U.S. patent application number 16/170637 was filed with the patent office on 2019-02-28 for system, method and devices for determining a location of a device.
This patent application is currently assigned to Lokatur, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Lokatur, Inc.. Invention is credited to Michael John Harney, Michael Stringham.
Application Number | 20190069262 16/170637 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 63964115 |
Filed Date | 2019-02-28 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190069262 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Harney; Michael John ; et
al. |
February 28, 2019 |
System, method and devices for determining a location of a
device
Abstract
A system and method for locating a target device. A calibration
process is initiated in a wireless environment. A user utilizing a
host device is prompted to navigate a pattern. Measurements are
performed along the pattern utilizing the host devices that
receives the wireless signals form a number of environmental
devices in the wireless environment. The signal strength for each
of the plurality of environmental devices is analyzed to determine
calibration information. The calibration information is saved for
subsequent reference.
Inventors: |
Harney; Michael John;
(Pleasant Grove, UT) ; Stringham; Michael;
(Pleasant Grove, UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Lokatur, Inc. |
Pleasant Grove |
UT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Lokatur, Inc.
Pleasant Grove
UT
|
Family ID: |
63964115 |
Appl. No.: |
16/170637 |
Filed: |
October 25, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15674252 |
Aug 10, 2017 |
10123297 |
|
|
16170637 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01C 21/3664 20130101;
H04W 4/80 20180201; G01C 21/3644 20130101; H04W 64/00 20130101;
G01S 5/00 20130101; G01S 5/0252 20130101; H04B 17/318 20150115;
G01C 21/3688 20130101; G01C 21/20 20130101; G01S 5/02 20130101;
H04B 17/27 20150115; G01S 11/06 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04W 64/00 20090101
H04W064/00; G01C 21/36 20060101 G01C021/36 |
Claims
1. A method for locating devices, comprising: initiating a
calibration process in a wireless environment; prompting a user
utilizing a host device to navigate a pattern; performing
measurements along the pattern utilizing the host device that
receives wireless signals from a plurality of environmental devices
in the wireless environment; analyzing a signal strength for the
wireless signals of each of the plurality of environmental devices
to determine calibration information; and saving the calibration
information for subsequent reference.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of environmental
devices are not placed within a pattern in the wireless
environment.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the user is prompted to navigate
the pattern stopping at points along the pattern for the host
device to perform the measurements.
4. The method of claim 1, further comprising: determining
identifiers associated with each of the plurality of environmental
devices as part of the calibration information.
5. The method of claim 1, further comprising: receiving a request
to locate a target device, wherein the request is received based on
user input to the host device, and wherein the location of the
target device is determined utilizing the calibration information
including signal strength to distance equations of a portion of the
plurality of environmental devices.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: communicating the
location of the target device to one or more devices or users
including instructions for reaching the target device from the host
device.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of environmental
devices are randomly positioned within the wireless
environment.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the environmental devices
communicate utilizing at least a Bluetooth signal.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the location of the target is
communicated in three dimensions.
10. A device for processing wireless signals in a wireless
environment, comprising: a processor for executing a set of
instructions; a memory for storing the set of instructions; one or
more interface components for interacting with a user based on the
execution of the set of instructions, wherein the set of
instructions are executed to: initiate a calibration process in the
wireless environment in response to a request; prompt a user
utilizing a host device to navigate a pattern; perform measurements
along the pattern utilizing the host device that receives the
wireless signals from a plurality of environmental devices in the
wireless environment; analyze the signal strength for the wireless
signals of each of the plurality of environmental devices to
determine calibration information; and save the calibration
information for subsequent reference.
11. The device of claim 10, wherein the plurality of environmental
devices are positioned within the wireless environment as naturally
used by one or more users.
12. The device of claim 10, wherein the set of instructions are
further executed to: prompt the user to navigate the pattern and
stop at the points for the host device to perform the
measurements
13. The device of claim 10, wherein the set of instructions are
further executed to: determine an identifier associated with each
of the plurality of environmental devices as part of the
calibration information; associate the identifier with the signal
strength for each of the plurality of environmental devices,
wherein a target device is located utilizing signal strength to
distance equations for a portion of the plurality of environmental
devices.
14. The device of claim 10, wherein the set of instructions
communicate instructions for reaching a target device from the host
device utilizing the calibration information.
15. The device of claim 10, wherein the set of instructions
represent an application for locating devices.
16. The device of claim 10, wherein the calibration information is
communicated to a plurality of devices or users.
17. A device for locating devices, comprising: a processor for
executing a set of instructions; a memory for storing the set of
instructions; a transceiver for receiving wireless signals from
available environmental devices and identifying the available
environmental devices, wherein the set of instructions are executed
to: initiate a calibration process in a wireless environment in
response to a request; prompt a user utilizing a host device to
navigate a pattern; perform measurements along the pattern
utilizing the host device that receives wireless signals from the
available environmental devices in the wireless environment;
analyze a signal strength for the wireless signals of each of the
environmental devices to determine calibration information; and
save the calibration information for subsequent reference.
18. The device of claim 17, wherein the set of instructions are
further executed to: communicate instructions for reaching a target
device from the host device utilizing the calibration
information.
19. The device of claim 18, wherein the instructions are
communicated in a mapping application.
20. The device of claim 17, wherein the user is prompted to
navigate the pattern stopping at points along the pattern for the
host device to perform the measurements.
Description
PRIORITY STATEMENT
[0001] This application is a continuation of application Ser. No.
15/674,252 filed on Aug. 10, 2017 which is entitled "System, method
and devices for performing wireless tracking" which is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
I. Field of the Disclosure
[0002] The illustrative embodiments relate to a method of
performing wireless tracking. More specifically, but not
exclusively, the illustrative embodiments relate to wirelessly
tracking one or more devices or components.
II. Description of the Art
[0003] The utilization of various types of wireless devices,
systems, and equipment has grown nearly exponentially in recent
years. Tracking these wireless devices has become desirable and in
some cases necessary. Many tracking systems fail in different
environments or situations.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0004] One embodiment provides a system, method, and device for
locating a target device. A calibration process is initiated in a
wireless environment. A user utilizing a host device is prompted to
navigate a pattern. Measurements are performed along the pattern
utilizing the host devices that receives the wireless signals form
a number of environmental devices in the wireless environment. The
signal strength for each of the plurality of environmental devices
is analyzed to determine calibration information. The calibration
information is saved for subsequent reference. A device may include
a processor for executing a set of instructions and memory for
storing the set of instructions. The set of instructions may be
executed to perform the method described above. A transceiver of
the devices may receive wireless signals from available
environmental devices and identify the available environmental
devices. One or more interface components may interact with a user
based on execution of a set of instructions.
[0005] Another embodiment provides a system, method, and device for
locating a target device. A calibration process is performed by
taking a number of measurements utilizing a host device receiving
wireless signals from a number of environmental devices at points
along a pattern. Signal strength is analyzed for each of the
environmental devices to determine calibration information.
Wireless signal information is received from a target device
including at least signal strength associated with the
environmental devices proximate the target device. The location of
the target device is determined utilizing at least the calibration
information and the wireless signal information.
[0006] One embodiment provides a system, method, and a host device
for performing tracking. The host device may include a processor
for executing a set of instructions. The host device may further
include a memory for storing the set of instructions. The host
device may further include a touch screen for interacting with a
user based on the execution of the set of instructions. The set of
instructions are executed to perform a calibration process by
taking a number of measurements utilizing a receiver of the host
device receiving wireless signals from a number of environmental
devices at points along a pattern, analyze signal strength for each
of the environmental devices to determine calibration information,
receive wireless signal information from a target device including
at least signal strength associated with proximate ones of the
environmental devices, determine the location of the target device
utilizing at least the calibration information and the wireless
signal information.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] Illustrated embodiments are described in detail below with
reference to the attached drawing figures, which are incorporated
by reference herein, and where:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a pictorial representation of a communications
environment in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a pictorial representation of a location pattern
in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;
[0010] FIG. 3 is a pictorial representation of the location pattern
of FIG. 2 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; and
[0011] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a target device in accordance
with an illustrative embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a process for communicating
wireless signal information from a tracking device in accordance
with an illustrative embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a calibration process in accordance
with an illustrative embodiment;
[0014] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a process for locating a target
device in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; and
[0015] FIG. 8 depicts a computing system in accordance with an
illustrative embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0016] The illustrative embodiments provide a system, method, and
devices for tracking wireless devices. The system may be utilized
to monitor or track a target device. The target device may
represent any number of wireless device, tags, tracking components,
or so forth. A number of environmental devices communicate with the
target device. The environmental devices may utilize any number of
signals, protocols, or connections to communicate with the target
devices. A host device processes information to track the target
device. In one embodiment, the host device is a mobile phone,
tablet, gaming system entertainment system, or other mobile device.
In one embodiment, a locator device is tracked as a virtual beacon.
The signal strength and other applicable information applicable to
the target device/virtual beacon are communicated to the host
device for analysis. A mobile application may be treated as a
virtual beacon for purposes of tracking the device. In one
embodiment, multiple wireless devices in a communications
environment may be utilized to communicate with the device.
[0017] In one embodiment, one of the environmental devices may be a
fixed device/point. In one embodiment, the fixed device is
determined by performing a calibration. The calibration may
represent a pattern or method performed with the locating device.
In one embodiment, the user may move the host device or another
device/beacon in a pattern (e.g., a square, circle, triangle, line,
etc.). The signal strength values may be recorded at multiple
points of the pattern (e.g., vertices, corners, etc.). The center
of the pattern may be utilized as an original of a coordinate
system that is used to determine and report the location of the
target device. The location and signal strength of the
environmental devices may be determined during a calibration step
or process (e.g., performed for the host device, target device,
environmental device, etc.) relative to the center of a pattern
(i.e., the origin, 0,0,0 of the coordinate system). The target
device may also be used initially in a calibration process by
placing the target device in the center of the pattern being
navigated. This gives information on the signal strength of the
target device which can be used later in tracking the target device
along with the reception of the signal strength from the
environmental devices. For example, a tracking token or fob
connected to a set of keys and utilized in a home may be calibrated
and measured in the home to get readings and measurements that may
be subsequently utilized. In one embodiment, the target devices may
represent Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular, or other wireless signals.
The environmental devices with the biggest separation distances may
be utilized.
[0018] Determining the location of environmental devices during a
calibration process or step may be performed by determining the
signal strength detected by a host/target device in an applicable
environment. For example, the signal strength and/or coordinate
positions associated with the environmental devices may be
determined for points along a pattern in the center of the
environment (e.g., business, home, school, stadium, venue, field,
etc.), such as an origin 0,0,0, for performing future location
processes as a two-dimensional or three-dimensional process.
[0019] FIG. 1 is a pictorial representation of a communications
environment 100 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The
communications environment 100 may represent any number of
environments in which a target device 102 may be located. The
communications environment may include a wireless device 104, a
user 106, environmental devices 108, 110, 112, wireless devices
114, 116, cloud system 114, cloud network 115, servers 116,
databases 118, location platform 120, and logic engine 122.
[0020] The target device 102 may represent any number of electronic
devices. In one embodiment, the target device 102 may be attached
to other electronics as a location tag. The target device 102 may
also utilize a specialized location application in conjunction with
a logic engine/processor and transceiver/signal detector.
[0021] In one embodiment, the target device 102 may determine which
of the devices in the communications environment 100 are within
range (e.g., are identifiable with a corresponding signal
strength). For example, the target device 102 may determine that
environmental devices 108, 110, 112 and wireless device 114 are
within range (the wireless device 116 may be out-of-range). The
target device 102 may gather information that does not invade
privacy or so forth. The target device 102 may communicate the
available device identifiers and associated signal strength to the
wireless device 104 or to the cloud communications system 117 or
other available devices within the communications environment 100.
The wireless signal information applicable to the target device 102
may be gathered without violating the privacy or security of
devices in the communications environment 100. In one embodiment,
the user 106 may walk a pattern 124 to perform calibration within
the communications environment 100. In one embodiment, during
calibration, the wireless device 104 may perform signal
measurements for each of the environmental devices 108, 110, 112,
and the wireless devices 114, 116 (as well as any other available
devices) at each corner of the pattern 124. As shown the pattern
124 may represent a 10-foot square walked by the user 106 with the
wireless device 104. The wireless device 104 may perform
measurements of all available devices at each corner of the pattern
124. In one embodiment, a tracking application executed by the
wireless device 104 may utilize a calibration mode to take multiple
readings associated with the pattern 124. For example, the
application may audibly, verbally, or textually prompt the user to
stop at the corners of the square to take measurements for each of
the available devices (e.g., environmental devices 108, 110, 112,
wireless devices 114, 116, etc.). As shown the environmental
devices 108, 110, 112 and wireless devices 114, 116 may be randomly
positioned within the communications environment 100.
[0022] Wireless signals within the communications environment 100
may utilize one or more different standards, protocols, networks,
or signals. For example, the communications environment 100 may
represent one or more Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular, wireless data,
satellite, and other radio frequency signals as well as land-line
or wired infrastructure. Wireless signals may be sent between
multiple devices (as shown by signal representations, lines, or
dashed lines).
[0023] FIG. 2 is a pictorial representation of a location pattern
200 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In one
embodiment, the location pattern 200 may represent a portion of the
communications environment 100 of FIG. 1 represented as 201. As
noted, the location pattern 200 may represent any number of shapes,
paths, or routes (symmetric or asymmetric) available to the user
and associated wireless device 202. The pattern 200 may be walked,
driven, flown, or otherwise navigated. The pattern 200 may be
performed based on user interactions or in response to an automated
process, system, or device. The locations, 1, 2, 3, and 4 may
represent locations or positions of a wireless device 202. For
example, the locations 1, 2, 3, 4 may represent corners on points
of the location pattern 200. The locations 1, 2, 3, 4 may represent
calibration points used between the wireless device 202 and the
environmental devices 212, 214, 216, 218 when travelling the
location pattern 200. The environmental devices 212, 214, 216, 218
may be randomly placed within the communications environment 201.
In one embodiment, the environmental devices 212, 214, 216, 218 may
represent electronic devices that communicate one or more different
types of communications signals. For example, Bluetooth signals or
connections from the environmental devices 212, 214, 216, 218 may
communicate with or be detected by the smart phone 202. As shown,
measurements of the environmental device 212 may be made by the
wireless device 202 at each of the locations 1, 2, 3, 4. The
measurements of signal strength and other wireless signal
information may also be performed for the other environmental
devices 214, 216, 218 at each of the locations 1, 2, 3, 4 (e.g.,
see FIG. 3).
[0024] In one embodiment, the user may be given instructions for
walking or navigating the pattern 200. For example, an application
on a smart phone utilized by the user may provide audible and/or
text based instructions to "walk a square with 5 feet sides in the
search area and pause at each corner." The wireless device 202 may
take measurements of the strength of the signals from each of the
environmental devices 212, 214, 216, 218. The measurements of
signal strength may be recorded for each of the environmental
devices 212, 214, 216, 218 at the locations 1, 2, 3, 4 by the
wireless device 202. The wireless device 202 may also be able to
determine information, such as relative location of each of the
locations 1, 2, 3, 4. The measurements may be stored locally in the
smart phone 202 or may be sent to any number of devices, systems,
or equipment. For example, the measurements of signal strength may
be sent to a cloud-based system. The user may be asked to revisit
certain locations 1, 2, 3, 4 or walk the pattern 200 again in
response to issues or errors that may require clarification.
[0025] As shown the environmental devices 212, 214, 216, 218 are
randomly placed within the communications environment 201 at
coordinates:
Environmental device 212--x.sub.1,y.sub.1,z.sub.1 Environmental
device 214--x.sub.2,y.sub.2,z.sub.2 Environmental device
216--x.sub.3,y.sub.3,z.sub.3 Environmental device
218--x.sub.4,y.sub.4,z.sub.4
[0026] The coordinates for the environmental devices 212, 214, 216,
218 are relative to a coordinate system x.sub.0,y.sub.0,z.sub.0
(i.e., the origin is referenced as 0,0,0). The location of a fifth
device (not shown), the target device x.sub.5,y.sub.5,z.sub.5, may
be found using the following equations which assume the far-field
approximation for electromagnetic fields of energy loss (e.g.,
inverse-square law) proportional to 1/r 2 and that the Received
Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) value for each receiver is
proportional to the power signal strength to distance described by
the equation RSSI=Power*k/r 2:
RSSI.sub.1/RSSI.sub.2=k*P*R.sub.2.sup.2/(k*PR.sub.1.sup.2)
R.sub.2 is the radial vector from the environmental device 214 to
the target device and R.sub.1 is the radial vector from the
environmental device 212 to the target device. In one embodiment,
the constant of transmission k and transmit power level P are the
same for all devices and cancel out of the ratio above to produce
the simplified ratio of power signal strength to distance
equation:
RSSI.sub.1/RSSI.sub.2=R.sub.2.sup.2/R.sub.1.sup.2=b
The same ratios may be utilized for R.sub.2, R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 to
R.sub.1 to provide the simplified ratio of power signal strength to
distance equations:
RSSI.sub.1/RSSI.sub.3=R.sub.3.sup.2/R.sub.1.sup.2=c
RSSI.sub.1/RSSI.sub.4=R.sub.4.sup.2/R.sub.1.sup.2=d
The radial vectors between transceivers/sensors equations that
relate the intersection of the radial vectors R.sub.1, R.sub.2,
R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 may be utilized to find the location of the
target device, x.sub.5,y.sub.5,z.sub.5 are:
R.sub.1.sup.2=(x.sub.5-x.sub.1).sup.2+(y.sub.5-y.sub.1).sup.2+(z.sub.5-z-
.sub.1).sup.2
R.sub.2.sup.2=(x.sub.5-x.sub.2).sup.2+(y.sub.5-y.sub.2).sup.2+(z.sub.5-z-
.sub.2).sup.2
R.sub.3.sup.2=(x.sub.5-x.sub.3).sup.2+(y.sub.5-y.sub.3).sup.2+(z.sub.5-z-
.sub.3).sup.2
R.sub.4.sup.2=(x.sub.5-x.sub.4).sup.2+(y.sub.5-y.sub.4).sup.2+(z.sub.5-z-
.sub.4).sup.2
[0027] The radial vectors may all be related to R.sub.1 by the
constants b, c and d above as a combination of radial vectors and
power signal strength to distance equations:
R.sub.1.sup.2=(x.sub.5-x.sub.1).sup.2+(y.sub.5-y.sub.1).sup.2+(z.sub.5-z-
.sub.1).sup.2
b*R.sub.1.sup.2=(x.sub.5-x.sub.2).sup.2+(y.sub.5-y.sub.2).sup.2+(z.sub.5-
-z.sub.2).sup.2
c*R.sub.1.sup.2=(x.sub.5-x.sub.3).sup.2+(y.sub.5-y.sub.3).sup.2+(z.sub.5-
-z.sub.3).sup.2
d*R.sub.1.sup.2=(x.sub.5-x.sub.4).sup.2+(y.sub.5-y.sub.4).sup.2+(z.sub.5-
-z.sub.4).sup.2
[0028] In this embodiment, b, c and d are the ratios of the RSSIs
measured at each device relative to environmental device 212. As
the first environmental devices 212, 214, 216, 218
({x.sub.1,y.sub.1,z.sub.1{ }x.sub.2,y.sub.2,z.sub.2}
{x.sub.3,y.sub.3,z.sub.3} {x.sub.4,y.sub.4,z.sub.4}) have known
coordinates and the constants b-d are measured values and therefore
known, there are 4 equations with 4 unknowns (R.sub.1,
x.sub.5,y.sub.5,z.sub.5) which will result in a determined solution
which will find the target device x.sub.5,y.sub.5,z.sub.5.
[0029] FIG. 3 is another pictorial representation of the location
pattern 200 of FIG. 2 in accordance with an illustrative
embodiment. The location pattern 200 further illustrates the
distances between each of the locations 1, 2, 3, 4 and the
environmental devices 212, 214, 216, 218. As shown the wireless
device 202 may determine the distance between the wireless device
202 and each of the respective environmental devices 212, 214, 216,
218 at least at the locations 1, 2, 3, 4. In one embodiment, the
user may select a button on an application or graphical user
interface to perform the measurements between the wireless device
202 and the environmental devices 212, 214, 216, 218 as the user
stops at each of the locations 1, 2, 3, 4. The user may also be
prompted how far, where, or when to walk to perform the process of
FIG. 3.
[0030] The calibration information determined as shown in FIGS. 2
and 3 may be utilized with wireless signal information received
from a target device to locate the target device. As a result, the
location information may be displayed or otherwise communicated to
users and/or devices for finding or locating the target device. In
one embodiment, the target device may be lost, moving, hidden, in
an unknown location, or may otherwise require locating.
Measurements regarding signal strength may also be taken by the
environmental devices 212, 214, 216, 218 and sent to the wireless
device 202.
[0031] In one embodiment, real-time location of the target device,
such as a wireless tag, may communicate with three or more nearby
wireless devices, such as the environmental devices 212, 214, 216,
218, to determine an associated position. The random environmental
devices 212, 214, 216, 218 may represent any number of devices,
such as cell phones, laptops, headphones, appliances, fixtures,
network integrated systems, and so forth. The RSSI values are read
by the target device and the wireless device 202. In one example,
four environmental devices 212, 214, 216, and 218 are required. In
other examples, fewer devices may be required or utilized. In one
example, Bluetooth is utilized, however, other wireless protocols,
standards, or signals may also be utilized.
[0032] FIG. 4 further illustrates a block diagram of a target
device 402 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The
target device 402 may be associated, linked, or connected to any
number of wireless devices. The target device 402 may represent a
device specifically used for locating or finding the target device
402, such as tags, identifiers, smart stickers, or other location
components. The target device 402 may be attached or integrated
with any number of other devices or items utilizing adhesives,
wires, cables, connectors, fasteners, pockets, lanyards, an
interference fit, or so forth. In another embodiment, the target
device may represent any number of wireless devices that may
execute a program or utilize logic to associated signal strength
readings with any number of available environmental devices. For
example, wireless devices may include smart appliances, speakers,
safety equipment, intercoms, electrical systems, beacons, wearable
devices, communications devices, computers, entertainment devices,
vehicle systems, exercise equipment, or so forth.
[0033] The description of the target device 402 is similarly
applicable to a host device, environmental devices, or other
wireless devices as described and utilized herein. In one
embodiment, the target device 402 may only communicate with
authorized devices. Authorized communications may be performed
utilizing one or more secured signals or connections, identifiers
(e.g., passwords, device identifiers, biometrics, etc.), or so
forth. The target device 402 may have any number of electrical
configurations, shapes, and colors and may include various
circuitry, connections, and other components utilized to perform
the illustrative embodiments.
[0034] As described herein, the target device 402 may be utilized
to determine the location and signal strength of applicable
environmental devices from an origin (0,0,0) based on navigating a
pattern or natural movements of a user/device associated with the
target device 402. A calibration process may be performed for the
target device 402 before using the target device to provide
location information.
[0035] In one embodiment, the target devices 402 may include a
battery 408, a logic engine 410, a memory 412, a user interface
414, a physical interface 415, a transceiver 416, and sensors 417.
In some embodiments, not all of the components may be included each
configuration or embodiment of the target device 402. For example,
the target device 402 may represent a personal communication,
computing, or entertainment device as are well known in the
art.
[0036] The battery 308 is a power storage device configured to
power the target device 302. In other embodiments, the battery 308
may represent a fuel cell, thermal electric generator, piezo
electric charger, solar charger, ultra-capacitor, or other existing
or developing power storage technology. In other embodiments, the
target device 402 may be a passively powered device that may be
powered by external forces (e.g., sunlight, wireless induction,
movement, etc.).
[0037] The logic engine 410 is the logic that controls the
operation and functionality of the target device 402. The logic
engine 410 may include circuitry, chips, and other digital logic.
The logic engine 410 may also include programs, scripts, and
instructions that may be implemented to operate the logic engine
410. The logic engine 410 may represent hardware, software,
firmware, or any combination thereof. For example, the logic engine
410 may represent discrete logic and circuits or integrated
circuits. In one embodiment, the logic engine 410 may include one
or more processors. The logic engine 410 may also represent an
application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or field
programmable gate array (FPGA). The logic engine 410 may utilize
transceiver measurements, signal information, user input, user
preferences and settings, conditions, factors, and environmental
conditions to determine the identity and signal strength of
available environmental devices. This information may also be
utilized to authenticate any number of other devices. In some
embodiments, multiple forms of identifying information may be
utilized to better secure requests authenticated through the target
device 402.
[0038] In one embodiment, the logic engine 410 may coordinate
sending relevant wireless signal information through the
transceiver 416 to the host device or other external devices for
locating the target device 402. In one embodiment, the logic engine
410 may determine the location of the target device 402 relevant to
the user/host device in response to wireless signal information
measured by the transceiver 416 as well as the calibration
information received from the host device. The logic engine 410 may
also perform any number of signal and mathematical equations and
functions (e.g. signal/power decay per distance, linear
extrapolation, polynomial extrapolation, conic extrapolation,
French curve extrapolation, polynomial interpretation) to determine
or infer the identity of the user from the sensor measurements as
well as determine whether a biometric identifier or password is
verifiably received. The logic engine 410 may utilize time and
other measurements as causal forces to enhance a mathematical
function utilized to perform the determinations, processing, and
extrapolation performed by the logic engine 410.
[0039] The logic engine 410 may also process user input to
determine access commands implemented by the target device 402 or
sent to the target device 402 through the transceiver 416. Specific
actions may be allowed based on transceiver measurements,
extrapolated measurements, environmental conditions, proximity
thresholds, and so forth. For example, the logic engine 410 may
implement an audible, tactile, or visual alert in response to a
tracking process being implemented from an external device. Any
number of commands, instructions, flags, or signals may be sent to
activate the alert features of the tracking device 402. As a
result, the target device 402 may include a speaker, vibration
component, LEDs, display, microphone or so forth.
[0040] The logic engine 410 is configured to perform all or a
substantial portion of the processing needed for the illustrative
embodiments. In one embodiment, the logic engine 410 may associate
the target device 402 with one or more wireless devices. The logic
engine 410 may also associate an identifier (e.g., SSID, IMEI,
serial number, custom name, etc.) of the environmental devices with
their associated power/signal strength readings and save the
wireless signal information in the memory 412. The logic engine 410
may also track and record the initial or last known location of the
target device 402. The target device 402 may be tracked directly if
within range of the host device or indirectly (e.g. cellular
signals, satellite signals, network signals, other users/mesh
network nodes, etc.). The logic engine 410 may also facilitate the
user in searching for, locating, and navigating to the target
device 402 from the host device. In one embodiment, the logic
engine 410 of the target device (or a host device) may execute a
mapping application that facilitates the user in driving, walking,
writing, or otherwise navigating to the location of the target
device 402. For example, the logic engine 410 may provide
instructions or commands for the user interface 414 including a
speaker, vibrator, or other interface components to navigate to the
target device 402.
[0041] In one embodiment, a processor included in the logic engine
410 is circuitry or logic enabled to control execution of a set of
instructions. The processor may be one or more microprocessors,
digital signal processors, application-specific integrated circuits
(ASIC), central processing units, or other devices suitable for
controlling an electronic device including one or more hardware and
software elements, executing software, instructions, programs, and
applications, converting and processing signals and information,
and performing other related tasks.
[0042] The memory 412 is a hardware element, device, or recording
media configured to store data or instructions for subsequent
retrieval or access at a later time. The memory 412 may represent
static or dynamic memory. The memory 412 may include a hard disk,
random access memory, cache, removable media drive, mass storage,
or configuration suitable as storage for data, instructions, and
information. In one embodiment, the memory 412 and the logic engine
410 may be integrated. The memory may use any type of volatile or
non-volatile storage techniques and mediums. The memory 412 may
store information related to the user, target device 402, host
device, environmental devices, and other applicable devices. In one
embodiment, the memory 412 may store, display, or communicate
instructions, programs, drivers, or an operating system for
controlling the user interface 414 including one or more LEDs or
other light emitting components, speakers, tactile generators
(e.g., vibrator), and so forth. The memory 412 may also store
environmental readings, user input required for specified data,
functions, or features, authentication settings and preferences,
thresholds, conditions, signal or processing activity, historical
information, proximity data, and so forth. The memory 412 may also
store instructions, applications, or so forth for tracking and
locating the target device 402.
[0043] The transceiver 416 is a component comprising both a
transmitter and receiver which may be combined and share common
circuitry on a single housing. The transceiver 416 may
alternatively be a receiver and/or transmitter or signal detector.
The transceiver 416 may communicate utilizing NFMI, Bluetooth,
Wi-Fi, ZigBee, Ant+, near field communications, wireless USB,
infrared, mobile body area networks, ultra-wideband communications,
cellular (e.g., 3G, 4G, 5G, PCS, GSM, etc.), infrared, or other
suitable radio frequency standards, networks, protocols, or
communications. For example, the transceiver 416 may coordinate
readings of the environmental devices available to the target
device 402 utilizing Bluetooth or Wi-Fi communications. The
transceiver 416 may also be a hybrid transceiver that supports a
number of different communications. For example, the transceiver
416 may communicate with the host device, wireless devices, or
other systems utilizing wired interfaces (e.g., wires, traces,
etc.), NFC, or Bluetooth communications. The transceiver 416 may
also detect amplitudes and infer distance between the target device
402 and external devices, such as the wireless device/host
device.
[0044] In one embodiment, the transceiver 416 may be configured to
determine a location of the target device 402 utilizing signal
strength, wireless triangulation, or directional feedback as are
described herein. For example, the transceiver 416 may include one
or more antennas that facilitate detecting the amplitude,
communicated direction of signals received, and so forth. The
transceiver 416 may include multiple directional antennas that
indicate the direction of signals received from the environmental
devices. The distance between the target device 402 as well as the
time stamp associated with when a signal was received may be
utilized to determine a direction and/or location to the
environmental devices and/or host device. Similarly, any number of
tables, distances, thresholds, database entries, or historical
information may be utilized to identify available environmental
devices and determine a distance and direction between the target
device 402 and the other devices.
[0045] The components of the target device 402 may be electrically
connected utilizing any number of wires, contact points, leads,
busses, wireless interfaces, or so forth. In addition, the target
device 402 may include any number of computing and communications
components, devices or elements which may include busses,
motherboards, circuits, chips, sensors, ports, interfaces, cards,
converters, adapters, connections, transceivers, displays,
antennas, and other similar components.
[0046] The physical interface 415 is hardware interface of the
target device 402 for connecting and communicating with wireless
devices, tags, or other electrical components, devices, or systems.
The physical interface 415 may include any number of pins, arms, or
connectors for electrically interfacing with the contacts or other
interface components of external devices or other charging or
synchronization devices. For example, the physical interface 415
may be a micro USB port. In one embodiment, the physical interface
415 is a magnetic interface that automatically couples to contacts
or an interface of a wireless device or tag. In another embodiment,
the physical interface 415 may include a wireless inductor for
charging the target device 402 without a physical connection to a
charging device. The physical interface 415 may also include a port
for recharging the battery 408 or a receptacle for changing out the
battery 408 once used up or needing a recharge.
[0047] The user interface 414 is a hardware interface for receiving
commands, instructions, or input through the touch (haptics) of the
user, voice commands, or predefined motions. For example, the user
interface 414 may include one or more buttons, dials, switches,
toggles, touch screens, one or more cameras/image sensors,
microphones, speakers, or so forth. The user interface 414 may be
utilized to control the other functions of the target device 402.
The user interface 414 may include the LED array, one or more touch
sensitive buttons or portions, a miniature screen or display, or
other input/output components. The user interface 414 may be
controlled by the user or based on commands received from the
wireless device. For example, the user may turn on, reactivate,
implement searches, or provide feedback utilizing the user
interface 414.
[0048] In one embodiment, the user interface 414 may include a
biometric scanner that may be utilized to scan a fingerprint (e.g.,
the index finger), iris, DNA, face, or other identifying portion of
a user to authenticate a user, request, functionality, or so forth.
The user interface 414 of the target device 402 may store
identifying information for one or more biometrics. In one
embodiment, the biometric data of the user may be encrypted and
stored within a secure portion of the memory 412 to prevent
unwanted access or hacking. The target device 402 may also be
attached to or worn by a user and may store important biometric
data, such as medical information (e.g., medical conditions,
allergies, logged biometrics, contacts, etc.) that may be shared in
response to an emergency.
[0049] Search requests may be made from the user interface of
external devices. In one embodiment, the user may provide user
feedback for authenticating a search request by tapping, swiping,
or otherwise interacting with the user interface of a host device.
Alerts and indicators may provide feedback and input to the user as
needed. The user interface 414 may also provide a software
interface including any number of icons, soft buttons, windows,
links, graphical display elements, and so forth for receiving user
input.
[0050] In one embodiment, the target device may include the sensors
417. The sensors 417 may include inertial sensors, accelerometers,
gyroscopes, magnetometers, water, moisture, or humidity detectors,
impact/force detectors, thermometers, photo detectors, miniature
cameras, microphones, and other similar instruments for identifying
the location, environment, and utilization of the target device
including position, orientation, motion, and so forth.
[0051] Externally connected wireless devices as well as the host
device may include components similar in structure and
functionality to those shown for the target device 402. For
example, a wireless device may include any number of processors,
batteries, memories, busses, motherboards, chips, transceivers,
peripherals, sensors, displays, cards, ports, adapters,
interconnects, sensors, and so forth. In one embodiment, the
wireless device may include one or more processors and memories for
storing instructions. The instructions may be executed as part of
an operating system, application, browser, or so forth to implement
the features herein described. For example, the user may set
preferences for using and locating the target device 402. For
example, target devices 402 may periodically send wireless signal
information or a ping to indicate their presence to a device being
utilized to locate the target device. The time period used may be
extended as the battery of the target device 402 is closer to being
exhausted. In one embodiment, the target device 402 may be
magnetically or physically coupled to the wireless device to be
recharged or synchronized. The host device or other wireless
devices may also execute an application with settings or conditions
for updating, synchronizing, sharing, saving, processing requests
and utilizing locating information.
[0052] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a process for communicating
wireless signal information from a tracking device in accordance
with an illustrative embodiment. The process of FIG. 5 may be
implemented by a tracking device, such as tag, smart phones,
tablets, entertainment devices, identifiers, smart watches, fitness
trackers, smart jewelry, or so forth.
[0053] The process of FIG. 5 may begin by receiving wireless
signals from available environmental devices (step 502). The
environmental devices may represent any number or type of devices
that communicate wireless signals. The signals may represent any
number of existing, developing, or future standards, protocols, or
configurations. The locating device may be configured to receive
the signals from the different environmental devices. In one
example, the environmental devices may represent Bluetooth devices,
such as speakers, televisions, appliances, computers, tablets, or
so forth.
[0054] Next, the target device determines identifiers associated
with each of the environmental devices (step 504). The identifiers
may represent any number of hardware, software, or firmware
identifiers. In one embodiment, the device identifiers may
represent service set identifiers (SSIDs). In one embodiment,
identifiers that are automatically assigned to each environmental
device by a manufacturer, network, or other service provider.
[0055] Next, the target device determine signal strengths
associated with the environmental devices (step 506). The signal
strengths may be measured for each of the available environmental
devices. In one embodiment, the measurements may be performed
multiple times to determine accurate results. Any number of
mathematical processes may also be utilized (e.g., average, mean,
standard deviation, etc.) to more accurately determine the
applicable signal strength. In one embodiment, the target devices
may include a transceiver or a signal detector for detecting
different signals. In one embodiment, the target devices may detect
the signal strength of different radio signals (e.g., Bluetooth,
Wi-Fi, near field magnetic induction, etc.).
[0056] Next, the target device communicates the wireless signal
information to one or more external devices (step 508). The target
device may communicate the wireless signal information at preset
times, time intervals, based on specified actions, thresholds,
conditions, or criteria. In one embodiment, the wireless signal
information may include a device identifier (e.g., SSID, name,
label, IMEI, IP address, etc.) and a signal strength measurement.
In other embodiment, the target device may include an
identification of the wireless signal or protocol, directional
communication information to the environmental devices, distance
information (if known) to the environmental devices.
[0057] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a calibration process in accordance
with an illustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, the processes
of FIGS. 6 and 7 may be implemented by a host device, such as a
smart phone, tablet, or other wireless device. In another
embodiment, the process of FIG. 6 may be performed utilizing a
target device as part of an initiation or activation process for
the target device (instead of the host device). For example, the
process may be performed for a token, tag, or tracker in one or
more environments where the tracking device may be utilized. To
begin the host device may initiate a calibration process (step
602). The calibration process may be initiated in response to the
user opening a location application for locating the target device,
requesting a location of the target device (e.g., through a virtual
assistant, based on a request, etc.), in response to a
user-specified action, distance thresholds (e.g., between the
target device and the host device, separation of the target device,
etc.). The calibration process may be initiated in response to any
number of automated or manual processes. The calibration process
may be initiated in response to a command, instruction, or signal
received from the host device. The calibration process may also be
performed for each of the environmental devices described herein as
well.
[0058] Next, the host device prompts a user to navigate a pattern
(step 604). In embodiment, the pattern may be preset (e.g., such as
a square of a known shape). In other embodiments, the pattern may
be set based on the available space or footprint of the applicable
communications/location environment. Shapes including a circle,
rectangle, triangle, pentagon, or so forth. The user may also walk
a line or zig zag pattern. The user may walk, drive, or otherwise
navigate the pattern. In one embodiment, the host device may be
integrated with a drone, vehicle, remote controlled vehicle, or
other device, component, or system. In one embodiment, the user may
be prompted to take the device (e.g., host device, target device,
etc.) to a center portion of an environment, an origin, or other
portion of the environment to perform the calibration process.
[0059] Next, the host device performs measurements of environmental
devices at multiple points along the pattern (step 606). The
measurements may be performed at corners, vertices, or other
default or designated points/locations along the pattern. The
measurements may include identifying the environmental devices in
communication with the host device and determining the signal
strength. In some embodiments, the measurements may be performed
utilizing a transceiver, signal receiver, or other measurement
device. The coordinates or relative positions of the environmental
devices may also be determined. The determined signal strength and
identifiers may also be denoted, communicated, or otherwise saved
for subsequent reference.
[0060] Next, the host device analyzes the signal strength for each
of the environmental devices to determine calibration information
(step 608). The host device may utilize a processor or logic to
analyze the signals received. For example, the host device may
execute an application that processes the measurements to generate
the calibration information. The host device may perform local
analysis of the measurements or may communicate the measurements to
one or more external devices to generate the calibration
information. For example, the measurements may be sent to a cloud
network that utilizes servers to generate the calibration
information.
[0061] Next, the host device saves the information for subsequent
reference (step 610). In one embodiment, the host device may save
the information locally. In other embodiments, the measurements and
calibration information may be sent to one or more external
devices, systems, equipment, or components. The calibration
information may be utilized specifically to locate one or more
target devices that are lost or otherwise need accurate location
information determined. For example, the calibration information
may be compared against signal strength measurements performed by a
target device to determine the location of the target device.
[0062] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a process for locating a target
device in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The target
device may represent any number of lost or other devices
(stationary or moving) that there is a need to locate or find. The
target device or target devices may be associated with one or more
users, vehicles, personal items, business items/devices, animals,
military equipment, or so forth.
[0063] In one embodiment, the process may begin by receiving a
request to locate a target device (step 702). The request may be
sent based on an automatic or manual process. For example, the
request may be automatically initiated in response to the target
device not moving for a specified time period (e.g., 30 mins, 2
hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, etc.), the target device is out-of-range
or disconnected from a specified wireless device (e.g., beacon,
cell phone, tower, etc.).
[0064] Next, the host device receives wireless signal information
from the target device (step 704). The wireless signal information
may be received directly from the target device or indirectly
through any number of networks or third-party devices. In one
example, the host device may receive a Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or
cellular signal from the target device. For example, the wireless
signal information may be received from a cloud-based system. As
previously noted the wireless signal information may identify the
environmental devices in communication with the target device and
indicate the signal strength received from each of the
environmental devices.
[0065] Next, the host device processes the wireless signal
information for the target device utilizing the calibration
information (step 706). The signal strength information may be
analyzed to determine the location of the target device relative to
the host device or other applicable devices/users. The calibration
information may include calibration information from the host
device as well as the target device. For example, the target
information may specify the strength of the environmental devices
and their relative coordinates/positions if known.
[0066] Next, the host device determines the location of the target
device (step 708). The location of the target device may be
determined relevant to the host device or other applicable devices
within the environment associated with the target device. In one
embodiment, multiple power to signal distance equations may be
simplified and reduced to determine the location of the target
device. For example, the following for v, b*v, c*v, and d*v may be
utilized as a combination of radial vectors and power signal
strength to distance equation for partial square method
implementation. The solutions for x, y, z may be referenced as
coordinate solutions of the target device and the solution for v
may represent the solution for the square of radial vector R1. As
shown below the measurement "a" as shown below represents one
length of one side of the square, where the pattern is a square
("a" may alternatively represent a portion of the pattern as a
side, radius, segment, etc.).
b = rssi 1 rssi 2 ##EQU00001## c = rssi 1 rss 3 ##EQU00001.2## d =
rssi 1 rssi 4 ##EQU00001.3##
[0067] Given
v=(x-a).sup.2+(y-a).sup.2+z.sup.2
bv=[(x+a).sup.2+(y-a).sup.2+z.sup.2]
cv=[(x+a).sup.2+(y+a).sup.2+z.sup.2]
dv=[(x).sup.2+(y+a).sup.2+z.sup.2]
[0068] Next, the host device communicates the location of the
target device (step 710). In one embodiment, the host device may
utilize a mapping application to display the location of the target
device to one or more users. In another embodiment, the host device
may communicate the location of the target device to remote
users/devices. As previously noted, the location of the target
device may be communicated directly or through one or more
networks.
[0069] The illustrative embodiments provide a system, method, and
devices for locating one or more target devices. The illustrative
embodiments may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment,
an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident
software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and
hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a
"circuit," "module" or "system." Furthermore, embodiments of the
inventive subject matter may take the form of a computer program
product embodied in any tangible medium of expression having
computer usable program code embodied in the medium. The described
embodiments may be provided as a computer program product, or
software, that may include a machine-readable medium having stored
thereon instructions, which may be used to program a computing
system (or other electronic device(s)) to perform a process
according to embodiments, whether presently described or not, since
every conceivable variation is not enumerated herein. A machine
readable medium includes any mechanism for storing or transmitting
information in a form (e.g., software, processing application)
readable by a machine (e.g., a computer). The machine-readable
medium may include, but is not limited to, magnetic storage medium
(e.g., floppy diskette); optical storage medium (e.g., CD-ROM);
magneto-optical storage medium; read only memory (ROM); random
access memory (RAM); erasable programmable memory (e.g., EPROM and
EEPROM); flash memory; or other types of medium suitable for
storing electronic instructions. In addition, embodiments may be
embodied in an electrical, optical, acoustical or other form of
propagated signal (e.g., carrier waves, infrared signals, digital
signals, etc.), or wireline, wireless, or other communications
medium.
[0070] Computer program code for carrying out operations of the
embodiments may be written in any combination of one or more
programming languages, including an object oriented programming
language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional
procedural programming languages, such as the "C" programming
language or similar programming languages. The program code may
execute entirely on a user's computer, partly on the user's
computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's
computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote
computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may
be connected to the user's computer through any type of network,
including a local area network (LAN), a personal area network
(PAN), or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made
to an external computer (e.g., through the Internet using an
Internet Service Provider).
[0071] FIG. 8 depicts a computing system 800 in accordance with an
illustrative embodiment. For example, the computing system 800 may
represent a device, such as the wireless device 104 or tablet 116
of FIG. 1. The computing system 800 may represent a host device,
target device, or environmental device. The computing system 800
may determine signal strength (e.g., RSSI), available environmental
devices and their associated identifiers, execute location
applications, receive user input, and provide audio, video,
textual, visual, or tactile feedback to find the target devices, or
so forth. The computing system 800 includes a processor unit 801
(possibly including multiple processors, multiple cores, multiple
nodes, and/or implementing multi-threading, etc.).
[0072] In one embodiment, the computing system 800 includes memory
807. The memory 807 may be system memory (e.g., one or more of
cache, SRAM, DRAM, zero capacitor RAM, Twin Transistor RAM, eDRAM,
EDO RAM, DDR RAM, EEPROM, NRAM, RRAM, SONOS, PRAM, etc.) or any one
or more of the above already described possible realizations of
machine-readable media. The computing system 800 also includes a
bus 803 (e.g., PCI, ISA, PCI-Express, HyperTransport.RTM.,
InfiniBand.RTM., NuBus, etc.), a network interface 805 (e.g., an
ATM interface, an Ethernet interface, a Frame Relay interface,
SONET interface, wireless interface, etc.), and a storage device(s)
809 (e.g., optical storage, magnetic storage, etc.). The system
memory 807 embodies functionality to implement embodiments
described above. The computing system 800 may also include one or
more of a receiver, transceiver, or signal detector for determining
an identifier of other wireless device, signal strength, and other
information (e.g., relative direction, used signal protocol, etc.).
The system memory 807 may include one or more functionalities that
facilitate determining a location and finding/locating a target
device. Code may be implemented in any of the other devices of the
computing system 800. Any one of these functionalities may be
partially (or entirely) implemented in hardware and/or on the
processing unit 801. For example, the functionality may be
implemented with an application specific integrated circuit, in
logic implemented in the processing unit 801, in a co-processor on
a peripheral device or card, etc. Further, realizations may include
fewer or additional components not illustrated in FIG. 8 (e.g.,
video cards, audio cards, additional network interfaces, peripheral
devices, etc.). The processor unit 801, the storage device(s) 809,
and the network interface 805 are coupled to the bus 803. Although
illustrated as being coupled to the bus 803, the memory 807 may be
coupled to the processor unit 801.
[0073] The illustrative embodiments may be integrated into existing
wireless devices, wireless beacons, wireless tokens, wireless
stickers, or other devices. The various embodiments may be utilized
for a target device, a locating device, and other environmental
devices. In one embodiment, the devices may create a wireless
profile for an environment associating general locations,
directions, signal strength, signal type, identifiers, and other
relevant information with all detectable devices whether permanent
or movable.
[0074] The illustrative embodiments are not to be limited to the
particular embodiments and examples described herein. In
particular, the illustrative embodiments contemplate numerous
variations in the type of ways in which embodiments may be applied
to the location devices, methods, systems, software, processes, or
so forth described herein. The foregoing description has been
presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not
intended to be an exhaustive list or limit any of the disclosure to
the precise forms disclosed. It is contemplated that other
alternatives or exemplary aspects are considered included in the
disclosure. The description is merely examples of embodiments,
processes or methods of the invention. It is understood that any
other modifications, substitutions, and/or additions may be made,
which are within the intended spirit and scope of the disclosure.
For the foregoing, it can be seen that the disclosure accomplishes
at least all of the intended objectives.
[0075] The previous detailed description is of a small number of
embodiments for implementing the invention and is not intended to
be limiting in scope. The following claims set forth a number of
the embodiments disclosed with greater particularity.
* * * * *