KR100971848B1 - Security and tracking system - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a security tracking system and method used to identify the location of an individual in an emergency and the location of a lost animal or a lost object. Each signal device includes a receiver 111 for identifying its own position, and a transmitter for transmitting the position of the signal device when the two signal devices are separated from each other by a predetermined distance or more. 112). In addition, the method according to the present invention is a method for finding a person, an animal, or an object, which is in close communication with each other, and each of the receiver 111 for identifying its own position, and a transmitter for transmitting its own position when separated from each other by a predetermined distance or more. Attaching or placing the first and second signaling devices 101,106 with 112 on or near a person, animal or object, and operating the signaling device to transmit its location.

Description

Security Tracking System {SECURITY AND TRACKING SYSTEM}

The present invention relates to a security tracking system and method used to identify the location of an individual in an emergency and the location of a lost animal or a lost object.

In the past, the need to improve personal security and emergency measures performance has been recognized. When injured, lost or abducted, local police departments or emergency services should be notified immediately of an emergency to ensure safety and avoid tragic situations.

Modern technology automatically checks the location of the caller in an emergency through a wireline company. With this technique, the caller dials 911 and the computer connects to the caller's phone number. This technology is currently problematic in situations where there is no wired or telephone. The importance of emergency response is set forth in the FCC mandatory regulations, and you should call wireless 911 for identification of the relevant public safety answering point (PSAP). This provision is also insufficient to ensure the necessary safety against abductions, kidnappings, physical or mental incapacitation, and other emergencies away from available wireless networks. In these emergencies, a security tracking device is needed that can automatically determine the location of a person at risk without being limited in scope.

There are various alarm tracking devices in the prior art, which basically have two or more defects. Such a system is introduced in US Pat. No. 5,731,785, where one signaling device is installed in a person, object or car. If a signal falls from a person, object or car, it can no longer be traced and the system will stop. In addition, these systems cannot track the situation of a person who is not helped in an emergency, such as kidnapping, kidnapping or physical or mental disability.

Summary of the Invention

A security tracking device is provided which exposes and hides the signaling device in close communication with a person, animal or object, which has no geographical location limitations, which can be automatically activated when one signaling device is removed and, in some cases, upon request. It is a fully automatic device that displays the location accurately.

This security tracking device has first and second signaling devices, which have means for communicating in close proximity to each other and for identifying their respective positions.

In one embodiment, the first and second signaling devices in proximity communication with each other, each having a receiver for identifying its own position, and a transmitter for transmitting its own position when separated from each other by a certain distance; And a monitoring station capable of receiving the positioning information of the signal device.

Meanwhile, a method of finding a person, an animal or an object by communicating with each other and attaching two or more signal devices to a person, an animal or an object, each having a means for identifying its own position, and confirming the position using the means. Is provided.

In some cases, a security tracking device is provided that has first and second signaling devices that are in close communication with each other, each having a receiver for identifying their location and a transmitter for transmitting their location when they are separated from each other by a certain distance. do.

In addition, the first and second signal devices having a close communication with each other, each having a receiver for identifying its own position, and a transmitter for transmitting its position when the distance from each other over a certain distance; And

There is also provided a security tracking system including; a monitoring station that can receive the location information of the signaling device.

In some cases, how to find a person, animal or thing:

(a) attaching first and second signaling devices to a person, animal or object, which are in close communication with each other, each having a receiver for identifying their position and a transmitter for transmitting their position when they are separated by a certain distance from each other; Or close to you; And

(b) operating a signaling device to transmit its location.

In some cases, how to find people, animals, or objects:

(a) attached to or placed close to a person, animal or object, including first and second signaling devices each having a receiver for identifying its own position and a transmitter for transmitting its position when separated from each other by a certain distance; Providing a device suitable for the present invention;

(b) determining, via communication between signaling devices, whether these signaling devices have fallen more than a certain distance; And

(c) if it is determined that the signaling devices are separated by a certain distance, transmitting the location of the signaling device to the monitoring station, operating the signaling device in the manual mode, and transmitting the location to the monitoring station. .

In other cases, how to find a person, animal or thing:

(a) providing a device suitable for attachment to or proximity to a person, animal or object, each having a receiver for identifying its position and a transmitter for transmitting the position and having first and second signaling devices in close proximity to each other; step;

(b) transmitting a location of each of the signaling devices to the monitoring station;

(c) calculating whether or not the signal devices are separated from each other by a predetermined distance; And

(d) if it is determined that the signaling devices have fallen by more than a certain distance, frequently or continuously transmitting the location of the signaling devices, activating the signaling device which may be in manual mode in some cases and transmitting the location to the monitoring station; Including methods are also provided.

In some cases, there is provided a first signal device and a second signal device suitable for attaching to or hiding near a person, animal or object; The second signaling device is in close communication with the first signaling device, each signaling device having a GPS receiver for identifying its position, and a cellular transmitter for transmitting the location of the signaling device when the two signaling devices are separated from each other by a certain distance or more. There is also provided a security tracking device having a.

In many cases, the signaling device is adapted to operate a cellular transceiver to transmit its location to the monitoring station in the following states;

a) automatically when the first and second signaling devices have fallen more than a certain distance;

b) at the request of the monitoring station;

c) at the request of a person;

d) no communication with other signaling devices;

e) at regular intervals;

The monitoring station may be a mobile phone, a PDA, a PocketPC, a computer or a combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the at least one signaling device further comprises a monitoring station suitable for generating a signal informing that the other signaling device holder has fallen more than a certain distance.

1 is a block diagram of a security tracking system according to one embodiment;

2 is a schematic diagram of a security tracking system.

The security tracking system of FIG. 1 includes a first signaling device 10 having means for identifying its position; And a second signaling device 20 in close communication with the first signaling device, the second signaling device having means for identifying its position.

In one embodiment, the security tracking system includes means for automatically transmitting the location of each of the signaling devices when these signaling devices are separated by a distance or more. To maximize security as much as possible, it is desirable for the system to automatically and immediately signal in the event of an emergency. Examples of emergencies include the removal of one of the related signaling devices from a stolen person or a stolen object containing the signaling device.

In another embodiment, the security tracking system includes means for receiving an initial signal and transmitting positioning information of the signaling device. The initial signal may be sent from monitoring station 30 or other remote location. Thus, the security tracking system allows parents or guardians to locate their wards if they are lost or in an emergency. Similarly, pets or property owners can locate their location in case of theft or loss. The transmission of the positioning information of the signaling device can be initiated by one of the signaling devices, which is very important for emergency medical or abduction situations. The transmission of such positioning information may be initiated by an independent signaling device.

These signaling devices have several capabilities and options, including analog and digital signal processing and transmission and reception. Components of the signaling device include, but are not limited to, power supplies, antennas, receivers, transmitters, microprocessors, electronic switches, sensors, transmitters, timers, microphones, and video cameras. The battery is preferably a power source, but may be supplied by other means such as mechanical movement or a battery charger. These signal devices may include a global positioning satellite (GPS) antenna and may include other types of antennas, such as a mobile phone antenna and a wireless antenna, depending on a method of exchanging information / data with a GPS or monitoring station.

The signal device may receive information through a GPS receiver processor, a mobile phone receiver, a wireless receiver, and the like. Microprocessors can be used to match and identify the codes that identify each signaling device. Electronic switches, sensors and timing circuits can be used to determine emergency situations, such as the absence of periodic signals between two signaling devices, or to send signals manually. Periodic signals may utilize radio waves, infrared technology, ultrasonic technology, mobile document application language (MODAL) technology, monitoring station software, or other known means. For example, it is desirable to configure the manual switch to prevent accidental operation of an internal switch or button, which is operated after opening the signaling device and cannot be operated in a crash. The transmitter can be any type of transmitter as long as it can transmit periodic signals to other signaling devices or an emergency signal to the monitoring station.

In one embodiment, the means for locating the signaling device uses a GPS system, a low orbit satellite, a geostationary satellite, other satellites as well as a cellular communication network. Examples of low orbit satellites include, but are not limited to, satellites used in Motorola's iridium system. Mobile phone networks continue to grow and range, but some locations may be out of range. It is recommended to use at least one system for reliability and safety to cover all possible positions. The means for confirming the geographical position of the signaling device preferably uses a GPS system.

The GPS system is a system that identifies three sections: (1) space, (2) control, and (3) location, speed, and time with the user. The GPS space segment consists of 24 satellites with six orbits. The satellite operates on a circular orbit of 20,200 km with a range of 55 degrees every 12 hours. Satellites in orbit are arranged so that at least five satellites are simultaneously visible to users around the world. Each satellite transmits in two frequency bands: 1575.42 MHz and 1227.6 MHz. The GPS control section has five monitor stations that use a GPS receiver to manually track all visible satellites and accumulate range data from satellite signals. Information from the monitor station is processed by the master control unit to determine satellite orbits and to update the navigation messages for each satellite. This update information is transmitted to the satellite via the ground antenna, which is also used for transmission and reception of satellite control information. The GPS user segment consists of an antenna and receiver processor that provide the user with position, speed and accurate timing.

The concept of GPS was foreseen when the satellites accurately and continuously knew the spatial position of each satellite as a system of time and distance from the satellite to the user. Each satellite transmits unique data periodically updated by the master controller based on information from five widely spread monitor stations. The GPS receiver measures the time of arrival of the satellite signal to find the distance between the user and the satellite. This distance calculation is combined with distance rate information to create the system's time and the user's three-dimensional position and velocity relative to the satellite system. The next time coordinate element links the satellite system and the earth coordinate. Therefore, the GPS system is a spatial system tracking system that provides a user's three-dimensional position, velocity, and time information wherever a user with appropriate equipment is located on the earth. The GPS system provides continuous, worldwide three-dimensional coverage and unlimited system capacity.

The GPS system provides two services for positioning, standard positioning service (SPS) and precision positioning service (PPS). The precision depends on your equipment's capabilities. SPS has a standard level of positioning / timing precision for all users around the world without qualification. The precision of this service was determined by the US Department of Defense, and it tracks the location of the world within 100m on a daily basis. PPS provides the most accurate position, speed, and timing information that can be continuously obtained from around the world through the basic GPS system. The service is only available to the United States and its allies, approved foreign military experts, and approved civilians. It offers 22 meters horizontally and less than 90 nanoseconds in time. In other embodiments, other methods may be used to increase the precision.

In some cases it may be desirable to hide one or more signaling devices. Thus, a complex security device that can have both secret and public elements is provided. The public element of the security device can be easily copied and the actual security is in the secret element, which is not easily visible or copied. In some cases, one or more signaling devices may be hidden or kept secret, and one or more signaling devices may be disclosed and not hidden. Disclosures are easily visible and can be removed by kidnappers or kidnappers. In a conventional system in which only a signal device is disclosed, the signal device itself can be tracked, but the person who removes the device cannot be found. According to the present invention, a signal is generated as soon as the associated signaling device drops more than a certain distance, and all the signaling devices can be tracked. This feature is very important because you can escape for a few miles as soon as you are kidnapped.

Where it is appropriate to hide one or more signaling devices, these signaling devices are preferably small. Small signaling devices can be easily hidden and easily attached to various objects. Signal devices may be attached to molded parts, extruded products, or sewing products. Such attachment can be made by known manual or automated manufacturing methods. The signal device may be attached or pressure-sensitive.

You can also attach a signal device to something you wear. Such items include, but are not limited to, clothing, shoes, watches, bracelets, wristbands, ID cards, jewelry, hair accessories, glasses, and collars.

In one embodiment, the signal device is securely attached to the person. An important feature of security tracking devices is their use in personal security for children, people with disabilities, children with disabilities, people with Alzheimer's disease, people in open fields, and others who may be faced with emergencies. The signal device may be configured to perform secondary functions such as transmission / reception of video / audio signals or monitoring an physiological function to determine an emergency situation, but is not necessarily limited thereto. Security tracking devices also contribute to public safety by assisting abductees or kidnappings.

In some cases, signal devices should be securely attached to the animal. The present invention is also used for security tracking of pets and can be used for all other animals for other purposes, such as scientific research or public safety.

In addition, signal devices may be securely attached to objects or accessories. A signal is emitted when an object with a signal device drops more than a certain distance from the owner's own signal device. These items include credit cards, wallets, check books, handbags, mobile phones, pagers, cars, boats, airplanes, TVs, radios, stereos, tape players, DC players, DVD players, MP3 players, VCRs, cameras, movie cameras, computers. , Printers, laptops, notebooks, PDAs, PocketPC ™, briefcases, bags, backpacks, weapons, clothing, jewellery, art, and the like. Multiple signaling devices can be installed on various elements of things, such as cell phones, car stereos, and the car itself, to track these parts in case of theft. Security tracking devices also help predict the suspects of theft, thus contributing to public safety. Signaling devices may also be used for secondary functions, such as sending and receiving video / audio signals, disabling weapons separated from the owner, and disabling cars separated from the owner, but are not necessarily limited thereto.

The signaling device may be in passive mode in proximity communication. In the non-emergency mode, the active mode may unnecessarily leak the power of the signal device with the battery, so the passive mode is preferable in the non-emergency situation.

Information identifying the geographic location of the signaling device may continue to be transmitted. In emergency situations, continuous signaling information is most accurate. The ability to continue to emit a signal may not be limited by the available power. The positioning information of the signaling device may be transmitted intermittently. Intermittent signals at appropriate short intervals conserve power.

In some cases, the location information of the signaling device may be provided in the form of an encryption. For extreme security, in some cases information may be transmitted in the form of a password to prevent thieves and hijackers from using the information to compromise the security of individuals, animals, and objects protected by the security device.

In some cases, the security tracking system may include a first signaling device 10 with positioning means of a signaling device, a second signaling device 20 in close communication with the signaling device and having its own positioning means, and the location of the signaling device. A monitoring station 30 capable of receiving confirmation information is provided. The location of the signaling device is automatically transmitted to the monitoring station when the signaling device is separated by a certain distance. In other cases, the monitoring station is provided here with means for transmitting the positioning information of the signaling device to the remote receiver 40. The location of the remote receiver can be the home or work address of the parent or guardian, the home or work address of the pet owner, the home or work address of the property owner, the shelter, the newspaper publisher, the station, the police station, a patrol car, an ambulance, or an emergency facility. . In some cases, the location of a remote receiver is one of a service center, police station, patrol car, ambulance, or emergency facility.

The positioning means of the signaling device may be used by satellite systems such as GPS systems or low-orbit satellites, radio stations, cellular telephone networks, and other methods known to those skilled in the art. The monitoring station receives the positioning information of the signaling apparatus using satellite systems, radio signals, television signals, telephony, cellular communications, the Internet, and other communication means known to those skilled in the art. It is desirable to transmit the information in more than one way to provide the speed, precision, backup and reliability of the security system.

As a means for transmitting the positioning information of the signal device from the monitoring station to the remote receiver, a satellite system, a radio signal, a television signal, a telecommunication, a cellular communication, the Internet, and other communication means known to those skilled in the art are used. It is desirable to transmit the information in more than one way to provide the speed, precision, backup and reliability of the security system.

In addition, two or more near field signaling devices may be directly attached to, or close to, a person, animal or object, each having a means of identifying its own position and using this means to identify the position of a person, animal or object. A method of finding is also provided. "Proximity" means that the signaling devices are attached, embedded, dressed or possessed.

In one embodiment, the method automatically transmits the location of the signaling device when the signaling devices are separated by a certain distance. To maximize security, it is advisable to transmit the location of the signaling device immediately and automatically in an emergency. These emergencies include the removal of one of the relevant signaling devices from a person during abduction or kidnapping, or the theft of a signal device.

On the other hand, this method also transmits the positioning information of the signaling device when receiving a command from a remote site. The transmission of this positioning information is done either directly by the signaling device or by a signal from the monitoring station. In other cases, the signaling device can be miniaturized and hidden in a worn object. The GPS system is used to locate the signal device.

In some cases, the signaling device is operated in passive mode in proximity communication. The active mode in non-emergencies causes unnecessary power leakage of the signal device with the battery, so it is better to use the passive mode. The positioning information of the signaling device can be transmitted continuously. In case of an emergency, continuous transmission of location information is considered to be the most accurate. Continuous signal transmission may be limited by the available power source. The positioning information of the signaling device may be transmitted intermittently. Transmitting signals at appropriately short intervals can be used to conserve power. This location information may be provided in cryptographic form. For extreme security, in some cases information may be transmitted in the form of a password to prevent thieves and hijackers from using the information to compromise the security of individuals, animals, and objects protected by the security device.

In another embodiment, two or more proximity communication devices are arranged in contact with or in proximity to a person, animal or object, each signaling device having means for identifying its own location, using the means to locate the signal device. Check with the monitoring station. The position range of the signaling device can be unlimited.

In some cases, the monitoring station transmits the location of the signaling device to the remote receiver. The location of the remote receiver can be the home or work address of the parent or guardian, the home or work address of the pet owner, the home or work address of the property owner, the shelter, the newspaper publisher, the station, the police station, a patrol car, an ambulance, or an emergency facility. . In some cases, the location of a remote receiver is one of a service center, police station, patrol car, ambulance, or emergency facility.

Additional information can also be sent to the remote receiver. In the case of a human security tracking system, the additional information transmitted to the remote receiver may include, but is not limited to, a physical description of the person, appearance, fingerprint, and the like. In the case of an animal security tracking system, additional information may include, but is not limited to, an animal's physical description and appearance. In the case of an article, additional information includes, but is not limited to, an article's description, shape, registration number, serial number, and the like. In the case of a car, the description may include the shape, make, model, year, color, and car number of the car.

The location information transmission of the signal device from the monitoring station to the remote receiver may be performed through a radio wave, a computer network such as the Internet, a telephone network, a mobile telephone network, a television communication network, and the like, but is not limited thereto. On the other hand, this information is also transmitted from the monitoring station to the remote receiver via a low-orbit satellite or GPS system. It is desirable to prepare for failure of the communication system by using various communication methods.

The monitoring station can constantly transmit information to the remote device. The monitoring station is controlled by a computer with record capability and is automatically connected directly to the identified remote receiver, which may be owned by an individual such as a parent or guardian, owner of an animal or object, or a shelter or police station near a signaling device, It may also be placed in emergency facilities. The monitoring station may employ a manager or send additional information to the remote receiver as described above.

In one embodiment, the geographic location of the signaling device is confirmed with an accuracy of about 100 m, but in some cases it may be confirmed with an accuracy of 22 m or several meters.

Also, the geographical distance of the signal device from the monitoring station is not limited. Limiting the distance like a conventional security system limits the performance of the security device. Since the security tracking device uses GPS, there may be no geographical distance limitation.

Next, a security tracking system and apparatus according to the present invention will be described.

Example 1

Assemble a security tracking device on (1) a medical wristband and (2) two small signaling devices installed in a purse of an Alzheimer's patient. Each signaling device is equipped with a battery, a GPS antenna, a GPS receiver, a wireless antenna, a radio receiver and a radio transmitter. When the patient's caregiver calls for a call, the monitoring station sends a radio signal to the signaling device to confirm the geographical location. The signaling device receives a radio command from the monitoring station, sends a signal to the GPS system, and receives a positioning signal from the GPS. The signaling device then sends a positioning signal to the monitoring station. The location of the signaling device is transmitted from the monitoring station to the caregiver via the telephone network.

Example 2

Assemble a security tracking device on (1) a medical wristband and (2) two small signaling devices installed in a purse of an Alzheimer's patient. Each signal device is equipped with a battery, a GPS antenna, a GPS receiver, a wireless antenna, a wireless receiver, a wireless transmitter, a mobile phone antenna, a mobile phone receiver and a mobile phone transmitter. The first signaling device sends a periodic radio signal to the second signaling device. If the wallet is lost, the two signaling devices fall over a certain distance, and the second signaling device can no longer receive the periodic radio signal of the first signaling device. If no periodic signal is received, each signaling device automatically sends a signal to the GPS system and receives a positioning signal from the GPS. Cell phone signals are automatically sent from each signaling device to the monitoring station to identify the geographic location. The location of each signaling device is transmitted from the monitoring station to the caregiver via the telephone network and also to the police station near the two signaling devices (lost wallet and medical wristband worn by the patient).

Example 3

Assemble a security tracking system with two small signaling devices installed on a child's watch and hidden wristband, and a monitoring station that can send and receive signals. Each signal device is equipped with a battery, a GPS antenna, a GPS receiver, and also has an antenna, a receiver, and a transmitter capable of communicating with a low orbit satellite. If there is a telephone call from a lost child's parent or guardian, the monitoring station signals the signaling device via a low-orbiting satellite to order the child's geographical location. The signaling device receives a command from the monitoring station, sends a signal to the GPS system, receives a signal confirming the geographical position from the GPS, and transmits this information to the monitoring station via a low orbit satellite. The location of the signaling device is sent from the monitoring station to the parent or guardian via the mobile network and also to the police station near the signaling device, and the video and description of the child is sent to the police station.

Example 4

Assemble a security tracking system with two small signaling devices installed on a child's watch and hidden wristband, and a monitoring station that can send and receive signals. Each signal device is equipped with a battery, a GPS antenna, a GPS receiver, a wireless antenna, a wireless receiver, a wireless transmitter, a cell phone antenna, a cell phone receiver and a cell phone transmitter. The first signaling device sends periodic radio signals to the second signaling device. When a child is abducted, the kidnapper removes the wristband and the two beacons are separated by a certain distance, and the periodic signal from the first beacon is no longer available to the second beacon. In the absence of a periodic signal, each signaling device automatically sends a signal to the GPS system and receives a signal from the GPS confirming its geographical location. The location of each signal is sent from the monitoring station to the child's parent or guardian via the telephone network and also to the police station near two signaling devices (a removed wristwatch and a hidden wristband with the child). Video features and descriptions are also sent to the police station.

Another embodiment

The present invention relates to a system for providing location information of a person, an animal or an object when a notification or an accident occurs. This system can utilize a number of independent and auxiliary subsystems. Each subsystem, the signaling device, may have the ability to continue transmitting its location when another signaling device fails or is not attached to a person, animal or object. In some cases, one subsystem can always be "active"; "Active" means that the device is in charge of the transmission of location information. Current "active" subsystems can use GPS to determine their location and mobile phone technology to send their location to the monitoring station. In one embodiment, the monitoring station receives the location of a person, animal or object and transmits this information to the remote receiver, which may connect to a parent or guardian or owner of the animal or object, or an appropriate medical or safety organization. . It may also be a user or administrator of the monitoring station.

In some cases, the system includes GPS chips, circuitry, and signaling devices with hardware and / or software that calculate and transmit their location via established protocols at the request of a monitoring station. The monitoring station, which may be a computer, is the location of a signaling device to a user of the monitoring station or to another computer, a remote receiver, via the Internet, or to another person or device by telephone or radio (including cell phones, radio frequencies, television, satellite communications, etc.). Can be transmitted. The monitoring station and / or remote receiving computer may be a desktop or transmission tower, a laptop or notebook device, or a portable device. The portable device may be a PDA or PocketPC ™.

The system may also include a signaling device that is similar in size to a wrist watch using mobile phone technology with GPS. The watch may be the main “active” subsystem 101. The signaling device may have a clock face with several buttons to control the function of the clock. Clock functions include setting time and setting alarms. The GPS receiver 111 may be built in the watch 101. The receiver can be embedded with semiconductor mounting technology. The receiver may receive and update the GPS signal 120 transmitted from the GPS satellite 102 periodically, for example every second, and its position precision may be 100 m, 22 m or several meters, as the case may be.

The signaling device 101, which is a subsystem, can receive a location request signal, for example, a signal 121 for communicating in a cellular frequency band using the cellular transceiver 112, and can also transmit the location of the signaling device in an emergency. . The cellular transceiver 12 may communicate with the monitoring station 105 via the relay station 103 or the landline network 104 using a cell band or other frequency to transmit the location information of the PCS, GSM, or person. The active function of the signaling device 101 can be replaced with another (backup) signaling device 106 when it is brought into the " inactive " state determined when there is no cellular connection 121 or inter-device communication network 122. Device-to-device communication can occur between RF transceivers 118 of each signaling device.

The signal device 101 may be operated by a rechargeable power source 113 that is charged through the docking device. The docking device may also diagnose the device. Alternatively, a replaceable power source may be used. The power supply must be maintained for at least one day and, if necessary, for more than one week without maintenance. The power source may be a rechargeable or replaceable battery, a solar cell, a power supply or a combination thereof.

In some cases, the backup signaling device 106, which is a passive subsystem signaling device, may operate only periodically to determine whether the system is still intact (i.e. nearby) while one or more signaling devices are in an "active" state. The backup signal device 106 may determine its location using the GPS receiver 111. The backup signal device 106 may have a small pager shape, or other conventional accessory shape. This signaling device may be waterproof and weather resistant.

On the other hand, the control station may be a monitoring station. In this case, the signal device does not start communication with the monitoring station unless there is an emergency such as determining that there is no signal from the corresponding signal device or that the distance between the signal devices is greater than or equal to a certain distance. Each signaling device has an emergency connection function; In this case, it can communicate with the monitoring station to relay information such as ID, time, location and status.

The monitoring station 105 may have a function of communicating with all lower signaling devices. The monitoring station may request and receive the location of the signaling device upon request. The monitoring station 105 has a computer 115 that communicates with the modem 114 and communicates and / or input location data in a format suitable for use by the remote receiver 107, monitoring station user, authorized user and / or appropriate authority. Or display.

In some cases, the monitoring station may log all actions, ie communication with all lower signaling devices. The monitoring station may have a database that stores all relevant information. This database can be a SQL server database. In addition, the monitoring station may have an emergency call data format containing personal information. In some cases, the monitoring station may have the means of communicating directly with the appropriate authority or via a remote receiver. Such means of communication may be wireless or cellular communication, land telephone line, the Internet, or a combination thereof. On the other hand, an authorized user, such as a parent, may access the secure Internet website with his or her ID and password to determine the location of the child wearing the signaling device.

The medium and / or protocol for each communication link in the system may be a wireless, cellular, Bluetooth or the like. In some cases, communication between the lower signaling device and the monitoring station as well as between the signaling devices may be ciphertext, not plain text, in accordance with known techniques.

It would be better if a monitoring station could communicate with several signaling devices, i.e., with one or more people, animals or objects.

In accordance with the present invention, each associated lower signaling device may report regularly to the monitoring station. If the monitoring station calculates that the relevant signaling devices have fallen more than a certain distance, the monitoring station can transmit location information from the signaling device more often (eg continuously) and find the appropriate person or agency.

In some cases, the lower signaling device may be a control station. As described above, the two signaling devices communicate with each other continuously or periodically. If both signaling devices fall more than a certain distance, they transmit their location to the monitoring station. Alternatively, one signaling device may actively receive information and transmit it to both the other signaling device and the monitoring station. The second signaling device is only activated to ensure that it is passive and within the range of the active signaling device. When the active signal device calculates or determines that the passive signal device is no longer in range, a signal is sent to activate the passive signal device, and both signaling devices send their position to the monitoring station. In this case, the passive signal device is operated at low power, thereby making it smaller. On the other hand, the signaling device may transmit its location and message, such as an emergency help request.

In other cases, the method of using a security tracking system monitors the physiological function, and can be used for emergency situations such as physical conditions (diabetes, epilepsy, etc.) that are associated with no movement or drop in blood pressure, pulse arrest, sudden fluctuations in blood pressure, and other health conditions. If it sends a signal. This function is useful for high risk infants, high risk adults and people at risk.

Example 5

Object or person location systems use GPS technology, mobile phone technology, and low-power RF transceivers. In the event of an emergency, several auxiliary signaling devices, each transmitting its own location, are attached to an object or person. Each attached signaling device supports device-to-device communication, can locate its location using GPS, and can send its location via a cell phone link. All signaling devices attached to objects or people communicate with each other using low-power RF transceivers. In this case, it detects that the signaling device is missing or broken. All information sent from each signaling device is recorded in the server. This information includes the longitude, latitude, time, and ID of the object or person (eg, ID number). The server uses the ID number to compare the identity, history and / or medical information of an object or person. The server is authorized to display the current location and access the database to log the final location and other information about the object or person. For example, the database may be operated by a MySQL database. Server-side scripts can be in PHP. The web-based user interface can use Xhtml, which is defined as an Internet standard.

For convenience of explanation, the database has two tables, one for client information and the other for updating from a signaling device. The two tables are linked through a unique number assigned to the client individual, the client ID. An example of a table field is listed below.

Client Information Table

Client ID

Child's name

Children's castle

Guardian's Name

Guardian's Castle

Guardian's home phone number

Child's Social Security Number

Special medical matters

Emergency phone number

Client's Account Status

Recent location

Wait time between signaling device updates (minutes)

Update interval adjustment options for signaling devices

Other Information You May Need

update  table

Unique update ID given per update

Client ID responsible for the update ID

Residual power of signaling device (%)

Hardness of device

Latitude of the device

Height of gear

Status of the device

Update time

The personal signaling device includes a microcontroller that interfaces with a cell phone, a GPS receiver, and a low power RF transceiver. An example of a microcontroller is the PIC 18 series processor, which has a hardware timer that supports two or more UART devices and has a serial connection. Another microprocessor for GPS-type signaling devices is the Genius IV chip from Rajone Pty. The handset interfaces with the microcontroller via an RS-232 connection, has an SDK, and supports two-way SMS. The GPS receiver also interfaces with the microcontroller via an RS-232 connection. However, current commercial mobile phones with built-in GPS receivers do not have full-featured SDKs, two-way SMS, or sufficiently precise GPS.

For device-to-device communication, low-power RF transceivers are connected in series to the microcontroller, but Bluetooth or IEEE Personal Area Network (PAN) technology can also be used. Low power RF solutions utilize low power and are easy to interface.

Meanwhile, the personal signal device may use a mobile phone embedded module. It has the same functionality as a cell phone, but with basic hardware similar to a cellular chipset (no LCD, keypad, speakers, or microphone). In some cases, both cellular and GPS may be integrated on a single chip.

Mobile phone devices basically have a receiver, a transmitter and a modem. The receiver chipset converts the radio frequency of the antenna into the frequency used by the modem. The transmitter chipset converts the modem's frequency into a radio frequency that must be transmitted over the air through the antenna. A modem (or mobile station modem) is used to initiate a data connection, receive a data connection, and control the transmit / receive chips and various functions.

Examples of cell phone chipsets are the Qualcomm ™ IFR3000 and IFT3000 transceiver chips, which work in series with the Qualcomm ™ MSM chipset for use in CDMA networks (PCS). The GSM ™ i250 platform is used for GSM cellular communications.

An example of a GPS chip or module is the Jupiter GPS module from NAVMAN NZ, a SiRFstarIIe / LP low-power GPS chip from VSLence Semiconductor's VS7001 chip SiFR Technology.

On the other hand, the person wearing the lower signaling device sends an alarm when the relevant second lower signaling device has fallen more than a certain distance. For example, when a user leaves the lower signaling device in a mobile phone or PDA, an associated signaling device in a wrist watch may signal the wearer to prevent the loss of an object.

Claims (70)

In a security tracking device having a first signal device and a second signal device: The second signaling device is in close communication with the first signaling device; Each signaling device has a receiver for identifying the location of its own signaling device, and a transmitter for transmitting the location of the own signaling device to the other signaling device when the two signaling devices are separated from each other by a predetermined distance; And the transmitter automatically operates when the first and second signal devices fall more than a predetermined distance. 2. The security tracking device according to claim 1, wherein the receiver for checking the position of the signaling device has an antenna communicating with a GPS system or a low orbit satellite. 2. The security tracking device according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter for checking the position of the signaling device has a transceiver for communicating with a cellular phone communication network. First and second signaling devices in close communication with each other, comprising: a receiver for identifying the location of the signaling device and a transmitter that is automatically operated to transmit the location of the signaling device when the signaling devices are separated from each other by a predetermined distance. And a second signal device; And And a monitoring station capable of receiving the positioning information of the signal device. 5. The security tracking device according to claim 4, wherein the monitoring station includes a transmitter for transmitting positioning information of the signaling device from the monitoring station to the remote receiver. In how to find people, animals or objects: (a) a first, second or second signaling device in close communication with a receiver for determining the location of the signaling device and a transmitter for transmitting the location of the signaling device when the signaling devices are separated from each other by a predetermined distance; Attaching to or holding on to an object; (b) operating a signaling device to transmit its location; And (c) automatically transmitting the position of the signaling device when the signaling device drops more than a predetermined distance. In how to find people, animals or objects: (a) a person, animal or object comprising a device having a first and a second signaling device having a receiver for identifying the location of the signaling device and a transmitter for transmitting the location of the signaling device when the signaling devices are separated by a certain distance from each other; Attaching to or keeping close to; (b) determining, via communication between signaling devices, whether these signaling devices have fallen more than a certain distance; And (c) if it is determined that the signaling devices are separated by a certain distance, transmitting the location of the signaling device to the monitoring station, and operating the signaling device in the manual mode to automatically transmit the location of the signaling device to the monitoring station. How to feature. In how to find people, animals or objects: (a) attaching to or placing a device close to a person, animal or object with a first and second signaling device in close proximity to each other with a receiver for identifying the location of the signaling device and a transmitter for transmitting the location of the signaling device; ; (b) transmitting a location of each of the signaling devices to the monitoring station; (c) calculating whether or not the signal devices are separated from each other by a predetermined distance; And (d) if it is determined that the signaling devices have fallen by more than a certain distance, automatically or continuously transmitting the location of the signaling devices, activating the signaling device which may be in manual mode and transmitting the location to the monitoring station; Characterized in that the method. A security tracking device having a first signal device and a second signal device suitable for attaching to or hiding near a person, animal or object: The second signaling device is in close communication with the first signaling device, and each signaling device automatically transmits the position of the signaling device when the two signaling devices are separated from each other by a GPS receiver for checking its position. A security tracking device having a cellular transmitter. 10. The security tracking device according to claim 9, wherein each signaling device operates a cellular transceiver to transmit its location to a monitoring station in the following state. a) at the request of the monitoring station; b) at the request of a person; b) no communication with other signaling devices; d) at regular intervals. The method according to claim 1, 4 or 9, a) a receiver receiving an initial signal for transmitting information identifying the position of the signaling device; And b) a microcontroller for initiating transmission of the information via the signaling device to identify the location of the signaling device; c) each of the signaling devices has a low power RF transceiver for communicating with another signaling device; c) said signal devices are operated with a power source selected from the group consisting of a rechargeable battery, a replaceable battery, a solar cell, a power supply or a combination thereof. The security tracking device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, 9, and 10, wherein the signal device is attached to a person, an animal, or an object to be hidden or hidden. delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete

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