GB2517668A

GB2517668A - Personal tracker device

Info

Publication number: GB2517668A
Application number: GB1300837.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Christian Derbyshire
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2013-01-17
Filing date: 2013-01-17
Publication date: 2015-03-04
Also published as: GB201300837D0

Abstract

The present invention relates to a wireless portable personal tracker device which enables a person in distress to activate an SOS alert. The SOS alert will provide the GPS determined location of the device to trained personnel or registered contacts that are then able to monitor the location and movement of the device, such as via an internet based mapping program, enabling swift effective search and rescue worldwide. The device is small in size so can be worn on a necklace or concealed about a person. The device has one button, used to put the device into on/off/emergency mode, and contains a micro re-chargeable 270 MAH lithium polymer battery. The device is able to send and receive data via mobile phone (GSM) text message (SMS), automatically follow any comments received and submit a text message back to the mobile phone with confirmation of the command followed or information requested.

Description

DESCRIPTION

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to a security system, namely a wireless portable personal tracker device which enables a person in distress to activate an SOS alert. The SOS alert will provide the location of the tracker device to trained personnel who are then able to monitor the location and any movement of the tracker device enabling swift effective search and rescue.

BACKGROUND

Tracking devices are used to trace the location of an individual. The need to track an individual is required as a security measure, particularly in hostile Countries where the risk of terrorism, kidnap and assault are considered high.

We regularly hear of reporters, medical staff and officials, who are required to work in such high risk Countries being the subject of kidnap and held to ransom. Unfortunately these situations often result in tragic circumstances.

In Countries which are not deemed particularly high risk, there still remains a concern regarding kidnap, for example the continuous announcements by the media of missing persons, whether adults and children, within the United Kingdom and across the world. It also provides assistance to persons who may have suffered injury and require emergency assistance.

There are systems currently in place for an individual in distress to request help and assistance, the main one being calling the police/emergency services.

The problem with this method is that there is a time delay from the initial call reporting any incident of kidnap until the police began a search. A search is conducted manually by officers (whether on foot, in water or the air). This is often a blind search without any knowledge of the individual's location or ability to track the movement of the individual in distress. There are unfortunately many unsuccessful searches of this type with negative recovery of the individual. An individual in distress is also unlikely to have the opportunity to make a telephone call to alert the policelemergency services.

Another method of tracking an individual which is currently being used is via tracking an individual's mobile telephone via Global Positioning Signal (hereinafter GPS'). GPS is a satellite-based navigation system made up of a network of satellites placed into orbit. GPS works in any weather conditions, anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day. The mobile telephone will be progranmied to send out a signal which, when the phone is in operation. can be traced by personnel via computer and Google Earth. There are flaws in this method as firstly the individual must have downloaded the tracking application onto their mobile phone to enable personnel to monitor it.

Secondly the tracking program via a mobile phone requires that the mobile telephone must be switched on and operative otherwise it is not pOssible to pickup the GPS location of that mobile telephone. Finally, a mobile telephone could be easily removed from an individual and destroyed before location and rescue were completed, making tracking of the individual and eventual rescue impossible. It is highly likely that an individual subject to kidnap will be searched for a mobile phone.

Some motor vehicles are fined with a tracking system. This is particular common with high value vehicles, which when stolen, the tracking system assists in ascertaining the location of the vehicle and assists the Police in its recovery. Tracker units in vehicles can be removed by a person with knowledge of them. Also, once a kidnapped person is removed from within a Iracked vehicle, there will be no way of ascertaining that individual's location for the purpose of search and rescue.

Personal tracker devices previously designed are much larger and bulky in size. As a result they are easily detectable should a person be subject to a search. Personal trackers previously designed have limited battery life and provide limited signal radius for detection.

There remains a need for a tracking device which is small, discrete and improved from what has previously been available, which provides a reliable, accurate location to enable swift effective search and recovery of an individual in distress.

SUMMARY

* Currently there are no wireless portable personal tracker devices on the market as unique as the present invention which obviates the problems mentioned above.

* The present invention relates to a portable wireless personal tracker device (Figure 1) and more specifically but not exclusively relates to the tracking of persons at risk of kidnap, assault or persons lost injured, particularly but not exclusively, to those working in hostile areas.

* The present invention relates to a portable personal tracking device.

Particularly, this device is small in size so can be worn on a necklace (10) there are no tracking devices currently available that can be worn in this method andlor concealed on an individual (figure 2). There are no tracking devices currently available of this size. The device has one button (6) which is used to put the device into on/off/emergency mode.

* The tracker device contains a small re-chargeable 270 MAR Lithium Polymer battery (17) (figure 8) and two LED lights (7) (8).

* A person in distress can activate the tracker by pressing the button on the tracker device, which will submit an emergency signal (hereinafter SOS signal') (6) When activated the tracker submits a Global Positioning Signal (hereinafter GPS'). Trained monitoring personnel are able to monitor the tracker signal via an internet program and Google Map and locate the position of the tracker device/distressed individual globally, enabling an effective search and rescue.

The tracker device will submit SOS alerts via GPS which can be monitored via internet and computer program as well as via a mobile telephone (Figure 4). The device can also be activated remotely by authorised personnel (Figure 6). The device contains two inbuilt antennas (15) (21) and is the smallest quad band tracker device.

The tracker device can be operated remotely by a third person and is a self diagnostic device. The device is able to send and receive data via text message and automatically follow any commends received via text message and submit a text message back to the mobile phone with confirmation of the command followed or information requested together with a graphical representation of the surrounding area (Google map image).

ADVANTAGES/KEY FEATURES The object and advantage of the present invention is to provide portable personal security by means of a portable wireless personal tracker device to an individual, which provides immediate and accurate information of the tracker device location anywhere in the World.

The object and advantage of the present invention is to overcome current flaws in the market, the present invention provides a tracker device which is smaller than any other on the market The present invention is size: 36.10mm length 40.70mm width and 14.45mm depth. There are no personal tracker devices of this small size currently available.

The present invention is the smallest quad band personal locating system ever developed.

* The present invention is designed but not exclusively to be worn on a necklace and could alternatively be placed on other parts of the body/garments/key ring.

* Another object and advantage of the present invention is that it provides a personal tracker which has a protective case which, splash proof, moisture proof and dust proof * The object and advantage of the present invention is that it can be carried by the user, in a dormant state on a daily, weekly, monthly, yearly basis, for an unlimited period of time, until a situation of safety concern, or the need for emergency SOS becomes apparent.

* Thc object and advantage of the present invention is to provide a tricker device which will operate by one button, so as to avoid contusion or possible mistake in times of emergency. This one button is used to switch the tracker device on and off and also to activate SOS mode (hereinafter this button will be referred to as SOS button').This button is circular and on the centre face of the tracker device. The SOS button is disguised within a decorative design on the face of the tracker device (to conceal identity and avoid immediate detection).

* An object and advantage of the present invention is that it provides a personal tracker device which has an inbuilt OPS antenna and a GSM antenna. The present invention is a quad band device and operates with GPS and also Global System for Mobile Communications (hereinafter GSM'), General Packet Radio Service (hereinafter GPRS') and Local Base Service (hereinafter LBS). The present invention is the smallest quad band personal tracker device developed.

* Another object and advantage of the present invention is that the SOS button contains two LED lights which when activated, provide a discrete red and green light. The LED lights enable the user of the tracker unit to check the status of the tracker and provide confidence that signals are being submitted.

* Red light indicates the tracker is switched on! in dormant mode and battery power. Green light indicates signal strength and GSM conversation.

* The present invention has three operative modes i) off ii) Dormant which is when the device is switched but not in emergency iii) SOS mode which indicates a state of emergency/distress.

* Whilst in Dormant mode the tracker device will automatically submit a signal which will provide a LBS location (without the need for any manual activation of the tracker device). The user in distress is able to submit an SOS signal as many times as deemed necessary by a long press of the SOS button for 3 -5 seconds. Each SOS signal will generate an updated pin point of the accurate location of up to 5 meters anywhere in the World and will provide an address of the location.

* There is no area restrictions as the device operates via satellite (UPS) so can travel with an individual whilst still allowing monitoring of the device to continue. Where UPS signal may be low/not available, the device will submit a signal within 1200 meters.

* A further object and advantage of the present invention is that it is a personal tracker unit which can operates from a micro 20 or 3G SIM card (subscriber identification module, an integrated circuit that securely stores the international mobile subscriber identity (as used in intelligent mobile telephones). Hereinafter SIM'). The tracker device is compatible with any mobile network provider micro SIM i.e. Nokia, T-Mobile, Orange). The micro SIM is inserted into the personal tracker device. The SIM provides the personal tracker device with its own unique IMET number. Personnel trained to monitor the tracker unit are able to view the location of each tracker device by entering the unique IMFI number into a computer program. On entering the unique number, the computer program Will display the pin point UPS location of the personal tracker device via the computer program and online web Google map. Personnel are then able to continuously monitor the personal tracker device and provide immediate response to an SOS alert.

Each SOS signal submitted by the tracker device will charge to the S[M card inside the tracker (as a pay-as-you-go mobile telephone option). The SIM card can be topped up with credit as much and as often as required, to ensure there are sufficient funds at all times. Each SOS signal submitted by the tracker device will cost approximately £O.SOp (cost may vary dependent upon mobile phone provider).

* The present invention contains a SIM card which can be credited by a third party, for example authorised personnel monitoring/point of contact. Allowing additional security should the individual be unable to top up the credit to the SIM card to allow further submission of SOS alerts * The SIM will provide the tracker device with its own unique IMEI (International mobile equipment identity, a number within an international coding system assigned to each celllmobile telephone, which provides each cellular phone with its own unique telephone number. Hereinafter IMEI').

* Trained personal monitoring the tracker device are able to view the location via the computer program and Google Maps and are able to identiI' between the Dormant and the SOS signals. The SOS signal will appear with the letters SOS and a blue pin point on the Google Maps (fonnerly Google Local, is a web mapping service application and technology provided by Google.com that powers many map based services including he Google Maps website. Google Maps provides satellite images of Countries around the World) and the Dormant signals will display as a green pint point on the Google Map. Each pin point (whether Dormant or SOS) will also provide identity details of the specific tracker so as to distinguish between tracker devices.

* Another object and advantage of the present invention is to provide additional information to personnel monitoring the tracker device. When an SOS signal is submitted by the tracker device, a SMS message (which is a short message service, a system that enables cellular phone users to send and receive text messages and hereinafter SMS') will also automatically be forwarded to UPS to allow personnel monitoring the tracker device to ascertain the location of the tracker device as soon as it becomes active. When an SOS alert is submitted by the tracker device, an SMS message will be forwarded to GPS but also to mobile telephone numbers of authorised personal/points of contact which will provide the point of contact a graphical representation of the surrounding area (Google Map picture) of the tracker device's pin point location. This provides essential additional assistance to personnel involved in the monitoring and/or search and rescue.

It is an imperative object and advantage that the tracker is a self diagnostic device. Which will indicate its battery status and location (together with a graphical representation of its surrounding area/Google map). This allows monitoring personnel to financially credit the device to allow further SOS signals, switch the device on/off to reserve power which enables a prolonged search period (in the situation where the individual holder of the device is unable to respond).

* Up to ten mobile telephone numbers of authorised personnel/points of contact/third party can be registered to the tracker device. Each mobile phone number registered can communicate with the device.

* A further object and advantage of the present invention is to provide a tracker device that can be activated remotely, by authorised and nominated personnel/points of contact by way of text message. l'his will allow the location of the tracker to be ascertained, even when the tracker device is in dormant mode, without the individual wear having to actually operate the tracker device manually. This is imperative for situations where an individual is unable to physically activate the tracker device (due to assault, injury, distress and being unable to free hands). Personnel/points of contact with mobile telephones registered to the tracker device are able to switch the

B

tracker device on and off as well as ask the tracker device to provide an update of it's location by sending an SMS to the tracker device's The tracker device will automatically submit a SMS back to the mobile phone, which requested information, confirming the request and complying with the request by switching its self on or off and submitting an SMS with it's location address.

* An advantage of the present invention is that this provides a personal tracker device which contains a re-chargeable 270 MAH Lithium Polymer battery size 28mm, x25 mm and x4.8mm. This batteiy has been designed specifically for this tracker device. There are no batteries of this kind on the market. This is a particular advantage and novel feature of the tracker device.

* An advantage of the present invention is that it has the ability to re-charge the battery which allows continuous use over lengthy periods of time. When switched on permanently, the battery life will last for 48 hours. This allows a significant amount of time within which to monitor the exact location of an individual and execute rescue of that individuaL The first 48 hours are the most crucial hours of any search and rescue. Where daily/continual usage of the tracker is required, the tracker device will be placed on charge for at least for 2 hours to ensure enough battery backup before any usage. The battery is charged for 6 to 8 hours when is it new and for first use. When battery is low, device will send low battery alarm SMS to points of contact programmed to the tracker device. Low battery alarm SMS will notify "Warning! Battery is low, please charge in time!" When battery is too low to approach power off, it will send SMS: Warning! Battery is too low and eventually power off * automatically. The red LED light will flash continuously to indicate low power.

* An object and advantage of the present invention is that it provides support even in areas where a GPS signal may not strong or may not available at all, for example underground. A signal will still be submitted by the personal tracker unit and will provide a OSM location of the individual of up to 1200 meters.

INTRODUCTION TO DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:-Figure 1 -is a schematic representation of a personal tracking device in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 2 -schematic representation of the tracker device revealing dimensions Figure 3a and 3b -a schematic representation of the inner working components of the present invention.

Figure 4-a block diagram showing the functional operation system.

Figures-shows the LED light flash timings and representations and features Figure 6-example of the (Ioogle map image of the tracker devices donnant GPS location provided to computer program and SMS mobile telephone.

Figure 7-a block representation of the SMS messages via remote activation.

Figure 8-a schematic representation of the 270 MAH lithium polymer battery

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Figure 1 * Is a schematic diagram of a personal tracker device according to the present invention. A slim portable, wireless tracker unit, size 36.10mm length 40.70mm width and 14.45mm depth which can be worn around the neck or concealed on a person (10). The device is designed to elude detection and is easily concealable as a result of its small size and design. The identity of the device and detection and removal are unlikely. The device is multi purposefbl and could alternatively be placed/concealed on other parts of the body/garments/key ring/belt/bag etc. * The present invention consists of a front (4) and back (1) casing which are sealed together to provide the outer casing. This is a robust unit with a tight seal which will withhold dust and moisture. The present invention is held securely together by two screws (2).

* The SOS button is seen on the front face (6 and 18) which is a circular button (current seen within the Ying/Yang' design). There are two small LED lights within the circular SOS button (7 and 8).

* The current invention contains a motive design (Ying/Yang) on the face to conceal the SOS button to therefore conceal the identity of the device.

* The personal tracker device has three operative modes achieved by pressing the SOS button (6):-Mode 1.0ff * The tracker is switched off. No light will flash. To switch the tracker device off, when already in use, requires a long press of the SOS button (6) for S to seconds.

Mode 2.Donnant * Dormant mode is when the tracker device is switched on but not in SOS mode.

* The individual wearing can switch the personal tracker unit on by pressing the SOS (on/off) button for S to 20 seconds (6). This will put the tracker device into the Dormant mode, a red light will flash every 2 seconds (8) to indicate battery power and OSM is received and GPRS and LBS signals is online and connected.

* The tracker device will automatically submit a GPS signal every 10 minutes.

This will provide a GPRS location of up to 1200 meters. This will add peace of mind to individuals in knowing that their position can be identified and monitored, even when there is no immediate risk to safety and without the need to manually operate the tracker devicc.

Mode 3. sos * The green light indicates signals received and SOS mode (7). This mode is activated when tracker device is already switched on and in Dormant mode by a long press of the SOS button for 3 to 5 seconds. The green SOS light (7) will flash continuously every 2 seconds which indicates a GSM signal is being received and GPRS is online.

* The tracker device will submit a location immediately on activation of SOS.

* The individual in distress can thereon manually submit SOS signals by pressing the SOS button (6) by a long press of 3 -5 seconds. Each time this is done, an SOS signal will be submitted immediately arid can be done continuously or as many times as deemed necessary by the individual.

* Each SOS signal will generate thither update of up to 5 meters of the location of the tracker device.

* Where a GPS signal is not strong a signal will still be submitted by the personal tracker unit and will provide a (ISM location of the individual of up to 1200 meters.

Figure 2 * Figure 2 provides a schematic diagram of the present invention together with the exact measurements.

* Outer casing is 35.50mm and 36.10mm when including the USB. Length; 40.70mm and 45.14mm including the fixed loop for necklace. Width; 14.45mm depth.

* The tracker device is the smallest quad band device. There are no tracker devices of this size currently on the market.

* The small size makes the present invention easily concealable and ideal for situations where kidnap may be high risk. Due to its small size and concealed identity, the tracker device is less likely to be detected within the early stages of search.

* The small size makes this tracking device more convenient for daily use and ideal for carrying during travel (including by air).

* As can be seen by the loop (10) on the top of the tracker device, it is designed to be worn on a chain around the neck. This chain can be of any length or material (preferably meeting the breast bone). The loop also provides the alternative option of concealing the device on a key ring, a belt, bag, bracelet etc. The device could also be alternatively concealed on any part of the body as deemed preferred by the individual.

Figure3a * Is a schematic diagram of the internal components and circuit of the present invention which includes (11) front case (4). SOS key component (12). SOS button (13) also at (6)(7)(8). Screws internal (14) md at (2). GSM Antenna (15). PCBA (printed circuit board assembly) (16). Battery (17). Screws (18) and (2). Rear case (19) and at (1).

Figure 3b * Is a schematic diagram of the internal components and circuit of the present invention which includes Baseband shielding cover for OSM chipset and band (20). GSM antenna shrapnel to connect with the GSM antenna (21), An Ipac for dual bank GSMIGPRS antenna (22). A Mediatek GSM chipset (23). A GPS antenna (24). A designed PCB circuit (25 and (16)). A Mediatek GPS chipset (26). A re-set switch (27). A micro USB for power charger (28) and (3). A UPS chipset shielding cover (29) . A micro SIM card slot to insert the micro (ISM SIM card (30).

The fact that the present invention has two antennas (UPS and GSM) (15) (21) is an advantage in that it works with all network coverage to ensure monitoring at all times.

* The present invention incorporates micro SIM and contains a Micro USB charging port (which is a Universal serial bus hereinafter USB').

* The tracker device is wireless.

* The tracker device has a moisture, splash and dustproof protective casing (11) and (4).

* The current invention contains a 270 MAH lithium polymer battery (17) which is a re-chargeable battery size 28mm, x25 mm and x4.Smm.

* This battery is a micro battery (17) and has been designed specifically for the present invention. There are no batteries of this kind on the market. Due to the small size of the tracker device, a battery had to be designed specifically to fit.

This is a particular advantage and novel feature of the tracker device. There are no batteries of this type on the market as it has been created to purposely fit and is a component of the current invention.

* The ability to re-charge (3) allows continuous use over lengthy periods of time. When switched on permanently, the battery life will last for 48 hours.

This atlows a significant amount of time within which to monitor the exact location of an individual and execute rescue of that individual. The first 48 hours are the most crucial hours of any search and rescue.

* Where daily/continual usage of the tracker is required, the tracker device will be placed on charge for at least for 2 hours daily to ensure enough battery backup before any usage.

* The battery is charged for 6 to 8 hours when is it new and for first use.

* When battery is low, device will flash continuously the red LED light (8), which will appear darkened. This indicates to the individual wearer the need to recharge the tracker device. When charging the red LED light will display continuously.

When battery is low the device send low battery alarm SMS to mobile points of contact programmed to the tracker unit SOS numbers. Low battery alarm SMS: "Warning! Battery is low, please charge in time!" When battery is too low to approach power off', it will send SMS: Warning! Battery is too low, power off automatically. This is an essential feature as it provides personnel monitoring the tracker with essential information required in the situation when a search is being conducted. As referred to above, the option to power the device off and on remotely will assist when the battery is low, to save battery power of the device and enable a prolonged search.

* A USB port (7) (19) is used to re-charge the battery. A USB is a connection technology for attaching peripheral devices to a computer.

* The tracker device is designed to last and used on a continuous and daily basis and/or as often as required by an individual. Therefore the ability to re-charge the device makes it appropriate for daily use.

* Tracker device specification:-

(EM 850/900/1800/l900Mhz Quad band GPRS Classl2 TCP/IP build in GSM Module Highly sensitive UPS chipset UPS sensitivity: Tracking sensitivity -1 59dBm Acquisition sensitivity -1 63dBm GPS positioning time(open sky)-Hot start:-2sec Warm start:-32sec Cold start:-38 sec UPS positioning accuracy: <lOm 2DRMS) Work environment temperature: -20 0 +70 0 Work environment humidity: 20%-S0% RH Dimensions 40.70mm X 36.10 muiX 14:45mm (figure).

Figure 4 Figure 4 provides a block diagram of the operation of the present invention.

This figure is a block diagram which indicates the signal process from the tracker device to the GPS, (IPRS, LBS and point of contact mobile phones/computer program.

The current invention is a tracker device which will provide an accurate pin point location of 5 meter radius of the tracker device's position in SOS mode by way of GPS signal. It provides support even in areas where a GPS signal may not strong or may not available at all, for example underground. A signal will still be submitted by the personal tracker device and will provide a (ISM location of the individual of up to 1200 meter radius (15) (21).

* When in Dormant mode a GPS signal of up to 1200 meters will automatically be submitted and fbrthcr updates every 10 minutes (Figure ôa). The locations can be viewed by personal/points of contact via the internet computer program (Google map) and/or mobile telephone (Figure 6a).

* The tracker can manually submit SOS signal as many times as necessary by pressing the SOS button (6) for 3-5 seconds whilst in Dormant mode. Each SOS signal submitted by the tracker device will generate an accurate updated pin point of the accurate location of up to 5 meters.

* Trained personal monitoring the tracker device are able to view the location via the computer program and Google Maps continuously.

* Trained personal are able to identifS' between the Dormant and the SOS signals. The SOS signal will appear with the letters SOS' and a blue pin point on the Google Map and the Dormant signals will display as a green pint point on the Google Map (Figure 6a).

* The tracker devices' identity will be displayed with the pin (so as to distinguish each tracker device from another) (Figure 6a).

* The present invention is to provide additional information to personnel monitoring the tracker device. When an SOS signal is submitted by the tracker device, a SMS message will also, automatically, be forwarded to registered points of contact programmed to the tracker device (Figure 6b). These points of contact will receive updates from the tracker device. This SMS message providing an update will consist of a Google Map picture of the tracker device's pin point location (Figure 6b) This provides essential additional assistance to personnel involved in the monitoring and/or search and rescue. Not only can the tracker device be monitored via the internet program and (loogle Earth, but the additional SMS messages provide an advantage over other tracker devices currently available.

The points of contact could be mobile telephone numbers relating to persons on the ground active in search, management personnel or other persons who wish to keep updated on the location at all times.

* Up to ten mobile telephone numbers of points of contact can be registered to the tracker device. SMS will be submitted to every mobile telephone number registered to the device.

* The SMS GPS message sent by the tracker immediately following SOS activation, will contain an accurate address information to the designated point of contact e.g.: "Emergency call(LBS): Bao'an Road, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong (N22.57l39,E1 13.87710)." If GPS is not located, the device will send a LBS location information e.g "Emergency call(LBS): nearby Bao'an Road Bao'an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong (22.571,113.876)". The tracker device will dial the point of contact numbers by cycle, if any of the point of contact number answer the call, it will stop calling, If there's no response after all the number been dialled for three cycles, it will stop. After dialling the SOS point of contact numbers, if GPS is located, the device will send the accurate address information again.

* The present invention is to provide a tracker device that can be activated remotely, by points of contact. This will allow the location of the tracker to be ascertained, even when the tracker device is in dormant mode and without the individual holder of the tracker device having to actually operate the tracker device manually. This is imperative for situations where an individual is unable to physically activate the tracker device (due to assault, injury, distress and being unable to free hands). Points of contact registered to the tracker device are able to remotely activate the tracker device remotely in the following ways:-a. Switch on (submit an SMS to the tracker device "POWER ON#" and the tracker device will automatically switch itself on) b. Switch off (submit an SMS to the tracker device "POWER OFF#" and the tracker device will switch itself off) c. Request location infonnation (submit an SMS to the tracker device "LOCATION#" and the tracker device will return an SMS with the address location) (Figure 7) d. Status (submit an SMS to the tracker device as "STATUS#" and the device will return an SMS outlining the current status of the tracker device including battery, signal status and satellite connection status).

This remote activation is achieved by the point of contact sending an SMS to the tracker device. The tracker device will automatically switch itself on or off or submit a SMS back to the point of contact mobile phone with a location address or status update (also see Figure 7).

* The present invention is a self diagnostic device with the ability to monitor, track and indicate its location and status.

* Each tracker device has its own micro SIM and as a result its own unique IMEI. The present invention is that it is a personal tracker unit which can operates from a micro 20 or 3G SIM card (11). The trackcr device is compatible with any network provider micro SIM i.e. Nokia, T-Mobile, Orange). The micro SIM (11) is inserted into the personal tracker device (21).

The SIM provides the personal tracker device with its own unique IMEI number (as referred to above).

* Personnel trained to monitor the tracker unit are able to view the location of each tracker device by entering the unique IMEI number into a computer program. On entering the unique number, the computer program will display the pin point GPS location of the personal tracker device via the computer program and online web Google map (Figure 6a). Personnel are then able to continuously monitor the personal tacker device and provide immediate response to an SOS alert.

Each SOS signal submitted by the tracker device will charge to its SIM card (11) (as a pay-as-you-go mobile telephone payment option). The SIM card (11) can be topped up with credit, as much and as often as required, to ensure there are sufficient funds at all times. Each SOS signal submitted by the tracker device will cost approximately £0.5Op (cost may vary dependent upon mobile phone provider).

The present invention contains a SIM card which can be credited by a third party, for example authorised personnel monitoring/point of contact. Allowing additional security should the individual be unable to top up the credit to the SIM card to allow further submission of SOS alerts.

The present invention provides support even in areas where a OPS signal may not strong or may not available at all, for example underground. A signal will still be submitted by the personal tacker unit and will provide a LBS GSM location of the individual of up to 1200 meters.

* The tacker device has two antennas, GPS (15) and GSM (12) which provides wide signal coverage.

* The present invention is a tracker device which is self diagnostic; which will automatically submit a text message warning of low battery and will indicate its status via the LED lights.

* The present invention is a tracker device which has the ability to track its own location and the intelligence to automatically record and submit its address and a graphical representation of its surrounding area/Google map image, without the need for manual operation.

Figure 5 * Is a description of the LED light sequences (7) and (8).

* The SOS button is seen on the front face (6) which is a circular button (current seen within the Ying/Yang' design) (6) and (13). There are two small LED lights within the circular SOS button (7) green and (8) red.

* The personal tracker device has three operative modes activated by pressing the SOS button (6):-Mode 1.0ff * The tracker is switched off. No light will flash. To switch the tracker device off, when already in use, requires a long press of the SOS button (5 to 20 seconds).

Mode 2.Dormant * Dormant mode is when the tracker device is switched on but not in SOS mode.

* The user can switch the personal tracker device on by pressing the SOS button for 5 to 20 seconds (6). This will put the tracker device into the Dormant mode, the red light (8) will flash every 2 seconds to indicate GSM is received and signals online and connected.

* The tracker device will automatically submit a GPS signal every 10 minutes.

This will provide a (IPRS location of up to 1200 meters (Figure 6a) which can be viewed via computer program and Google Maps. This will add peace of mind to individuals in knowing that their position can be identified and monitored, even when there is no immediate risk to safety.

Mode 3. sos * The green light indicates SOS mode (7) and signal status. This mode is activated when tracker device is already switched on and in Dormant mode by a long press of the SOS button for 3 to S seconds. The green SOS light (7) will flash continuously every 2 seconds which indicates a GSM signal is being received and GPRS is online and conversation. The individual in distress manually submits SOS signals in this method. This could be continuously or as many times as deemed necessary by the individual. Each SOS signal will generate ifirther updated of up to 5 meter radius of the location of the tracker device.

* When the tracker device is low battery or about to power off the red LED will flash continuously but darkened colour. The red LED light also indicates the battery status (8). Continuous red light indicates the battery (17) is charging (2).

* When there is a GSM conversation (SMS) the green light will flash continuously and brightened.

* When there is no GSM signal or no SIM card installed the green LED will flash continuously but darkened colour.

* The use of different colour LED, the brightening/darkening and frequency of the flash will enable the individual wear to distinguish the status of the tracker device. The lighting is subtle and discrete.

Figure 6 * Is a block representation of messages received from the present tracker device.

* The present invention is a tracker devicc which has the ability to submit data describing the position of the tracker device and displaying its own location and location on a graphical representation of the surrounding area Google Map.

* Figure óa represents an image of the Dormant status GPS message received from the tracker device revealing its location via (loogle Map and identity of the tracker device, as viewed via a computer program.

* Figure 6b represents SMS messages received by a point of contact mobile telephone from the tracker device revealing the SOS location of the current tracker device, * The images can be magnified and expanded.

* The Dormant status appears as a red pin point and provides a location radius of the tracker device of up to 1200 meters. The SOS signal provides an SOS green pin point to the location and a location radius of up to 5 meters of exact location of the tracker device.

Figure 7 * Is a block representation of the SMS message submitted remotely to the tracking device from the mobile phone of a point of contact.

* This figure is a representation of the messages received from the tracker device to the mobile phone of the point of contact.

* The present invention is to provide a tracker device that will submit a GPS signal of its location which can be viewed via computer program and Google Maps as well as on a mobile telephone. The locations received will provide a text of the location address as well as a Google map image of the location.

* The location of an SOS signal will provide a exact location of up to 5 meters (green pin point) and Dormant location signal (red pin point) will provide exact location of up to 1200 meters.

* The present invention can be activated remotely, by points of contact by way of SMS (as referred to above). This will allow the location of the tracker to be ascertained, even when the tracker device is in dormant mode and without the individual holder of the tracker device having to actually operate the tracker device manually. This is imperative for situations where an individual is unable to physically activate the tracker device (due to assault, injury, distress and being unable to free hands). Points of contact registered to the tracker device are able to remotely activate the tracker device remotely (as previously described above).

* Figure 7 is an example of the SMS message Cloogle Map image which will be received back from the personal tracker device to a point of contact's mobile telephone. The images can be expanded.

Figure 8 * A schematic diagram of the micro battery (17) required for the present invention.

* The current invention contains a 270 MAH lithium polymer battery (17) which is a re-chargeable battery size 28mm, x25 mm and x4.8mm.

This allows a significant amount of time within which to monitor the exact location of an individual and execute rescue of that individual. The first 48 hours are the most crucial hours of any search and rescue.

* The battery is charged for 6 to 8 hours when is it new and for first use.

* When battery is low the device send low battery alarm SMS to mobile points of contact programmed to the tracker unit SOS numbers. Low battery alarm SMS: "Warning! Battery is low, please charge in time!" When battery is too low to approach power off, it will send SMS: Warning! Battery is too low, power off automatically. This is an essential feature as it provides personnel monitoring the tracker with essential information required in the situation when a search is being conducted. As referred to above, the option to power the device off and on remotely will assist when the battery is low, to save battery power of the device and enable a prolonged search.

Claims

CLAIMSTechnical Features 1. A device for tracking an individual, a device that provides a reliable method of signally SOS and is a reliable personal alarm which can be monitored by trained personnel or points of contact.
2. A device according to claim I which allows an SOS alert to be transmitted at times of emergency and to signal the need for assistance.
3. A device according to claim I which is dust proof; moisture and splash proof.
4. A device according to claiml which is wireless, portable device.
5. A device according to claim 1, which is small and discrete, size 35:50mm length, 40:70, width and 14:45mm depth [including USB fitfing 36:10 length] [including the fixed necklace loop 45:14mm width].
6. A device according to claim 1, 2, which has a fixed loop which allows the device to be worn on a chain around the neck or an alternative item (keys, belt, bag).
7. A device according to claim 5 which is so discrete it could be concealed on a part of the body.
8. A device according to any one of the proceeding claims, comprising a means for supplying power to the device by way of a USB power point.
9. A device according to any one of the proceeding claims which contains a micro 270 MAT-I lithium polymer battery; size 28mm, x25 mm and x4.8mm.
10. A device according to 8 and 9 which will provide continuous battery power for 48 hours before recharge is required.
11. A device according to claim I, wherein it will transmit an alert to the local base station and satellite stations LBS, GSM and GPRS.
12. A device according to claim 1,2 and 11 which will submit alerts via a base station and satellite stations to a third party.
13. A device according to claim 1,2 and 11 where an alert will be sent to a third party via the to mobile telephone.
14. A device according to claim 1,2 and 11 where a command can be sent to the device from a mobile telephone.
15. A device according to claim 1,2 and 11 which has two inbuilt GSM antennas.
16. A device according to claim 1, which has no location boundaries and can operate worldwide.
17. A device according to claims 1, 2, 11 which when an SOS alert is submitted will provide an accurate pinpoint location of up to 5 metres of the device.
18. A device according to claims 1,2, 11 which will automatically submit a Dormant LBS. GSM signal every 10 minutes; providing a location of up to 1200 meters of the tracker location.
19. A device which comprising one button to switch the device on/off and to submit an SOS alert.
20. A device according to all proceeding claims, comprising two LED lights; one red and one green.
21. A device according to 20, which comprises two LED lights which flash in sequence and strength to indicate the tracker status/mode, battery power strength and UPS signal strength.
22. A device according to 19, which when is first mode is switched off.
23. A device according to 19, which were in second mode is Dormant Mode' and will automatically provide a dormant signal every 10 minutes.
24. A device according to 19, which when in third mode is SOS Mode' and indicates emergency to monitoring personnel.
25. A device according any of the preceding claims wherein an SOS alert can be submitted as many times as necessary by pressing the button for 3 5 seconds, which on each press, will submit UPS updated accurate pin point location.
26. A device according to any one of the preceding claims which has the ability to track its own GPS location.
27. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising self diagnostic indications. Allowing the user to identifS' the status and battery power; automatically submitting text message warning of the low battery power and automatically submitting location every 10 minutes without manual manipulation.
28. A device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein it can send data via receive text messages to a mobile phone; indicating location address, providing a graphical representation of the sunoi.mding area, information of battery status/warning or battery low power, confirmation of power on/power off.
29. A device according to any of the above preceding claims which has the ability to receive text messages from mobile telephones.
30. A device according to 28 and 29 which has the ability to process data received from a mobile phone text message; automatically respond to and/or activate commands within the text message.
31. A device according to claims 1, 2, 28, 29, 30 wherein the tracker can be operated remotely by a third party by way of mobile phone text messages to the tracker device.
32. A device according to claims 28, 29, 30, 31 which enables a maximum of 10 mobile telephone numbers to be registered to it; the mobile numbers are able to activate and command the device; the device will respond and provide all updated location alerts (which would include address of location a graphical rcpresentation of the surrounding area, provide battery power information or power on/power off).
33. A device according any one of the preceding claims which has the ability to submit data, display is location on a graphical representation of the sunounding area (Google map).
34. A device according to any one of the preceding claims which comprises micro SIM card (2G or 3G); compatible with any of the mobile phone company SIM providers.
35. A device according to 28 which has its own unique IMEI number.
36. A device according to 28, which enables the tracker to be in monetary credit as much and as often as required to the SIM.
37. A device according to 28, which comprises a micro SIM card which can be credited by a third party monitoring the device.
38. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, which will submit a Dormant or SOS signal, which can be monitored by trained personnel continuously via a computer program Goole Earth/Map andlor a mobile telephone.
39. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, which will submit an Dorman or SOS signal, which can be monitored by trained personal continuously via a computer program which will indicate the location by way of a pin point and, also the personal identification of the tracker device IMFI number, allocation tracker name, battery power and signal strengthDEPENDANT CLAIMS1) The device contains a decorative design on the face to conceal the power on/off/SOS button.