism. The locking mechanism
may have one or more functions in addition to those discussed above
for the tag 105 in FIG. 1, which can include but are not limited to
preventing unauthorized removal of the device from the personal
effect; maintaining the personal effect in a closed or locked
state; and both locking and unlocking, or the like, in response to
communication from a controlling device. Additionally, the locking
mechanism may include an attachment component 110 (see FIG. 1),
which may optionally include one or more of a ring, a strap, a
belt, a loop, a band, a cable, an adhesive, or the like, or any
combination thereof. The locking mechanism may include a memory in
which to record the number of times the locking mechanism is
changed from the locked state to the unlocked state. The memory of
the locking mechanism may record the date and time the locking
mechanism is changed from a locked state to an unlocked state.
Alternatively or additionally, the memory of the locking mechanism
may record the location each time it is changed from the locked
state to the unlocked state. In some instances, the locking
mechanism may be a lock that attaches to a personal effect, such as
a lock on a bag or trunk. The lock may have a variety of
configurations. In some implementations, the lock may be a padlock
that utilizes a combination of symbols entered in a specific order
in order to disengage the locking mechanism. In some
implementations, the padlock includes a key and tumbler system, in
which a key moves pin, wafer, disk or other type of tumblers to
disengage the lock. In some implementations, the tumblers may
include embedded magnetic tumblers that move in response to a
magnetic force provided by the key. In some implementations, the
lock may be disengaged in response to a signal from a biometric
sensor (e.g. a fingerprint or iris scanner) that matches biometric
input to stored biometric data. In some implementations, the
padlock includes a solenoid actuator, a motorized actuator, or an
electroactive polymer that moves in response to an applied voltage,
that can electrically engage and disengage one or more pins,
shackles, screws, or cams that can keep a lid or opening
closed.
[0092] As noted above, a locking mechanism may be attached to at
least one strap, belt, loop, band, cable or the like, for
convenience referred to in this paragraph as "strap". In such
implementations, the locking mechanism has a lock body attached to
a first end of the strap and, in some implementations, a latch
plate attached to the second end of the strap. The lock body
includes an opening configured to accept the second end of the
strap, or the latch plate. A sequence of holes in the strap may
permit variation of the latched perimeter length of the strap when
the strap is latched, where the second end of the strap may pass
through the lock body. A user may cinch the strap to a desired
length and engage one or more of the holes at the desired position
with one or more pins or latches inside the lock body. In certain
implementations, the latch plate itself has one or more holes in
the latch plate configured to align with one or more pins or
latches inside the lock body. In some implementations, the latch
plate may include a first clasp mechanism configured to interact
with a second clasp mechanism inside the lock body. In some
implementations, when the lock is disengaged (unlocked), the latch
plate remains secured in the lock body, and a button or lever can
be depressed to release the latch plate from the lock body.
[0093] In certain implementations of the locking mechanism, the
lock can be disengaged using two or more electronic and/or physical
keys. Alternatively, the strap may accommodate use of a secondary
locking mechanism, e.g., provided by a third party. Both
alternatives can allow for a "master" key or code provided to
travel security agencies, such as the Travel Security
Administration (TSA) in the United States, allowing them to unlock,
open, inspect, and relock the luggage while limiting access to
others. For example, the locking mechanism can be opened by
inputting a symbolic sequence that can be set by the user of the
locking mechanism, as well as by using a physical key that is held
only by members of a travel security agency. In another example,
the locking mechanism can be unlocked by inputting a specific
alphanumeric or symbolic sequence that can be set by the user of
the locking mechanism, as well as by inputting a second electronic
key of at least two other alphanumeric or symbolic sequences that
are rotated on a non-regular periodic basis.
[0094] In another implementation, the user can instruct the locking
mechanism to produce a one-time-use symbolic sequence that can only
unlock the locking mechanism once (or some limited number of
times). This one time use symbolic code can then be supplied on a
display device or a disposable paper/plastic tag attached to the
luggage. The symbolic code can be encoded using a datablock (e.g. a
QR code or Dataglyph.RTM.) that can be read and interpreted by an
optical reader used by the security personnel. In implementations
in which the one-time code is shown on a display of the locking
mechanism, the one-time code can be automatically removed from the
display and/or removed from the memory of the locking mechanism
after a predetermined amount of time. This can prevent misuse by
non-authorized persons who may try to read the one-time code after
the luggage has already been examined. In some implementations, the
one-time-use code can be supplied an external controlling device
that communicates the code to locking mechanism. For example, if
the external controlling device includes a biometric scanning
feature, entry of the locking code as well as the proper biometric
feature in the scanner provides sufficient authentication to issue
a temporary, one-time-use symbolic code to the locking mechanism.
In some implementations, during ticket issuance, a temporary
one-time-use code is produced by the issuing travel entity (e.g.
airline or train line), and is entered by the user of the luggage
using either an input device on the locking mechanism itself or a
controlling device. In such an example, the code issued on the
ticket is not stored by the airline and is only printed on the
ticket.
[0095] In yet another implementation, the locking mechanism may
incorporate communication circuitry for communicating with a device
held by the travel security agency. The communication circuitry may
implement an authentication protocol to ensure the identity of the
person or device with which the locking mechanism communicates.
Authentication may be responsive to a physical or electronic unlock
request or may be performed automatically when a signal from the
device held by the travel security agency is detected. Once
authenticated, the locking mechanism becomes unlocked.
[0096] A location, control, and/or status monitoring device that is
a suitcase, a piece of luggage, or the like may have additional
features that further protect the personal effect within the device
or that facilitate the user's utilization of the device. Such
additional features include a sealing closure to prevent moisture
or other unwanted substances from entering the device (i.e.
suitcase or piece of luggage). The sealing closure may include an
inflating component that inflates upon locking the suitcase or
piece of luggage via a cartridge of compressed gas, a pump, or the
like. The sealing closure may also serve the additional purpose of
making the suitcase or piece of luggage buoyant in water and
similar liquids. Other additional features can include, but are not
limited to, wheels that lock, wheels that are powered for easy
conveyance of the suitcase or piece of luggage, a light source in a
handle of the suitcase or piece of luggage, a light source within
the suitcase or piece of luggage, a light source along the bottom
of suitcase or piece of luggage, a biometric security feature, a
physical key, or code that may be manually entered for use by
travel security agencies or in the event the device cannot be
opened by the controlling device, the ability to send a still or
moving image from the monitoring device to the controlling device,
an electric/chemical shocking mechanism for deterring unauthorized
access or contact with the suitcase or piece of luggage.
[0097] In some implementations, the lock or securing mechanism is
integrated with the suitcase or luggage. The securing mechanism may
prevent the lid or opening of the luggage from being accessed, or
may prevent wheels of the luggage from turning, or prevent one or
more handles of the luggage from being released or accessible. The
lock mechanism that keeps the lid or opening of the luggage closed
may have several configurations. For example, the lock mechanism
may include a solenoid or motorized actuator that moves a pin, a
cam, a shackle, or a screw to lock or unlock the door, wheel, or
handle of the luggage. In some implementations, the opening of the
luggage is held closed using an expandable bladder, the expansion
and contraction of which can engage or disengage the locking
mechanism. The bladder may be expanded or contracted using a fluid,
such as a gas or liquid that is pumped in and out of the bladder.
The bladder is associated with one or more latch mechanisms that
move in response to changes in bladder volume. In one
implementation, the locking mechanism may be reciprocal clasps on
either side of the opening of the luggage that can keep the lid or
opening of the luggage or personal effect closed, but can be opened
by a person using their hands. When the luggage is locked, a
bladder proximate the interacting reciprocal clasps is expanded
with liquid or gas, and exerts sufficient force lateral to prevent
the reciprocal clasps from being separated in a vertical
direction.
[0098] The luggage or other personal effect may include an
engagement mechanism. The engagement mechanism can include one or
more engagement members, interlocking members, attachment members,
closing members, coupling members or the like. The engagement
mechanism can include, without limitation, a zipper or set of
zippers, one or more latches, a channel and corresponding
protrusion to engage with the channel, and one or more bolts,
screws, pins, hook and loop connectors, or the like. The engagement
mechanism can also include one or more electro-magnetic engagement
member, employing one or more magnets that may or may not be
electrically controlled. In some implementations, the engagement
mechanism can include a coupling member such as an adhesive, glue,
tape, or the like.
[0099] The luggage may include mechanisms for closing the lid or
opening of the luggage automatically. In some implementations, the
lid or opening is lined with a toothed zipper having a motorized
slider that is internal to the luggage and cannot be actuated
manually from the outside of the luggage. The motorized zipper
slider can open or close the two sides of teeth. Upon receiving a
signal to open from a controlling device, the motorized zipper
slider slides along the zipper and locks or unlocks the teeth. In
some implementations, the engagement mechanism includes a single
flexible and continuous hook on either side of the opening, to
provide a waterproof seal. A motorized slider internal to the
luggage can engage or disengage the flexible continuous hooks to
seal or unseal the opening of the luggage. The luggage may also be
opened and closed using a motorized rack and pinion system in which
a motor turns a pinion gear with teeth that interact with a rack
having teeth or cross pieces separated by holes in the rack
(similar to ladder rungs). The rack is attached with one sides of
an opening or lid and interacts with the pinion on the other side
of the lid, allowing the lid to be opened or closed upon actuating
the mechanism.
[0100] In some implementations, the lid or opening of the luggage
can be held closed by creating a partial vacuum within the luggage
and maintaining a seal at the opening of the luggage. In certain
implementations, the locking mechanism may utilize a pressure
differential between the atmospheric pressure on the ground and the
reduced atmospheric pressure in an unpressurized cargo hold of an
aircraft in flight. In such implementations, the luggage may have
an airtight seal when closed, and a one-way valve that allows air
inside the sealed luggage to escape but not re-enter. As the
atmospheric pressure in the cargo hold drops, air escapes from the
one-way valve to equalize the atmospheric pressure inside and
outside the luggage. As the aircraft descends for landing, and
exterior pressure increases, the pressure difference between the
interior and exterior is maintained as air is unable to re-enter
the one-way valve. This pressure differential, with a relative
vacuum in the luggage interior, makes the luggage extremely
difficult to open. When the luggage user wants to open the luggage,
an RF signal may sent from a controlling device, such as a mobile
phone, to a receiver inside the luggage that opens the one-way
valve, or opens a separate small aperture or hole in the luggage
(e.g. a release valve), to allow the pressure to equalize. In some
implementations, a pressure differential may be applied to the
luggage through the one-way valve before the luggage is loaded into
the aircraft, for example by employing a pump (such as a hand pump,
bicycle pump, or gas or electric air pump). The one-way valve, or
release valve if used, may be a solenoid valve, or use a
controllably deformable material such as an electroactive polymer
to open and close the valve (see infra for description of
electroactive polymers).
[0101] In some implementations, the locking mechanism may include
use of electroactive polymers or electroactive polymer/ceramic
hybrids that bend in response to an applied voltage. In some
implementations, the electroactive polymer may bend in response to
an applied voltage and allow the clasp to disengage. Thus, a
continuous voltage does not need to be applied to keep the luggage
in a locked configuration. Exemplary configurations of locking
mechanisms are described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,299,630 and U.S. Patent
Application No. 2010/0126240, each of which is incorporated by
reference herein.
[0102] In some implementations, a securing mechanism for the wheels
may prevent them from turning. For example, the inner face of the
wheel (facing towards the centerline of the axle), may have one or
more indents configure to fit a pin. When the securing mechanism is
engaged, a pin is pushed out of a wheel well of the luggage and
into the one or more indents in the wheel to prevent the wheel from
rotating. In some implementations, the indents on the inner faces
of the wheels are brought into contact with one or more pins in the
wheel well by shortening the axle and retracting the wheels towards
the centerline of the luggage. One having skill in the art would
understand that in certain implementations, the pins may reside on
the wheels and the indents may be located in the wheel wells.
[0103] Also consistent with this disclosure, the location, control
and/or status monitoring device in luggage may include control for
one or more assistive features that can aid a user in lifting the
luggage, e.g., into the user's vehicle. For example, the location
and status monitoring device may transmit, by wire or wirelessly, a
signal to control a lift-actuator, lift-pump, lift-motor, etc. of a
lifting mechanism. The lift-actuator may include any one or a
combination of electric motor, hydraulic or pneumatic pump,
piezoelectric motor, or other means for converting energy into
motion. For example an electric motor fixed to the luggage body may
convert energy from a battery or other electrical-energy storage
into a rotational movement of a shaft, thus rotating a gear or
wheel (pinion) attached to the shaft. The gear may be positioned to
engage with a vertically-positioned linear gear bar (rack) attached
to a moveable portion within the luggage. The rotation of the
gear/wheel thus causes the pinion, along with the attached moveable
portion, to travel up or down with respect to the luggage. In one
implementation, the moveable portion may extend beneath the luggage
to a base or "foot" portion capable of supporting the luggage when
the luggage is elevated on the moveable portion. The moveable
portion may be implemented as a variation of an extendable handle,
such that for lifting purposes the handle extends downward instead
of the usual upward extension in which the user may pull the
luggage.
[0104] In another implementation, the moveable portion may include
a scissor lift mechanism at a bottom portion of the luggage. The
scissor lift includes scissor legs attached to each other via a
pivot at a central portion of the legs. In this case the actuator
may drive extension and retraction of the scissor legs by directing
generally-vertical force to the hinge connecting the scissor legs
or between the bottom end of a leg and the top end of another leg.
Such force may be applied directly or indirectly by a rack and
pinion, hydraulic or pneumatic ram, screw, or the like. It should
be noted that the scissor lift mechanism may be also be used as a
support or stand for the luggage or other item to which it is
attached, e.g., for convenient access in a hotel room.
[0105] A hydraulic or pneumatic ram may be employed as a lift
mechanism or as part of a lift mechanism. In this case, hydraulic
fluid may be used in conjunction with a master-slave cylinder
system to multiply force or distance in the hydraulic ram. In the
case of a pneumatic system a gas is compressed using a pump for use
in moving the pneumatic ram. Pre-compressed gas may alternatively
be used for moving a pneumatic ram. Luggage having a hydraulic or
pneumatic lift mechanism thus includes the ram and fluid systems
for moving the ram. Each of these systems may be electrically
controlled.
[0106] In still another implementation, the actuator may be a
pneumatic pump controlled to inflate or deflate a bladder affixed
to the bottom of the luggage in order to lift or lower the luggage.
The bladder may be formed of a robust material that has no, or very
low, air permeability. The bladder may be enclosed in a bottom
compartment of the luggage between uses.
[0107] In yet another implementation, the actuator may include a
motorized spindle or drum which retractably holds a strap, cord,
belt, or chain. The strap/cord/belt/chain may include an attachment
hook or the like that can attach to a vehicle feature. Once
securely fastened (e.g., hooked) to the vehicle feature, the
actuator may be engaged to retract the strap/cord/belt/chain, thus
lifting the luggage. For example, the strap/cord/belt/chain may be
extended from a holder in or on the luggage (e.g. near the bottom
of the luggage) and an attachment hook affixed to the extended end
of the strap/cord/chain may be hooked over a bottom lip of a
vehicle trunk. When the actuator is engaged, the luggage is lifted
up to the trunk level as on a conveyor. In addition to being motor
driven, the spindle may be pre-tensioned, e.g. using springs, into
a retracted position. A sufficiently pre-tensioned spindle may
reduce the amount of motor energy necessary to lift the
luggage.
[0108] In still another implementation, motorized wheels of the
luggage (discussed elsewhere in this disclosure) may aid climbing a
ramp into a vehicle compartment. The motorized wheels can in some
implementations be used to drive a conveyor, roller(s), or belt(s)
on a side of the luggage. The conveyor, etc. may, with sufficient
leverage provided by angle of the luggage, "climb", e.g., an
ingress portion of the user's vehicle. It will be recognized that
the conveyer/rollers/belts may have a driving mechanism separate
from the luggage's wheels.
[0109] In some of the above-described luggage lifting
implementations, the lifting mechanism may alternatively be
configured for manual operation. For example, the
strap/cord/belt/chain implementation may include a winch handle for
attachment to the spindle or drum to permit manual retraction by
turning the spindle/drum via the winch handle. In another
implementation a strap/cord/belt/chain may include a manual winch.
Manual and powered lifting means may be combined for a "power
assisted" lift. This may extend the life of a battery, or permit
use of a smaller, lighter-weight battery. Additionally, a series of
pulleys or gears may be implemented to reduce the power necessary
to lift the luggage.
Battery and Power Components
[0110] To power the acquisition and transmittal of location and
status information, a location, control, and status device may
include a battery. The battery may be rechargeable. The location
and status device may include a kinetic-to-electric energy
conversion element, a component for connecting electronically to
another power source, or both a kinetic-to-electric energy
conversion element and a component for connecting electronically to
a separate power source. Examples of kinetic-to-electric energy
conversion elements include fly wheels attached to the wheels or a
pulley, dynamos, and the like. Photovoltaic or other solar power
technology may be used to recharge a rechargeable battery in a
location and status monitoring device. The location and status
monitoring device may include a component for connecting
electronically to another power source such as a USB power
interface, a power interface that is compatible with standard
household current and receptacles, a power interface that is
compatible with a car cigarette lighter, and the like. In some
implementations, a wireless charging interface may be provided,
such as an inductive charger (e.g., Qi, PMA), microwave power
transfer, and the like. Such power interface options may be used to
charge a rechargeable battery within the location and status
monitoring device, used to charge an external device which can
connect to the location and status monitoring device via a USB or
other interface, or to both recharge a batter and charge an
external device.
[0111] Power conservation schemes can be utilized to minimize
excessive battery drain and channel power to appropriate actuators
and sensors at appropriate times. Power conservation algorithms
stored in a microcontroller integrated with the luggage can
determine when power is used to facilitate communication between
sensors and actuators in the luggage, as well as communication with
a controlling device that is separate from the luggage. During
periods of storage of the luggage described herein, power may be
withheld from displays (e.g. LED displays), lights, loudspeakers
(to generate sound), or the actuators. The power conservation
scheme can also manage one or more predetermined time periods in
which power is supplied to sensors, wireless communication devices,
or actuators, and then removed.
Uses of Location and Status Monitoring Devices
[0112] Use of the various types of location and status monitoring
devices is outlined in FIGS. 4-6. FIG. 4 shows an implementation of
a method of monitoring the location and status of a personal effect
with a tag. The following can take place in any suitable order. A
user can place a first tag on a first personal effect, as in box
400. A signal from the first tag is associated with or at a
controlling, or monitoring, device 405. A second tag corresponding
to a second personal effect is registered with the first tag as
shown in 410. In this implementation, the second tag is optionally
registered with the controlling or monitoring device. Boxes 415 and
420 indicate that the locations of the first and second personal
effects should be monitored periodically.
[0113] FIG. 5 shows an implementation of a method of monitoring the
location and status of a personal effect that is attached to a
location and status monitoring lock. The following portions of such
an implementation can take place in any suitable order. A user
attaches the lock to a personal effect, as shown in 500. Box 505
indicates associating or otherwise registering the signal from the
lock with the controlling or monitoring device or system. In 510,
the lock can perform an assessment of its own starting state, such
as a locked or unlocked state. Box 515 indicates monitoring of the
location and state of the lock while the attached personal effect
is away from the user, that is to say out of sight of or reach of
the user. Additionally, box 520 indicates that the lock can report
any change in the state of the personal effect or effects upon
return to the user, including any changes in weight (i.e. mass) or
if there have been an excessive number of unlocking events.
[0114] FIG. 6 shows an implementation of a method of monitoring the
location and status of a piece of luggage surrounding or encasing
personal effects. Box 605 indicates that a user associates or
registers the signal from the luggage with the monitoring device or
system (i.e. controlling device). Subsequently, the luggage
assesses and reports and/or records its starting state in 610. Box
615 indicates a periodic monitoring of the location and/or state of
the luggage while the luggage is away from the user. In this
implementation, the luggage may be optionally used to monitor
signals from other location and status monitoring devices having
signaling capabilities. Step 620 indicates that the final step is
to assess and/or report the state of the luggage upon return to the
user, including any changes in weight (i.e. mass) or an excessive
number of unlocking events. This assessment may include other
status events or changes. The times and locations of such changes
may also be reported. The foregoing can occur in any suitable
order.
[0115] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the communication
pathways that may exist in an implementation of a location and
status monitoring system. In the implementation shown, a location
and status monitoring device 700 such as a tag, lock, or luggage
that may be associated with a personal effect may communicate in a
reciprocal manner with a monitoring or controlling device 705. The
type of information passed from the monitoring or controlling
device 705 to the location and status monitoring device 700
includes instructions to lock or unlock and a threshold distance or
radius between the controlling device 705 and the location and
status monitoring device 700 that is associated with a personal
effect. The location and status monitoring device 700 passes
information regarding location and/or status to the controlling
device 705. Location or proximity information that passes from the
location and status monitoring device 700 to the controlling device
705 has some basis in information obtained in communication between
an external data source 710 and the location and status monitoring
device 700. As mentioned above, the location and status monitoring
device 700 may communicate with additional location and status
monitoring devices 715 that may be associated with respective
additional personal effects. If present, these additional location
and status monitoring devices 715 communicate with the external
data source 710 and may directly provide information to the
controlling device 705. Alternatively, the additional location and
status monitoring devices 715 may communicate with the controlling
device 705 via the location and status monitoring device 700.
User Interface for Tags, Locks, and Luggage
[0116] To provide for interaction with a user, one or more aspects
or features of the subject matter described herein can be
implemented on a computer having a display device, such as for
example a cathode ray tube (CRT) or a liquid crystal display (LCD)
or a light emitting diode (LED) monitor for displaying information
to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, such as for
example a mouse or a trackball, by which the user may provide input
to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for
interaction with a user as well. For example, feedback provided to
the user can be any form of sensory feedback, such as for example
visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input
from the user may be received in any form, including, but not
limited to, acoustic, speech, or tactile input. Other possible
input devices include, but are not limited to, touch screens or
other touch-sensitive devices such as single or multi-point
resistive or capacitive trackpads, voice recognition hardware and
software, optical scanners, optical pointers, digital image capture
devices and associated interpretation software, and the like.
[0117] In some implementations, a user interface in at least one of
the controlling device and the location and status monitoring
device may provide notifications to the user of a change in the
environment (e.g. geolocation, temperature, etc.) reported from a
location, control, and status monitoring device, or in the status
or configuration of luggage associated with the location and status
monitoring device (e.g. locked, unlocked, items removed or added,
etc.). The notification may be a visual signal, such as one or more
LEDs or other light source. Multiple light sources may be used that
flash in a specified sequence, multiple light colors, or the one or
more light sources may modulate their intensity depending on the
notification that needs to be communicated to the user. In some
implementations, the notification may be an audio signal. The audio
signal may be one or more audible, ultrasonic, or subsonic
frequencies. The audio signal may vary in amplitude or duration. In
some implementations, the sonic frequencies emitted may be a
representation or recording of a human voice, an animal sound, such
as a dog bark, or some other recorded sound. In some
implementations, the notification may be a tactile or haptic
signal. The amplitude, timing, and duration of the haptic signal
can be varied to indicate to a user the nature of the notification.
The haptic signals can include vibrations as well as direct
electric discharge. Direct electric discharge can be a low current
discharge that is detected on the skin, or a higher discharge that
causes physical discomfort. Haptic actuators can include, but are
not limited to, vibrating motors, electrically conductive surfaces
coupled with a charge creator, subsonic sound waves, electroactive
polymers, piezoelectric actuators, electrovibration actuators (e.g.
indirect charge actuators such as TeslaTouch.TM.) and the like.
Electroactive polymers (EAPs) may be used to cause deformities in a
surface (e.g. protrusions or depressions) following application of
a voltage difference across the electroactive polymer. The
electroactive polymers may be: dielectric EAPs, such as
ferroelectric EAPs (e.g. polyvinylidene fluoride); electrostrictive
graft polymers; or liquid crystal polymers. The EAPs can also be
ionic EAPs, such as an electrorheologic fluid or an ionic
polymer-metal composite. An ionic EAP may be coated with a
waterproof polymer that can deform along with the ionic EAP to
produce a deformity that can be detected by touch or even sight.
Ionic EAPs require less voltage to deform.
[0118] In some implementations, notifications by a user interface
of at least one of a controlling device and a location and status
monitoring device may act as a warning to a person attempting to
move or open luggage having a location and status monitoring
device, or to remove the location and status monitoring device from
the luggage. Bright light, high volume sounds such as alarm or
voice, and mild electric shock may be emitted from a tag user
interface as a response to stimulus that is undesirable, such as
removal of the location and status monitoring device from the
luggage, movement outside of a pre-defined area, opening of the
luggage, etc.
[0119] A user interface in at least one of the controlling device
and the location and status monitoring device may have a visual
display to provide notifications or warnings to a person. The
display can be electronic paper (e-paper) or cholesteric LCD with a
low power requirement to change and/or maintain an image. The
display can also be made of a thin, flexible plastic to give the
display some resiliency to movement and a thin profile. In some
implementations, the user interface may include passive-matrix or
active-matrix organic LED displays, thin film polymer LED displays
(e.g. poly(p-phenylene vinylene)), quantum dot displays, LCD
displays (e.g. transreflective or backlit LCDs), interferometric
modulator displays (e.g. Mirasol.TM.), and the like. In some
implementations, the visual display is flexible. The display may be
configured to show a scannable one-dimensional, two-dimensional, or
three-dimensional data block.
[0120] The user interface of the controlling device and/or location
and status monitoring device may also be configured to accept input
from a user. The tag user interface may have a touchscreen display,
including but not limited to a capacitive touchscreen, a surface
acoustic wave touchscreen, an acoustic pulse recognition
touchscreen, a piezoelectric touchscreen, and an infrared or
optical touchscreen. The tag user interface may include buttons
that allow for notifications and warnings to be stopped or reset,
as well as alphanumeric symbols to be input to the tag. The user
interface for a location and status monitoring device can also
include a keyhole configured to receive a physical key. Turning of
the key can turn on, turn off, or reset notifications or warnings
coming from the interface. The user interface for the location and
status monitoring device may include a microphone that can receive
a range of audio frequencies, such as a voice or one or more
specific sound frequencies, and analyze the incoming sounds via a
processor to match the sound to a predetermined "key" sound or
sequence of sounds. The user interface may include a camera that
can image and detect one-dimensional, two-dimensional, or
three-dimensional data blocks containing information, as well as
biometric information, such as fingerprint, iris, or blood vessel
patterns.
[0121] In some implementations, the user interface of the
controlling device and/or location and status monitoring device may
cause wireless transmission of signals and data to one or more
devices. For example, if a location and status monitoring device
associated with tag or luggage detects that it is within a
specified geolocal area, the tag or luggage can send a wireless
signal to an external device in the form of an SMS text message, a
voice call, an email, or other electronic data communication
alerting a user that the tagged luggage is within the specified
geolocal area. Exemplary wireless communications technologies
include cell phone data transfer protocols (e.g. 3G, 4G),
Bluetooth.RTM. (such as Bluetooth low energy, or BLE, also known as
Bluetooth.RTM. Smart), ANT+, radio-frequency identification (RFID),
products that are based on the Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers' (IEEE) 802.11 standards (WiFi), wireless
local area network devices (including ad hoc or mesh networks),
IrDA (infrared data association), ZigBee.RTM. (communications based
upon IEEE 802 standard for personal area networks), Z-wave,
wireless USB, or the like.
Safety and Security Features
[0122] Tags, locks, and luggage incorporating the presently
disclosed technology incorporate a number of safety features to
allow a user to monitor safe handling of luggage, the chain of
custody of the luggage, and aid in preventing loss of personal
items. For example, safe-handling parameters of the luggage may be
monitored to ensure that the luggage has not been subjected to
undue force or undesirable environments, such as extreme
temperatures or pressures, during transport. A safe handling
parameter also includes whether the luggage has been opened or
tampered with during transport.
[0123] A user may wish to completely protect his or her personal
effect in a container that is itself a location and status
monitoring device. An example of this would be a suitcase or
luggage that is able to protect the personal effect from unwanted
perturbation and which could relay information regarding location,
locked/unlocked status switching, and other environmental factors.
Other environmental factors include temperature extremes, sudden
inertial change (i.e. being dropped or thrown), excessive pressure
(e.g. being placed beneath a heavy object), excessive humidity or
dryness, changes in mass of the luggage, and the like. To monitor
such environmental factors, a location and status monitoring device
may include sensors such as temperature sensors, altitude sensors,
accelerometers, humidity sensors, pressure sensors, and/or times,
and the device may include a memory to log the readings from these
sensors.
[0124] In certain implementations, tags, locks, and luggage
incorporating the presently disclosed technology can store data
related to safe handling parameters that is detected by sensors
associated with the tags, locks, or luggage. For example, data from
a given sensor can include timestamp information (e.g. the time
and/or date that data was taken in by a sensor) associated with the
data to aid in analysis of the data. Geolocation data obtained
periodically, such as from a GPS receiver, may be stored with
timestamp information to allow later determination as to the
geolocation of the luggage at various times during luggage
transport. Data from a variety of other environmental sensors along
with a timestamp may also be stored, such as temperature, humidity,
barometric pressure, levels of gases (e.g. carbon dioxide, methane,
etc.), biological hazards or by-products (e.g. bacteria, viruses,
fungi, pollen, aerosolized protein, etc.), levels of radiation
(e.g. from a dosimeter or Geiger counter), damage to the luggage
(e.g. impact, crushing, or excessive strain), and the physical
state of the luggage (e.g. picking up or setting down luggage,
items removed or added to the luggage, etc.).
[0125] In some implementations, data relating to the chain of
custody can be stored with or without timestamps. For example,
biometric data obtained from a biometric sensor (e.g. a scan of a
fingerprint, iris, retina, blood vessel pattern, voice or face
patterns; or detection of one or more particular nucleic acid
sequences) may be stored. Stored biometric information obtained
from one or more biometric sensors can be compared with a stored
biometric profile of one or more authorized users to determine
whether only authorized users had handled or opened the luggage.
Biometric data from unauthorized users who use the one or more
biometric sensors may also be stored. In some implementations, a
photograph of the person opening the luggage is taken
automatically, and the photograph is stored by the tag, lock, or
luggage. In certain implementations, a photograph is taken only
when the luggage has been opened without using a key or biometric
feature to gain access.
[0126] In some implementations, data regarding the proximity and/or
relative locations of multiple pieces of luggage is stored by one
or more location and status monitoring devices or by a controlling
device. For example, location/status devices may attempt to
establish links with each other and/or a controlling device in
periodic intervals. Both the successful and unsuccessful linkage
attempts with other location/status devices can be timestamped and
stored. Similarly, activation of an alarm or signal that alerts a
user to a piece of luggage that cannot be located can be recorded
and timestamped and stored by a location/status device or by a
controlling device.
[0127] In some implementations of the instant technology, a lock
attached to the luggage may be mechanically engaged by closing the
lid or opening of the luggage by hand. In some implementations, the
lock can be engaged and disengaged electronically, and remotely.
For example, the lock can engage and lock the lid or opening of the
luggage when the lid or luggage opening is closed and a signal is
sent to the lock that results in the lock being engaged. For
example, the lid or luggage opening may include a pair of
electrically conductive materials that complete a circuit when the
lid is closed, the detection of which results in engaging the
electronic lock. In some implementations, a transmitted signal from
a controlling device can be sent to the electronic lock and cause
it to engage. In some implementations, a continuous signal sent by
a control device or another tag maintains the lock in an unlocked
or disengaged state; when the continuous signal is interrupted, the
lock engages automatically. In certain implementations, the
electronic lock engages or disengages after receiving a signal from
a timer with a pre-set amount of time or a clock that sends a
signal to the lock at a specific time of day. In certain
implementations, the location and status monitoring device may
detect the geolocation of the luggage, and signal the electronic
lock to engage or disengage when the luggage is at a predetermined
location or within a predetermined geolocation area. In some
implementations, the electronic lock may be signaled to engage and
secure the luggage when rotation of the wheels is detected. The
luggage can be secured by preventing the wheels from rotating,
preventing access to luggage handles, as well as preventing the lid
or opening of the luggage from being opened.
[0128] In certain implementations, the lock is engaged or
disengaged according to signals from one or more location and
status monitoring devices or biometric scanning devices associated
with the luggage that fall within predefined parameters. For
example, an electronic lock on luggage of the presently disclosed
technology can be engaged or disengaged by detecting a biometric
feature of a user. The detected biometric feature is compared to a
feature stored in a memory in the lock, in the luggage, or in a
controlling device. In another example, an input device associated
with the electronic lock, such as a keypad or touchscreen may be
associated with the electronic lock. Input of a correct symbol
sequence or movement sequence via the input device can engage or
disengage the electronic lock. In yet another example, a token may
be used to authenticate the user and engage and disengage the
electronic lock. The token may be a small device with a display
that present a code or shape for the user to enter on the luggage
or it may connect to the electronic lock through either a wired or
wireless connection (e.g. USB, 3.5 mm jack connection,
Bluetooth.RTM., etc.). In some implementations, the token can be a
mobile electronic device, such as a smartphone or tablet.
[0129] In certain implementations, a combination of at least two of
the above methods may be used to enable authentication of an
authorized user to engage or disengage the electronic lock. For
example, in order to engage or disengage the electronic lock, a
biometric scanner associated with the luggage must be used to
detect an authorized user, in addition to entry of a proper symbol
or shape sequence via the input device. In certain implementations,
an authorized token, such as a USB device or RFID chip, must be
properly authenticated, in addition to entry of a proper symbol or
shape sequence in order for the electronic lock on the luggage to
be engaged or disengaged. In certain implementations, engaging or
disengaging the electronic lock requires authentication of both an
authorized token, such as a USB device or RFID chip as well as
proper user authentication by a biometric scanning feature. In
certain implementations, engaging or disengaging the electronic
lock requires proper user authentication by a biometric scanning
feature, as well as proper input to an input device. In some
implementations, engaging and disengaging of the electronic device
requires biometric feature scanning, proper input of symbol or
shape sequence into an input device, and the presence of a proper
token, e.g. a USB device or smartphone.
[0130] In some implementations, the electronic lock is engaged or
disengaged in response to a signal from a mobile electronic device,
e.g., a control device. The mobile device can act as a token for
multi-factor authentication, in combination with biometric or
sequence input to the luggage as described above. For example, a
wired or wireless signal from a mobile electronic device can
provide one or more lock or unlock codes to the electronic lock and
engage or disengage, respectively, the electronic lock. The lock
and unlock codes may be entered by a user of the mobile electronic
device or are stored by a program in the memory of the mobile
device. In some implementations, the lock may require multiple
codes, with at least two code signals coming from two different
mobile devices. In some implementations, the user identity is
confirmed via a biometric scanner associated with or integrated
with the mobile electronic device in addition to entry of a code in
the mobile device. In certain implementations, more than one mobile
device and more than one user may be required to disable or enable
an electronic lock on the luggage.
[0131] In some implementations of the present technology, the
luggage has at least one retractable handle and at least two wheels
to facilitate handling of the luggage. The wheels and handle are
associated with electromechanical actuators that can withdraw and
extend the wheels and handle into the luggage in response to
movement, changes in geolocation, changes in environment, or a
predetermined number of failed attempts to disengage the electronic
lock.
Environmental Survival
[0132] Tags, locks, and luggage having a location and status
monitoring device may be constructed from materials that protect
the tag, lock, or luggage from environmental damage. Tags, locks,
and luggage may be constructed from ballistic materials that
inhibit penetration from projectiles, or impact by sharp objects.
Exemplary ballistic materials include ballistic fabrics (e.g.
ballistic nylons, para-aramid fibers), ballistic plastics and
polymers, ballistic laminates (including combinations of ballistic
plastics/polymers and ballistic fabrics and fibers, e.g.
para-aramid fibers or nanotubes of carbon or tungsten disulfide),
ceramic plates (e.g. boron carbide), and metal (e.g. steel,
titanium).
[0133] Tags, locks, and luggage of the present technology may also
be constructed from self-healing materials, such as polymers that
self-heal upon exposure to heat (e.g. furan-meleimides), or
polymers capable of autonomic healing. In autonomic healing, tubes
or capsules on a micro-or nanoscale are formed in a polymer and
filled with a monomer capable of reacting with the polymer. When
the tubes or capsules are broken due to physical stress, the
monomer is released and interacts with the polymer (and possibly a
catalyst) to heal the damaged area (e.g. dicyclopentadiene
encapsulated in epoxy resin containing Grubb's catalyst).
[0134] Tags, locks, and luggage of the instant technology can also
be constructed of materials that are waterproof (e.g.
polytetrafluoroethylene, metal, rubber, silicone, vinyl), or coated
with a waterproof coating (e.g. vinyl, rubber, polyvinylchloride,
polyurethane, silicone elastomer, fluoropolymers such as
polytetrafluoroethylene, SympaTex.TM. membrane, or wax). The
materials may also be coated or treated with antimicrobial and/or
antifungal compounds, such as silver or copper nanoparticles,
carbon nanoparticles, triclosan, silane quaternary ammonium
compounds, and zinc pyrithione.
[0135] One or more aspects or features of the subject matter
described herein can be realized in digital electronic circuitry,
integrated circuitry, specially designed application specific
integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs)
computer hardware, firmware, software, and/or combinations thereof.
These various aspects or features can include implementation in one
or more computer programs that are executable and/or interpretable
on a programmable system including at least one programmable
processor, which can be special or general purpose, coupled to
receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and
instructions to, a storage system, at least one input device, and
at least one output device. The programmable system or computing
system may include clients and servers. A client and server are
generally remote from each other and typically interact through a
communication network. The relationship of client and server arises
by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers
and having a client-server relationship to each other.
[0136] These computer programs, which can also be referred to as
programs, software, software applications, applications,
components, or code, include machine instructions for a
programmable processor, and can be implemented in a high-level
procedural and/or object-oriented programming language, and/or in
assembly/machine language. As used herein, the term
"machine-readable medium" refers to any computer program product,
apparatus and/or device, such as for example magnetic discs,
optical disks, memory, and/or Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs),
used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable
processor, including a machine-readable medium that receives
machine instructions as a machine-readable signal. The term
"machine-readable signal" refers to any signal used to provide
machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor. The
machine-readable medium can store such machine instructions
non-transitorily, as would, for example, a non-transient
solid-state memory or a magnetic hard drive or any equivalent
storage medium.
[0137] The subject matter described herein can be embodied in
systems, apparatus, methods, and/or articles depending on the
desired configuration. The implementations set forth in the
foregoing description do not represent all implementations
consistent with the subject matter described herein. Instead, they
are merely some examples consistent with aspects related to the
described subject matter. Although a few variations have been
described in detail above, other modifications or additions are
possible. In particular, further features and/or variations can be
provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, the
implementations described above can be directed to various
combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed features and/or
combinations and subcombinations of several further features
disclosed above. In addition, the logic flows depicted in the
accompanying figures and/or described herein do not necessarily
require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve
desirable results. Other implementations may be within the scope of
the following claims.
* * * * *