WO2016022854A1

WO2016022854A1 - Wireless ring for the activation of an emergency alert system

Info

Publication number: WO2016022854A1
Application number: PCT/US2015/044096
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ibrahim Khalil HELWANE
Original assignee: Helwane Ibrahim Khalil
Priority date: 2014-08-08
Filing date: 2015-08-06
Publication date: 2016-02-11

Abstract

An emergency alert system designed to transmit an alert notification through existing wireless communication networks to notify third parties of a present emergency. The system includes an alert device worn by a user around the finger that is configured to be activated at the time of an emergency in a discrete manner. The alert device communicates an alert signal to an electronic transmitting device which is configured to process and formulate an alert notification. The device transmits the alert notification to preselected third parties. The alert notification is periodically sent at a predefined time interval and includes a message and location information of the user. The third parties are able to seek assistance for the user during the emergency.

Description

WIRELESS RING FOR THE ACTIVATION OF AN EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM

Technical Field

The present application relates generally to a safety alert system, and in particular to a wearable device configured to initiate an emergency alert notification.

Description of the Prior Art Emergency alert systems have been around for many years. Typically such systems are thought to be associated with alarm systems. The alarm system is controlled via one or more buttons mounted to furniture or to a wall of a business or residence. Examples include home alarm systems or bank alarm systems. The controls to these systems can often be unavailable to a person at the time of an emergency thereby making it difficult to send an emergency signal when in danger. Additionally, another disadvantage is that these systems are sometimes only operable when the alarm is set. Furthermore these systems require a fee for monitoring.

Some systems for the elderly are wearable and notify medical personnel of an emergency related to the health of the individual. These are intended for in house use and require payment through a rate plan to maintain service. These are still location specific which is a disadvantage for use with the majority of the population. In recent times, emergency alert systems have become more portable. Smart phones and portable tablets allow an individual to call emergency services wherever they are. Although emergency systems have become more portable and even in some cases is worn by an individual, several disadvantages remain.

Some emergency situations may arise (i.e. medical, physical abuse, sexual abuse, kidnapping, robbery... etc.) where an individual may not have total free hands mobility or ease of access to a mobile electronic device. Victims may be restrained, forced to hide quietly, or frozen in fear not knowing what to say or do. In these situations it is important to have an emergency system that allows its users the ability to operate without concern for the present circumstances and position. Additionally, it is important that activation of an emergency alert from a victim be not obvious or discrete to a perpetrator of a crime. Although great strides have been made in the area of emergency alert systems, considerable shortcomings remain. Brief Description of the Drawings

The novel features believed characteristic of the application are set forth in the appended claims. However, the application itself, as well as a preferred mode of use, and further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an emergency alert system according to the preferred embodiment of the present application;

Figure 2 is a schematic of an electronic device used in the emergency alert system of Figure 1 ; Figure 3 is a perspective view of an alert device used in the emergency alert system of Figure 1 ;

Figure 4 is a section view of the alert device of Figure 3; and

Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the alert device of Figure 4.

While the system and method of the present application is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the description herein of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the application to the particular embodiment disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the process of the present application as defined by the appended claims.

Description of the Preferred Embodiment

Illustrative embodiments of the preferred embodiment are described below. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation are described in this specification. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any such actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business- related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

In the specification, reference may be made to the spatial relationships between various components and to the spatial orientation of various aspects of components as the devices are depicted in the attached drawings. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete reading of the present application, the devices, members, apparatuses, etc. described herein may be positioned in any desired orientation. Thus, the use of terms to describe a spatial relationship between various components or to describe the spatial orientation of aspects of such components should be understood to describe a relative relationship between the components or a spatial orientation of aspects of such components, respectively, as the device described herein may be oriented in any desired direction.

The system and method of use in accordance with the present application overcomes one or more of the above-discussed problems commonly associated with emergency alert systems. Specifically, the system of the present application is configured to provide an alert notification to one or more individuals in an emergency. The alert notification is initiated by a user. Activation and transmission of the alert notification is performed discretely so as not to draw attention. The alert notification includes a message and location information of the user to allow the one or more individuals receiving the alert notification to seek help for the user. These and other unique features of the system are discussed below and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

The system and method of use will be understood, both as to its structure and operation, from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description. Several embodiments of the system are presented herein. It should be understood that various components, parts, and features of the different embodiments may be combined together and/or interchanged with one another, all of which are within the scope of the present application, even though not all variations and particular embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the mixing and matching of features, elements, and/or functions between various embodiments is expressly contemplated herein so that one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate from this disclosure that the features, elements, and/or functions of one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment as appropriate, unless otherwise described.

The emergency alert system is configured to include an alert device coupled to a user and configured to initiate the alert notification when activated. An electronic device is in wireless communication with the alert device and is set to receive an alert signal when the user operates an activation button. The electronic device receives the alert signal and formulated and transmits the alert notification to the one or more pre- identified individuals designated within the program application. Separate receiving electronic devices are configured to receive the alert notification via conventional wireless communications, such as text message, email, and or other various internet enabled communications (i.e. social media...).

Referring now to Figures 1 -5 wherein like reference characters identify corresponding or similar elements in form and function throughout the several views. The following Figures describe an emergency alert system 101 according to the present application.

Referring to Figure 1 in the drawings, emergency alert system 101 is illustrated. System 101 includes an alert device 103, an electronic device 105 for formulating and transmitting an alert signal and alert notification, and a receiving electronic device 107 configured to receive the alert notification from device 105. Communications between devices 103, 105, 107 are done wirelessly. As seen in Figure 1 , device 105 may be a cell phone, but may also be any other electronic communication device such as a smart phone or portable electronic tablet. Referring now also to Figure 2 in the drawings, an exemplary schematic of devices 103, 105, and 107 is illustrated. System 101 includes device 103 used to initiate an alert notification issued through device 105 and received through device 107. Through system 101 , the electronic devices operate to notify remote individuals about the need of emergency assistance to a user and operator of alert device 103. The alert notification is sent initially and is then configured to be retransmitted at periodic intervals. The time frame for the periodic intervals may be adjusted by the user.

System 101 includes an input/output (I/O) interface 12, a control processor 14, a database 16, and a maintenance interface 18. Alternative embodiments can combine or distribute the input/output (I/O) interface 12, control processor 14, database 16, and maintenance interface 18 as desired. Embodiments of the system 101 can include one or more computers that include one or more processors and memories configured for performing tasks described herein below. This can include, for example, a computer 104 having a central processing unit (CPU) and non-volatile memory that stores software instructions for instructing the CPU to perform at least some of the tasks described herein. This can also include, for example, two or more computers that are in communication via a computer network, where one or more of the computers includes a CPU and non-volatile memory, and one or more of the computer's non-volatile memory stores software instructions for instructing any of the CPU(s) to perform any of the tasks described herein. Thus, while the exemplary embodiment is described in terms of a discrete machine, it should be appreciated that this description is non-limiting, and that the present description applies equally to numerous other arrangements involving one or more machines performing tasks distributed in any way among the one or more machines. It should also be appreciated that such machines need not be dedicated to performing tasks described herein, but instead can be multi-purpose machines, for example computer workstations, that are suitable for also performing other tasks. Furthermore the computers may use transitory and non-transitory forms of computer- readable media. Non-transitory computer-readable media is to be interpreted to comprise all computer-readable media, with the sole exception of being a transitory, propagating signal.

The I/O interface 12 provides a communication link between external users, systems, and data sources and components of the system 101 . The I/O interface 12 is in communication with the control processor 14 and database 16 and is configured to provide an interactive link between the player, input data, and the feedback data. The I/O interface 12 can be configured for allowing one or more users to input information to the system 101 via any known input device (for example computer 104 and device 105). Examples can include a keyboard, mouse, touch screen, microphone, and/or any other desired input device. The I/O interface 12 provides a display portal defining a plurality of visually perceptible elements. The I/O interface 12 can be configured for allowing one or more users to receive information output from the system 101 via any known output device. Examples can include a display monitor, a printer, a speaker, and/or any other desired output device. The I/O interface 12 can be configured for allowing other systems to communicate with the system 101 . For example, the I/O interface 12 can allow one or more remote computer(s) to access information, input information, and/or remotely instruct the system 101 to perform one or more of the tasks described herein. The I/O interface 12 can be configured for allowing communication with one or more remote data sources. For example, the I/O interface 12 can allow one or more remote data source(s) to access information, input information, and/or remotely instruct the system 101 to perform one or more of the tasks described herein.

The database 16 provides persistent data storage (computer readable storage media, i.e. hardware) for system 101 . Database 16 is in communication with control processor 14 and I/O interface 12. While the term "database" is primarily used, a memory or other suitable data storage arrangement may provide the functionality of the database 16. In alternative embodiments, the database 16 can be integral to or separate from the system 101 and can operate on one or more computers. The database 16 preferably provides non-volatile data storage for any information suitable to support the operation of the system 101 , including various types of data discussed below.

The maintenance interface 18 is configured to allow users to maintain desired operation of the system 101 . In some embodiments, the maintenance interface 18 can be configured to allow for reviewing and/or revising the data stored in the database 16 and/or performing any suitable administrative tasks commonly associated with database management. This can include, for example, updating database management software, revising security settings, and/or performing data backup operations. In some embodiments, the maintenance interface 18 can be configured to allow for maintenance of the control processor 14 and/or the I/O interface 12. This can include, for example, software updates and/or administrative tasks such as security management and/or adjustment of certain tolerance settings.

The control processor 14 can be configured to perform a process or a plurality of processes, such as the processes described below, in connection with the associated Figures. Additionally, control processor 14 includes software programmed to receive player input data and course input data. Control processor 14 is also programmed to compile performance data of one or more players and course input data related to one or more golf courses. Processor 14 includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium with instructions stored thereon to execute predetermined steps. Player 102 makes determination regarding shot selection and training methods based upon the feedback provided through the predetermined steps. The control processor 14 can be configured to perform different functions depending on which device is being referenced. Processor 14 may be configured to regulate the transmission of an alert signal, formulate and transmit an alert notification, cancel or adjust the alert notification, and process user preferences, and so forth.

Electronic transmitting device 105 is configured to include a program application 109 executable on device 105. Application 109 is configured to allow the user to access feature and functions of system 101 . For example, the user may use application 101 to alter preferences associated with the transmission of the alert notification. For example, application 109 may be used to customize the alert notification to provide a particular message. The message may be audible or may be textual in nature. One or more types of messages may be generated and saved in application 109. Device 105 is configured to process the alert signal and formulate the alert notification, including the appropriate message. Other features available to the user through application 109 is the ability to adjust time delays, activation hold times for activating the alert signal, location information transmission and so forth. The user may also add or delete the number of individuals set to receive the alert notification. These individuals may be people, such as family and friends. They may also be emergency personnel (i.e. police, fire, rescue, ...).

Application 109 is configured to run in the background of device 105 and becomes activated when device 105 receives the alert signal. Upon activation of the alert signal, application 109 is configured to not illuminate the display of device 105 or provide any other sensory communications that would alert someone to its activation and operation.

One of the functions of device 105 is the ability to provide location data of the user. Conventional devices 105 include location services as standard equipment usually. Device 105 is configured to process and transmit the location of the user in the alert notification. This information is transmitted periodically through various subsequent transmissions of the alert notifications. At selected intervals, the location of the user is verified and updated. When updated, the new location information is transmitted with subsequent alert notifications. The updating and verifying continuously occurs at the selected periodic intervals as selected through application 109.

Referring now also to Figures 3-5 in the drawings, associate views of alert device 105 are illustrated. As seen in Figure 3, device 103 is configured to be a wearable accessory to the user. In this configuration, device 103 is configured to be worn around the hand of the user, in particular to any one of the fingers. Device 103 includes an activation button 1 1 1 located to permit the thumb of the user to operate it. As a ring, device 103 is able to be oriented on the finger in either direction to allow it to be operable on either the left hand or the right hand. An ideal location for button 1 1 1 is immediately adjacent to a neighboring finger so as to avoid the increased risk of accidental activation by being on the bottom or top of the ring, farthest away from the neighboring fingers.

As shown, the lower opening 1 13 of device 103 is used to help eliminate the undesired rotation of device 103 around the finger. This helps to make sure button 1 1 1 does not rotate into a position easily activated by accident and to ensure that button 1 1 1 remains in a familiar place and accessible to the thumb. It is understood that the shape and form of device 103 is not hereby limiting. Other shapes and forms are contemplated. Additionally, the use of various textures, wraps, and skins about the exterior surfaces of device 103 are contemplated to prevent undesired rotations.

As seen in particular with Figure 4, a section view of device 103 is shown to illustrate power supply 1 13, module 1 15, and communication module 1 17. Power supply 1 13 is configured to provide a ready supply of power for the operation of device 103 in system 101 . Power supply 1 13 is in communication with module 1 15, communication module 1 17, and button 1 1 1 . A charging port 121 is also optionally included in device 103 to permit for the recharging of power supply 1 13. Communication module 1 17 is configured to detect when button 1 1 1 is activated and transmit the alert signal to device 105. Communication module 1 17 is configured to detect the time of depression of button 1 1 1 so as to avoid accidental activation. Button 1 1 1 is configured to be depressed by the thumb as stated previously. Another form of prevention from the accidental activation of the alert notifications is the use of a time interval with button 1 1 1 . Button 1 1 1 is configured to initiate the alert signal only when depressed for a particular time interval. An example of a time interval is 3 seconds. When depressed, contacts 1 19 are contacted which completes a circuit. Communication module 1 17 begins a timing function to track the time in which button 1 1 1 is depressed. When depressed for the requisite time interval, communication module 1 17 is configured to transmit the alert signal to device 105. It is understood that the time interval may be lengthened or shortened through application 109. Additionally, device 103 may be configured to accommodate different simultaneous preset time intervals to allow device 103 to communicate different alert notifications. For example, by altering or varying the time of depression of button 1 1 1 , different alert notification may be transmitted. Other embodiments of button 1 1 1 may be used that require different methods of depressing the button. For example, other embodiments may require the need to translate button 1 1 1 relative to the outer surface of device 103 in combination with the need to depress it in order to activate the alert signal. Module 1 15 is configured to provide assorted features. As stated previously, location information of the user is transmitted in the alert notification. Module 1 15 may be configured to detect the location of the user once button 1 1 1 has been activated. This location information is sent to communication module 1 17 for transmission to device 105. Module 1 15 may then verify and update the location of the user for subsequent transmissions. This function of module 1 15 is important when device 105 does not have location services. Additionally, it is known that the location of device 105 may not be the precise location of the user, therefore it is preferred that module 1 15 track and transmit the location of user for inclusion in the alert notification. Additionally, module 1 15 may also be configured to provide sensory feedback to the user upon activation of the alert signal. This serves as a confirmation to the user that the alert signal was transmitted and received by device 105. Sensory feedback is ideally a vibration felt by the finger. Due to the precarious nature of some emergency situations, audible or visually perceptible confirmatory sensory feedback communications to the user are undesired. If activation of the alert signal was done in error, the sensory feedback is a method of quickly addressing the erroneous activation. Module 1 17 and button 1 1 1 may be configured to permit the user to cancel activation of the alert notification. To do this, button 1 1 1 may be subsequently depressed according to a predefined time interval and possibly a set pattern. The ability to cancel or modify the alert through button 1 1 1 and communication module 1 17 can necessitate a delay between the reception of the alert signal from device 103 to the transmission of the alert notification by device 105.

The devices disclosed within the current application have many advantages over the prior art including at least the following: (1 ) free subscription use of the emergency alert system; (2) communication between the devices done wirelessly; (3) use of existing wireless plans for mobile communication networks; (4) discrete activation; (5) system may be completely portable and activated anywhere; and (6) ability to adjust and modify preferences through a program application. The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the application may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. It is therefore evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the application. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the description. It is apparent that an application with significant advantages has been described and illustrated. Although the present application is shown in a limited number of forms, it is not limited to just these forms, but is amenable to various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit thereof.

Claims

1 . An emergency alert system, comprising:

a wearable alert device coupled to a user and configured to initiate an alert notification when activated by the user;

an electronic device configured for wireless communication and configured to receive an alert signal from the alert device and process the alert signal to formulate and transmit the alert notification, the electronic device configured to periodically update the alert message; and

a receiving electronic device configured to receive the alert notification;

wherein the alert notification is configured to notify one or more individuals of an emergency situation related to the user.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the alert device is worn on the hand.

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the alert device is worn on a finger.

4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the alert notification is activated by operating an activation button.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the alert notification requires the activation button to be depressed for a period of time.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the period of time is 3 seconds.

7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the alert device is configured to provide the user with a physical or sensory feedback when the alert signal is transmitted.

8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the alert device is configured to permit the user to cancel transmission of the alert notification prior to a first transmission of the alert notification.

9. The system of claim 1 , wherein the alert device includes;

a power supply;

an electronic module for transmitting the alert signal; and

an activation button for initiating the alert notification.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the alert device includes a charging port for recharging the power supply.

1 1 . The system of claim 1 , wherein the electronic device is at least one of a smart phone and an electronic tablet.

12. The system of claim 1 , wherein the electronic device is configured to include a program application to permit the user to alter preferences associated with transmission of the alert notification.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the user may customize the alert notification to show a particular message by accessing the program application.

14. The system of claim 12, wherein the program application is configured to operate in the background of the electronic device awaiting activation by operating an activation button.

15. The system of claim 12, wherein the user may adjust the number of individuals set to receive the alert notification.

16. The system of claim 1 , wherein the alert notification includes a textual message and location information of the alert device.

17. The system of claim 1 , wherein the alert device is configured to monitor and transmit location information of the user periodically once initiated.

18. The system of claim 1 , wherein the electronic device includes a user interface, the user interface to remain deactivated when the alert signal is received, processed, and the alert notification is transmitted, so as to avoid detection when activated.