WO2004049630A1 - Communications system and method - Google Patents

Communications system and method Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2004049630A1
WO2004049630A1 PCT/GB2003/005194 GB0305194W WO2004049630A1 WO 2004049630 A1 WO2004049630 A1 WO 2004049630A1 GB 0305194 W GB0305194 W GB 0305194W WO 2004049630 A1 WO2004049630 A1 WO 2004049630A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
mobile communicator
unit
communications
transmitter
communications unit
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2003/005194
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Keith Mcmurray Boden
Original Assignee
Keith Mcmurray Boden
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Keith Mcmurray Boden filed Critical Keith Mcmurray Boden
Priority to AU2003288395A priority Critical patent/AU2003288395A1/en
Publication of WO2004049630A1 publication Critical patent/WO2004049630A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B21/00—Alarms responsive to a single specified undesired or abnormal condition and not otherwise provided for
    • G08B21/02—Alarms for ensuring the safety of persons
    • G08B21/0297—Robbery alarms, e.g. hold-up alarms, bag snatching alarms
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B13/00—Burglar, theft or intruder alarms
    • G08B13/02—Mechanical actuation
    • G08B13/14—Mechanical actuation by lifting or attempted removal of hand-portable articles
    • G08B13/1427—Mechanical actuation by lifting or attempted removal of hand-portable articles with transmitter-receiver for distance detection
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B21/00—Alarms responsive to a single specified undesired or abnormal condition and not otherwise provided for
    • G08B21/02—Alarms for ensuring the safety of persons
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W24/00—Supervisory, monitoring or testing arrangements
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W64/00—Locating users or terminals or network equipment for network management purposes, e.g. mobility management
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W68/00—User notification, e.g. alerting and paging, for incoming communication, change of service or the like

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a communications system and method, in one embodiment registering the location of a person, as an assigned user, to the location of a personal mobile communicator, and in another embodiment providing an alarm function in the event of an emergency.
  • Personal mobile communicators for example, mobile telephones and equipped PDAs, are often lost, either through theft or being inadvertently misplaced.
  • an external agent such as a parent or guardian
  • the present invention provides a system, comprising: a mobile communicator assigned in use to a user and providing for communication with a communications network; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator and being in use carried by the user, which is configured locally to communicate with the mobile communicator and thereby maintain an association therewith when in local communication; wherein the mobile communicator is configured to transmit a warning signal to the communications network where the mobile communicator and the communications unit become dis-associated.
  • the present invention provides a system, comprising: a mobile communicator assigned in use to a user and providing for communication with a communications network; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator and being in use carried by the user, which is activatable to transmit an alarm signal to the mobile communicator; wherein the mobile communicator is configured to transmit a warning signal to the communications network on receipt of the alarm signal from the communications unit.
  • the present invention provides a system, comprising: a portable device assigned to a user; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the portable device and carried by the user, which is configured locally to communicate with the portable device so as to provide an association therewith when in local communication and provide the user with a warning where the portable device and the communications unit become dis-associated.
  • the present invention provides a system, comprising: a mobile communicator operable to communicate a notification to a third party; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator and being in use carried by a user, which is configured locally to communicate with the mobile communicator and thereby maintain an association therewith when in local communication; wherein the mobile communicator is configured to qommunicate a notification to the third party where the mobile communicator and the communications unit become dis-associated.
  • the present invention provides a system, comprising: a mobile communicator operable to communicate a notification to a third party; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator and being in use carried by the user, which is activatable to transmit an alarm signal to the mobile communicator; wherein the mobile communicator is configured to transmit a notification to a third party on receipt of the alarm signal from the communications unit.
  • the present invention provides a system, comprising: a mobile communicator operable to communicate a notification to a third party; and a communications unit, as an element in local wireless communication with the mobile communicator.
  • a method comprising the steps of: providing a user with a mobile communicator which provides for communication with a third party; providing a user with a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator, which is carried by the user and configured locally to communicate with the mobile communicator; maintaining an association between the communications unit and the mobile communicator when in local communication; and communicating a notification to a third party where the mobile communicator and the communications unit become dis-associated.
  • the present invention provides a method, comprising the steps of: providing a user with a mobile communicator which provides for communication with a third party; providing a user with a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator, which is carried by the user and activatable to transmit an alarm signal to the mobile communicator; activating the communications unit to transmit an alarm signal to the mobile communicator; and communicating a notification to a third party on receipt of the alarm signal from the communications unit.
  • the present invention provides a method, comprising the steps of: providing a user with a portable device; providing a user with a communications unit, as an element separate from the portable device, which is carried by the user and configured locally to communicate with the portable device so as to provide an association therewith when in local communication; and providing the user with a warning where the portable device and the communications unit become disassociated.
  • Figure 1 schematically illustrates a communications system in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a communications system in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a communications system in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 4 schematically illustrates a communications system in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a personal mobile communications system in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.
  • the system comprises a personal mobile communicator 1, in this embodiment a mobile telephone, which is assigned to a user and provides for communication with a communications network 2, and a communications unit 3, as an element separate from the personal mobile communicator 1, which is in local communication with the personal mobile communicator 1.
  • the personal mobile communicator 1 could be a PDA or portable computer, and in other embodiments could comprise any personal device which incorporates a communications function.
  • the communications network 2 includes a control unit 4 which is configured to log the position of the personal mobile communicator 1 and control the operation of the personal mobile communicator 1 on the communications network 2.
  • the communications unit 3 is provided as an element which is carried by the assigned user.
  • the communications unit 3 is provided as one of a bracelet or a necklace which is worn by the assigned user, but in other embodiments could comprise, for example, a brooch, a watch or a key fob.
  • the personal mobile communicator 1 includes a transmitter 5 for locally transmitting, in this embodiment over a predeterminable range for given conditions, an association signal, and the communications unit 3 includes a receiver 7, which is configured to receive the association signal transmitted by the transmitter 5 of the personal mobile communicator 1 when within the predetermined range relative thereto, and a warning device 9 for providing for a warning to the assigned user when the receiver 7 does not receive the association signal.
  • the transmitter 5 of the personal mobile communicator 1 is a transmitter separate to the main transmitter/receiver unit thereof which is utilized to communicate with the communications network 2.
  • the transmitter 5 of the personal mobile communicator 1 could be provided by the main transmitter/receiver unit thereof which is utilized to communicate with the communications network 2.
  • the transmitter 5 of the personal mobile communicator 1 and the receiver 7 of the communications unit 3 are configured to operate in accordance with the Bluetooth (RTM) wireless standard.
  • RTM Bluetooth
  • other local wireless communications standards could be utilized, such as the WiFi (RTM) wireless standard or an RFID wireless standard.
  • the predeterminable local range is less than about 10 m. In another embodiment the predeterminable local range is less than about 5 m.
  • the warning device 9 comprises a sensory alarm, in this embodiment an audible alarm, but in other embodiments could comprise a visual alarm, a vibrative alarm or an electrical-stimulation alarm.
  • the system provides for a warning to the assigned user when the assigned user becomes separated from his/her personal mobile communicator 1, either through being inadvertently left by the assigned user or theft, such that the association signal is not received by the receiver 7 of the communications unit 3 as carried by the assigned user, notably where the personal mobile communicator 1 is not within the predeterminable range relative to the communications unit 3.
  • the assigned user has inadvertently left his/her personal mobile communicator 1, the assigned user is able to retrieve his/her personal mobile communicator 1 before straying too far therefrom, and, where the personal mobile communicator 1 is stolen, the assigned user can immediately arrange for the personal mobile communicator 1 to be tracked and barred from the communications network 2 insofar as no calls can be made from the personal mobile communicator 1.
  • Figure 2 illustrates a personal mobile communications system in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • the system comprises a personal mobile communicator 11, in this embodiment a mobile telephone, which is assigned to a user and is in communication with a communications network 12, and a communications unit 13, as an element separate from the personal mobile communicator 11, which is in local communication with the personal mobile communicator 11.
  • the personal mobile communicator 11 could be a PDA, and in other embodiments could comprise any personal mobile device which provides a communications function.
  • the communications network 12 includes a control unit 14 which is configured to log the position of the personal mobile communicator 11 and control the operation of the personal mobile communicator 11 on the communications network 12, and a warning unit 15 which is configured to contact one or more external agents, for example, an emergency service, such as the police, or a parent or guardian of the assigned user, following activation thereof by the provision of a warning signal from the personal mobile communicator 11.
  • the communications unit 13 is provided to be carried, typically worn, by the assigned user. In this embodiment the communications unit 13 is provided as one of a bracelet or a necklace, but in other embodiments could, for example, comprise a brooch, a watch or a key fob.
  • the communications unit 13 includes a transmitter 16 for locally transmitting, here over a predeterminable range for given conditions, an association signal, and the personal mobile communicator 11 includes a receiver 17 which is configured to receive the association signal transmitted by the transmitter 16 of the communications unit 13 when within the predeterminable range relative thereto.
  • the transmitter 16 of the communications unit 13 is configured to transmit the association signal intermittently, here at predetermined intervals.
  • the transmitter 16 of the communications unit 13 is configured to transmit the association signal continuously.
  • the receiver 17 of the personal mobile communicator 11 is a receiver separate to the main transmitter/receiver unit thereof which is utilized to communicate with the communications network 12.
  • the receiver 17 of the personal mobile communicator 11 could be provided by the main transmitter/receiver unit thereof which is utilized to communicate with the communications network 12.
  • the transmitter 16 of the communications unit 13 and the receiver 17 of the personal mobile communicator 11 are configured to operate in accordance with the Bluetooth (RTM) wireless standard.
  • RTM Bluetooth
  • other local wireless communications standards could be utilized, such as the WiFi (RTM) wireless standard or an RFID wireless standard.
  • the predeterminable local range is less than about 10 m. In another embodiment the predeterminable local range is less than about 5 m.
  • the personal mobile communicator 11 is configured to transmit a warning signal to communications network 12 when the association signal transmitted by the transmitter 16 of the communications unit 13 is not received for a predetermined period of time, the receipt of which warning signal by the communications network 12 causes the control unit 14 to bar the personal mobile communicator 11 from further use and the warning unit 15 to be activated.
  • the warning unit 15 is configured such as to require, following activation thereof, the provision of an authentication code prior to any further use of the personal mobile communicator 11, such that, if, for example, the personal mobile communicator 11 had been stolen, the personal mobile communicator 11 could not be used without first providing the authentication code. Where the personal mobile communicator 11 has not been stolen, but merely inadvertently separated from the assigned user, the assigned use is able to continue to use the personal mobile communicator 11 normally following the provision of the authentication code.
  • the warning unit 15 is configured such as to contact one or more external agents, for example, an emergency service, such as the police, following activation thereof.
  • an emergency service such as the police
  • the one or more external agents can be notified immediately following the separation of the communications unit 13 from the personal mobile communicator 11 such as to enable the location of the personal mobile communicator 11 to be tracked, with the location of the personal mobile communicator 11 being available to the communications network 12, in this embodiment either by triangulation or radio positioning, such as GPS.
  • the warning unit 15 is configured such as to contact one or more external agents, for example, an emergency service, such as the police, and a parent or guardian of the assigned user, following activation thereof.
  • an emergency service such as the police
  • a parent or guardian of the assigned user following activation thereof.
  • a voice channel is opened between the personal mobile communicator 11 and the one or more external agents on activation of the warning unit 15.
  • the one or more external agents can be notified immediately following the separation of the communications unit 13 from the personal mobile communicator 11 such as to enable the location of the personal mobile communicator 11 to be tracked, with the location of the personal mobile communicator 11 being available to the communications network 12, in this embodiment either by triangulation or radio positioning, such as GPS.
  • triangulation or radio positioning such as GPS.
  • the communications unit 13 is provided as one of a bracelet or a necklace which is permanently attached to the assigned user, in the sense that the communications unit 13 can only be removed therefrom by destroying the transmitter 16 of the communications unit 13, which destruction causes the activation of the warning unit 15.
  • an abductor would not be able to avoid detection simply by removing the communications unit 13 from the assigned person, as removal would destroy the transmitter 16 and cause the activation of the warning unit 15, or by leaving behind the personal mobile communicator 11, as the communications unit 13 would then immediately become separated from the personal mobile communicator 11 and cause the activation of the warning unit 15.
  • the system further comprises a location tracking station 19, typically an enabled personal computer (PC), which allows an external agent, such as a parent or guardian, to track the position of the personal mobile communicator 11 of the assigned user, and hence the location of the assigned user.
  • a location tracking station 19 can be configured as a web browser to download the location information from the control unit 14 of the communications network 12, and typically present the information graphically.
  • control unit 14 of the communications network 12 can be configured such as to activate the warning unit 15 to contact one or more external agents, such as a parent or guardian, on the location of the personal mobile communicator 11 passing out of a predeterminable geographic zone.
  • geographic zone is a geographic radius from an assigned home address for the personal mobile communicator 11.
  • Figure 3 illustrates a personal mobile communications system in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention.
  • This personal mobile communicator system of this embodiment is quite similar to that of the above-described second embodiment, and thus, in order to avoid unnecessary duplication of description, only the differences will be described in detail.
  • This embodiment differs from that of the above-described second embodiment in that the personal mobile communicator 11 comprises a transmitter/receiver unit 21 in place of the receiver 17, and the communications unit 13 includes a transponder 23 in place of the transmitter 16, which transponder 23 is responsive to a signal as transmitted by the transmitter/receiver unit 21 of the personal mobile communicator 11.
  • This configuration enables the relative locations of the communications unit 13, and hence the assigned user, to be monitored under the control of the personal mobile communicator 11, which, for example, enables for the monitoring to be performed at intervals determined according to when the personal mobile communicator 11 is in communication with the communications network 12.
  • Figure 4 illustrates a personal mobile communicator system in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
  • the system comprises a personal mobile communicator 31, in this embodiment a mobile telephone, which is assigned to a user and is in communication with a communications network 32, and a communications unit 33, as an element separate from the personal mobile communicator 31, which is configured to communicate with the personal mobile communicator 31.
  • the personal mobile communicator 31 could be a PDA, and in other embodiments could comprise any personal mobile device which provides a communications function.
  • the communications unit 33 is provided to be carried, typically worn, by the assigned user.
  • the communications unit 33 is provided as one of a bracelet or a necklace which is permanently attached to the assigned user insofar as the communications unit 33 is activated on being removed from the assigned user.
  • the communications unit 33 could, for example, comprise a brooch, a watch or a key fob.
  • the communications unit 33 includes a transmitter 36 for transmitting an alarm signal on activation thereof, and the personal mobile communicator 31 includes a receiver 37 which is configured to receive the alarm signal when transmitted by the transmitter 36 of the communications unit 33.
  • the transmitter 36 of the communications unit 33 and the receiver 37 of the personal mobile communicator 11 are configured to operate in accordance with the Bluetooth (RTM) wireless standard.
  • RTM Bluetooth
  • other local wireless communications standards could be utilized, such as the WiFi (RTM) wireless standard or an RFID wireless standard.
  • the communications network 32 includes a warning unit 39 which is activated by the personal mobile communicator 31 when the alarm signal transmitted by the transmitter 36 of the communications unit 33 is received by the receiver 37 of the personal mobile communicator 31.
  • the communications unit 33 is specifically configured, in the event of an emergency, for example, a personal attack, to allow for forced removal, which activates the transmitter 36 thereof to generate an alarm signal, which, when received by the receiver 37 of the personal mobile communicator 31, activates the warning unit 39 which is configured such as to contact one or more external agents, for example, an emergency service, such as the police, following activation thereof.
  • a voice channel is opened between the personal mobile communicator 31 and the one or more external agents on activation of the warning unit 39.
  • the one or more external agents can be notified immediately following activation of the transmitter 36 of the communications unit 33 and the location of the personal mobile communicator 31 is tracked, with the location of the personal mobile communicator 31 being available to the communications network 32, in this embodiment either by triangulation or radio positioning, such as GPS.
  • the communications unit 33 is provided as one of a bracelet or a necklace which is permanently attached to the assigned user, and removal therefrom, here by forced removal, activates the transmitter 36 of the communications unit 33 to generate an alarm signal, the generation of which alarm signal causes the activation of the warning unit 39.
  • the wearer of the communications unit 33 would have the ability and presence of mind in a personal attack to remove the communications unit 33, typically by yanking off the communications unit 33 where a necklace or bracelet, whereas, in the panic of a personal attack, the wearer may not be able to locate his/her personal mobile communicator 31 or have the presence of mind to input the keystrokes required to activate an alarm function, for example, a personal identification number (PIN) to activate the alarm function.
  • PIN personal identification number

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Emergency Management (AREA)
  • Telephonic Communication Services (AREA)
  • Telephone Function (AREA)

Abstract

A system and method, comprising: a mobile communicator operable to communicate a notification to a third party; and a communications unit, as an element in local wireless communication with the mobile communicator.

Description

COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM AND METHOD
The present invention relates to a communications system and method, in one embodiment registering the location of a person, as an assigned user, to the location of a personal mobile communicator, and in another embodiment providing an alarm function in the event of an emergency.
Personal mobile communicators, for example, mobile telephones and equipped PDAs, are often lost, either through theft or being inadvertently misplaced.
It is one aim of the present invention to provide a communications system and method which warns an assigned user when separated from his/her personal mobile communicator by more than a predetermined range, such as would occur on theft or on being left inadvertently misplaced, and in one embodiment provides for barring of the personal mobile communicator from use following separation of the personal mobile communicator from the assigned user by more than the predetermined range.
Providing for the security of young persons is also becoming increasingly important.
It is another aim of the present invention to provide a communications system and method which enables the location of an assigned user to be monitored from the location of his/her personal mobile communicator, and in a preferred embodiment warns an external agent, such as a parent or guardian, when the location of his/her mobile communicator is outside a predetermined zone.
It is a further aim of the present invention to provide a communications system and method which enables the location of an assigned user to be authenticated to the location of his/her personal mobile communicator. For example, should a young person be abducted, it is an aim of the present invention to provide for a warning to an external agent, such as a parent or guardian, where the personal mobile communicator is discarded following abduction, and thus is separated from the assigned user. Where the personal mobile communicator is not discarded, the location of the personal mobile communicator, and hence the assigned user, can be tracked.
It is a yet further aim of the present invention to provide a communications system and method which provides for the enablement of an alarm in the event of an emergency, such as a personal attack, in particular a rape attack.
In one aspect the present invention provides a system, comprising: a mobile communicator assigned in use to a user and providing for communication with a communications network; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator and being in use carried by the user, which is configured locally to communicate with the mobile communicator and thereby maintain an association therewith when in local communication; wherein the mobile communicator is configured to transmit a warning signal to the communications network where the mobile communicator and the communications unit become dis-associated.
In another aspect the present invention provides a system, comprising: a mobile communicator assigned in use to a user and providing for communication with a communications network; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator and being in use carried by the user, which is activatable to transmit an alarm signal to the mobile communicator; wherein the mobile communicator is configured to transmit a warning signal to the communications network on receipt of the alarm signal from the communications unit.
In a further aspect the present invention provides a system, comprising: a portable device assigned to a user; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the portable device and carried by the user, which is configured locally to communicate with the portable device so as to provide an association therewith when in local communication and provide the user with a warning where the portable device and the communications unit become dis-associated.
In a yet further aspect the present invention provides a system, comprising: a mobile communicator operable to communicate a notification to a third party; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator and being in use carried by a user, which is configured locally to communicate with the mobile communicator and thereby maintain an association therewith when in local communication; wherein the mobile communicator is configured to qommunicate a notification to the third party where the mobile communicator and the communications unit become dis-associated.
In a still further aspect the present invention provides a system, comprising: a mobile communicator operable to communicate a notification to a third party; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator and being in use carried by the user, which is activatable to transmit an alarm signal to the mobile communicator; wherein the mobile communicator is configured to transmit a notification to a third party on receipt of the alarm signal from the communications unit.
In yet another aspect the present invention provides a system, comprising: a mobile communicator operable to communicate a notification to a third party; and a communications unit, as an element in local wireless communication with the mobile communicator. In still another aspect the present invention provides a method, comprising the steps of: providing a user with a mobile communicator which provides for communication with a third party; providing a user with a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator, which is carried by the user and configured locally to communicate with the mobile communicator; maintaining an association between the communications unit and the mobile communicator when in local communication; and communicating a notification to a third party where the mobile communicator and the communications unit become dis-associated.
In a yet further aspect the present invention provides a method, comprising the steps of: providing a user with a mobile communicator which provides for communication with a third party; providing a user with a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator, which is carried by the user and activatable to transmit an alarm signal to the mobile communicator; activating the communications unit to transmit an alarm signal to the mobile communicator; and communicating a notification to a third party on receipt of the alarm signal from the communications unit.
In still yet another further aspect the present invention provides a method, comprising the steps of: providing a user with a portable device; providing a user with a communications unit, as an element separate from the portable device, which is carried by the user and configured locally to communicate with the portable device so as to provide an association therewith when in local communication; and providing the user with a warning where the portable device and the communications unit become disassociated.
Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described hereinbelow by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 schematically illustrates a communications system in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 schematically illustrates a communications system in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 3 schematically illustrates a communications system in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention; and
Figure 4 schematically illustrates a communications system in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 1 illustrates a personal mobile communications system in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. The system comprises a personal mobile communicator 1, in this embodiment a mobile telephone, which is assigned to a user and provides for communication with a communications network 2, and a communications unit 3, as an element separate from the personal mobile communicator 1, which is in local communication with the personal mobile communicator 1.
In alternative embodiments the personal mobile communicator 1 could be a PDA or portable computer, and in other embodiments could comprise any personal device which incorporates a communications function.
The communications network 2 includes a control unit 4 which is configured to log the position of the personal mobile communicator 1 and control the operation of the personal mobile communicator 1 on the communications network 2.
The communications unit 3 is provided as an element which is carried by the assigned user. In this embodiment the communications unit 3 is provided as one of a bracelet or a necklace which is worn by the assigned user, but in other embodiments could comprise, for example, a brooch, a watch or a key fob.
The personal mobile communicator 1 includes a transmitter 5 for locally transmitting, in this embodiment over a predeterminable range for given conditions, an association signal, and the communications unit 3 includes a receiver 7, which is configured to receive the association signal transmitted by the transmitter 5 of the personal mobile communicator 1 when within the predetermined range relative thereto, and a warning device 9 for providing for a warning to the assigned user when the receiver 7 does not receive the association signal.
In this embodiment the transmitter 5 of the personal mobile communicator 1 is a transmitter separate to the main transmitter/receiver unit thereof which is utilized to communicate with the communications network 2.
In an alternative embodiment the transmitter 5 of the personal mobile communicator 1 could be provided by the main transmitter/receiver unit thereof which is utilized to communicate with the communications network 2.
In this embodiment the transmitter 5 of the personal mobile communicator 1 and the receiver 7 of the communications unit 3 are configured to operate in accordance with the Bluetooth (RTM) wireless standard. In other embodiments other local wireless communications standards could be utilized, such as the WiFi (RTM) wireless standard or an RFID wireless standard. In this embodiment the predeterminable local range is less than about 10 m. In another embodiment the predeterminable local range is less than about 5 m.
The warning device 9 comprises a sensory alarm, in this embodiment an audible alarm, but in other embodiments could comprise a visual alarm, a vibrative alarm or an electrical-stimulation alarm.
With this configuration, the system provides for a warning to the assigned user when the assigned user becomes separated from his/her personal mobile communicator 1, either through being inadvertently left by the assigned user or theft, such that the association signal is not received by the receiver 7 of the communications unit 3 as carried by the assigned user, notably where the personal mobile communicator 1 is not within the predeterminable range relative to the communications unit 3. In this way, where the assigned user has inadvertently left his/her personal mobile communicator 1, the assigned user is able to retrieve his/her personal mobile communicator 1 before straying too far therefrom, and, where the personal mobile communicator 1 is stolen, the assigned user can immediately arrange for the personal mobile communicator 1 to be tracked and barred from the communications network 2 insofar as no calls can be made from the personal mobile communicator 1.
Figure 2 illustrates a personal mobile communications system in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.
The system comprises a personal mobile communicator 11, in this embodiment a mobile telephone, which is assigned to a user and is in communication with a communications network 12, and a communications unit 13, as an element separate from the personal mobile communicator 11, which is in local communication with the personal mobile communicator 11.
In an alternative embodiment the personal mobile communicator 11 could be a PDA, and in other embodiments could comprise any personal mobile device which provides a communications function.
The communications network 12 includes a control unit 14 which is configured to log the position of the personal mobile communicator 11 and control the operation of the personal mobile communicator 11 on the communications network 12, and a warning unit 15 which is configured to contact one or more external agents, for example, an emergency service, such as the police, or a parent or guardian of the assigned user, following activation thereof by the provision of a warning signal from the personal mobile communicator 11. The communications unit 13 is provided to be carried, typically worn, by the assigned user. In this embodiment the communications unit 13 is provided as one of a bracelet or a necklace, but in other embodiments could, for example, comprise a brooch, a watch or a key fob.
The communications unit 13 includes a transmitter 16 for locally transmitting, here over a predeterminable range for given conditions, an association signal, and the personal mobile communicator 11 includes a receiver 17 which is configured to receive the association signal transmitted by the transmitter 16 of the communications unit 13 when within the predeterminable range relative thereto.
In this embodiment the transmitter 16 of the communications unit 13 is configured to transmit the association signal intermittently, here at predetermined intervals.
In another embodiment the transmitter 16 of the communications unit 13 is configured to transmit the association signal continuously.
In this embodiment the receiver 17 of the personal mobile communicator 11 is a receiver separate to the main transmitter/receiver unit thereof which is utilized to communicate with the communications network 12.
In an alternative embodiment the receiver 17 of the personal mobile communicator 11 could be provided by the main transmitter/receiver unit thereof which is utilized to communicate with the communications network 12.
In this embodiment the transmitter 16 of the communications unit 13 and the receiver 17 of the personal mobile communicator 11 are configured to operate in accordance with the Bluetooth (RTM) wireless standard. In other embodiments other local wireless communications standards could be utilized, such as the WiFi (RTM) wireless standard or an RFID wireless standard.
In this embodiment the predeterminable local range is less than about 10 m. In another embodiment the predeterminable local range is less than about 5 m.
The personal mobile communicator 11 is configured to transmit a warning signal to communications network 12 when the association signal transmitted by the transmitter 16 of the communications unit 13 is not received for a predetermined period of time, the receipt of which warning signal by the communications network 12 causes the control unit 14 to bar the personal mobile communicator 11 from further use and the warning unit 15 to be activated. In one embodiment the warning unit 15 is configured such as to require, following activation thereof, the provision of an authentication code prior to any further use of the personal mobile communicator 11, such that, if, for example, the personal mobile communicator 11 had been stolen, the personal mobile communicator 11 could not be used without first providing the authentication code. Where the personal mobile communicator 11 has not been stolen, but merely inadvertently separated from the assigned user, the assigned use is able to continue to use the personal mobile communicator 11 normally following the provision of the authentication code.
In one embodiment the warning unit 15 is configured such as to contact one or more external agents, for example, an emergency service, such as the police, following activation thereof. With this configuration, the one or more external agents can be notified immediately following the separation of the communications unit 13 from the personal mobile communicator 11 such as to enable the location of the personal mobile communicator 11 to be tracked, with the location of the personal mobile communicator 11 being available to the communications network 12, in this embodiment either by triangulation or radio positioning, such as GPS.
In another embodiment, where the personal mobile communicator system is to provide for the personal security of the assigned user, typically of a young person away from home, the warning unit 15 is configured such as to contact one or more external agents, for example, an emergency service, such as the police, and a parent or guardian of the assigned user, following activation thereof. In this embodiment a voice channel is opened between the personal mobile communicator 11 and the one or more external agents on activation of the warning unit 15. With this configuration, the one or more external agents can be notified immediately following the separation of the communications unit 13 from the personal mobile communicator 11 such as to enable the location of the personal mobile communicator 11 to be tracked, with the location of the personal mobile communicator 11 being available to the communications network 12, in this embodiment either by triangulation or radio positioning, such as GPS. In this way, a parent or guardian has the peace of mind that the person, typically a son or daughter, who is assigned to the personal mobile communicator 11 is in possession of the personal mobile communicator 11, as otherwise the warning unit 15 would be activated.
In this embodiment the communications unit 13 is provided as one of a bracelet or a necklace which is permanently attached to the assigned user, in the sense that the communications unit 13 can only be removed therefrom by destroying the transmitter 16 of the communications unit 13, which destruction causes the activation of the warning unit 15. In this way, an abductor would not be able to avoid detection simply by removing the communications unit 13 from the assigned person, as removal would destroy the transmitter 16 and cause the activation of the warning unit 15, or by leaving behind the personal mobile communicator 11, as the communications unit 13 would then immediately become separated from the personal mobile communicator 11 and cause the activation of the warning unit 15.
In this embodiment the system further comprises a location tracking station 19, typically an enabled personal computer (PC), which allows an external agent, such as a parent or guardian, to track the position of the personal mobile communicator 11 of the assigned user, and hence the location of the assigned user. In one embodiment the location tracking station 19 can be configured as a web browser to download the location information from the control unit 14 of the communications network 12, and typically present the information graphically.
In one embodiment the control unit 14 of the communications network 12 can be configured such as to activate the warning unit 15 to contact one or more external agents, such as a parent or guardian, on the location of the personal mobile communicator 11 passing out of a predeterminable geographic zone. In one embodiment the geographic zone is a geographic radius from an assigned home address for the personal mobile communicator 11.
Figure 3 illustrates a personal mobile communications system in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention.
This personal mobile communicator system of this embodiment is quite similar to that of the above-described second embodiment, and thus, in order to avoid unnecessary duplication of description, only the differences will be described in detail.
This embodiment differs from that of the above-described second embodiment in that the personal mobile communicator 11 comprises a transmitter/receiver unit 21 in place of the receiver 17, and the communications unit 13 includes a transponder 23 in place of the transmitter 16, which transponder 23 is responsive to a signal as transmitted by the transmitter/receiver unit 21 of the personal mobile communicator 11. This configuration enables the relative locations of the communications unit 13, and hence the assigned user, to be monitored under the control of the personal mobile communicator 11, which, for example, enables for the monitoring to be performed at intervals determined according to when the personal mobile communicator 11 is in communication with the communications network 12.
Figure 4 illustrates a personal mobile communicator system in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
The system comprises a personal mobile communicator 31, in this embodiment a mobile telephone, which is assigned to a user and is in communication with a communications network 32, and a communications unit 33, as an element separate from the personal mobile communicator 31, which is configured to communicate with the personal mobile communicator 31.
In an alternative embodiment the personal mobile communicator 31 could be a PDA, and in other embodiments could comprise any personal mobile device which provides a communications function.
The communications unit 33 is provided to be carried, typically worn, by the assigned user. In this embodiment the communications unit 33 is provided as one of a bracelet or a necklace which is permanently attached to the assigned user insofar as the communications unit 33 is activated on being removed from the assigned user. In other embodiments the communications unit 33 could, for example, comprise a brooch, a watch or a key fob.
The communications unit 33 includes a transmitter 36 for transmitting an alarm signal on activation thereof, and the personal mobile communicator 31 includes a receiver 37 which is configured to receive the alarm signal when transmitted by the transmitter 36 of the communications unit 33.
In this embodiment the transmitter 36 of the communications unit 33 and the receiver 37 of the personal mobile communicator 11 are configured to operate in accordance with the Bluetooth (RTM) wireless standard. In other embodiments other local wireless communications standards could be utilized, such as the WiFi (RTM) wireless standard or an RFID wireless standard.
The communications network 32 includes a warning unit 39 which is activated by the personal mobile communicator 31 when the alarm signal transmitted by the transmitter 36 of the communications unit 33 is received by the receiver 37 of the personal mobile communicator 31.
In this embodiment, where the personal mobile communicator system provides an alarm function for the personal security of the assigned person, the communications unit 33 is specifically configured, in the event of an emergency, for example, a personal attack, to allow for forced removal, which activates the transmitter 36 thereof to generate an alarm signal, which, when received by the receiver 37 of the personal mobile communicator 31, activates the warning unit 39 which is configured such as to contact one or more external agents, for example, an emergency service, such as the police, following activation thereof. In this embodiment a voice channel is opened between the personal mobile communicator 31 and the one or more external agents on activation of the warning unit 39. With this configuration, the one or more external agents can be notified immediately following activation of the transmitter 36 of the communications unit 33 and the location of the personal mobile communicator 31 is tracked, with the location of the personal mobile communicator 31 being available to the communications network 32, in this embodiment either by triangulation or radio positioning, such as GPS.
In this embodiment the communications unit 33 is provided as one of a bracelet or a necklace which is permanently attached to the assigned user, and removal therefrom, here by forced removal, activates the transmitter 36 of the communications unit 33 to generate an alarm signal, the generation of which alarm signal causes the activation of the warning unit 39. It is envisaged that the wearer of the communications unit 33 would have the ability and presence of mind in a personal attack to remove the communications unit 33, typically by yanking off the communications unit 33 where a necklace or bracelet, whereas, in the panic of a personal attack, the wearer may not be able to locate his/her personal mobile communicator 31 or have the presence of mind to input the keystrokes required to activate an alarm function, for example, a personal identification number (PIN) to activate the alarm function.
Finally, it will be understood that the present invention has been described in its preferred embodiments and can be modified in many different ways without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system, comprising: a mobile communicator assigned in use to a user and providing for communication with a communications network; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator and being in use carried by the user, which is configured locally to communicate with the mobile communicator and thereby maintain an association therewith when in local communication; wherein the mobile communicator is configured to transmit a warning signal to the communications network where the mobile communicator and the communications unit become dis-associated.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the communications unit comprises an element which is worn by the user.
3. The system of claim 2, wherein the communications unit comprises a bracelet.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein the bracelet comprises a wrist bracelet or an ankle bracelet.
5. The system of claim 2, wherein the communications unit comprises a necklace.
6. The system of claim 2, wherein the communications unit comprises a watch.
7. The system of any of claims 2 to 6, wherein the communications unit is attached to the user such that removal of the communications unit from the user is such as to cause the mobile communicator and the communications unit to become disassociated.
8. The system of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the communications unit includes a transmitter for locally transmitting an association signal and the mobile communicator includes a local receiver which is configured to receive the association signal transmitted by the transmitter of the communications unit when in local communication therewith.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein the mobile communicator includes a network transmitter which provides for communication with the communications network.
10. The system of claim 8, wherein the mobile communicator includes a network transmitter/receiver unit which provides for communication with the communications network and the local receiver is separate to the network transmitter/receiver unit.
11. The system of claim 8, wherein the mobile communicator includes a network transmitter/receiver unit which provides for communication with the communications network and the local receiver is provided by the network transmitter/receiver unit.
12. The system of any of claims 8 to 11, wherein the transmitter of the communications unit is configured to transmit the association signal locally over a predeterminable range for given conditions and the local receiver of the mobile communicator is configured to receive the association signal transmitted by the transmitter of the communications unit when within the predeterminable range relative thereto.
13. The system of any of claims 8 to 12, wherein the transmitter of the communications unit is configured to transmit the association signal intermittently.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein the transmitter of the communications unit is configured to transmit the association signal at predeterminable intervals.
15. The system of any of claims 8 to 12, wherein the communications unit is configured to transmit the association signal continuously.
16. The system of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the communications unit includes a transponder for transmitting an association signal in response to receipt of a trigger signal and the mobile communicator includes a local transmitter/receiver unit which is configured, when in local communication with the communications unit, to transmit the trigger signal to actuate the transponder of the communications unit and receive the association signal transmitted by the transponder of the communications unit.
17. The system of claim 16, wherein the mobile communicator includes a network transmitter which provides for communication with the communications network.
18. The system of claim 16, wherein the mobile communicator includes a network transmitter/receiver unit which provides for communication with the communications network and the local transmitter/receiver unit is separate to the network transmitter/receiver unit.
19. The system of claim 16, wherein the mobile communicator includes a network transmitter/receiver unit which provides for communication with the communications network and the local transmitter/receiver unit is provided by the network transmitter/receiver unit.
20. The system of any of claims 16 to 19, wherein the transponder of the communications unit is configured to transmit the association signal locally over a predeterminable range for given conditions and the local receiver/transmitter unit of the mobile communicator is configured to receive the association signal transmitted by the transponder of the communications unit when within the predeterminable range relative thereto.
21. The system of any of claims 16 to 20, wherein the local transmitter/receiver unit of the mobile communicator is configured to transmit the trigger signal locally over a predeterminable range for given conditions and the transponder of the communications unit is configured to receive the trigger signal transmitted by the local transmitter/receiver unit of the mobile communicator when within the predeterminable range relative thereto.
22. The system of any of claims 16 to 21, wherein the local transmitter/receiver unit of the mobile communicator is configured to transmit the trigger signal intermittently.
23. The system of claim 22, wherein the local transmitter/receiver unit of the mobile communicator is configured to transmit the trigger signal at predeterminable intervals.
24. The system of any of claims 1 to 23, wherein the communications network includes a control unit which is configured to obtain the position of the mobile communicator.
25. The system of claim 24, wherein the control unit is configured to log the position of the mobile communicator.
26. The system of claim 24 or 25, wherein the position of the mobile communicator is determined by triangulation or radio positioning, such as GPS.
27. The system of any of claims 24 to 26, wherein the control unit is configured to render at least functions of the mobile communicator inoperative in response to provision of a warning signal by the mobile communicator.
28. The system of claim 27, wherein the control unit, is configured to bar use of the mobile communicator in response to provision of a warning signal by the mobile communicator.
29. The system of any of claims 1 to 28, wherein the communications network includes a warning unit which is configured to contact one or more external agents following provision of a warning signal from the mobile communicator.
30. The system of claim 29 when appendant upon any of claims 24 to 28, wherein the warning unit provides information as to the position of the mobile communicator.
31. The system of claim 30, wherein the warning unit provides information as to the position of the mobile communicator at a time of the dis-association of the communications unit and the mobile communicator.
32. The system of claim 30 or 31, wherein the warning unit provides information as to a current position of the mobile communicator where remaining in communication with the communications network.
33. The system of any of claims 29 to 32, wherein the one or more external agents include an emergency service, such as the police.
34. The system of any of claims 29 to 32, wherein the one or more external agents include a parent or guardian.
35. The system of any of claims 1 to 34, wherein the mobile communicator comprises a portable wireless communicator.
36. The system of claim 35, wherein the mobile communicator comprises a mobile telephone.
37. A system, comprising: a mobile communicator assigned in use to a user and providing for communication with a communications network; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator and being in use carried by the user, which is activatable to transmit an alarm signal to the mobile communicator; wherein the mobile communicator is configured to transmit a warning signal to the communications network on receipt of the alarm signal from the communications unit.
38. The system of claim 37, wherein the communications unit comprises an element which is worn by the user.
39. The system of claim 38, wherein the communications unit comprises a bracelet.
40. The system of claim 39, wherein the bracelet comprises a wrist bracelet or an ankle bracelet.
41. The system of claim 38, wherein the communications unit comprises a necklace.
42. The system of claim 38, wherein the communications unit comprises a watch.
43. The system of any of claims 38 to 42, wherein the communications unit is attached to the user such that detachment of the communications unit from the user activates the communications unit to transmit the alarm signal.
44. The system of any of claims 37 to 43, wherein the communications unit includes a transmitter for locally transmitting an alarm signal on activation thereof and the mobile communicator includes a local receiver which is configured to receive the alarm signal transmitted by the transmitter of the communications unit.
45. The system of claim 44, wherein the mobile communicator includes a network transmitter which provides for communication with the communications network.
46. The system of claim 44, wherein the mobile communicator includes a network transmitter/receiver unit which provides for communication with the communications network and the local receiver is separate to the network transmitter/receiver unit.
47. The system of claim 44, wherein the mobile communicator includes a network transmitter/receiver unit which provides for communication with the communications network and the local receiver is provided by the network transmitter/receiver unit.
48. The system of any of claims 37 to 47, wherein the communications network includes a control unit which is configured to obtain the position of the mobile communicator.
49. The system of claim 48, wherein the control unit is configured to log the position of the mobile communicator.
50. The system of claim 48 or 49, wherein the position of the mobile communicator is determined by triangulation or radio positioning, such as GPS.
51. The system of any of claims 48 to 50, wherein the control unit is configured to render at least functions of the mobile communicator inoperative in response to provision of a warning signal by the mobile communicator.
52. The system of claim 51, wherein the control unit is configured to bar use of the mobile communicator in response to provision of a warning signal by the mobile communicator.
53. The system of any of claims 37 to 52, wherein the communications network includes a warning unit which is configured to contact one or more external agents following provision of a warning signal by the mobile communicator.
54. The system of claim 53 when appendant upon any of claims 48 to 50, wherein the warning unit provides information as to the position of the mobile communicator.
55. The system of claim 54, wherein the warning unit provides information as to the position of the mobile communicator at a time of the activation of the communications unit.
56. The system of claim 54 or 55, wherein the warning unit provides information as to a current position of the mobile communicator where remaining in communication with the communications network.
57. The system of any of claims 53 to 56, wherein the one or more external agents include an emergency service, such as the police.
58. The system of any of claims 37 to 57, wherein the mobile communicator comprises a mobile telephone.
59. A system, comprising: a portable device assigned to a user; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the portable device and carried by the user, which is configured locally to communicate with the portable device so as to provide an association therewith when in local communication and provide the user with a warning where the portable device and the communications unit become dis-associated.
60. The system of claim 59, wherein the communications unit comprises an element which is worn by the user.
61. The system of claim 60, wherein the communications unit comprises a bracelet.
62. The system of claim 61, wherein the bracelet comprises a wrist bracelet or an ankle bracelet.
63. The system of claim 60, wherein the communications unit comprises a necklace.
64. The system of claim 60, wherein the communications unit comprises a watch.
65. The system of any of claims 59 to 64, wherein the portable device is configured to provide for communication with a communications network.
66. The system of any of claims 59 to 65, wherein the portable device includes a local transmitter for locally transmitting an association signal and the communications unit includes a receiver which is configured to receive the association signal transmitted by the local transmitter of the portable device when in local communication therewith.
67. The system of claims 65 and 66, wherein the portable device includes a network transmitter which provides for communication with the communications network and the local transmitter is separate to the network transmitter.
68. The system of claims 65 and 66, wherein the portable device includes a network transmitter which provides for communication with the communications network and the local transmitter is provided by the network transmitter.
69. The system of claims 65 and 66, wherein the portable device includes a network transmitter/receiver unit which provides for communication with the communications network and the local transmitter is separate to the network transmitter/receiver unit.
70. The system of claims 65 and 66, wherein the portable device includes a network transmitter/receiver unit which provides for communication with the communications network and the local transmitter is provided by the network transmitter/receiver unit.
71. The system of any of claims 65 to 70, wherein the local transmitter of the portable device is configured to transmit the association signal locally over a predeterminable range for given conditions and the receiver of the communications unit is configured to receive the association signal transmitted by the local transmitter of the portable device when within the predeterminable range relative thereto.
72. The system of any of claims 65 to 71, wherein the local transmitter of the portable device is configured to transmit the association signal intermittently.
73. The system of claim 72, wherein the local transmitter of the portable device is configured to transmit the association signal at predeterminable intervals.
74. The system of any of claims 65 to 71, wherein the local transmitter of the portable device is configured to transmit the association signal continuously.
75. The system of any of claims 59 to 74, wherein the communications unit includes a warning device for providing a warning to the user when the portable device and the communications unit become dis-associated.
76. The system of claim 75, wherein the warning device comprises a sensory alarm, preferably an audible, visual, vibrative or electro-stimulation alarm.
77. The system of any of claims 65 to 76, wherein the communications network includes a control unit which is configured to obtain the position of the portable device.
78. The system of claim 77, wherein the control unit is configured to log the position of the portable device.
79. The system of claim 77 or 78, wherein the position of the portable device is determined by triangulation or radio positioning, such as GPS.
80. The system of any of claims 77 to 79, wherein the control unit is configured to render at least functions of the portable device inoperative in response to dis- association of the portable device and the communications unit.
81. The system of claim 80, wherein the control unit is configured to bar use of the portable device in response to dis-association of the portable device and the communications unit.
82. The system of any of claims 65 to 81, wherein the communications network includes a warning unit which is configured to contact one or more external agents in response to dis-association of the portable device and the communications unit.
83. The system of claim 82 when appendant upon any of claims 77 to 79, wherein the warning unit provides information as to the position of the portable device.
84. The system of claim 83, wherein the warning unit provides information as to the position of the portable device at a time of the dis-association of the portable device and the communications unit.
85. The system of claim 83 or 84, wherein the warning unit provides information as to a current position of the portable device where remaining in communication with the communications network.
86. The system of any of claims 59 to 85, wherein the portable device comprises a mobile communicator.
87. The system of claim 86, wherein the mobile communicator comprises a mobile telephone.
88. A system, comprising: a mobile communicator operable to communicate a notification to a third party; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator and being in use carried by a user, which is configured locally to communicate with the mobile communicator and thereby maintain an association therewith when in local communication; wherein the mobile communicator is configured to communicate a notification to the third party where the mobile communicator and the communications unit become disassociated.
89. A system, comprising: a mobile communicator operable to communicate a notification to a third party; and a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator and being in use carried by the user, which is activatable to transmit an alarm signal to the mobile communicator; wherein the mobile communicator is configured to transmit a notification to a third party on receipt of the alarm signal from the communications unit.
90. A system, comprising: a mobile communicator operable to communicate a notification to a third party; and a communications unit, as an element in local wireless communication with the mobile communicator.
91. . A method, comprising the steps of: providing a user with a mobile communicator which provides for communication with a third party; providing a user with a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator, which is carried by the user and configured locally to communicate with the mobile communicator; maintaining an association between the communications unit and the mobile communicator when in local communication; and communicating a notification to a third party where the mobile communicator and the communications unit become dis-associated.
92. A method, comprising the steps of: providing a user with a mobile communicator which provides for communication with a third party; providing a user with a communications unit, as an element separate from the mobile communicator, which is carried by the user and activatable to transmit an alarm signal to the mobile communicator; activating the communications unit to transmit an alarm signal to the mobile communicator; and communicating a notification to a third party on receipt of the alarm signal from the communications unit.
A method, comprising the steps of: providing a user with a portable device; providing a user with a communications unit, as an element separate from the portable device, which is carried by the user and configured locally to communicate with the portable device so as to provide an association therewith when in local communication; and providing the user with a warning where the portable device and the communications unit become dis-associated.
PCT/GB2003/005194 2002-11-26 2003-11-26 Communications system and method WO2004049630A1 (en)

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GB0227517D0 (en) 2002-12-31

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