AU2021245258A1

AU2021245258A1 - Communication system for communicating between mobile devices

Info

Publication number: AU2021245258A1
Application number: AU2021245258A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Nelly Torque
Original assignee: Osha Tech Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Osha Technologies Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2020-10-09
Filing date: 2021-10-08
Publication date: 2022-04-28

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for communicating between mobile devices. A system can receive a work shift request from a facility device. The work shift requests may comprise a set of selection criteria, a start time, an end time, and be associated with a geolocation of a facility. The system creates a ranked list of workers from a database. The workers are each allocated a rank based upon a score derived from the work shift request. The system can request and retrieve the current geolocation of a plurality of mobile devices associated with workers. The system allocates a weighting to the score of each worker on the rank list. The system transmits to at least one worker a request to work, receives an acceptance of the request to work from a first worker, designates the first worker as a shift worker, and transmits to the facility device a unique identifier associated with the shift worker. 1/10 10 26a 26b 12a 12b 12c 16a 16b 16c 22 14 18 2 ~L 24 Fig. 1

Description

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"Communication system for communicating between mobile devices"

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a communication system for communicating between mobile devices.

Background

[0002] The staff scheduling problem (SSP) is an operations research problem of finding an optimal way to assign individual service providers to shifts. SSPs typically have a set of hard and soft constraints. The hard constraints must be satisfied in order for valid solutions to occurs, whereas soft constraints define the relative quality of the valid solutions. The SSP is known to have non-deterministic polynomial-time hardness (NP-hard) complexity. This means that the computational complexity of solving the SSP grows quickly with problem size. In practical use, this means that it takes too long to calculate shifts. In particular, when there is an unexpected change in the SSP, such as sick leave, there may not be sufficient time to re-calculate the solution to the SSP.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a more efficient approach to the SSP that reduces the processing time, by reducing or removing NP-hard complexity, such that the calculations can be finished in time before the first shift needs to start.

[0004] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each of the appended claims.

Summary

[0005] According to an aspect, there is provided a communication system for communicating between mobile devices, the system comprising: a plurality of mobile devices, each mobile device being associated with a worker and configured to acquire a current geolocation; a server with a processor; wherein the processor is programmed to: receive, from a facility device, a work shift request comprising a set of selection criteria, a start time, an end time, and being associated with a geolocation of a facility; create, from a database, a ranked list of workers, wherein each worker is allocated with a rank based upon the set of selection criteria; request, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, the current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieve the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determine a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile device; allocate a weighting, based on the distance, to the rank for each of the workers; remove, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; transmit, to each of the workers, a request to work; receive, from a first worker, an acceptance of the request to work; designate the first worker as a shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, a unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

[0006] In an embodiment, the processor is programmed to individually transmit the request to work to each of the workers in a descending order from the ranked list of workers.

[0007] According to another aspect, there is provided a communication system for communicating between mobile devices, the system comprising: a plurality of mobile devices, each mobile device being associated with a worker and configured to acquire a current geolocation; a server with a processor; wherein the processor is programmed to: receive, from a facility device, a work shift request comprising a set of selection criteria, a start time, an end time, and being associated with a geolocation of a facility; create, from a database, a ranked list of workers, wherein each worker is allocated a rank based upon a score derived from the set of selection criteria; request, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, the current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieve the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determine a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile device; allocate a weighting, based on the distance, to the score for each of the workers; remove, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; create a plurality of groups, wherein each group comprises a plurality of ranked workers having at least one common trait; transmit, to the workers of at least one group, a request to work; receive, from a first worker, an acceptance of the request to work; designate the first worker as a shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, a unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

[0008] In an embodiment, the request to work comprises a visual representation of work shift data, including the geolocation of the facility, the start time and the end time.

[0009] In an embodiment, the processor is further programmed to transmit, to the mobile device associated with the shift worker, an alert at a predetermine time before the start time.

[0010] In an embodiment, the unique identifier enables the facility device to search the database and locate a data set of the shift worker.

[0011] In an embodiment, the data set of the shift worker comprises an image of the shift worker, a set of credentials and a rating.

[0012] In an embodiment, the rating is determined by aggregating a plurality of ratings generated by a plurality of work facilities.

[0013] In an embodiment, the processor is further programmed to: receive, from the mobile device associated with the shift worker, a cancelation request or a transfer request; transmit, to the facility device, a notification of cancellation or transfer; create, from the database, the ranked list of workers; remove the shift worker from the ranked list of workers; request, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, the current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieve the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determine a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile device; allocate a weighting, based on the distance, to the rank for each of the workers; remove, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; transmit, to each of the workers, the request to work; receive, from a second worker, the acceptance of the request to work; designate the second worker as the shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, the unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

[0014] In an embodiment, the processor is further programmed to: receive, from the mobile device associated with the shift worker, a cancelation request or a transfer request; transmit, to the facility device, a notification of cancellation or transfer; create, from the database, the ranked list of workers; remove the shift worker from the ranked list of workers; request, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, the current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieve the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determine a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile device; allocate a weighting, based on the distance, to the score for each of the workers; remove, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; create the plurality of groups, wherein each group comprises the plurality of ranked workers having at least one common trait; transmit, to the workers of at least one group, the request to work; receive, from a second worker, the acceptance of the request to work; designate the second worker as the shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, the unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

[0015] In an embodiment, the processor is further configured to: receive, from the mobile device associated with the shift worker, a transfer request; transmit, to the facility device, the notification of transfer; receive, from the mobile device associated with the shift worker, the unique identifier associated with a nominated worker; and transmit, to the nominated worker, the request to work.

[0016] In an embodiment, the processor is further configured to: receive, from the nominated worker, the acceptance of the request to work; designate the nominated worker as the shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, the unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

[0017] In an embodiment, the processor is further configured to: receive, from the nominated worker, the declination of the request to work; create, from the database, the ranked list of workers; remove the shift worker and the nominated worker from the ranked list of workers; request, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, the current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieve the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determine a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile device; allocate a weighting, based on the distance, to the rank for each of the workers; remove, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; transmit, to each of the workers, the request to work; receive, from the second worker, the acceptance of the request to work; designate the second worker as the shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, the unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

[0018] In an embodiment, the processor is further configured to: receive, from the nominated worker, the declination of the request to work; create, from the database, the ranked list of workers; remove the shift worker and the nominated worker from the ranked list of workers; request, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, the current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieve the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determine a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile device; allocate a weighting, based on the distance, to the score for each of the workers; remove, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; create the plurality of groups, wherein each group comprises the plurality of ranked workers having at least one common trait; transmit, to the workers of at least one group, the request to work; receive, from the second worker, the acceptance of the request to work; designate the second worker as the shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, the unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

[0019] In an embodiment, the rating is determined by a tally of the cancellation requests and/or the transfer requests transmitted by the mobile device associated with the worker.

[0020] In an embodiment, each mobile device associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers transmits an active worker signal.

[0021] In an embodiment, the ranked list of workers is automatically updated when any mobile device associated with any worker on the ranked list of workers stops transmission of the active worker signal.

[0022] In an embodiment, the processor is further programmed to: track in near real-time the current geolocation of the mobile device associated with the shift worker; and transmit in near real time, to the facility device, the current geolocation of the mobile device associated with the shift worker, until a condition is met.

[0023] In an embodiment, the processor is further configured to: determine in near real time an estimated time of arrival based upon the distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of the mobile device associated with the shift worker; and transmit in near real time, to the facility device, the estimated time of arrival.

[0024] In an embodiment, the condition is the current geolocation of the mobile device associated with the shift worker is the same as the geolocation of the facility.

[0025] In an embodiment, the processor is further programmed to initiate a time recordal after the condition is met.

[0026] In an embodiment, the processor is further programed to initiate the time recordal after the condition is met and the start time has elapsed, and cease the time recordal after the end time has elapsed.

[0027] In an embodiment, the condition is the current geolocation of the mobile device associated with the shift worker is the same as the geolocation of the facility, and the current geolocation of the mobile device is maintained for a predetermined period of time.

[0028] In an embodiment, the predetermined period of time is a shift period between the start time and the end time.

[0029] According to a further aspect, there is provided a computer implemented method for communication between mobile devices, the method comprising: receiving, from a facility device, a work shift request comprising a set of selection criteria and being associated with a geolocation of a facility; creating, from a database, a ranked list of workers, wherein each worker is allocated with a rank based upon the set of selection criteria; requesting, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, a current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieving, the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determining a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile devices; allocating a weighting, based on the distance, to the rank for each of the workers; removing, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; transmitting, to each of the workers, a request to work; receiving, from a first worker, an acceptance of the request to work; designating the first worker as a shift worker; and transmitting, to the facility device, a unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0030] A non-limiting example will now be described with reference to the following drawings:

[0031] Fig. 1 illustrates an overview of the communication system;

[0032] Fig. 2 illustrates a graphic user interface on a mobile device;

[0033] Fig. 3 illustrates a plurality of zones for determining a weighting for each worker;

[0034] Fig. 4 illustrates a graphics user interface for tracking a shift worker;

[0035] Fig. 5 illustrates a flow diagram for communicating between mobile devices;

[0036] Fig. 6 illustrates a flow diagram for communication between mobile devices and tracking a shift worker;

[0037] Fig. 7 illustrates a flow diagram for transmitting work requests to workers according to a first embodiment;

[0038] Fig. 8 illustrates a flow diagram for transmitting work requests to workers according to a second embodiment;

[0039] Fig. 9 illustrates a flow diagram for cancelling or transferring a shift; and

[0040] Fig. 10 illustrates a flow diagram for transferring a shift to a nominated worker.

Description of Embodiments

General terms

[0041] Throughout this specification the word "comprise", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

[0042] It should also be understood that, unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the following discussion, it is appreciated that throughout the description, discussions utilizing terms such as "estimating" or "processing" or "computing" or "calculating", "optimizing" or "determining" or "displaying" or "maximising" or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic computing device, that processes and transforms data represented as

I1

physical (electronic) quantities within the computer system's registers and memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system memories or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices.

Overview of a Communication System

[0043] Fig. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a communication system 10 for communicating between a plurality of mobile devices 12. In this embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of mobile devices 12a, 12b, 12c and a facility device 14. Each mobile device 12a, 12b, 12c is associated with a worker 16a, 16b, 16c and programmed to acquire a current geolocation using a geolocation system. Being associated means that the mobile device 12a, 12b, 12c is identified as being owned by the specific worker 16a, 16b, 16c. This may be achieved by the worker being logged into an app installed on the device and the worker's credentials are linked to the worker's user profile at the facility device 14. The facility device 14 is associated with a work facility 18, which means that the facility device 14 is identified as being located at, or operated by, the work facility 18. A communication server 20 facilitates communication between these devices through a communication network 22. In this embodiment, the communication network 22 is as a wireless internet network.

[0044] In this embodiment, the work facility 18 is a healthcare facility, such as a hospital or a nursing home. However, it would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the work facility may be associated with facilities from other industries, such as hospitality, essential services, and resources sector. Examples include, hotels, mining camps, and prisons.

[0045] The communication server 20 is programmed to determine whether communication is facilitated between the plurality of mobile devices 12a, 12b, 12c and the facility device 14 based on a set of criteria provided by the work facility 18.

[0046] In this embodiment, the set of criteria relates to fulfilment of a work shift, wherein the work facility 18 requires a qualified worker to be rostered for a work shift. The set of criteria may include experience, professional registrations, and qualifications. The facility device 14 may create or receive a set of criteria prior to transmission to the communication server 20 as a work shift request. The work shift request may also include other information, such as a start time and an end time, for informing the qualified worker. It would be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that the set of criteria may relate to other requests, such as freelance services, project tenders, and secondments.

[0047] The communication server 20, upon receiving the work shift request, is programmed to create a ranked list of workers from a database 24. Each worker is allocated a rank based upon a score and ranked accordingly on the ranked list of workers. The score is derived from a comparison of a set of credentials of each worker, retrieved from a data set of each worker, with the set of criteria included in the work shift request. A higher score is generated if data from the set of credentials is similar to data from the set of criteria, wherein a lower score is generated if the data is dissimilar.

[0048] The communication server 20 is programmed to request, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, the current geolocation of each mobile device. In this example, the communication server 20 transmits the requests to mobile devices 12a, 12b, 12c, associated with ranked workers 16a, 16b, 16c who are included in the ranked list of workers. Each mobile device 12a, 12b, 12c is configured to determine the current geolocation using a geolocation system. The geolocation system may be in the form of hardware and/or software that enables each mobile device 12a, 12b, 12c to locate and/or triangulate the current geolocation. The communication server 20 may transmit the request for the current geolocation of each mobile device in a sequential order. In an example, the communication server 20 transmits the request for the current geolocation of the mobile device associated with the top ranked worker, waits until it receives a response, then transmits the request to the next ranked worker until the communication server 20 has received all the current geolocations of each mobile device. The mobile devices 12a, 12b, 12c may have a software application installed to respond to the requests. Additionally, the communication server 20 may be programmed to include instructions to the mobile devices 12a, 12b, 12c to respond to the request without notifying the ranked workers or without requesting interaction or approval from the ranked workers

[0049] The communication server 20, upon retrieving the current geolocations of the mobile devices 12a, 12b, 12c, is configured to determine a distance between the work facility 18 and the mobile devices 12a, 12b, 12c. In an example, the distance may be an absolute distance, such as the length of a straight line between the geolocation and the facility. In another example, the distance may be the length of a route from the geolocation to the facility. Additionally, the communication server 20 may determine the routing. The determined distances may be used to allocate an appropriate weighting to the score of each of the workers 16a, 16b, 16c on the ranked list of workers. As such, the weighting may affect the initial score and subsequently change the rank of the worker 16a, 16b, 16c in the ranked list of workers.

[0050] The communication server 20 may further modify the ranked list of workers by removing each worker with a rank that is outside of a predetermined range. In an example, the predetermined range may be defined as the top 20 workers suitable for the work shift.

[0051] The communication server 20, after finalising the ranked list of workers, transmits to the mobile devices 12a, 12b, 12c of each of the workers 16a, 16b, 16c, a request to work. The request to work including information relevant to the work shift, such as a start time, an end time, and the geolocation of the work facility 18.

[0052] One of the workers 16a, 16b, 16c, upon receiving and considering the request to work on the mobile device 12a, 12b, 12c, may accept the request to work via a user interface, such as a physical keypad or a touch screen button. The mobile device of a first worker, being defined as the worker who first accepts the request to work, transmits an acceptance of the request to work to the communication server 20. The communication server 20 subsequently designates the first worker as a shift worker and transmits to the facility device 14, a signal indicating fulfilment of the shift work request and a unique identifier associated with the shift worker. The unique identifier may be used by the facility device 14 to retrieve information relating to the shift worker from the database 24 in the form of the data set. The data set may comprise data, such as the set of credentials of the shift worker, an image of the shift worker, and a rating.

[0053] The communication system 10, according to this embodiment, enables any work facility 18 to locate, qualify and communicate with workers that may be available for fulfilling work shifts and/or duties. This advantageously creates a new channel for preferentially communicating with qualified workers that are located within an ideal distance from the work facility 18, allowing for rapid response and fulfilment of work shifts and/or duties. Additionally, the optimisation of the ranked list of workers through the allocation of weighting, based upon distance from the work facility 18, ensures that qualified workers located closer to the work facility 18 are more likely to be selected. This provides the advantage that the selected shift worker will be within a short travel distance from the work facility 18, may rapidly respond to the work request, and may likely agree to complete the work shift with little notification. Additionally, the workers that reside at an unreasonable distance from the work facility 18 would be disregarded, decreasing the computation load upon the communication server 20. More particularly, by disregarding workers, the problem size is reduced, which leads to significant (above linear) reduction in computational complexity given the problem is NP-hard.

[0054] In an embodiment, the communication server 20 may be configured to individually transmit the request to work to each of the workers in a descending order, such that the highest ranked worker is the first to receive the request to work first and the lowest ranked worker is the last to receive the request to work. The communication server 20 may be further configured to wait a predetermined period of time before transmitting the request to work to the next worker in the ranked list of workers. In an example, the first request to work may be transmitted to the first ranked worker, with a period of 1 minute elapsing before the second request to work may be transmitted to the second ranked worker. The communication server 20 may be even further configured to resend the request to work to each worker in the ranked list of workers, if the none of the workers has accepted the request to work. This may be repeated a predetermined set of times or until the request to work has been accepted.

[0055] In another embodiment, the communication server 20 may be configured to create a plurality of groups, wherein each group comprises a plurality of workers having one or more common traits, and transmit the request to work to each worker of each group. The plurality of groups may be ordered in accordance to the common trait of the plurality of workers. In an example, the plurality of groups may comprise a first group, a second group and a third group. The first group may be comprised of the plurality of workers having the common trait of being favoured by a specific work facility and having all of the desired credentials. The second group may be comprised of the plurality of workers having the common trait of having all of the desired credentials. The third group may be comprised of the plurality of workers having the common trait of having some of the desired credentials. The communication server 20 may be further configured to transmit the request to work to all members of each group in a predetermined order, a predetermined timing, and/or at an interval. In an example, the communication server 20 may be configured to transmit the request to work to each worker of each group in an sequential order, with a 60 second time interval between each transmission. In this example, communication server 20 transmits the request to work to each worker of the first group, transmits the request to work to each worker of the second group after 60 seconds, and then transmits the request to work to each worker of the third group after another 60 seconds. In another example, the communication server 20 transmits the request to work to each worker of the first group, transmits the request to work to each worker of the first and second groups after seconds, and then transmits the request to work to each worker of the first, second and third groups after another 60 seconds.

[0056] In a further embodiment of the communication system 10, the communication server 20 may be configured to transmit an alert to the mobile device 12 associated with the shift worker. The alert being transmitted at a predetermined time before the start time of the work shift. The alert being used to reminder the shift worker of the upcoming work shift and to prompt the shift worker into action. Alternatively, the alert may be transmitted before the end time of the work shift if the current geolocation of the mobile device 12 is not the same as that of the geolocation of the work facility 8. This alert being used to remind the shift worker that the work shift has not finished.

[0057] In an even further embodiment of the communication system 10, the mobile device 12 may be configured to transmit a cancelation request or a transfer request to the communication server 20 prior to commencing the work shift.

[0058] The communication server 20 maybe configured to receive from the mobile device 12, associated with the shift worker, the cancelation request or the transfer request. The communication server 20 subsequently transmits, to the facility device 14, a notification of cancellation or transfer, indicating that the work shift request is unfulfilled. The communication server 20 is configured to recreate the ranked list of workers from the database 24 and remove the shift worker from the ranked list of workers. The communication server 20 is further configured to reapply the previously described process of requesting current geolocations of mobile devices of each worker on the ranked list of workers, determining distance of each mobile device from the work facility 18, allocating the weighting to the score of each worker, modifying the ranked list of workers, and transmitting the request to work. The mobile device of a second worker, being defined as the first worker who first accepts the request to work after the issuance of the cancellation or transfer request, will transmit an acceptance of the request to work to the communication server 20. The communication server 20 subsequently designates the second worker as a shift worker and transmits to the facility device 14, a signal indicating fulfilment of the shift work request and a unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

[0059] The communication system 10, according to this embodiment, enables the shift worker to responsibly cancel or transfer the work shift. This advantageously allows the communication system 10 to communicate, to the work facility 18, the cancelation or transfer of the work shift from the current shift worker to a new shift worker who has the necessary qualifications for accomplishing the work shift and is situated within the ideal distance from the work facility 18.

[0060] In an embodiment of the communication system 10, the mobile device 12 may be configured to transmit a transfer request to the communication server 20 prior to commencing the work shift. The mobile device 12 may be further configured to transmit the unique identifier associated with a nominated worker, located in the database 24.

[0061] The communication server 20 maybe configured to receive from the mobile device 12, associated with the shift worker, the transfer request and the unique identifier associated with the nominated worker. The communication server 20, subsequently transmits to the mobile device, associated with the nominated worker, the request to work.

[0062] The nominated worker, upon receiving and considering the request to work on the mobile device 12, may accept or decline the request to work.

[0063] In the embodiment, wherein the nominated worker accepts the request to work, the mobile device 12 is configured to transmit an acceptance of the request to work to the communication server 20. The communication server 20 may be configured to remove the shift worker designation from the current shift worker and designate the nominated worker as the shift worker. The communication server 20 is further configured to transmit, to the facility device 14, the unique identifier associated with the nominated worker to replace the current unique identifier on file.

[0064] In the embodiment, wherein the nominated worker declines the request to work, the mobile device 12 is configured to transmit a declination of the request to work to the communication server 20. The communication server 20 may be configured to receive from the mobile device 12, associated with the nominated worker, the declination of the request to work. The communication server 20 subsequently transmits, to the facility device 14, a notification of transfer, indicating that the work shift request is unfulfilled. The communication server 20 is configured to recreate the ranked list of workers from the database 24 and remove the shift worker and the nominated worker from the ranked list of workers. The communication server 20 is further configured to reapply the previously described process of requesting current geolocations of mobile devices of each worker on the ranked list of workers, determining distance of each mobile device from the work facility 18, allocating the weighting to the score of each worker, modifying the ranked list of workers, and transmitting the request to work. The mobile device of a second worker, being defined as the first worker who first accepts the request to work after the issuance of the transfer request, will transmit an acceptance of the request to work to the communication server 20. The communication server 20 subsequently designates the second worker as a shift worker and transmits to the facility device 14, a signal indicating fulfilment of the shift work request and a unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

[0065] In an embodiment of the communication system 10, the mobile devices 12a, 12b, 12c, associated with each worker 16a, 16b, 16c, may be configured to transmit an active worker signal, indicating that the worker is available to be included in the ranked list of workers. The active worker signal may be deactivated when the worker 16a, 16b, 16c does not wish to be included in the ranked list of workers. When the mobile device 12a, 12b, 12c ceases to transmit the active worker signal, due to it being deactivated, the communication server 20 is configured to automatically remove the associated worker from the ranked list of workers.

[0066] The communication system 10, according to this embodiment, enables the workers 16a, 16b, 16c to voluntary remove themselves from consideration for work shifts. This advantageously allows for further optimisation of the ranked list of workers and reduced computational loads.

[0067] In an embodiment of the communication system 10, the communication server may be configured to track the current location of the shift worker in relation to the work facility 18. The communication server 20 is configured to track the mobile device associated with the shift worker in near real-time by requesting the current geolocation of the mobile device at regular intervals. The intervals may be a period of time, such as every 5 seconds or every 30 seconds. The communication server 20 is further configured to transmit the current geolocation of the mobile device 12, in near real time, to the facility device 18. The transmission of the current geolocation of the mobile device 12 ceasing when a condition is met. The condition may be when the current geolocation of the mobile device 12 is the same as the geolocation of the work facility 18.

[0068] In another embodiment of the communication system 10, the communication server 20 may be configured to determine the estimated time of arrival of the shift worker to the work facility 18, based upon the current geolocation of the mobile device 12 from the work facility 18. The estimated time of arrival may be determined by calculating the current distance of the mobile device 12 from the work facility 18, calculating the current speed of the mobile device 12 based upon the distance travelled between transmissions of the current geolocation, and dividing the current distance by the current speed. The communication server 20 is further configured to transmit the current estimated time of arrival of the mobile device 12, in near real-time, to the facility device 18. The transmission of the current estimated time of arrival of the mobile device 12 ceasing when a condition is met. The condition may be when the current geolocation of the mobile device 12 is the same as the geolocation of the work facility 18.

[0069] The communication system 10, according to the previous two embodiments, allows for the work facility 18 to monitor the current location of the shift worker in near real-time. This advantageously allows for the work facility 18 to gauge whether the shift worker will be arriving on time to start the work shift, and to motivate the shift worker to be prompt in arrival and to not be absent from work duties.

[0070] In an embodiment of the communication system 10, the communication server may be configured to initiate a time recordal after a condition is met. The condition may be the geolocation of the mobile device 12 being the same as geolocation of the work facility 18. Another condition may be the combination of geolocation of the mobile device 12 being the same as that of the work facility 18, and the geolocation of the mobile device 12 being maintained for a period of time, such as from the start time of the work shift to the end time of the work shift. The communication server 20 may be further configured to initiate the time recordal after the condition is met and the start time of the work shift has elapsed. The time recordal may cease after the end time of the work shift has elapsed.

[0071] Alternatively, the time recordal may cease when the geolocation of the mobile device 12 is not the same as the geolocation of the work facility 18 for a predetermined period of time.

[0072] In another embodiment of the communication system 10, each worker on the ranked list of workers may be associated with a rating. The rating may be indicative of the work history of the associated worker, wherein the rating may be considered subjective evaluation of the worker from previous engagements by other work facilities. The communication server 20 may determine the rating of each worker by averaging one or more facility ratings, wherein each facility rating is assigned to the worker from a previous facility that engaged the shift worker.

[0073] Alternatively, the rating may be indicative of a tally of the cancellation requests and the transfer requests transmitted by the mobile device associated with the worker. The tally may have positive and negative accumulation, based upon whether the cancellation request or the transfer request was transmitted within a predetermined time frame. In an example, a point is added when the transfer request is transmitted during a predetermined time frame of 4 hours before the start time of the work shift, while a point is deducted when the transfer request is transmitted outside of the predetermined time frame. In this example, the worker may have transmitted seven transfer requests within the predetermined time frame and transmitted three transfer requests outside of the predetermine time frame, resulting in the tally being a value of four.

[0074] In a further embodiment of the communication system 10, the communication server 20 may be programmed to receive a plurality of work shift requests and simultaneously facilitate communication between several work facilities and the plurality of mobile devices associated with the plurality of workers on a plurality of ranked lists of workers.

Mobile Device

[0075] The mobile device 12a, 12b, 12c used by each associated worker 16a, 16b, 16c may be a multi-purpose mobile computing device, such as a smart phone. The mobile device 12a, 12b, 12c comprises one or more processors, computer memory, a data storage, and the geolocation module. The mobile device 12a, 12b, 12c further comprises a network interface hardware and software configured to communicate over a wireless communication channel, such as the wireless internet connection.

[0076] The mobile device 12a, 12b, 12c comprises a user interface for receiving input from the associated worker 16a, 16b, 16c. The user interface is configured to provide an output in response to the input from the worker 16. The output may be in the form of characters being displayed upon a graphics display of the mobile device 12.

[0077] The computer memory of the mobile device 12 may store a mobile communication application (app). The embodiment of the mobile communication application for the mobile device 12 may comprise program code to control the geolocation module, generate a user interface for the mobile device 12, accept or decline the request to work, and cancel or transfer a work shift.

[0078] In an example exemplified by Fig. 2, the mobile device 12, in the form of a smart phone, may display a graphical representation of the request to work 28 transmitted by the communication server 20. The graphical representation 28 includes the information of the request to work, useful for the worker 16a, 16b, 16c to decide whether to accept or decline the request to work. A pair of interactive user control elements, in the form of buttons 30, 32, may be provided to enable the worker 16a, 16b, 16c to accept or decline the request to work.

[0079] It would be appreciated by the person skilled in the art, that the graphical representation 28 may be any form that enables the worker 16a, 16b, 16c to understand and respond to the request to work. Additionally, the person skilled in the art would appreciate that the graphical representation 28 may be configured to enable the cancelation or transfer of the work shift to another worker or nominated worker.

Geolocation System

[0080] The geolocation system may be comprised of one or more geolocation devices that work concurrently to determine the geolocation of the mobile devices 12a, 12b, 12c. The mobile devices 12a, 12b, 12c may have an integrated geolocation module, such as a GPS module or a GNSS receiver. These geolocation modules allow the mobile devices 12 to access geolocation devices, such as base transceiver stations 22a and global navigation satellite systems 22b, and determine the geolocation of each mobile device 12.

Facility Device

[0081] The facility device 14 used at the work facility 18 may be a multi-purpose mobile computing device, such as a smart phone or a laptop. Alternatively, the facility device 14 may be a multi-purpose static computing device, such as a desktop computer or thin client. The facility device 14 comprises a processor, computer memory and a data storage. The facility device 14 further comprises a network interface hardware and software, enabling the facility device 14 to communicate with one or more network enabled computing devices over a communication network, such as the internet or an intranet. Additionally, the facility device 14 may comprise a user interface configured to receive input and provide an output in response.

[0082] The processor of the communication server 16 is configured to execute program code stored in the computer memory, causing the communication server 16 to function according to the described methods. The processor may be one or more microprocessors, central processing units, or other processors capable of reading and executing program code.

[0083] The computer memory may comprise one or more volatile or non-volatile memory types, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM) or flash memory. The computer memory is configured to store program code accessible by the at least one processor. The execution of the stored program code by the one or more processors configures the facility device 14 to perform certain functions.

[0084] The computer memory of the facility device 14 may store a facility communication application. The embodiment of the facility communication application for the facility device 14 may comprise program code to generate a user interface for the facility device 14, create or transmit to the communication server 20 the work shift request, receive transmissions of the current geolocation of the mobile device 12 associated with the shift worker in near real-time from the communication server 20, and display a graphical representation 34 of the current geolocation of shift worker.

[0085] In an example, Fig. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of the graphical representation 34, illustrating the near real-time tracking of the current geolocation of the shift worker in relation to the work facility 18. The graphical representation 34 includes a street map view, with the work facility 18 being identified with a first marker 36, and the shift worker being identified with a second marker 38 and a third marker 40. The second marker 38 is indicative of the shift worker approaching the work facility 18, whereas the third marker 40 is indicative of the shift worker closing in onto the work facility 18. Both the second marker 38 and the third marker 40 provide a visual indication of where the shift worker is located in proximity to the work facility 18 and an estimated time of arrival to the work facility 18 at the current speed.

Communication Server

[0086] The communication server 20 comprises a processor, computer memory and a data storage. The communication server 20 further comprises a network interface hardware and software, enabling the communication server 20 to communicate with one or more network enabled computing devices over a communication network, such as the internet or an intranet. Additionally, the communication server 16 may comprise a user interface configured to receive input and provide an output in response.

[0087] The processor of the communication server 20 is configured to execute program code stored in the computer memory, causing the communication server 20 to function according to the described methods. The processor may be one or more microprocessors, central processing units, or other processors capable of reading and executing program code.

[0088] The computer memory may comprise one or more volatile or non-volatile memory types, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM) or flash memory. The computer memory is configured to store program code accessible by the at least one processor. The execution of the stored program code by the one or more processors configures the communication server 20 to perform certain functions.

[0089] The computer memory of the communication server 20 may store a communication sever application. The embodiment of the communication server application may comprise program code to enable communication with the mobile devices 12 and facility device 14, retrieve data from the database 24, create the ranked list of workers, determine the suitability of workers for the work shift based upon the information provided in the work shift request, and track the geolocation of the shift worker prior to the start of the work shift.

[0090] The communication server 20 may be configured to determine the suitability of workers for the work shift by deriving the score for each worker on the ranked list of workers. The score may be derived by comparing the set of criteria with the set of credentials of each worker. Workers having the set of credentials with higher compatibility to the selection criteria are allocated a higher score compared to those with lower or no compatibility. The score of each worker is compared to the others and arranged in descending order, starting from the worker with the highest score to the worker with the lowest score. In an example, the set of selection criteria specifically outlines a requirement for a registered nurse with a specialisation in paediatrics. The worker having the data set containing the credentials of a nursing degree, registration with the nursing board, and work experience in paediatrics will be allocated a score that is higher than that of another worker having the data set with similar credentials but without the work experience in paediatrics. As such, the worker with the experience in paediatrics, having a higher score, would have a higher rank in comparison to the other worker.

[0091] The communication server 20 maybe configured to allocate the weighting to the score, based upon the distance of the workers 16a, 16b, 16c from the work facility 18.

[0092] In an embodiment, the communication server 20 may determine the distance by converting the geolocation of the work facility 18 and each mobile device 12a, 12b, 12c into latitude and longitude coordinates and calculating the distance using the haversine formula.

[0093] Let the central angle 0 between any two points on a sphere be: d r where: d is the distance between the two points along a great circle of the sphere, r is the radius of the sphere.

[0094] The haversineformula allows the haversine of ) (that is, hav(0)) to be computed directly from the latitude and longitude of the two points: hav(0)=hav((p2 -1)+cos(qp)cos(p2)hav(2 -4)

where PI, 92 are the latitude of point 1 and latitude of point 2 (in radians), 2i, 12 are the longitude of point 1 and longitude of point 2 (in radians).

[0095] Finally, the haversine function hav(O), applied above to both the central angle ) and the differences in latitude and longitude, is

hav(O) =sin 2 1 cos(O)

The haversine function computes half a versine of the angle 0. To solve for the distance d, apply the archaversine (inverse haversine) to h= hav(0) or use the arcsine (inverse sine) function:

d =r archav(h)=2r arcsin(J 7 ) or more explicitly:

d =2r arcsin (hav(9 2 -) +cos(q)cos( 2 )hav(2

=2r arcsin jsin22 - + cos(()cos(Q 2 )sin2> -4

[0096] In another embodiment, the communication server 20 may determine the allocated weighting to the score according to a plurality of zones, wherein each zone defines a distance range from the work facility 18.

[0097] In an example, Table 1 defines the plurality of zones A, B, C, D, E, F with associated distance ranges from the work facility 18 and the associated weightings. Zone A is defined as any distance within 0 - 20 kilometres from the work facility 18. Each subsequent zone encompasses the subsequent 20 kilometre radius until Zone F, which is defined as any distance greater than 100 kilometres from the work facility 18.

[0098] In this example, Zone A has a weighting of 100%, with the weighting of each subsequent zone being reduced by 20% until reaching a final weighting of 0% at Zone F.

Table 1: Zonal Distance Range and Associated Weighting

Zone Distance Range (kn) Weighting(%)

A 0-20 100 B 21-40 80 C 41-60 60 D 61-80 40 E 81-100 20 F 101+ 0

[0099] Fig. 4 illustrates an example of the allocation of weighting to the scores. In this example, the communication server 20 has derived the scores for workers 16a, 16b, 16c to be 90, 100, and 120 respectively. These scores entail that the ranked list of workers would have worker 16c being ranked first, followed by worker 16b and worker 16a respectively. The communication server 20, after retrieving the current geolocations of the mobile devices of the workers, calculates the distances of the workers 16a, 16b, 16c from the work facility 18. The communication server 20 subsequently classifies the workers 16a, 16b, 16c to be located in Zone B, Zone C and Zone F respectively. The appropriate weighting, in accordance with Table 1, is allocated by the communication server 20 to the existing scores of the workers 16a, 16b, 16c resulting in the adjusted scores of 72, 60 and 0 respectively. The communication server 20 subsequently alters the ranked list of workers to reflect the new scores, designating worker 16a as being ranked first, followed by worker 16b and worker 16c.

[0100] In another embodiment, the plurality of zones may define specified geographic subdivisions, such as suburbs or localities. In an example, the work facility 18 may be located in an industrial area with no residential housing. The work facility 18 may subsequently define the zones to be nearby residential suburbs, of increasing distance away from the work facility 18.

[0101] Ina further embodiment, the plurality of zones maybe specific countries. In an example, the work facility 18 may be an isolated facility, such as an offshore oil rig. The work facility 18 may subsequently define the zones to be nearby countries.

Database

[0102] In this embodiment, the database 24 is hosted on the communication server 20. It would be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that the database 24 may be hosted externally and access through the communication network 22.

[0103] The database 24 contains data, in the form of the data sets, relating to the plurality of workers 16. The data includes information that enables the communication server 20 to create the ranked list of workers and the facility device 14 to identify and validate the shift worker. The data set of the shift worker may be identified and validated by manual inspection by staff at the work facility 18, using the facility device 14, or automated comparison processes of the communication server 20 prior to transmission to the facility device 14. The information comprises a plurality of data sets, wherein each data set is representative of a specific worker and is associated to a unique identifier.

[0104] Each data set contains data specific to each worker. The data is typically in the form of a personal identifier, a set of credentials, and the rating. The personal identifier may comprise a worker's name, a professional registration number, or a visual identifier. The set of credentials may comprise tertiary education, professional licences, and professional memberships. The rating may be an indication of work competency, provided by work facilities that previously engaged the worker.

Method for communication between mobile devices

[0105] Fig. 5 shows a flow diagram of an example of a method for communication between mobile devices. A work shift request is received by a communication server , which subsequently determines a ranked list of workers to proposition with a request to work. The communication server 20 then transmits the request to work to a plurality of workers before receiving an acceptance of the request to work from a first worker, defined as the worker who first accepted the request. The first worker is subsequently designated as a shift worker. The method may be implemented by the system shown in Fig. 1.

[0106] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 5, the method for communication between mobile devices comprises a facility device 14, located at a work facility 18, preparing and transmitting the work shift request. The work shift request comprises a set of criteria and is associated with a geolocation of the work facility 18.

[0107] At step 42, the method comprises receiving, at the communication server 20, the work shift request. The communication server 20 retrieves, from the work shift request, the set of criteria and the geolocation of the work facility 18 for use in determining whether communication will be facilitated between a plurality of mobile devices associated with a plurality of workers.

[0108] At step 44, the communication server 20 creates a ranked list of workers, using data retrieved from a data base 24. The database 24 comprises a repository of worker information, wherein the worker information is specific to each worker. The worker information may comprise a set of credentials and a rating. The ranked list of workers is populated by the communication server 20 by comparing the list of criteria against the set of credentials for each worker, determining a score for each worker, and applying a ratings weighting to the score for each worker based upon the rating of each worker. A rank is allocated to each worker based upon each associated score, wherein the rank of each worker determines where each worker is located in the ranked list of workers, with workers having higher scores being ranked higher than those with lower scores.

[0109] In an embodiment, the communication server 20 may pre-emptively remove workers from the ranked list of workers, if the set of credentials for the worker does not substantially match the list of criteria required by the work shift request.

[0110] In another embodiment, the rating for each worker is indicative of a work history of the worker. The rating may comprise several evaluations of the worker from previous engagements by the work facility 18 and several other work facilities. In this embodiment, the communication server 20 may pre-emptively remove workers from the ranked list of workers if the rating of each worker does not exceed a predetermined value. Alternatively, the communication server 20 may pre-emptively remove workers from the ranked list of workers if the rating of each worker contains a predetermined number of adverse evaluations from the work facility 18 that transmitted the work shift request.

[0111] At step 46, the communication server 20 requests, from a plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, a current geolocation of each mobile device. Once the request has been transmitted to the plurality of mobile devices, each mobile device determines the current geolocation using a geolocation system, and transmits the current geolocation to the communication server 20 at step 48.

[0112] The communication server 20, after retrieving the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices determines a distance for each worker on the ranked list of workers at step 50. The distance being defined as the distance from the geolocation of the work facility 18 to the current geolocation of each mobile device.

[0113] At step 52, the communication server 20 allocates a weighting, based on the distance of each worker, to the score for each of the workers. In an example, a higher weighting may be allocated to shorter distances. This regime of weighting enables the workers, on the ranked list of workers, whom are located closer to the work facility 18 will be prioritised over those located further away.

[0114] At step 54, the communication server 20 rearranges the ranked list of workers based upon the weighted scores of each worker. In this embodiment, the ranked list of workers is further refined by the communication server 20 with the removal of a plurality of unranked workers from the ranked list. The unranked workers may comprise the workers with the weighted score that does not reach a predetermined threshold. In an example, one or more workers may have been located at a distance wherein the weighting was designated as 0%. As such the weighted scores for the one or more workers would have been reduced to 0. The weighted score being 0 would signify that the one or more workers are not compatible with the work shift request and will subsequently be removed from consideration by the communication server 20. In another example, the communication server 20 may be programmed to remove, from the ranked list of workers, any worker who has a weighted score below a predetermined value.

[0115] This provides the advantage that the communication server 20 can reduce computational workload by removing redundant elements, in the form of unsuitable workers, from the ranked list of workers. Additionally, it reduces the bandwidth required for communication between the mobile devices, the facility device 14 and the communication server 20.

[0116] In another embodiment, the communication server 20 may remove one or more workers during the initial creation of the ranked list of workers. In an example, the communication server 20 may be programmed to remove, from the ranked list of workers, any worker who has a score below a predetermined value.

[0117] At step 56, the communication server 20 transmits a request to work to the plurality of workers on the ranked list of workers. Each worker receiving the request to work on each associated mobile device. A first worker, being defined as the worker who is the first to accept the request to work, subsequently transmits, from the mobile device associated to the first worker, an acceptance of the request to work to the communication server 20 at step 58.

[0118] At step 60, the communication server 20 receives the acceptance of the request to work from the first worker and subsequently designates the first worker as a shift worker. The communication server 20 then transmits, to the facility device, a signal indicating fulfilment of the work shift request and a unique identifier associated with the shift worker at step 62. The unique identifier comprising information relevant for demonstrating the suitability of the shift worker for the work shift, such as the set of credentials of the shift worker and the rating.

[0119] Figs. 6 and 7 shows flow diagrams of another example of a method for communication between mobile devices. Fig. 6 defines the method, wherein a work shift request is received by a communication server 20, which subsequently determines a ranked list of workers to proposition with a request to work. Fig. 7 defines a method of transmitting the request to work to the plurality of workers, based upon the rank of the workers in the ranked list of worker. The method may be implemented by the system shown in Fig. 1.

[0120] Fig. 6 shows a flow diagram of a process substantially similar to that previously described, wherein the communication server 20 receives the work shift request from the facility device 14 at step 64, creates the ranked list of workers at step 66, transmits the request for the current geolocation for each of the ranked workers to each mobile device at step 68, retrieves the current geolocations of the ranked workers at step 70, determines the distance from the work facility 18 to the current geolocations of each ranked worker at step 72, allocates weightings to the scores of each worker on the ranked list of workers at step 74, removes unranked workers from the ranked list of workers at step 76, and transmits the request to work to the workers on the ranked list of workers at step 78, in accordance to a sub process, wherein the workers may accept or decline the request. Upon the first worker accepting the request to work and being designated as the shift worker, the communication server 20 transmits the signal indicating fulfilment of the work shift request and the unique identifier of the shift worker to the facility device 14 at step 80.

[0121] At step 82, the communication server 20 facilitates the tracking of the shift worker from the current geolocation of the shift worker to the work facility 18. Tracking may be facilitated by the communication server 20 requesting the current geolocation of the mobile device, associated with the shift worker, at regular intervals.

The mobile device, transmitting a response to the request to the communication server , simulates a near real-time tracking of the shift worker.

[0122] In an embodiment, the near real-time tracking of the shift worker maybe transmitted to the facility device 14 to enable the work facility 18 to be notified of the position of the shift worker in relation to the work facility 18. This provides the advantage of staff at the work facility 18 being notified of the upcoming arrival of the shift worker and provides an indication of whether there may be delays in the arrival of the shift worker.

[0123] Fig. 7 shows a flow diagram of the subprocess of transmitting the request to work to the plurality of workers in the ranked list of workers. In this embodiment, the communication server 20 is programmed to transmit the request to work to individual workers in a consecutive manner, until the communication server 20 receive the acceptance to the request to work.

[0124] At step 84, the communication server 20 reviews the ranked list of workers to determine an order in which to transmit the request to work. In this embodiment, at step 86, the communication server 20 is programmed to select the highest ranked worker, on the ranked list of workers, and transmit the request to work to the mobile device associated with the worker at step 88. The request to work is received by the mobile device and displayed on a graphics display for viewing by the worker.

[0125] At decision point 90, the mobile device is configured to accept an input from the worker to either accept or decline the request to work. The mobile device may receive the input from the worker to accept the request to work, and transmit an acceptance of the work request to the communication server 20. The communication server 20 subsequently designates the worker as the shift worker at step 92 and the sub process ends. The mobile device may receive the input from the worker to decline the request to work, and transmit a declination of the work request to the communication server 20. The communication server 20 subsequently removes the worker from the ranked list of workers at step 94 and restarts the sub process at step 84. The mobile device may not receive any input from the worker within a predetermined period of time, and cause the mobile device to transmit a time out signal to the communication server 20. The communication server 20 subsequently moves the workers to the end of the ranked list at step 96 and restarts the sub process at step 84.

[0126] This provides the advantage that the communication server 20 will filter the ranked list of workers and transmit the request to work to the worker best suited for the work shift, followed by the next best candidates. Additionally, the sub process will advantageously have an automated method for bypassing any stalling events of the sub process, by any worker not responding to the request to work, to ensure that manual termination of the sub process is not required.

[0127] Fig. 8 shows an alternative flow diagram of the subprocess of transmitting the request to work to the plurality of workers in the ranked list of workers. In this embodiment, the communication server 20 is programmed to create the plurality of groups, wherein each group comprises a plurality of workers having one or more common traits, and transmit the request to work to each worker of each group. The request to work is transmitted simultaneously to each worker of one group, before additional groups are added to a list of ranked workers.

[0128] At step 98, the communication server 20 reviews the ranked list of workers to determine common traits between workers. The communication server 20 subsequently creates the plurality of groups at step 100 before determining an order of sequence for transmitting the request to work at step 102. The order of sequence may be based upon criteria, such as work history and credentials, defined by the work facility 18. A group that is first in the order of sequence consists of ranked workers that meet all the criteria, followed by groups that do not meet all the criteria. In an example, the order of sequence may comprise a first group, consisting of ranked workers with favourable work history and matching credentials, a second group, consisting of ranked workers with matching credentials, and a third group, consisting of ranked workers with some matching credentials.

[0129] At step 104, the communication server 20 creates a communication list of ranked workers to transmit the request to work. The communication list of ranked workers initially comprises the ranked workers from the group that is first in the order of sequence. The list of ranked workers may subsequently be populated with the ranked workers from other groups at later steps. The communication server 20 subsequently transmits the request to work to the mobile device associated with each ranked worker from the list of ranked workers at step 106.

[0130] At decision 108, each mobile device is configured to accept an input from each ranked worker to either accept or decline the request to work. The mobile device that receives the first input to accept the request to work may transmit the acceptance of the work request to the communication server 20. The communication server 20 subsequently designates the worker as the shift worker at step 110, ending the sub process. For each mobile device that receives the input, from the associated worker, to decline the request to work may transmit the declination of the work request to the communication server 20. The communication server 20 subsequently removes the worker from the communication list. For each mobile that does not receive any input, from the associated worker, within a predetermined period of time may transmit the time out signal to the communication server 20. The communication server 20 subsequently retains the ranked worker in the communication list.

[0131] After the communication server 20 has received either the declination of the work request or the time out signal from each of the ranked workers on the communication list, the sub process proceeds to decision point 112. At step 112, the communication server 20 determines whether there are additional groups in the order of sequence that have not been included in the communication list.

[0132] The communication server 20 may determine that the communication list does not include the ranked workers from the next group in the order sequence, and proceed to step 114. At step 114, the communication server 20 identifies the next group in the order of sequence before proceeding to step 104, wherein the communication server 20 further populates the communication list with the ranked workers of the next group.

[0133] The communication server 20 may determine that the communication list contains all the ranked workers from all of the groups, and proceeds to step 106, wherein it retransmits the request to work to the ranked workers. The communication server 20, when determining that there are no further additional groups to add to the communication list at, step 112, may retransmit the request to work, at step 106, according to an retransmission interval. The interval may be a fixed time or in accordance to a predetermined time based upon the start time of the work shift. In an example, the communication server 20 may retransmit the request to work every 30 minutes. In another example, the communication server 20 may retransmit the request to work every 4 hours if the start time is outside of a 12 hour period, and retransmit the request to work every 30 minutes if the start time is inside the 12 hour period.

[0134] In an embodiment, the method for communicating between mobile devices may also enable a cancelling or transferring of the work shift request, as shown in Fig. 9. The method may be implemented by the system shown in Fig. 1.

[0135] In an example, the shift worker may have encountered an event, such as an illness or a personal matter, that would render the shift worker unable to attend the work shift at the scheduled time and/or for the scheduled duration. The shift worker may be obligated and/or incentivised to inform the work facility 18 of their current situation, and subsequently cancel and/or transfer their work shift to another worker. In an example, the incentive may be in the form of the rating of the shift worker being adversely affected if the shift worker does not cancel or transfer the work shift before start of the work shift or within a predetermined period of time before the work shift.

[0136] At step 116, the mobile device associated with the shift worker receives an input for a cancellation and/or transfer of the request to work. The mobile device, at step 118, subsequently transmits a notification of cancelation and/or transfer to the communication sever 20. The communication server 20 may transmit to the facility device 14 the notification of cancelation and/or transfer to inform the work facility 18 of the upcoming change of the shift worker.

[0137] The communication server 20, at step 120, creates the ranked list of workers from the database 24 with the shift worker being disregarded. The communication server 20, subsequently follows a process substantially similar to that previously described, wherein the communication server 20 transmits a request for the current geolocations for each of the ranked workers to each mobile device at step 122, retrieves the current geolocations of the workers at step 124, determines the distance from the work facility 18 to the current geolocation of each worker at step 126, allocates weightings to the scores of each worker on the ranked list of workers at step 128, removes unranked workers from the ranked list of workers at step 130 and transmits the request to work to the workers on the ranked list of workers at step 132. At step 134, the worker that accepts the request to work is designated as the shift worker, with the previous shift worker being disassociated from the title. The communication server 20 subsequently transmits, to the facility device 14, the signal indicating fulfilment of the work shift request in addition to the unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

[0138] At step 136, the communication server 20 enables the tracking of the shift worker by requesting from the mobile device, associated with the shift worker, the current geolocation at regular time intervals.

[0139] In another embodiment, the method for communicating between mobile devices may also enable a transferring of the work shift request from the shift worker to a nominated worker, as shown in Fig. 10. The method may also be implemented by the system shown in Fig. 1.

[0140] At step 138, the mobile device associated with the shift worker receives an input for the transfer of the request to work to the nominated worker. The mobile device, at step 140, subsequently transmits a notification of transfer to the communication server 20. The communication server 20 may transmit to the facility device 14 the notification of transfer to inform the work facility 18 of the upcoming change of the shift worker. At step 142, the mobile device receives further input from the shift worker, comprising the unique identifier of the nominated worker. The mobile device subsequently transmits to the communication server 20 the unique identifier of the nominated worker, enabling the communication server 20 to transmit the request to work to the mobile device associated with the nominated worker at step 144.

[0141] At decision point 146, the mobile device is configured to accept an input from the nominated worker to either accept or decline the request to work.

[0142] The mobile device may receive an input from the worker to accept the request to work, and transmit an acceptance of the work request to the communication server 20. At step 148, the communication server 20 designates the nominated worker as the shift worker and subsequently transmits the signal indicating fulfilment of the work shift request to the facility device with the unique identifier associated with the shift worker at step 150.

[0143] The mobile device may receive an input from the worker to decline the request to work, and transmit a declination of the work request to the communication server 20. The communication server 20 subsequently follows another process substantially similar to those previously described wherein it creates the ranked list of workers at step 152, requests the current geolocation of each mobile device at step 154, retrieves the current geolocations of each mobile devices at step 156, determines the distance between from the work facility 18 to the current geolocation of each worker at step 158, allocates weighting to each worker on the ranked list of workers at step 160, removes the unsuitable workers from the ranked list of workers at step 162, and transmits the request to work to the workers on the ranked list of workers at step 164. Upon a worker accepting the request to work and being designated as the shift worker, the communication server 20 transmits the signal indicating fulfilment of the work shift request and the unique identifier of the shift worker to the facility device 14 at step 166. At step 168, the communication server 20 facilitates the tracking of the shift worker during the travel to the work facility 18.

[0144] This provides the advantage that the communication server 20 maybe able to rapidly overcome unexpected situations, wherein shift workers are unable to attend the designated work shift with limited time prior to locate a suitable replacement.

Additionally, the communication server 20 may be able to locate the suitable replacement worker that is within a short distance to the work facility 18, enabling the rapid response of the replacement shift worker. Furthermore, the communication server advantageously does not require the use of NP hard calculations to facilitate rapid shift worker replacement, enabling the communication server 20 to locate the replacement shift worker in a smaller window of time.

[0145] In further examples, the work facility is equipped with reader devices that detect that a mobile device is close to the reader device. In response to detecting the mobile device, the reader device obtains an identifier from the mobile device and matches the identifier against the ranked list of workers. The communication server 20 can then match the matched shift worker who has accepted the work shift request. In response to a positive match, the communication server 20 enters data that the worker has entered the premises. The communication server 20 may also enter the data that the shift worker has commenced the accepted work shift. The communication between the reader device and the mobile device may be over Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wireless Internet (WiFi) or other communication technologies, and in particular, wireless communication technologies.

[0146] In an embodiment, the communication server 20 may facilitate multiple instances of the method for communication between mobile devices. In an example, the communication server 20 may receive a plurality of work shift requests.

[0147] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments, without departing from the broad general scope of the present disclosure. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A communication system for communicating between mobile devices, the system comprising: a plurality of mobile devices, each mobile device being associated with a worker and configured to acquire a current geolocation; a server with a processor; wherein the processor is programmed to: receive, from a facility device, a work shift request comprising a set of selection criteria, a start time, an end time, and being associated with a geolocation of a facility; create, from a database, a ranked list of workers, wherein each worker is allocated a rank based upon a score derived from the set of selection criteria; request, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, the current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieve the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determine a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile device; allocate a weighting, based on the distance, to the score for each of the workers; remove, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; transmit, to at least one the workers, a request to work; receive, from a first worker, an acceptance of the request to work; designate the first worker as a shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, a unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the processor is programmed to individually transmit the request to work to each of the workers in a descending order from the ranked list of workers.

3. A communication system for communicating between mobile devices, the system comprising: a plurality of mobile devices, each mobile device being associated with a worker and configured to acquire a current geolocation; a server with a processor; wherein the processor is programmed to: receive, from a facility device, a work shift request comprising a set of selection criteria, a start time, an end time, and being associated with a geolocation of a facility; create, from a database, a ranked list of workers, wherein each worker is allocated a rank based upon a score derived from the set of selection criteria; request, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, the current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieve the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determine a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile device; allocate a weighting, based on the distance, to the score for each of the workers; remove, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; create a plurality of groups, wherein each group comprises a plurality of ranked workers having at least one common trait; transmit, to the workers of at least one group, a request to work; receive, from a first worker, an acceptance of the request to work; designate the first worker as a shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, a unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

4. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the request to work comprises a visual representation of work shift data, including the geolocation of the facility, the start time and the end time.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein the processor is further programmed to transmit, to the mobile device associated with the shift worker, an alert at a predetermine time before the start time.

6. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor is further programmed to: receive, from the mobile device associated with the shift worker, a cancelation request or a transfer request; transmit, to the facility device, a notification of cancellation or transfer; create, from the database, the ranked list of workers; remove the shift worker from the ranked list of workers; request, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, the current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieve the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determine a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile device; allocate a weighting, based on the distance, to the score for each of the workers; remove, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; transmit, to each of the workers, the request to work; receive, from a second worker, the acceptance of the request to work; designate the second worker as the shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, the unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

7. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor is further programmed to: receive, from the mobile device associated with the shift worker, a cancelation request or a transfer request; transmit, to the facility device, a notification of cancellation or transfer; create, from the database, the ranked list of workers; remove the shift worker from the ranked list of workers; request, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, the current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieve the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determine a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile device; allocate a weighting, based on the distance, to the score for each of the workers; remove, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; create the plurality of groups, wherein each group comprises the plurality of ranked workers having at least one common trait; transmit, to the workers of at least one group, the request to work; receive, from a second worker, the acceptance of the request to work; designate the second worker as the shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, the unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

8. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the processor is further configured to: receive, from the mobile device associated with the shift worker, a transfer request; transmit, to the facility device, the notification of transfer; receive, from the mobile device associated with the shift worker, the unique identifier associated with a nominated worker; and transmit, to the nominated worker, the request to work.

9. A system according to claim 8, wherein the processor is further configured to: receive, from the nominated worker, the acceptance of the request to work; designate the nominated worker as the shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, the unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

10. A system according to claim 8, wherein the processor is further configured to: receive, from the nominated worker, the declination of the request to work; create, from the database, the ranked list of workers; remove the shift worker and the nominated worker from the ranked list of workers; request, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, the current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieve the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determine a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile device; allocate a weighting, based on the distance, to the score for each of the workers; remove, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; transmit, to each of the workers, the request to work; receive, from the second worker, the acceptance of the request to work; designate the second worker as the shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, the unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

11. A system according to claim 8, wherein the processor is further configured to: receive, from the nominated worker, the declination of the request to work; create, from the database, the ranked list of workers; remove the shift worker and the nominated worker from the ranked list of workers; request, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, the current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieve the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determine a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile device; allocate a weighting, based on the distance, to the score for each of the workers; remove, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; create the plurality of groups, wherein each group comprises the plurality of ranked workers having at least one common trait; transmit, to the workers of at least one group, the request to work; receive, from the second worker, the acceptance of the request to work; designate the second worker as the shift worker; and transmit, to the facility device, the unique identifier associated with the shift worker.

12. A system according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the rating is determined by a tally of the cancellation requests and/or the transfer requests transmitted by the mobile device associated with the worker.

13. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each mobile device associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers transmits an active worker signal.

14. A system according to claim 13, wherein the processor is further configured to automatically remove any worker, from the ranked list of workers, when the associated mobile device ceases to transmit the active worker signal.

15. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor is further programmed to: track in near real-time the current geolocation of the mobile device associated with the shift worker; and transmit in near real time, to the facility device, the current geolocation of the mobile device associated with the shift worker, until a condition is met.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the processor is further configured to: determine in near real-time an estimated time of arrival based upon the distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of the mobile device associated with the shift worker; and transmit in near real-time, to the facility device, the estimated time of arrival.

17. The system according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the condition is the current geolocation of the mobile device associated with the shift worker is the same as the geolocation of the facility.

18. The system according to claim 17, wherein the processor is further programmed to initiate a time recordal after the condition is met.

19. The system according to claim 17, wherein the processor is further programed to initiate the time recordal after the condition is met and the start time has elapsed, and cease the time recordal after the end time has elapsed or the current geolocation of the mobile device is not the same as the geolocation of the facility.

20. The system according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the condition is the current geolocation of the mobile device associated with the shift worker is the same as the geolocation of the facility, and the current geolocation of the mobile device is maintained for a period of time.

21. The system according to claim 20, wherein the period of time ceases after the end time has elapsed.

22. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the unique identifier enables the facility device to search the database and locate a data set of the shift worker.

23. The system according to claim 22, wherein the data set of the shift worker comprises a set of credentials and a rating.

24. The system according to claim 23, wherein the rating is determined by averaging one or more facility ratings, each facility rating being assigned to the shift worker from a previous facility that engaged the shift worker.

25. A computer implemented method for communication between mobile devices, the method comprising: receiving, from a facility device, a work shift request comprising a set of selection criteria and being associated with a geolocation of a facility; creating, from a database, a ranked list of workers, wherein each worker is allocated a rank based upon a score derived from the set of selection criteria; requesting, from the plurality of mobile devices associated with each worker on the ranked list of workers, a current geolocation of each mobile device; retrieving, the current geolocation of each of the mobile devices; determining a distance from the geolocation of the facility to the current geolocation of each mobile devices; allocating a weighting, based on the distance, to the score for each of the workers; removing, from the ranked list of workers, each worker having the rank outside a predetermined range; transmitting, to each of the workers, a request to work; receiving, from a first worker, an acceptance of the request to work; designating the first worker as a shift worker; and transmitting, to the facility device, a unique identifier associated with the shift worker.