WO2013065041A1 - Mobile device for group activities having broadcasting of emergency messages capability - Google Patents

Mobile device for group activities having broadcasting of emergency messages capability Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2013065041A1
WO2013065041A1 PCT/IL2012/050425 IL2012050425W WO2013065041A1 WO 2013065041 A1 WO2013065041 A1 WO 2013065041A1 IL 2012050425 W IL2012050425 W IL 2012050425W WO 2013065041 A1 WO2013065041 A1 WO 2013065041A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
emergency
message
emergency message
type
voice
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IL2012/050425
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Yossef Twina
Abraham Avi MOATO
Original Assignee
Cardo Systems Inc.
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 Cardo Systems Inc. filed Critical Cardo Systems Inc.
Priority to EP12846685.1A priority Critical patent/EP2773552A4/en
Priority to US14/355,506 priority patent/US20150031322A1/en
Publication of WO2013065041A1 publication Critical patent/WO2013065041A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04WWIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W4/00Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
    • H04W4/80Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04LTRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L12/00Data switching networks
    • H04L12/02Details
    • H04L12/16Arrangements for providing special services to substations
    • H04L12/18Arrangements for providing special services to substations for broadcast or conference, e.g. multicast
    • H04L12/1895Arrangements for providing special services to substations for broadcast or conference, e.g. multicast for short real-time information, e.g. alarms, notifications, alerts, updates
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M3/00Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M3/42Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers
    • H04M3/50Centralised arrangements for answering calls; Centralised arrangements for recording messages for absent or busy subscribers ; Centralised arrangements for recording messages
    • H04M3/51Centralised call answering arrangements requiring operator intervention, e.g. call or contact centers for telemarketing
    • H04M3/5116Centralised call answering arrangements requiring operator intervention, e.g. call or contact centers for telemarketing for emergency applications
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04WWIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W4/00Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
    • H04W4/06Selective distribution of broadcast services, e.g. multimedia broadcast multicast service [MBMS]; Services to user groups; One-way selective calling services
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04WWIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W4/00Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
    • H04W4/90Services for handling of emergency or hazardous situations, e.g. earthquake and tsunami warning systems [ETWS]
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04WWIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W76/00Connection management
    • H04W76/10Connection setup
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A42HEADWEAR
    • A42BHATS; HEAD COVERINGS
    • A42B3/00Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings
    • A42B3/04Parts, details or accessories of helmets
    • A42B3/30Mounting radio sets or communication systems
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62JCYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
    • B62J45/00Electrical equipment arrangements specially adapted for use as accessories on cycles, not otherwise provided for
    • B62J45/10Arrangement of audio equipment; Supports therefor
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M1/00Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
    • H04M1/02Constructional features of telephone sets
    • H04M1/04Supports for telephone transmitters or receivers
    • H04M1/05Supports for telephone transmitters or receivers specially adapted for use on head, throat or breast
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M1/00Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
    • H04M1/60Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers including speech amplifiers
    • H04M1/6033Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers including speech amplifiers for providing handsfree use or a loudspeaker mode in telephone sets
    • H04M1/6041Portable telephones adapted for handsfree use
    • H04M1/6058Portable telephones adapted for handsfree use involving the use of a headset accessory device connected to the portable telephone
    • H04M1/6066Portable telephones adapted for handsfree use involving the use of a headset accessory device connected to the portable telephone including a wireless connection
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M1/00Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
    • H04M1/72Mobile telephones; Cordless telephones, i.e. devices for establishing wireless links to base stations without route selection
    • H04M1/724User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones
    • H04M1/72403User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones with means for local support of applications that increase the functionality
    • H04M1/72418User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones with means for local support of applications that increase the functionality for supporting emergency services
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M2203/00Aspects of automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M2203/20Aspects of automatic or semi-automatic exchanges related to features of supplementary services
    • H04M2203/205Broadcasting
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M2207/00Type of exchange or network, i.e. telephonic medium, in which the telephonic communication takes place
    • H04M2207/18Type of exchange or network, i.e. telephonic medium, in which the telephonic communication takes place wireless networks
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M2242/00Special services or facilities
    • H04M2242/04Special services or facilities for emergency applications
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M2250/00Details of telephonic subscriber devices
    • H04M2250/02Details of telephonic subscriber devices including a Bluetooth interface
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04WWIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W4/00Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
    • H04W4/12Messaging; Mailboxes; Announcements
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04WWIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W84/00Network topologies
    • H04W84/18Self-organising networks, e.g. ad-hoc networks or sensor networks

Definitions

  • the present invention relates in general to communication between mobile devices. More particularly, the invention relates to a mobile device having capability of broadcasting emergency messages to other of such devices, wherein said mobile devices are used in group activities, particularly by those who wear a helmet, such as motorcycle riders, bicycle riders, skiers, etc.
  • Bluetooth technology has many advantages, however, the Bluetooth protocol is designed for the communication between two devices at each instance, while not allowing immediate broadcast of a message from a single device to several other devices.
  • Another problem that exists in this case is the need to ensure that a transmitted emergency message arrives as many as possible riders, within a quite long range (of about l-2Km), while using device whose range of communication is limited to a shorter range.
  • Still another issue that has to be resolved is the need of the rider to issue such an emergency message in a most simple, immediate, and hands-free manner.
  • Bluetooth communication devices for motorcyclists are limited to Bluetooth communication, their operation is not a hands free operation, and they are incapable to broadcast emergency messages. It is therefore highly desirable to provide a device which overcomes the above- mentioned disadvantages of the prior art. More specifically, it is an object of the present invention to provide a device for broadcasting emergency messages to plurality of other devices in the group.
  • the invention relates to a mobile Bluetooth device mounted on a helmet of a user who engages in a group activity, the device comprises a Bluetooth manager for creating a Bluetooth voice communication channel between a source device and a target device via its BT transceiver, and further comprises an emergency generator for generating an emergency message, said emergency message is broadcasted to plurality of target devices via an alternative transceiver.
  • the device further comprise (a) a memory storage which stores target devices voice tags and an emergency voice tag; and (b) a voice command unit for receiving a user voice command from a microphone, and activating respectively either said a Bluetooth voice communication channel, or said broadcasting of the emergency message, depending on comparison between said voice command and said stored voice tags.
  • a memory storage which stores target devices voice tags and an emergency voice tag
  • a voice command unit for receiving a user voice command from a microphone, and activating respectively either said a Bluetooth voice communication channel, or said broadcasting of the emergency message, depending on comparison between said voice command and said stored voice tags.
  • said emergency generator is triggered to broadcast an emergency message by means of a push button.
  • said generator generates and broadcasts a type 1 emergency message when said emergency message is first originated in the same device, and generates and broadcasts a type 2 emergency message upon receipt of a type 1 emergency message.
  • the device further comprises headphones and a pre-recorded emergency message, and wherein upon receipt of an emergency message at a target device, said pre-recorded message is triggered, thereby sounding the message at said headphones.
  • the device further comprises headphones and a pre-recorded emergency message, and wherein upon receipt of either a type 1 emergency message or a type 2 emergency message at a target device, whoever comes first, said pre-recorded message is triggered, thereby sounding the message at said headphones.
  • said emergency generator upon receipt of a type 1 emergency message, said emergency generator generates and broadcasts a type 2 emergency message via its alternative transceiver.
  • said user who engages in a group activity is a motorcyclist, a skier, or a bicycle rider.
  • one or more of emergency messages are provided, while the user selects one message at a time for broadcasting.
  • Fig. 1 illustrates in block diagram form the basic structure of a device for broadcasting an emergency message according to a first embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 2 illustrates in block diagram form the basic structure of a device for broadcasting an emergency message according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • the invention provides a Bluetooth device having capability to broadcast emergency messages, for people who engage in group activities, such as motorcycle riders, bicycle riders, skiers, etc.
  • group activities such as motorcycle riders, bicycle riders, skiers, etc.
  • the device of the invention is typically designed to be attached to the user's helmet.
  • the description below refers to a specific need of motorcyclists, but as said, the device of the invention is likewise suitable to be used by all those who engage in group activities, that require wearing of a protective helmet.
  • Fig. 1 describes in block diagram form a basic structure of a Bluetooth (BT) device 110 for motorcyclists which is provided with voice commands capabilities, communication between two Bluetooth devices, and with broadcasting of emergency messages.
  • BT Bluetooth
  • the device comprises storage 111 of voice tags of similar other devices with whom the device can selectively communicate (one to one communication), and the corresponding BT addresses of those devices, and with an additional voice tag assigned for emergency message broadcasting.
  • a pairing procedure in a manner known in the art is performed between the device and each other device, enabling the establishment of communication, when necessary, between the device and any selected other device from storage 111.
  • the Bluetooth manager 112 handles all the procedures that relate to the pre-communication (including the pairing procedure), and to the actual communication. These procedures will not be described herein in detail, as they are well known in the art.
  • the voice command unit 114 compares the submitted voice command with the voice tags stored in storage 111, and tries to identify the addressee (target) device. Upon finding a match, the voice command unit submits to the BT manger the address of the target device. Having this target address, the BT manager creates a voice channel between the device and the selected target device, which is performed via transceiver 115. More specifically, upon the establishment of a communication channel between the two Bluetooth devices, the user can use his microphone 113 to convey a voice message to the user of the target device. A response voice signal which is received from the target device is maneuvered by the Bluetooth manager 112 to the device headphones 116.
  • Bluetooth devices of the prior art for motorcyclists are incapable of broadcasting emergency messages simultaneously to plurality of other devices, the device 110 of the present invention overcomes this drawback.
  • the voice tags storage 111 contains voice tags relating to the address of other devices, and an additional, emergency voice tag. Storage 111 may still include additional voice tags for the activation of some other functions that are irrelevant to the invention.
  • the emergency voice tag is typically one or two words that define an emergency situation, for example, "emergency", or "be careful”, etc.
  • the Bluetooth manager 112 establishes a Bluetooth voice channel with the target device as described above.
  • the voice command unit 114 upon recognition of the emergency tag (by comparison with said pre-stored voice tags), triggers the emergency generator 130, which in turn generates an emergency code for broadcasting.
  • the emergency code is typically a digital word which combines an emergency code field, and a message type field.
  • the message type defines whether the emergency message is originated in this device, or alternatively whether the message is originally created at another device, and received at the present device (in that case, the emergency word is recreated for retransmission, in order to extend the range, in a manner which will be detailed hereinafter).
  • the message type is defined as type 1.
  • the generated message is then transmitted from alternative transceiver 122 (i.e., a transceiver which is separate from Bluetooth transceiver 115).
  • the target device receives the emergency message via its own alternative transceiver 122, which in turn conveys the message to decoder 121.
  • Decoder 121 inspects said message and identifies that it is an emergency message (from the emergency code field), and it also identifies the message type (from the message type field).
  • the identification of an emergency message by decoder 121 results in the triggering of a pre-recorded alert message 120.
  • the pre-recorded alert message is conveyed to the headphones 116, so the user, upon hearing the pre-recorded message, may react accordingly and avoid the dangerous situation.
  • the emergency message is received by all the (target) devices that are located within the transmission range of a transmitting device (typically several hundreds of meters). In some cases, it is desired to extend the range of transmission. In that case, any decoder which identifies a type 1 emergency received message re-triggers the emergency generator 130. More specifically, in that case, generator 130 generates a new emergency message, this time a type 2 message (i.e., type 2 in the type field of the emergency word). The generated type 2 message is then broadcasted to all the devices in the range of the said target device.
  • a type 2 message i.e., type 2 in the type field of the emergency word
  • target devices receive the original type 1 message, and all them immediately recreate and transmit a new type 2 emergency message respectively, and said type 2 message may be received by additional devices that have not received the original type 1 message, as they have been out of range).
  • Such retransmission of the emergency message obviously increases the range of propagation of the emergency message up to doubling the range from the first device which originated the original type 1 message.
  • Each device that which receives a type 2 message, but has not previously received the original type 1 message triggers his pre-recorded emergency sound message 120, which is conveyed to headphones 116.
  • the activation of the emergency message in the device may be made by means of pushing a button, rather than by use of a voice command.
  • the push of the emergency button directly triggers the emergency generator 230.
  • This option may be preferable in devices that do not include voice command capabilities (i.e., voice tags, a voice command unit, etc.).
  • voice command capabilities i.e., voice tags, a voice command unit, etc.
  • Fig. 2 shows an exemplary structure of such an embodiment 210 of the invention.
  • the BT manager When the user pushes one of the buttons of keyboard 224 that are assigned for Bluetooth communication, the BT manager receives the corresponding BT address from storage 211, and initiates a BT communication in a manner as described before. However, in case of emergency, the user may push the emergency button 230, which directly triggers the emergency generator 230 to issue and broadcast the emergency message in a manner as described above.
  • the terms “emergency” and “emergency message” should not be connected to any specific situation or type of situation.
  • the user of the device may initiate broadcasting of an "emergency message” in response to any situation that he faces.
  • the pre-recorded message that is provided to the headphones may include any word or combination of words.
  • the device may include the option of broadcasting selectively plurality of emergency messages.
  • the application provides a mobile device for a group activity that includes the feature of broadcasting of emergency messages to other devices in the group.
  • the device can optionally propagate such an emergency message to target devices that are out of the normal communication range of the device.
  • the operation of the device is convenient and safe, as the emergency message can be generated by means of voice commands. Therefore, the device increases the safety of the users, particularly when used by motorcyclists driving in a group. While some embodiments of the invention have been described by way of illustration, it will be apparent that the invention can be carried out with many modifications, variations and adaptations, and with the use of numerous equivalents or alternative solutions that are within the scope of persons skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit of the invention or exceeding the scope of the claims.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Emergency Management (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Marketing (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Mobile Radio Communication Systems (AREA)
  • Alarm Systems (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a mobile Bluetooth device mounted on a helmet of a user who engages in a group activity, the device comprises a Bluetooth manager for creating a Bluetooth voice communication channel between a source device and a target device via its BT transceiver, and further comprises an emergency generator for generating an emergency message, said emergency message is broadcasted to plurality of target devices via an alternative transceiver.

Description

MOBILE DEVICE FOR GROUP ACTIVITIES HAVING BROADCASTING OF EMERGENCY MESSAGES CAPABILITY
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates in general to communication between mobile devices. More particularly, the invention relates to a mobile device having capability of broadcasting emergency messages to other of such devices, wherein said mobile devices are used in group activities, particularly by those who wear a helmet, such as motorcycle riders, bicycle riders, skiers, etc.
Background of the Invention
In many group activities the ability to communicate between two or more people engaging in them has become an important factor with the advent of radio communication. Illustrative examples of such group activities are motorcycle and bicycle riders, who engage in group tours and other activities, skiers, etc. Additionally, when motorcycles are involved, for instance, communication is important - and difficult.
Communications of this type have been rendered much more convenient and easy with the advent of Bluetooth technology, and a number of different Bluetooth headsets are available on the market, which permit communication between different people engaged in group activities. Bluetooth technology, has many advantages, however, the Bluetooth protocol is designed for the communication between two devices at each instance, while not allowing immediate broadcast of a message from a single device to several other devices.
As mentioned, driving of motorcycles in a group is a common habit. Groups of tens or even more of motorcycle riders that drive on public roads are quite frequently seen. The driving of a motorcycle may introduce dangerous situations, of which a motorcyclist may wish to inform other riders in the group, particularly those that follow him. The Bluetooth headsets that are presently available in the market are incapable of broadcasting immediate emergency messages from one device to plurality of other devices, particularly in view of the fact that the Bluetooth protocol is not designed for broadcasting of messages.
Another problem that exists in this case is the need to ensure that a transmitted emergency message arrives as many as possible riders, within a quite long range (of about l-2Km), while using device whose range of communication is limited to a shorter range.
Still another issue that has to be resolved is the need of the rider to issue such an emergency message in a most simple, immediate, and hands-free manner. There are Bluetooth communication devices for motorcyclists, however, as said, they are limited to Bluetooth communication, their operation is not a hands free operation, and they are incapable to broadcast emergency messages. It is therefore highly desirable to provide a device which overcomes the above- mentioned disadvantages of the prior art. More specifically, it is an object of the present invention to provide a device for broadcasting emergency messages to plurality of other devices in the group.
It is a further object of the invention to provide such a device that enables broadcasting of such emergency messages to devices that are located at a range higher than the transmission range of the device which originates the message.
It is still another object of the invention to enable such transmission of said emergency message in a most compact, convenient, and safe manner to the user.
Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent as the description proceeds.
Summary of the Invention
The invention relates to a mobile Bluetooth device mounted on a helmet of a user who engages in a group activity, the device comprises a Bluetooth manager for creating a Bluetooth voice communication channel between a source device and a target device via its BT transceiver, and further comprises an emergency generator for generating an emergency message, said emergency message is broadcasted to plurality of target devices via an alternative transceiver.
Preferably, the device further comprise (a) a memory storage which stores target devices voice tags and an emergency voice tag; and (b) a voice command unit for receiving a user voice command from a microphone, and activating respectively either said a Bluetooth voice communication channel, or said broadcasting of the emergency message, depending on comparison between said voice command and said stored voice tags.
Preferably, said emergency generator is triggered to broadcast an emergency message by means of a push button.
Preferably, said generator generates and broadcasts a type 1 emergency message when said emergency message is first originated in the same device, and generates and broadcasts a type 2 emergency message upon receipt of a type 1 emergency message.
Preferably, the device further comprises headphones and a pre-recorded emergency message, and wherein upon receipt of an emergency message at a target device, said pre-recorded message is triggered, thereby sounding the message at said headphones.
Preferably, the device further comprises headphones and a pre-recorded emergency message, and wherein upon receipt of either a type 1 emergency message or a type 2 emergency message at a target device, whoever comes first, said pre-recorded message is triggered, thereby sounding the message at said headphones.
Preferably, upon receipt of a type 1 emergency message, said emergency generator generates and broadcasts a type 2 emergency message via its alternative transceiver.
Preferably, said user who engages in a group activity is a motorcyclist, a skier, or a bicycle rider.
Preferably, one or more of emergency messages are provided, while the user selects one message at a time for broadcasting. Brief Description of the Drawings
In the drawings:
Fig. 1 illustrates in block diagram form the basic structure of a device for broadcasting an emergency message according to a first embodiment of the present invention; and
Fig. 2 illustrates in block diagram form the basic structure of a device for broadcasting an emergency message according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments
As mentioned above, the invention provides a Bluetooth device having capability to broadcast emergency messages, for people who engage in group activities, such as motorcycle riders, bicycle riders, skiers, etc. Typically, in all said activities the user wears a protective helmet, and the device of the invention is typically designed to be attached to the user's helmet. The description below refers to a specific need of motorcyclists, but as said, the device of the invention is likewise suitable to be used by all those who engage in group activities, that require wearing of a protective helmet.
Fig. 1 describes in block diagram form a basic structure of a Bluetooth (BT) device 110 for motorcyclists which is provided with voice commands capabilities, communication between two Bluetooth devices, and with broadcasting of emergency messages. It should be noted that the terms "unit", "generator", "manager", etc. that appear in the drawings do not necessarily require them to be a separate hardware component. In fact they are typically embodied by software. The block diagram description in the drawings is provided in this manner for the sake of simplicity and clarity of understanding. The device comprises storage 111 of voice tags of similar other devices with whom the device can selectively communicate (one to one communication), and the corresponding BT addresses of those devices, and with an additional voice tag assigned for emergency message broadcasting. Before a typical BT communication can be performed, a pairing procedure in a manner known in the art is performed between the device and each other device, enabling the establishment of communication, when necessary, between the device and any selected other device from storage 111. The Bluetooth manager 112 handles all the procedures that relate to the pre-communication (including the pairing procedure), and to the actual communication. These procedures will not be described herein in detail, as they are well known in the art.
When the user provides a voice command into microphone 113 which relates to an addressee device, the voice command unit 114 compares the submitted voice command with the voice tags stored in storage 111, and tries to identify the addressee (target) device. Upon finding a match, the voice command unit submits to the BT manger the address of the target device. Having this target address, the BT manager creates a voice channel between the device and the selected target device, which is performed via transceiver 115. More specifically, upon the establishment of a communication channel between the two Bluetooth devices, the user can use his microphone 113 to convey a voice message to the user of the target device. A response voice signal which is received from the target device is maneuvered by the Bluetooth manager 112 to the device headphones 116.
As mentioned, Bluetooth devices of the prior art for motorcyclists are incapable of broadcasting emergency messages simultaneously to plurality of other devices, the device 110 of the present invention overcomes this drawback.
As noted, the voice tags storage 111 contains voice tags relating to the address of other devices, and an additional, emergency voice tag. Storage 111 may still include additional voice tags for the activation of some other functions that are irrelevant to the invention. The emergency voice tag is typically one or two words that define an emergency situation, for example, "emergency", or "be careful", etc.
Therefore, when the user of the device wishes to communicate with a selected another device, he calls to microphone 113 the name of the other device (for example "John Smith", "Kevin Costner" etc)., and the Bluetooth manager 112 establishes a Bluetooth voice channel with the target device as described above.
However, when the user faces an emergency situation, he speaks to microphone 113 the word or phrase that corresponds to the emergency tag (such as, "emergency", "be careful" etc.). The voice command unit 114, upon recognition of the emergency tag (by comparison with said pre-stored voice tags), triggers the emergency generator 130, which in turn generates an emergency code for broadcasting. The emergency code is typically a digital word which combines an emergency code field, and a message type field. The message type defines whether the emergency message is originated in this device, or alternatively whether the message is originally created at another device, and received at the present device (in that case, the emergency word is recreated for retransmission, in order to extend the range, in a manner which will be detailed hereinafter). In the case when the message is first initiated in the present device, the message type is defined as type 1. The generated message is then transmitted from alternative transceiver 122 (i.e., a transceiver which is separate from Bluetooth transceiver 115). The target device receives the emergency message via its own alternative transceiver 122, which in turn conveys the message to decoder 121. Decoder 121 inspects said message and identifies that it is an emergency message (from the emergency code field), and it also identifies the message type (from the message type field). The identification of an emergency message by decoder 121 results in the triggering of a pre-recorded alert message 120. The pre-recorded alert message is conveyed to the headphones 116, so the user, upon hearing the pre-recorded message, may react accordingly and avoid the dangerous situation.
The emergency message is received by all the (target) devices that are located within the transmission range of a transmitting device (typically several hundreds of meters). In some cases, it is desired to extend the range of transmission. In that case, any decoder which identifies a type 1 emergency received message re-triggers the emergency generator 130. More specifically, in that case, generator 130 generates a new emergency message, this time a type 2 message (i.e., type 2 in the type field of the emergency word). The generated type 2 message is then broadcasted to all the devices in the range of the said target device. For example, several target devices receive the original type 1 message, and all them immediately recreate and transmit a new type 2 emergency message respectively, and said type 2 message may be received by additional devices that have not received the original type 1 message, as they have been out of range). Such retransmission of the emergency message obviously increases the range of propagation of the emergency message up to doubling the range from the first device which originated the original type 1 message. Each device that which receives a type 2 message, but has not previously received the original type 1 message, triggers his pre-recorded emergency sound message 120, which is conveyed to headphones 116.
In another embodiment of the invention, the activation of the emergency message in the device may be made by means of pushing a button, rather than by use of a voice command. In that case, the push of the emergency button directly triggers the emergency generator 230. This option may be preferable in devices that do not include voice command capabilities (i.e., voice tags, a voice command unit, etc.). This solution simplifies the structure of the device and reduces its cost. However, this solution requires the user to use his hand to activate an emergency message. Fig. 2 shows an exemplary structure of such an embodiment 210 of the invention. When the user pushes one of the buttons of keyboard 224 that are assigned for Bluetooth communication, the BT manager receives the corresponding BT address from storage 211, and initiates a BT communication in a manner as described before. However, in case of emergency, the user may push the emergency button 230, which directly triggers the emergency generator 230 to issue and broadcast the emergency message in a manner as described above.
The terms "emergency" and "emergency message" should not be connected to any specific situation or type of situation. The user of the device may initiate broadcasting of an "emergency message" in response to any situation that he faces. The pre-recorded message that is provided to the headphones may include any word or combination of words. Moreover, the device may include the option of broadcasting selectively plurality of emergency messages.
As shown, the application provides a mobile device for a group activity that includes the feature of broadcasting of emergency messages to other devices in the group. The device can optionally propagate such an emergency message to target devices that are out of the normal communication range of the device. The operation of the device is convenient and safe, as the emergency message can be generated by means of voice commands. Therefore, the device increases the safety of the users, particularly when used by motorcyclists driving in a group. While some embodiments of the invention have been described by way of illustration, it will be apparent that the invention can be carried out with many modifications, variations and adaptations, and with the use of numerous equivalents or alternative solutions that are within the scope of persons skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit of the invention or exceeding the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A mobile Bluetooth device mounted on a helmet of a user who engages in a group activity, the device comprises a Bluetooth manager for creating a Bluetooth voice communication channel between a source device and a target device via its BT transceiver, and further comprises an emergency generator for generating an emergency message, said emergency message is broadcasted to plurality of target devices via an alternative transceiver.
2. A mobile Bluetooth device according to claim 1, further comprising:
(a) a memory storage which stores target devices voice tags and an emergency voice tag; and
(b) a voice command unit for receiving a user voice command from a microphone, and activating respectively either said a Bluetooth voice communication channel, or said broadcasting of the emergency message, depending on comparison between said voice command and said stored voice tags.
3. A mobile Bluetooth device according to claim 1, wherein said emergency generator is triggered to broadcast an emergency message by means of a push button.
4. A mobile Bluetooth device according to claim 1, wherein said generator generates and broadcasts a type 1 emergency message when said emergency message is first originated in the same device, and generates and broadcasts a type 2 emergency message upon receipt of a type 1 emergency message.
5. A mobile Bluetooth device according to claim 1, which comprises headphones and a pre-recorded emergency message, and wherein upon receipt of an emergency message at a target device, said pre-recorded message is triggered, thereby sounding the message at said headphones.
6. A mobile Bluetooth device according to claim 4, which further comprises headphones and a pre-recorded emergency message, and wherein upon receipt of either a type 1 emergency message or a type 2 emergency message at a target device, whoever comes first, said pre-recorded message is triggered, thereby sounding the message at said headphones.
7. A mobile Bluetooth device according to claim 4, wherein upon receipt of a type 1 emergency message, said emergency generator generates and broadcasts a type 2 emergency message via its alternative transceiver.
8. A mobile Bluetooth device according to claim 1, wherein said user who engages in a group activity is a motorcyclist, a skier, or a bicycle rider.
9. A mobile Bluetooth device according to claim 1, wherein one or more of emergency messages are provided, while the user selects one message at a time for broadcasting.
PCT/IL2012/050425 2011-10-31 2012-10-29 Mobile device for group activities having broadcasting of emergency messages capability WO2013065041A1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP12846685.1A EP2773552A4 (en) 2011-10-31 2012-10-29 Mobile device for group activities having broadcasting of emergency messages capability
US14/355,506 US20150031322A1 (en) 2011-10-31 2012-10-29 Mobile device for group activities having broadcasting of emergency messages capability

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IL216073 2011-10-31
IL216073A IL216073A0 (en) 2011-10-31 2011-10-31 Mobile device for group activities having broadcasting of emergency messages capability

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2013065041A1 true WO2013065041A1 (en) 2013-05-10

Family

ID=45855154

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IL2012/050425 WO2013065041A1 (en) 2011-10-31 2012-10-29 Mobile device for group activities having broadcasting of emergency messages capability

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (1) US20150031322A1 (en)
EP (1) EP2773552A4 (en)
IL (1) IL216073A0 (en)
WO (1) WO2013065041A1 (en)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2014191983A1 (en) * 2013-05-28 2014-12-04 Cardo Systems Inc. System for conveying audio malfunction and general data messages to a motorcycle rider
US9635898B2 (en) 2015-07-07 2017-05-02 Vigor Sports, Inc. Protective helmet and music streaming system

Families Citing this family (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9338627B1 (en) * 2015-01-28 2016-05-10 Arati P Singh Portable device for indicating emergency events
US9942731B2 (en) * 2015-05-27 2018-04-10 Otto Engineering, Inc. Radio alert system and method
RU2706300C2 (en) 2015-09-01 2019-11-15 3М Инновейтив Пропертиз Компани Transmission of security-related contextual information in system comprising individual protection means
US9726508B2 (en) 2015-10-06 2017-08-08 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Motorcycle organic gathering for route sharing
US9800707B2 (en) 2015-12-01 2017-10-24 Motorola Mobility Llc Mobile device with public announcement reception while using a headset accessory
CN107241689B (en) * 2017-06-21 2020-05-05 深圳市冠旭电子股份有限公司 Earphone voice interaction method and device and terminal equipment
TWI698096B (en) * 2018-09-14 2020-07-01 恆暘股份有限公司 Connected system for outdoor activity groups

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20080220718A1 (en) * 2001-09-14 2008-09-11 Tsuneaki Sakamoto Bluetooth Communication System for Drivers of Vehicules
US20100279647A1 (en) * 2009-05-01 2010-11-04 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Methods and systems for relaying out of range emergency information
US20110059720A1 (en) * 2009-09-04 2011-03-10 Penix Henry A Wireless security device and method

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
TWI226593B (en) * 2002-10-28 2005-01-11 Sin Etke Technology Co Ltd Message transmission method among vehicles and devices thereof
JP4179552B2 (en) * 2003-12-18 2008-11-12 本田技研工業株式会社 Bluetooth terminal
US20090295587A1 (en) * 2008-03-02 2009-12-03 Gorman Jr Thomas Leo Severe weather, environmental and mass notification warning system and method

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20080220718A1 (en) * 2001-09-14 2008-09-11 Tsuneaki Sakamoto Bluetooth Communication System for Drivers of Vehicules
US20100279647A1 (en) * 2009-05-01 2010-11-04 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Methods and systems for relaying out of range emergency information
US20110059720A1 (en) * 2009-09-04 2011-03-10 Penix Henry A Wireless security device and method

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See also references of EP2773552A4 *

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2014191983A1 (en) * 2013-05-28 2014-12-04 Cardo Systems Inc. System for conveying audio malfunction and general data messages to a motorcycle rider
US9635898B2 (en) 2015-07-07 2017-05-02 Vigor Sports, Inc. Protective helmet and music streaming system

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP2773552A4 (en) 2015-06-03
US20150031322A1 (en) 2015-01-29
EP2773552A1 (en) 2014-09-10
IL216073A0 (en) 2012-02-29

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US20150031322A1 (en) Mobile device for group activities having broadcasting of emergency messages capability
US10109164B2 (en) Notification and alert method for person(s) and/or devices(s)
CN103634205B (en) The vehicle entertainment system and method for integrated instant messaging/social networking application
US8073496B2 (en) Helmet type hands free system with radio communication function
US7976048B2 (en) Portable safety, entertainment and communication device for bicycles and control method
US20160373899A1 (en) Portable group communication device and method of use
CN111343603A (en) Data transmission system and method, electronic equipment and helmet
US20090098898A1 (en) Systems and methods for communicating panic messages in wireless communication networks
US11080972B2 (en) Notification and alert method for wearable and/or other devices
US20130260672A1 (en) Method and Apparatus for Relaying Data Communications in a Bluetooth Network
ES2828725T3 (en) Procedure and system for the generation and transmission of an emergency call signal
US20150080061A1 (en) Communication system for helmeted user
CN101595712A (en) The system and method that uses radio communication to stop the urgent call mistake to be used
CN111294777A (en) Control method and communication method of Bluetooth audio transmitter
US8666075B2 (en) System and method for improving in-game communications during a game
CN110380753B (en) Intercom and intercom system
EP3552508B1 (en) Smart helmet having remote control, and remote control method thereof
JP2006086581A (en) Wireless communication function attached headset, wireless communication system, and computer program
CN106174834A (en) Multifunctional intelligent safe cap
EP1953721A1 (en) Aid-remote portable device
JP2017082378A (en) Communication Helmet
CN106170039A (en) SOS help-asking system based on Mobile phone talkback machine functional accessory
CN106453966B (en) Interaction prompting method and device between mobile communication devices
KR101720144B1 (en) Voice communication system using helmet with short-range wireless communication and method thereof
CA3010269A1 (en) Health notification system and method

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 12846685

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

DPE1 Request for preliminary examination filed after expiration of 19th month from priority date (pct application filed from 20040101)
REEP Request for entry into the european phase

Ref document number: 2012846685

Country of ref document: EP

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2012846685

Country of ref document: EP

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 14355506

Country of ref document: US