U.S. patent application number 17/362186 was filed with the patent office on 2022-02-24 for apparatus, devices and methods for content distribution and access via object-motion tracking using a wireless communications network.
The applicant listed for this patent is bluField, Inc.. Invention is credited to Charleson Bell, Ronnie Braxton, John-Mark Eberhardt, Warren Sadler, Ja'rell Wilson.
Application Number | 20220060973 17/362186 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-02-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220060973 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bell; Charleson ; et
al. |
February 24, 2022 |
Apparatus, Devices and Methods for Content Distribution and Access
via Object-Motion Tracking Using a Wireless Communications
Network
Abstract
The systems and methods disclosed herein provide for the
development of a wireless communication network that monitors a
physical environment. The network components include relay nodes,
parent modules and end user devices distributed throughout the
physical environment. Such components are programmed, controlled
and monitored via cloud computing while the components are also
accessed for use by end users via mobile platforms. The systems and
methods disclosed herein provides for the distribution of
hyperlinked-content to end user devices.
Inventors: |
Bell; Charleson; (Nashville,
TN) ; Sadler; Warren; (Nashville, TN) ;
Eberhardt; John-Mark; (Nashville, TN) ; Braxton;
Ronnie; (Nashville, TN) ; Wilson; Ja'rell;
(Nashville, TN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
bluField, Inc. |
Nashville |
TN |
US |
|
|
Appl. No.: |
17/362186 |
Filed: |
June 29, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
16360639 |
Mar 21, 2019 |
11051236 |
|
|
17362186 |
|
|
|
|
16008556 |
Jun 14, 2018 |
|
|
|
16360639 |
|
|
|
|
14727012 |
Jun 1, 2015 |
10021626 |
|
|
16008556 |
|
|
|
|
62006232 |
Jun 1, 2014 |
|
|
|
International
Class: |
H04W 48/14 20060101
H04W048/14; H04W 4/021 20060101 H04W004/021; H04W 64/00 20060101
H04W064/00 |
Claims
1. A system comprising, a master component, a plurality of relay
nodes, and a mobile device comprising at least one application
running on a processor of the mobile device, wherein the master
component comprises one or more applications configured to run on
at least one processor of a remote server, wherein each relay node
comprises a portable wireless communication device, wherein the
master component, the plurality of relay nodes and the mobile
device are communicatively coupled using a wireless communications
protocol; the plurality of relay nodes positioned in a physical
environment; the master component configured to maintain location
information, wherein the location information comprises an
association of each relay node of the plurality of relay nodes with
a known location in the physical environment; at least one node of
the plurality of relay nodes configured to transmits a notification
to the at least one application; the at least one application
configured to periodically transmit a mobile device signal via the
mobile device, wherein the mobile device signal comprises a unique
mobile device identification number, wherein one or more relay
nodes of the plurality of relay nodes is configured to detects the
mobile device signal, wherein the detecting includes identifying
the unique mobile device identification number and determining
relative distance from the one or more relay nodes to the mobile
device; the one or more relay nodes of the plurality of relay nodes
configured to transmit detected mobile device information to the
master component along with corresponding unique identification
numbers of the one or more relay nodes, wherein the detected mobile
device information comprises the unique mobile device
identification number and the determined relative distance; the
master component configured to use the location information and the
detected mobile device information to determine a location of the
mobile device in the physical environment; the master component
configured to identify contextualized content for delivery to the
mobile device based on the location of the mobile device.
2-20. (canceled)
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation application of U.S.
application Ser. No. 16/360,639, filed Mar. 21, 2019, which is a
continuation application of Ser. No. 16/008,556, filed Jun. 14,
2018, which is a continuation application of Ser. No. 14/727,012,
filed Jun. 1, 2015, which claims the benefit of U.S. Application
No. 62/006,232, filed Jun. 1, 2014.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
THE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT
[0003] Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] This section is intended to introduce various aspects of the
art, which may be associated with exemplary embodiments of the
present disclosure. This discussion is believed to assist in
providing a framework to facilitate a better understanding of
particular aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it
should be understood that this section should be read in this
light, and not necessarily as admissions of prior art.
[0005] Bluetooth.RTM., as a wireless communication technology, is
gaining popularity in consumer applications. Companies are
beginning to promote Bluetooth.RTM. enabled devices for location
sharing, social media applications, keyless access, wireless
identification, media sharing and other consumer applications.
There is an increased need to develop systems, methods and
infrastructure for content distribution and access within
Bluetooth.RTM. wireless enabled networks.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] So that the manner in which the present application can be
better understood, certain illustrations and figures are appended
hereto. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings illustrate
only selected embodiments and elements of an apparatus, devices and
methods for content distribution and access via object-motion
tracking and are therefore not to be considered limiting in scope
for the apparatus, devices and methods for content distribution and
access via object-motion tracking as described herein may admit to
other equally effective embodiments and applications.
[0007] FIG. 1 is a schematic showing the composition of the
Bluefield apparatus including relay nodes, parent module, and cloud
master component, under an embodiment.
[0008] FIG. 2A is schematic showing a mobile-centric Bluetooth.RTM.
based communication arrangement, under an embodiment.
[0009] FIG. 2B is a schematic showing a node-centric Bluetooth.RTM.
based communication arrangement, under an embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 3 is an illustration showing the effect of user/object
movement through the Bluefield apparatus, under an embodiment
[0011] FIG. 4 is an illustration showing the operation of the
Bluefield Browser, under an embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 5 shows a method for tracking and distributing content
to a device through a wireless communications network, under an
embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0013] Bluetooth.RTM. beacons normally manifest as small,
stand-alone circuit boards which possess Bluetooth 4.0, Low-Energy
(BLE) enabled chipsets. BLE is a redesigned version of
Bluetooth.RTM. classic, which previously required pairing. BLE is
now implemented on most new smartphones, tablets, PCs and wearable
technologies. BLE chip sets, like Bluetooth.RTM. beacons, can run
up to 2+ years with a single coin battery--this lifetime depending
on the signal strength and how frequent the chip set/beacons
broadcast information and their own specific identification (ID) to
compatible devices within range.
[0014] Beacons can broadcast their presence to all compatible
devices from a 5 cm to 70 meter radius. Beacon communication range,
however, depends on the physical operating environment as
Bluetooth.RTM. uses the same electromagnetic radiation as 2.4 GHz
WiFi routers. This operating environment can change because the
signal can be diffracted, interfered or absorbed by water
(including the human body). Compatible devices in range can monitor
the Bluetooth.RTM. radio signal (without previous pairing) and
estimate their distance to the beacon by measuring received signal
strength (RSSI; measurement of power present in a received signal).
The signal strength of a beacon is stronger as proximity increases.
The higher the frequency at which the connected devices probe, or
sample the Bluetooth.RTM. signal, the more responsive the mobile
application and consumer experience.
[0015] Mobile devices can monitor signals from more than one beacon
at a time and can estimate their distance to each beacon thus
estimating relative location. Once a device obtains an ID and RSSI
from a particular beacon, the device's proximity to the beacon can
be calculated, and the device's micro-location triangulated from
multiple beacons can be calculated. Even without a triangulated
micro-location, contextual content can be displayed on a user's
mobile device using just the detected ID and distance. Beacons
broadcast under an embodiment tiny amounts of information;
therefore the mobile device must fetch relevant content from a
local database or from the internet. Currently, these
Bluetooth.RTM. signal grids can be used in "geofencing"--where when
a mobile device enters into the range of an active beacon, the
application on the mobile device is notified, even if the mobile
device is locked or the mobile app is currently inactive.
Additionally, the mobile device is continuously monitoring the RSSI
of nearby beacons and depending on the distance from the beacons,
the context will change. These Bluetooth.RTM. signal grids are
beginning to gain wide implementation.
[0016] More specifically, Bluetooth.RTM. implementation is
beginning to rise in the use of retail applications. A consumer
strolling through a mall or other retail area with Bluetooth.RTM.
activated on their mobile device could receive a multitude of
messages displaying discounts, special offers, historical
information and advertisements. "Bluecasting" is a term used to
describe direct marketing using Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled beacons.
Some retail spaces have seen an increase in footfall (visitor
traffic) following the implementation of bluecasting technology.
These high-tech retail spaces have simultaneously seen an increase
in sales exceeding 18% in less than three months following the
institution of bluecasting. This design allows the institution of
point-of-sale (POS) opportunities, consumer loyalty programs for
frequent visitors and access to infrastructure maps and
directions.
[0017] This disclosure provides apparatus, devices and methods for
content distribution and access via object-motion and mobile device
tracking using a Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled wireless communication
network. FIG. 1 is a schematic showing the composition of the
Bluefield apparatus including relay nodes 130, parent module 120,
and cloud master component 110.
[0018] As shown in FIG. 1, the Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled wireless
communication network apparatus (herein termed "Bluefield") may
comprise devices which can be described as the cloud master 110 (or
cloud master component), the parent module 120, individual relay
nodes 130, and users/objects (not shown). It should be understood
that the term apparatus may refer to an overall system of networked
devices and corresponding systems and methods for providing
Bluefield connectivity and functionality. The term apparatus may
also refer to one or more such devices that underlie the Bluefield
network and may also refer to the network connectivity itself. The
context of the term's use governs its meaning.
[0019] Cloud Master
[0020] The cloud master is under one embodiment a programmable
internet-based server system able to communicate with one or more
parent modules (as described below) simultaneously via wireless
communication protocols. The cloud master may be the hierarchical
controller of the apparatus. Under an embodiment the cloud master
controls the embedded code and thus the function of the parent
modules. Under an embodiment, an administrator issues over the air
wireless updates through the cloud master. Such updates to module
firmware may increase detection capability of modules, i.e.
increases capability to detect a wider array of beacon types as
they are created by hardware companies. Such updates may also
upgrade sensor systems, etc. The cloud master may also receive and
monitor the transmissions received from the parent modules. The
cloud master may collect all metadata transferred and communicated
via the parent modules. Under one embodiment, the cloud master is
equipped with analytical tools to characterize all collected data
and commands into interpretable data. The cloud platform is the
brain of the Bluefield and a Bluefield dashboard is under an
embodiment provided to an administrator who may use such dashboard
to monitor activities, e.g. foot traffic, and issue commands, e.g.
push out embedded code to parent modules.
[0021] Parent Modules
[0022] The parent module, with unique ID, may be a
wirelessly-enabled peripheral and portable device which may
communicate with both the cloud master and one or more individual
relay nodes (described below), simultaneously, via wireless
communication protocols. The parent module may be deemed the
mid-level manager of the apparatus. The parent module may control
the embedded code and thus the function of the individual relay
nodes within Bluetooth.RTM. range. Under an embodiment, an
administrator issues over the air wireless updates to such embedded
code through the cloud master. Such updates to node firmware may
increase detection capability of nodes, i.e. increase capability to
detect a wider array of beacon types as they are created by
hardware companies. Such updates may also upgrade sensor systems,
etc. Such updates may be issued to individual or all nodes. The
parent module may receive and monitor the transmissions received
from the individual relay nodes within Bluetooth.RTM. range. The
parent module will transmit received information and metadata from
individual relay nodes to the cloud master via wireless
communication protocols. The parent module may store and collect
information and metadata for triangulation with respect to other
individual relay nodes/parent modules, and for later display, use
or analysis. Such additional information may comprise proximity
data, battery status, beacon sensor data, etc.
[0023] Relay Nodes
[0024] The individual relay nodes may comprise a wirelessly-enabled
peripheral and portable device which may communicate with one or
more other individual relay nodes within Bluetooth.RTM. range, a
parent module within Bluetooth.RTM. range, and any one or more
users utilizing Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled mobile devices and/or
Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled mobile devices with embedded Bluefield code.
The relay nodes communicate with all such components
simultaneously, via Bluetooth.RTM. wireless communication
protocols.
[0025] The individual relay nodes may be deemed the cog of the
apparatus. Under an embodiment, the individual relay nodes are
Bluetooth.RTM. beacons with specific ID and embedded code. The
individual relay nodes may function similarly to the function of
conventional Bluetooth.RTM. beacons. Under an embodiment, the
individual relay nodes communicate and transmit data and
instructions via signals tagged with their unique ID and their
corresponding RSSI. The individual relay nodes may receive signals,
instructions, data and determine RSSI from other individual relay
nodes with unique ID, the parent modules and/or users utilizing
compatible Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled mobile devices. The individual
relay nodes communicate under an embodiment received data, measured
RSSI values, and metadata to the parent module via Bluetooth.RTM..
The individual relay nodes may control the embedded code and thus
the function of other individual relay nodes and/or other
compatible Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled devices not yet associated with
the Bluefield apparatus. Under an embodiment, an administrator
issues over the air wireless updates to such relay nodes through
the cloud master. Such updates to node firmware may increase
detection capability of nodes, i.e. increase capability to detect a
wider array of beacon types as they are created by hardware
companies. Such updates may also upgrade sensor systems, etc. Such
updates may be issued to individual or all nodes.
[0026] End Users/Objects
[0027] The end user may possess a Bluetooth.RTM.-compatible mobile
device which contains Bluefield embedded code which, upon
recognition by an individual relay node, begins to function as an
individual relay node; except that instructions from individual
relay nodes which are sent from the Bluefield are executed by the
mobile device (i.e. content is displayed to the user utilizing the
mobile device) and some additional information is stored and
collected by the mobile device for triangulation with respect to
other individual relay nodes, and for later display, use or
analysis. Such additional information may comprise proximity data,
battery status, beacon sensor data, etc. It should be noted that
individual relay nodes (including Bluetooth.RTM.-compatible mobile
devices functioning as a relay node) with interne capability may
communicate collected and stored data to the cloud master for
further use and storage.
[0028] For purpose of illustration, assume the deployment of relay
nodes and a parent module in a physical environment. A user
carrying a Bluetooth.RTM. enabled mobile device enters the same
environment. Under one embodiment, the mobile device includes an
application and corresponding API. Note that the application and
API are referred to above as the embedded code under one
embodiment. But it should also be understood that the embedded code
may comprise different applications and enable different
functionality. The mobile device, i.e. the application and API,
interfaces with the Bluefield network apparatus as further
described below.
[0029] Recall that relay nodes distributed in a physical
environment periodically transmit their respective unique ID to
advertise their presence. When the mobile device is in proximity to
a relay node, the relay node transmissions send a notification to
the application. The notification is effective even if the
application is not currently running on the mobile device. When the
mobile device receives the notification, the mobile device begins
transmitting its own unique ID within the environment, i.e. within
the network of nodes. In other words, the mobile device functions
just like a relay node. Accordingly, the mobile device not only
transmits data using Bluetooth.RTM., it also detects/receives data
or instructions from relay nodes or modules via the same
communication protocol. Note that under alternative embodiments,
the mobile device may simply be Bluetooth.RTM. enabled without the
embedded code described above. Under this alternative embodiment,
proximity to a relay node or module may trigger the same effect as
disclosed above, i.e. the mobile device begins to function as a
node.
[0030] Continuing with the illustration, the mobile device enters
the physical environment of the Bluefield network. The application
and API running on the mobile device may be notified of the
network's presence by one or more nearby relay nodes. The
application/API may then periodically request location information
from the Bluefield, i.e. from the cloud master which monitors
information received by relay nodes and/or parent modules.
[0031] Under an embodiment, the cloud master knows the exact
physical location of each relay node in the world. Further, as
already described above, parent modules and relay nodes listen and
detect signal transmission from other relay nodes and modules in
their environment. Therefore, one or more nearby modules/nodes may
detect/receive transmission signals from the mobile device. Such
periodically transmitted signals comprise the device's unique id.
These nodes/modules may also use signal strength of the
transmissions to determine relative distance to the mobile device.
The "listening" nodes may then transmit this information to the
cloud master via the parent module while the "listening" parent
modules transmit it's collected information to the cloud master,
concordantly. Note that upstream transmissions from relay nodes
and/or parent modules include corresponding unique identification
numbers of the respective transmitting devices. When the cloud
master receives this distance information from at least three relay
nodes, the cloud master may then determine a physical location of
the mobile device in the environment and in the world. In this
manner the cloud master tracks the location of the mobile device
moving throughout the physical environment.
[0032] The cloud master may use such information to identify and
deliver contextualized location based data to the mobile device in
real time. The cloud master may, under one embodiment, direct
instructions to the mobile device through parent module and relay
nodes. The instructions may comprise a URL for execution by a
browser running on the mobile device directing the user to certain
location contextualized content.
[0033] Under an embodiment, the mobile device may be a smartphone,
tablet, computing-enabled wearable or other computing platform such
as a laptop or hybrid platform.
[0034] Under an embodiment, the cloud master may operate as a web
application or website stored, accessed and utilized via a
server.
[0035] FIG. 2A is schematic showing a mobile-centric Bluetooth.RTM.
based communication arrangement, under an embodiment. FIG. 2A shows
relay nodes 230 communicating with a central mobile device 240.
[0036] FIG. 2B is a schematic showing a node-centric Bluetooth.RTM.
based communication arrangement. Under an embodiment, FIG. 2B shows
a mobile device 240 functioning as one of the relay nodes 230.
[0037] FIGS. 2A and 2B clearly show differing network
architectures. The devices comprising the apparatus disclosed
herein communicate with one another under a (node-centric)
architecture (FIG. 2B) as opposed to utilizing the mobile device as
the central node of communication (mobile-centric) (FIG. 2A).
[0038] This disclosure teaches systems and methods for the physical
initialization and setup of the apparatus. Said systems and methods
include deliberate, infrastructure mapped deployment and
auto-dispersive deployment. The apparatus may be deployed in a
physical infrastructure according to a map of the infrastructure.
The deployment may be carefully designed to take into account
signal absorbing materials (i.e. walls, water, large objects),
parent module and relay node signal radius (i.e. RSSI). The
deployment may take into account the very purpose for the
deployment of the Bluefield (i.e. design of the Bluefield to target
or cover one area in an infrastructure more than another) in order
to optimize the coverage of the Bluefield for a particular or
specific application.
[0039] The deployment of the apparatus may be designed by
superimposing potential locations of the parent modules and
individual relay nodes on a map of the infrastructure. Following
appropriate planning, the components of the apparatus may be placed
according to the prescribed plan. Upon initialization of the
components of the apparatus, the individual relay nodes and parent
nodes may discover the existence of and distance between (via RSSI)
nearby individual relay nodes, parent modules and users via
Bluetooth.RTM.. Automatic discovery of nearby modules, nodes and
devices acting as nodes is possible due the simple fact that all
such components periodically transmit data using Bluetooth.RTM.
communication protocols. Under one embodiment, nodes may be able to
communicate between one another and transmit each other's RSSI back
and forth for triangulation. Relay nodes transmit such information
to parent modules. The parent module(s) may begin to communicate
received information and metadata along with information
received/collected directly by the parent module(s) to the cloud
master. It should also be noted that parent modules may communicate
with each other.
[0040] Using a programmable interne client, a user may then view a
map of the infrastructure superimposed with the real-time location
of the components of the Bluefield apparatus. Using a graphical
user interface provided by client application. The user may click
on a particular component of the Bluefield apparatus, as depicted
on the user interface, and re-program its function or check its
status. An administrator may use the graphical user interface to
point and click to control the Bluefield apparatus and its
components. The administrator may also use the interface to monitor
Bluefield components, e.g. beacon battery status, etc. The cloud
master may communicate such instructions to and receive responses
from the desired individual component of the apparatus via a parent
module. Using the graphical user interface, an administrator may
also select areas of the map and upload content to be delivered to
specific individual relay nodes within the designated area. The
graphical user interface shows a map under one embodiment.
Superimposed on the map are squares or polygons. These polygons
represent an adjustable area on the map. When an administrator
clicks a polygon, a dialog box may open and prompt the upload of
content (images, video, deals, offers, information). Once uploaded,
users with a mobile device who enter that area covered by the
polygon are transmitted that particular content under one
embodiment. This also allows for specific targeting of users such
as delivery at certain time of day to certain demographics or
people.
[0041] Analogously, using an auto-dispersive deployment technique,
the Bluefield apparatus may be deployed into an infrastructure or
space without regard to the specific design of the infrastructure
or space. Due to the fact that the components of the apparatus
detect the presence and location of each other inherently, a
Bluefield apparatus may be deployed and the relative locations of
each component determined and mapped automatically; then
superimposed in real-time on a schematic, map or image with the
parent module(s) as a point of reference. This deployment may still
be controlled, modified and monitored using a programmable internet
client--much like the deliberate deployment method.
[0042] This disclosure provides systems and methods for the
homeostasis and self-stabilization of the apparatus, said methods
including self-monitoring, redundancy, and metastasis. The
Bluefield apparatus may be implemented in order to monitor the
location and status of each apparatus component with no need of
external assistance (self-monitoring). The apparatus may be
implemented in a manner of redundancy, where apparatus components
duplicate the actions or critical functions of the apparatus to
increase the reliability and robustness of the apparatus. In the
event of the failure of an apparatus component, the apparatus may
self-stabilize (operating to maintain homeostasis) by modifying the
operation of other components in the apparatus to maintain the
required functions of the apparatus. As one example of
self-stabilizing is if a beacon goes down . . . and that particular
beacon has a specific function . . . i.e. the welcome beacon . . .
the apparatus may have the ability adjust the function of nearby
beacons to complete the `welcome task` until that beacon is
replaced. Such event may simultaneously alert an administrator
overseeing the operation of the apparatus. An individual overseeing
the operation of the apparatus may be able to control and view the
status and location of each Bluefield component. To achieve greater
balance, coverage and reach, the apparatus may metastasize by
expanding its coverage by detecting, connecting to and modifying
the embedded code and function of compatible Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled
chipsets which have the ability to be reprogrammed over-air and are
within the Bluetooth.RTM. range of an apparatus component.
[0043] The disclosure provides systems and methods for the
detection of a living object in the Bluefield. Living objects
include human beings or other highly signal absorbing objects. Said
systems and methods include the detection and analysis of
measurable, transient changes and deflections in RSSI between
individual relay nodes. Cloud master may perform such detection and
analysis. Under an alternative embodiment, parent modules perform
such detection and analysis. The Bluefield apparatus may be
deployed by either deliberate or auto-dispersive methods. The
apparatus may be empirically tested such that the transient effect
on RSSI (between apparatus components) due to the absorptive nature
of living objects, each of various size and densities, may be
determined. Using these known empirical RSSI deflections, the
apparatus may self-monitor the status of the apparatus components
and notify an external user via cloud control if such transient
deflections are detected.
[0044] The disclosure teaches systems and methods for the detection
of users utilizing mobile devices in the Bluefield. Said systems
and methods include the detection of Bluetooth-enabled mobile
device transceivers by individual relay nodes and reassignment of
the role of said transceiver to operate as an individual relay node
of the apparatus. Individual relay nodes of the apparatus may
detect the presence of a Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled mobile device and
metastasize thus allowing for the tracking of the location of the
mobile device through the Bluefield apparatus. Following
colonization, the mobile device will function as an individual
relay node of the apparatus. Under one embodiment, colonization
only occurs if the target device runs a Bluefield application and
corresponding API. Under an alternative embodiment, such embedded
code is not required.
[0045] This disclosure describes systems and methods for the
distribution of content to end users utilizing mobile devices in
the Bluefield. Said systems and methods include a micro-location
based cascading hyperlinked content interface and a superimposed,
infrastructure map based graphical user interface. Based on the
location of the mobile device in the Bluefield apparatus, the
apparatus may wirelessly deliver content to the mobile device. The
content may arrive in the form of a hyperlinked image, moving
image, or graphic, such that, upon a click, the user may be
directed to content at a particular URL (uniform resource locator).
The URL may: direct users to resources, media, and information;
allow infrastructural access; direct users to point of sale
applications; or display advertisements. This content may be
displayed in a micro-location based cascading hyperlinked-content
interface (MiLoCHI). The MiLoCHI may display hyperlinked-content in
a stream or timeline (cascading) depending on the location of the
user in the Bluefield apparatus (micro-location). As the user moves
through the apparatus, new hyperlinked-content may be displayed on
top of, or in front of, previous content which was delivered
previously due to the prior micro-location of the user. The
hyperlinked-content may also be displayed via a superimposed,
infrastructure map based graphical user interface (SIIM-GUI). The
SIB/I-GUI may display hyperlinked-content superimposed on a
real-time schematic of the locations of the apparatus components,
also superimposed on a map of the infrastructure in which the
apparatus has been deployed (if applicable). Such a map may
comprise a downtown area of a city but embodiments are not so
limited. As the user moves through the apparatus, the location of
the user may be depicted in real-time on the interface. As the user
approaches a specific contextual location, that specific displayed
content grows under one embodiment to a larger size on the
SIB/I-GUI allowing the user to view and click if desired. The
MiLoCHI or SIIM-GUI graphical user interface aesthetics, imagery
and skin may change depending on the location of the device
operating the MiLoCHI or SIB/I-GUI within the Bluefield apparatus
or within specific areas as determined by other wireless
locationing modalities.
[0046] This disclosure describes systems and methods governing the
communication and interface of third-party applications with the
Bluefield apparatus. Access to the Bluefield apparatus and the data
generated therefrom may be granted through, but are not limited to,
the use of a software development kit (SDK) for development of
third party applications, application program interface (API), a
direct data draw or a combination thereof. Under an embodiment,
third parties may want access to very particular data sets from
Bluefield databases (maintained by cloud master) to analyze trends,
etc. Such data may be transmitted through APIs or SDK application
development.
[0047] This disclosure provides systems and methods for the
detection of standard, unknown Bluetooth.RTM. beacons. Parent
modules may detect the UUID of an unknown Bluetooth.RTM. beacon.
The apparatus may wirelessly transmit these unknown UUIDs to
individual relay nodes, including but not limited to,
Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled mobile devices comprising Bluefield embedded
code. Individual relay nodes may detect the unknown, standard
Bluetooth.RTM. beacon RSSI. At the highest (or a specifically set
threshold) RSSI, when the individual relay node is in highest
proximity to the unknown beacon, the individual relay node may
communicate an estimate of the GPS/WiFi/Bluefield location to the
parent module and/or cloud master. The cloud master may record each
estimate and may generate an average thus pinpointing the location
of that standard Bluetooth.RTM. beacon for triangulation with
respect to other individual relay nodes, later display, use or
analysis.
[0048] As one example of detecting an unknown Bluetooth.RTM.
beacon, assume a Bluefield is set up in a city and a local company
installs a new beacon. The problem arises when a nearby parent
module detects this new beacon but only it's RSSI. Under this
example, the parent module won't be able to precisely locate the
beacon--it can only know how far the beacon is away. Otherwise, all
the module knows is the UUID of the beacon.
[0049] Under an embodiment, the apparatus may transmit the unknown
UUIDs to mobile devices which are functioning as individual relay
nodes in a manner described above. In other words, the apparatus
may transmit the unknown UUIDs to mobile devices running a
Bluefield application with the Bluefield API. Users of such mobile
devices may get `danger close` to the unknown beacon as detected
through Bluetooth communication. At this close proximity the
Bluefield API transmits a WiFi location estimate (if on), a GPS
location estimate (if on) and a Bluefield location estimate (i.e.
the mobile device will prompt the Bluefield for its location with
respect to other known beacons and Bluefield will return a location
as described above; the received location will be re-transmitted
back as the Bluefield location estimate). These estimates will be
transmitted to the cloud platform either through the parent modules
or directly to the cloud platform. The cloud platform may under an
embodiment obtain all location estimates from multiple users
(mobile phones) and calculate a location average. That average may
then be set as the location of that particular beacon.
[0050] FIG. 3 shows a user/object moving through the Bluefield
apparatus. The user/object (or mobile device) 310 moves through
relay nodes 320 and communicates with such nodes in a manner
already disclosed above. FIG. 3 shows parent module 330 and cloud
master 340, under an embodiment.
[0051] FIG. 4 shows operation of the Bluefield Browser displayed on
a mobile device 410 of a user. The Browser may provide a MiLoCHI or
SIIM-GUI graphical user interface and corresponding functionality
as already described above. FIG. 4 shows a mobile device 410 of a
user receiving information from relay nodes 420.
[0052] FIG. 5 shows a method for tracking and distributing content
to a device through a wireless communications network, under an
embodiment. Step 510 includes communicatively coupling one or more
applications running on at least one processor of a remote server,
a plurality of relay nodes, and a mobile device using a wireless
communications protocol. Step 520 includes distributing the
plurality of relay nodes in a physical environment, wherein the
plurality of relay nodes comprise a portable wireless communication
device. Step 530 includes maintaining location information on the
remote server, wherein the location information comprises an
association of each relay node of the plurality of relay nodes with
a known location in the physical environment. Step 540 includes
transmitting a notification to at least one application running on
a processor of the mobile device roaming within the physical
environment, the transmitting the notification comprising at least
one node of the plurality of relay nodes transmitting the
notification. Step 550 includes receiving by one or more relay
nodes of the plurality of relay nodes a signal periodically
transmitted by the at least one application via the mobile device
in response to the notification, wherein the mobile device signal
comprises a unique mobile device identification number, wherein the
receiving includes identifying the unique mobile device
identification number and determining relative distance from the
one or more relay nodes to the mobile device. Step 560 includes
using the one or more relay nodes of the plurality of relay nodes
to transmit detected mobile device information to the one or more
applications along with corresponding unique identification numbers
of the one or more relay nodes, wherein the detected mobile device
information comprises the unique mobile device identification
number and the determined relative distance. Step 570 includes the
one or more applications using the location information and the
detected mobile device information to determine a location of the
mobile device in the physical environment, the one or more
applications identifying content based on the location and
delivering the content to the mobile device through the plurality
of relay nodes.
[0053] This disclosure provides an apparatus, devices and methods
that provide technical advantages including the following:
[0054] The apparatus and devices provide a Bluetooth.RTM. network
with the ability to monitor and track the location of objects,
users and individual components of the network apparatus, under an
embodiment;
[0055] The apparatus and devices allow for the collection of
location-based and communication-based information and metadata,
under an embodiment;
[0056] The apparatus and devices can be deployed using multiple
methods (including deliberate deployment method OR automatic
deployment method) depending on the required application, under an
embodiment;
[0057] The apparatus and devices can be controlled and monitored
externally via a server based platform which may be easily accessed
and operated via the internet, under an embodiment;
[0058] The apparatus and devices self-monitor and can be deployed
to provide redundancy in order to maintain homeostasis for
robustness and stability, under an embodiment;
[0059] The apparatus and devices can self-expand to other
compatible devices thus extending its reach, programming capacity
and data collection volume, under an embodiment;
[0060] The apparatus and devices deliver content to the user in a
non-fatiguing, passive format, under an embodiment.
[0061] The systems and methods described herein include a
Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled wireless communication network apparatus for
content distribution and mobile device access. The apparatus
comprises a programmable internet-based server system cloud-master.
The server system includes an arrangement capable of wireless
communication. The server system is able to communicate with one or
more parent modules' simultaneously via wireless internet
protocols. The server system is able to control the embedded code
and thus the function of the parent modules. The server system
collects all metadata transferred and communicated via the parent
module. The server system is equipped with analytical tools to
characterize all collected data and commands into interpretable
data.
[0062] The network apparatus comprised under an embodiment a
peripheral and portable parent-module device comprising an
arrangement capable of wireless communication, wherein the device
possesses a unique identification, wherein the device is able to
communicate with the cloud-master and/or with one or more
individual relay nodes simultaneously via wirelessly-enabled
internet protocols, wherein the device is able to control the
embedded code and thus the function of the individual relay nodes
within Bluetooth.RTM. range; wherein the device is able to receive
and monitor the transmission received from the individual relay
nodes within Bluetooth.RTM. range, wherein the device transmits
received information and metadata from individual relay nodes to
the `cloud master`.
[0063] The network apparatus comprises under one embodiment one or
more individual relay node devices, comprising an arrangement
capable of wireless communication which function similarly to
Bluetooth.RTM. beacons, wherein the device possesses a unique
identification, wherein the device may communicate and transmit
data and instructions via signals tagged with their unique
identification and their corresponding RSSI, wherein the device
receives signals, instructions, data, and determines RSSI from
other individual relay nodes, parent modules,
Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled mobile devices, or Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled
mobile devices comprising Bluefield-enabled embedded code; and
wherein the device communicates received data, RSSI, and metadata
to the parent module via Bluetooth.RTM., wherein the device
controls the embedded code and thus the function of other
individual relay nodes and/or other compatible
Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled devices not yet associated with the
apparatus.
[0064] The network apparatus comprises an end user or object
including an object that absorbs Bluetooth.RTM. electromagnetic
waves and an end user utilizing a Bluetooth.RTM. compatible mobile
device, wherein upon recognition by an individual relay node,
becomes an individual relay node, wherein, unlike individual relay
nodes, end user devices execute instructions from individual relay
nodes which are sent from the apparatus, wherein end user devices
collect and store information for later use, analysis or
display.
[0065] The network apparatus may under an embodiment be deployed
deliberately in a physical infrastructure according to a map of the
infrastructure.
[0066] The network apparatus may under an embodiment be deployed in
an auto-dispersive fashion without regard to specific design of the
infrastructure or space.
[0067] The network apparatus is under an embodiment implemented
with redundancy, where apparatus components duplicate the actions
or critical functions of the apparatus.
[0068] The network apparatus is under an embodiment implemented
with self-stabilization capability via self-modification of
individual components in order to maintain the required function of
the individual components and thus the apparatus.
[0069] The network apparatus may under an embodiment metastasize to
other Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled beacons via reprogramming of embedded
code "over-the air".
[0070] The network apparatus may under an embodiment detect
absorbing objects and living objects within range.
[0071] The network apparatus delivers under an embodiment URL
hyperlinked-content using a micro-location based cascading
hyperlinked-content interface or a superimposed, infrastructure
map-based graphical user interface.
[0072] The network apparatus under an embodiment interfaces with
third party applications.
[0073] The mobile device may under an embodiment be a smartphone,
tablet or other computing platform such as a laptop or hybrid
platform.
[0074] The cloud master may under an embodiment operate as a web
application or website stored, accessed and utilized via
server.
[0075] The cloud master may under an embodiment be the hierarchical
controller of the apparatus.
[0076] The parent module under an embodiment may be the mid-level
manager of the apparatus.
[0077] The individual relay nodes under an embodiment may be deemed
the cog of the apparatus.
[0078] The deployment of the network apparatus may under an
embodiment be carefully designed to optimize coverage by taking
into account signal absorbing materials, module/node signal radius,
and the purpose for the deployment.
[0079] The signal absorbing materials may be under an embodiment
walls, large objects and water.
[0080] The module/node signal radius may under an embodiment be
recognized via RSSI.
[0081] The purpose for deployment of the network apparatus may
under an embodiment be specifically designed to target one area or
others.
[0082] The potential locations of the parent modules and individual
relay nodes may under an embodiment be superimposed on an
infrastructural map.
[0083] Upon initialization of the components of the apparatus,
individual relay nodes and parent nodes may under an embodiment
discover the distance between nearby individual relay nodes, parent
modules and users via Bluetooth.RTM..
[0084] The distance between apparatus components are determined via
RSSI under an embodiment.
[0085] Through the use of a programmable internet client, a user
may under an embodiment view a map of the infrastructure
superimposed with the real-time location of the components of the
apparatus.
[0086] The programmable internet client may under an embodiment be
used by a user via a graphical user interface.
[0087] The user may under an embodiment utilize the graphical user
interface and click on a particular component of the apparatus and
re-program its function or check component status.
[0088] The programmable internet client interfaces with the cloud
master which may under an embodiment communicate instructions to
and receive responses from the desired individual component of the
apparatus where an administrator may also select areas of the map
and upload content to be delivered to specific individual relay
nodes within the designated area.
[0089] The auto-dispersive deployment technique under an embodiment
relies on the self-detection of the individual components of the
apparatus.
[0090] The components of the apparatus detects under an embodiment
the presence and relative location of each component
inherently--and thus mapped automatically.
[0091] The automatically mapped component locations are then
superimposed in real-time on a schematic, map or image with the
parent module(s) as a point of reference under an embodiment.
[0092] The auto-dispersive deployment may under an embodiment be
controlled, modified and monitored using a programmable internet
client.
[0093] The apparatus alerts those monitoring the apparatus when
self-stabilization, redundancy, or metastasis is employed, under an
embodiment.
[0094] The cloud master controls monitoring and messaging, under an
embodiment.
[0095] Empirical RSSI deflections may be used under an embodiment
to determine if a living object has moved through the
apparatus.
[0096] Empirical RSSI deflections may under an embodiment be
determined through empirical testing of the transient effect on
RSSI between apparatus components due to the absorptive nature of
living obj ects.
[0097] The transient of effect on RSSI may under an embodiment be
determined for objects each of various size, densities, and
composition.
[0098] Content may under an embodiment arrive in the form of a
hyperlinked image, moving image or graphic, such that, upon a
click, the user may be directed to content at a particular URL.
[0099] The URL may under an embodiment direct users to resources,
media and information.
[0100] The URL may under an embodiment allow infrastructural
access.
[0101] The URL may under an embodiment direct users to point of
sale applications.
[0102] The URL may under an embodiment display advertisements.
[0103] Newly arriving hyperlinked-content may under an embodiment
be displayed on top of, or in front of, previous content which was
delivered previously due to the prior micro-location of the
user.
[0104] Hyperlinked-content may under an embodiment be superimposed
on a real-time schematic of the locations of the apparatus
components, or other specific locations, also superimposed on a map
of the infrastructure in which the apparatus has been deployed.
[0105] As the user moves through the apparatus, the location of the
user may under an embodiment be depicted in real-time on the
interface.
[0106] As the user approaches a specific contextual location,
displayed content may under an embodiment grow to a larger size on
the graphical user interface allowing the user to view and
click.
[0107] The content displaying graphical user interface aesthetics,
imagery and skin may under an embodiment change depending on the
location of the device operating the interface within the apparatus
or within specific areas as determined by other wireless
locationing modalities.
[0108] A third party application may under an embodiment interface
with the apparatus through the use of a software development kit
(SDK), application program interface (API), a direct data draw or a
combination thereof.
[0109] The apparatus may under an embodiment detect the location of
standard, Bluetooth.RTM. beacons for triangulation with respect to
other individual relay nodes, later display, use or analysis.
[0110] The apparatus may under an embodiment average the
GPS/WiFi/Bluefield estimate locations of the unknown beacons as
provided to the parent module or cloud master by the individual
relay node in high proximity to the unknown beacon.
[0111] Parent modules detect and transmit under an embodiment the
unknown Bluetooth.RTM. beacon UUIDs to the individual relay nodes
in order to begin the discovery process.
[0112] The individual relay nodes may under an embodiment be
Bluetooth.RTM.-enabled mobile devices comprising Bluefield
apparatus embedded code.
[0113] A system described herein comprises under an embodiment a
master component, a plurality of relay nodes, and a mobile device
comprising at least one application running on a processor of the
mobile device, wherein the master component comprises one or more
applications running on at least one processor of a remote server,
wherein each relay node comprises a portable wireless communication
device, wherein the master component, the plurality of relay nodes
and the mobile device are communicatively coupled using a wireless
communications protocol.
[0114] The system distributes under an embodiment the plurality of
relay nodes in a physical environment.
[0115] The master component provides under an embodiment location
information, wherein the location information comprises an
association of each relay node of the plurality of relay nodes with
a known location in the physical environment.
[0116] The mobile device enters the physical environment under an
embodiment, wherein at least one node of the plurality of relay
nodes transmits a notification to the at least one application.
[0117] In response to receiving the notification the at least one
application periodically transmitting a signal via the mobile
device under an embodiment, wherein the mobile device signal
comprises a unique mobile device identification number, wherein one
or more relay nodes of the plurality of relay nodes detects the
mobile device signal, wherein the detecting includes identifying
the unique mobile device identification number and determining
relative distance from the one or more relay nodes to the mobile
device;
[0118] The one or more relay nodes of the plurality of relay nodes
transmits detected mobile device information to the master
component along with corresponding unique identification numbers of
the one or more relay nodes under an embodiment, wherein the
detected mobile device information comprises the unique mobile
device identification number and the determined relative
distance.
[0119] The master component uses the location information and the
detected mobile device information under an embodiment to determine
a location of the mobile device in the physical environment.
[0120] The wireless communications protocol comprises under an
embodiment at least one Bluetooth communications protocol.
[0121] The mobile device under an embodiment is Bluetooth enabled,
wherein the plurality of relay nodes comprise Bluetooth enabled
beacons.
[0122] The master component and the plurality of relay nodes under
an embodiment are communicatively coupled through at least one
parent module, wherein the at least one parent module comprises a
Bluetooth enabled beacon.
[0123] The mobile device signal under an embodiment comprises a
request for a location of the mobile device from the master
component.
[0124] The one or more relay nodes under an embodiment comprises at
least three relay nodes.
[0125] The determining relative distance under an embodiment
comprises determining relative distance based on signal strength of
the mobile device signal.
[0126] The master component uses the location information under an
embodiment to identify known locations of the at least three relay
nodes.
[0127] The determining a location of the mobile device includes
under an embodiment using the relative distance to at least three
relay nodes and the known locations of the at least three relay
nodes to estimate the location of the mobile device.
[0128] The master component identifies under an embodiment
contextualized content for delivery to the mobile device based on
the location of the mobile device.
[0129] The contextualized content comprises under an embodiment a
URL directing a browser running on the mobile device to the
contextualized content.
[0130] The browser organizes under an embodiment the contextualized
content according to a priority based on the location of the mobile
device.
[0131] The master component delivers under an embodiment the
contextualized content to the mobile device through at least one of
the parent module and the plurality of relay nodes.
[0132] The identifying the contextualized content includes under an
embodiment identifying target content based upon a target location
in the physical environment, wherein the contextualized content
includes the target content.
[0133] The delivering the contextualized content includes under an
embodiment delivering the target content to the mobile device when
the mobile device is one or more of in a proximity to the target
location and at the target location.
[0134] Each node of the plurality of relay nodes periodically
transmits a signal under an embodiment, wherein the signal
comprises a corresponding unique identification number.
[0135] Each relay node of the plurality of relay nodes detects
signals of other relay nodes within the range under an embodiment,
wherein each relay node identifies a corresponding identification
number of detected signals and uses signal strength of each
detected signal to determine relative distance from each relay node
to corresponding transmitting relay nodes.
[0136] Each relay node collects under an embodiment information of
the detected signals including identification number and
corresponding relative distance and transmits the collected relay
node information to the master component.
[0137] The mobile device comprises under an embodiment a
smartphone, tablet, computing-enabled wearable, a laptop and a
hybrid platform.
[0138] A method described herein comprises under an embodiment
communicatively coupling one or more applications running on at
least one processor of a remote server, a plurality of relay nodes,
and a mobile device using a wireless communications protocol.
[0139] The method includes under an embodiment distributing the
plurality of relay nodes in a physical environment, wherein the
plurality of relay nodes comprise a portable wireless communication
device.
[0140] The method includes under an embodiment maintaining location
information on the remote server, wherein the location information
comprises an association of each relay node of the plurality of
relay nodes with a known location in the physical environment.
[0141] The method includes under an embodiment transmitting a
notification to at least one application running on a processor of
the mobile device roaming within the physical environment, the
transmitting the notification comprising at least one node of the
plurality of relay nodes transmitting the notification.
[0142] The method includes under an embodiment receiving by one or
more relay nodes of the plurality of relay nodes a signal
periodically transmitted by the at least one application via the
mobile device in response to the notification, wherein the mobile
device signal comprises a unique mobile device identification
number, wherein the receiving includes identifying the unique
mobile device identification number and determining relative
distance from the one or more relay nodes to the mobile device.
[0143] The method includes under an embodiment using the one or
more relay nodes of the plurality of relay nodes to transmit
detected mobile device information to the one or more applications
along with corresponding unique identification numbers of the one
or more relay nodes, wherein the detected mobile device information
comprises the unique mobile device identification number and the
determined relative distance.
[0144] The method includes under an embodiment the one or more
applications using the location information and the detected mobile
device information to determine a location of the mobile device in
the physical environment, the one or more applications identifying
content based on the location and delivering the content to the
mobile device through the plurality of relay nodes.
[0145] It is understood that the systems and methods described
herein are merely illustrative. Other arrangements may be employed
in accordance the embodiments set forth below. Further, other
variations of the systems and methods may comply with the spirit of
the embodiments set forth herein.
[0146] Computer networks suitable for use with the embodiments
described herein include local area networks (LAN), wide area
networks (WAN), Internet, or other connection services and network
variations such as the world wide web, the public internet, a
private internet, a private computer network, a public network, a
mobile network, a cellular network, a value-added network, and the
like. Computing devices coupled or connected to the network may be
any microprocessor controlled device that permits access to the
network, including terminal devices, such as personal computers,
workstations, servers, mini computers, main-frame computers, laptop
computers, mobile computers, palm top computers, hand held
computers, mobile phones, TV set-top boxes, or combinations
thereof. The computer network may include one of more LANs, WANs,
Internets, and computers. The computers may serve as servers,
clients, or a combination thereof.
[0147] The systems and methods for object tracking and content
distribution through a wireless communications network can be a
component of a single system, multiple systems, and/or
geographically separate systems. The systems and methods for object
tracking and content distribution through a wireless communications
network can also be a subcomponent or subsystem of a single system,
multiple systems, and/or geographically separate systems. The
components can be coupled to one or more other components (not
shown) of a host system or a system coupled to the host system.
[0148] One or more components of the systems and methods for object
tracking and content distribution through a wireless communications
network and/or a corresponding interface, system or application to
which the systems and methods for object tracking and content
distribution through a wireless communications network is coupled
or connected includes and/or runs under and/or in association with
a processing system. The processing system includes any collection
of processor-based devices or computing devices operating together,
or components of processing systems or devices, as is known in the
art. For example, the processing system can include one or more of
a portable computer, portable communication device operating in a
communication network, and/or a network server. The portable
computer can be any of a number and/or combination of devices
selected from among personal computers, personal digital
assistants, portable computing devices, and portable communication
devices, but is not so limited. The processing system can include
components within a larger computer system.
[0149] The processing system of an embodiment includes at least one
processor and at least one memory device or subsystem. The
processing system can also include or be coupled to at least one
database. The term "processor" as generally used herein refers to
any logic processing unit, such as one or more central processing
units (CPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs),
application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC), etc. The processor
and memory can be monolithically integrated onto a single chip,
distributed among a number of chips or components, and/or provided
by some combination of algorithms. The methods described herein can
be implemented in one or more of software algorithm(s), programs,
firmware, hardware, components, circuitry, in any combination.
[0150] The components of any system that include the systems and
methods for object tracking and content distribution through a
wireless communications network can be located together or in
separate locations. Communication paths couple the components and
include any medium for communicating or transferring files among
the components. The communication paths include wireless
connections, wired connections, and hybrid wireless/wired
connections. The communication paths also include couplings or
connections to networks including local area networks (LANs),
metropolitan area networks (MANs), wide area networks (WANs),
proprietary networks, interoffice or backend networks, and the
Internet. Furthermore, the communication paths include removable
fixed mediums like floppy disks, hard disk drives, and CD-ROM
disks, as well as flash RAM, Universal Serial Bus (USB)
connections, RS-232 connections, telephone lines, buses, and
electronic mail messages.
[0151] Aspects of the systems and methods for object tracking and
content distribution through a wireless communications network and
corresponding systems and methods described herein may be
implemented as functionality programmed into any of a variety of
circuitry, including programmable logic devices (PLDs), such as
field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable array logic
(PAL) devices, electrically programmable logic and memory devices
and standard cell-based devices, as well as application specific
integrated circuits (ASICs). Some other possibilities for
implementing aspects of the systems and methods for object tracking
and content distribution through a wireless communications network
and corresponding systems and methods include: microcontrollers
with memory (such as electronically erasable programmable read only
memory (EEPROM)), embedded microprocessors, firmware, software,
etc. Furthermore, aspects of the systems and methods for object
tracking and content distribution through a wireless communications
network and corresponding systems and methods may be embodied in
microprocessors having software-based circuit emulation, discrete
logic (sequential and combinatorial), custom devices, fuzzy
(neural) logic, quantum devices, and hybrids of any of the above
device types. Of course the underlying device technologies may be
provided in a variety of component types, e.g., metal-oxide
semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) technologies like
complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS), bipolar
technologies like emitter-coupled logic (ECL), polymer technologies
(e.g., silicon-conjugated polymer and metal-conjugated
polymer-metal structures), mixed analog and digital, etc.
[0152] It should be noted that any system, method, and/or other
components disclosed herein may be described using computer aided
design tools and expressed (or represented), as data and/or
instructions embodied in various computer-readable media, in terms
of their behavioral, register transfer, logic component,
transistor, layout geometries, and/or other characteristics.
Computer-readable media in which such formatted data and/or
instructions may be embodied include, but are not limited to,
non-volatile storage media in various forms (e.g., optical,
magnetic or semiconductor storage media) and carrier waves that may
be used to transfer such formatted data and/or instructions through
wireless, optical, or wired signaling media or any combination
thereof. Examples of transfers of such formatted data and/or
instructions by carrier waves include, but are not limited to,
transfers (uploads, downloads, e-mail, etc.) over the Internet
and/or other computer networks via one or more data transfer
protocols (e.g., HTTP, FTP, SMTP, etc.). When received within a
computer system via one or more computer-readable media, such data
and/or instruction-based expressions of the above described
components may be processed by a processing entity (e.g., one or
more processors) within the computer system in conjunction with
execution of one or more other computer programs.
[0153] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout
the description and the claims, the words "comprise," "comprising,"
and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed
to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in a sense of
"including, but not limited to." Words using the singular or plural
number also include the plural or singular number respectively.
[0154] Additionally, the words "herein," "hereunder," "above,"
"below," and words of similar import, when used in this
application, refer to this application as a whole and not to any
particular portions of this application. When the word "or" is used
in reference to a list of two or more items, that word covers all
of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in
the list, all of the items in the list and any combination of the
items in the list.
[0155] The above description of embodiments of the systems and
methods for object tracking and content distribution through a
wireless communications network and corresponding systems and
methods is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the systems
and methods to the precise forms disclosed. While specific
embodiments of, and examples for, the systems and methods for
object tracking and content distribution through a wireless
communications network and corresponding systems and methods are
described herein for illustrative purposes, various equivalent
modifications are possible within the scope of the systems and
methods, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. The
teachings of the systems and methods for object tracking and
content distribution through a wireless communications network and
corresponding systems and methods provided herein can be applied to
other systems and methods, not only for the systems and methods
described above.
[0156] The elements and acts of the various embodiments described
above can be combined to provide further embodiments. These and
other changes can be made to the systems and methods for object
tracking and content distribution through a wireless communications
network and corresponding systems and methods in light of the above
detailed description.
* * * * *