WO2019220215A1 - An emergency wifi authentication sensor for use with an emergency dispatch network of responders - Google Patents
An emergency wifi authentication sensor for use with an emergency dispatch network of responders Download PDFInfo
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- WO2019220215A1 WO2019220215A1 PCT/IB2019/051404 IB2019051404W WO2019220215A1 WO 2019220215 A1 WO2019220215 A1 WO 2019220215A1 IB 2019051404 W IB2019051404 W IB 2019051404W WO 2019220215 A1 WO2019220215 A1 WO 2019220215A1
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- sensor
- emergency
- data
- controller
- user
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Classifications
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- 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
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- 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
- G08B21/0202—Child monitoring systems using a transmitter-receiver system carried by the parent and the child
- G08B21/0277—Communication between units on a local network, e.g. Bluetooth, piconet, zigbee, Wireless Personal Area Networks [WPAN]
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- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
- G08B25/00—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
- G08B25/01—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium
- G08B25/016—Personal emergency signalling and security systems
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- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
- G08B25/00—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
- G08B25/01—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium
- G08B25/10—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium using wireless transmission systems
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
- H04W4/00—Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
- H04W4/02—Services making use of location information
- H04W4/029—Location-based management or tracking services
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
- H04W4/00—Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
- H04W4/90—Services for handling of emergency or hazardous situations, e.g. earthquake and tsunami warning systems [ETWS]
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
- H04W84/00—Network topologies
- H04W84/02—Hierarchically pre-organised networks, e.g. paging networks, cellular networks, WLAN [Wireless Local Area Network] or WLL [Wireless Local Loop]
- H04W84/10—Small scale networks; Flat hierarchical networks
- H04W84/12—WLAN [Wireless Local Area Networks]
Definitions
- the present invention relates to an emergency controller unit having a wifi sensor for requesting emergency assistance.
- wireless communication systems such as wifi and blue tooth routers are well known.
- wireless communication devices which are enabled to report the occurrence of a notifiable event through the internet are well known.
- a suitably enabled tracking device may be programmed to transmit a gps coordinate notification to an internet server upon a vehicle being involved a collision. The event is logged, stored on the server and the event data being individually transmitted as a report at a later point to a user, again through internet and GSM communication.
- the invention pertains to the use of a BSSID (basic service set identifier) associated with wifi communication devices as a unique device identification means.
- BSSID basic service set identifier
- every wifi engine is manufactured with a unique BSSID at time of manufacture and the BSSID is fixed and non-changeable. Accordingly, when the wifi engine of a wireless communication device broadcasts its identification data - the BSSID is broadcast and readable by any suitably enabled device.
- the unique BSSID can be even be detected by unaffiliated or unpaired wifi devices thus making identification possible. It would thus be beneficial to create a method and apparatus for using the BSSID of a wifi communication device for at least one of: securely communicating data; uniquely identifying and tracking the user of such device; authenticating the identity of a device user; enabling access of a device user; regulating use of electronic devices; regulating use of software; activating device or software functionality; use for emergency purposes.
- the invention seeks to provide a suitable I/O devices for use with a wireless network communication system that at least partially ameliorates the abovementioned disadvantages associated with the prior art.
- I/O refers to devices being input-output enabled, whereby they can transmit data and process instructional data received and transmitted.
- an emergency controller unit having wireless communication identification sensor comprising a wifi BSSID combined with programmable SSID data, wherein the BSSID in combination with the programmable data is configurable to uniquely identify the sensor.
- the sensor is affiliated with a user whose identity and authority to enable computing device functionality is registered on a computing device affiliated database.
- the sensor is affiliated with an object such as a vehicle whose identity and control thereof is registered on a computing device affiliated database.
- the programmable data comprises an instruction data set, wherein a computing device with enabling software for analysing and processing the data set causes an activation, alternately deactivation of a function associated with the sensor.
- the first three programmable characters of said programmable data when using enabling software to analyse and process the SSID data - result in the initiation of a message to be broadcast by the sensor.
- the activation of a sensor broadcasts a distress notification integral with the SSID, and additionally transmits a distress notification to a server whereby the nearest appropriate emergency service providers are notified of the emergency service request.
- the sensor SSID identifies at least one of the user or an object affiliated with the user such as a vehicle.
- the activation of a controller wifi sensor broadcasts an emergency distress notification which notification is automatically detected by computing devices paired to the response network.
- the sensor information is readable using a suitably enabled software application on a wireless communication device, wherein the software, once activated, searches for wifi networks resulting in sensors within wifi range being detected.
- the signal strength of the sensor relative to the wireless communication device is used to determine the location of the sensor, when using enabling software.
- the software application which when loaded on to a suitably enabled computing device, serves as the user interface to activate the sensor functionality.
- the software application may either pair with an external sensor, alternately, utilise its own hardware having BSSID and SSID and thereby enabling the controller unit to act as a sensor of the invention.
- the software application enables the user to input and store personal identifying information on the user device, alternately on a remote server which has enabling software and hardware to interact with the software application and communicate the user information.
- the software application provides the user with a plurality of buttons, alternately tabs to activate a desired emergency service request.
- the software application display screen comprises an Emergency tab + "Emergency type name” tab; and a Phone Function + "function name” tab.
- the software application utilises the sensor gps coordinates to transmit the appropriate notification to predetermined persons advising them of the functionality activation or emergency service request.
- the SSID data broadcast comprises sensor environment information.
- a user whose sensor comprises a biometric and gps enabled sensor will broadcast user biometric information with a location of the sensor.
- a movement behaviour pattern recordable by the sensor can be used as a trigger event for purposes of populating the SSID with sensor movement pattern authentication.
- the trigger event may be caused due to passivity or non-detection of controller sensor.
- Conveniently sensor affiliated computing device is enabled to detect emergency responders by at least one of detecting the responder sensor BSSID and SSID; receiving a notification from a responder who has transmitted a notification confirming response to the emergency distress notification.
- a user activates their sensor and transmits a distress notification and SSID broadcast.
- an appropriate emergency responder accepts the request to respond to the emergency, whereafter the emergency responder sensor transmits a notification to the user advising of his response.
- the notification includes a gps coordinate and an option to track the movement of the emergency responder.
- the SSID of the emergency responder's sensor includes details associated with the responder which may include personal details, a photo of the responder and a performance rating.
- sensors having varying functionality may be paired and their combined functionality usable by each individual sensor.
- storage of event data may be stored on one or more of the sensors thereby enabling sharing of data storage generated from sensor activity.
- data stored may be duplicated on one or more connected sensors thereby serving as a data back-up means.
- the proximity of paired individuals to one another and the recording of group data on each paired sensor enables the tracking of each individual whilst in contact with the group.
- the controller sensor comprises a sensor for detection of at least one of moisture, pressure, light, impact, temperature, biometrics, altitude, chemical composition, sound, wherein a predetermined sensor reading results in the activation, alternately deactivation of a sensor communication device function.
- the senor additionally comprises at least one of a gps device, a speaker, a light, a vibration generator or an electrical shock generator which are activated in accordance with programmable parameters.
- a sensor notification is generated upon function criteria being met, wherein in addition to the sensor data being broadcast, a notification is sent to at least one of a predetermined telephone number, email or other communication destination (such as a whatsapp, website, hashtag, social media profile) using a suitably enabled communication device such as a phone, tablet or PC having GSM or wifi capabilities.
- a predetermined telephone number such as a whatsapp, website, hashtag, social media profile
- a suitably enabled communication device such as a phone, tablet or PC having GSM or wifi capabilities.
- the senor is enabled to operate as either - a client via a suitably enabled wifi router, pc or suitable electronic communication device, whereby data stored on the device is accessible by a suitably enabled and linked wireless communication device; or
- the device comprises RAM for storage of user data and whereby the data is accessible by using a web browser of a paired wireless communication device.
- the senor comprises a signal strength detector thereby enabling at least one of directional and distance tracking of the device while in range of one or more wifi routers.
- the device can activate predetermined notifications, alternately cause the activation of predetermined functions upon the movement pattern of the device.
- a user whose sensor comprises an impact sensor will broadcast excessive g-force impact events.
- an emergency rescuer utilising suitably enabled software will be able to scan for wifi networks in range, identify the specific sensor and determine details associated with the emergency including patient details, patient image, time and severity of impact.
- the sensor includes body vital sign functionality - the vital signs and the fluctuation can similarly be incorporated into the data broadcast.
- the notification may comprise a GPS location, visual details of the wearer being viewable on monitoring devices of emergency responders.
- the senor comprises at least two modes of functionality, wherein the sensor "bleeps" or remains in a dormant sleep mode.
- the frequency of audible bleeps are variable in accordance with activation parameters.
- Activation of the controller may include the broadcast of a sound tone to provide audible confirmation that the controller has been activated
- the senor comprises data fields which are editable and where data is uploadable onto the sensor and accessible through a web browser. Accordingly, a third party user does not require specialised software to interrogate, alternately edit the data on the device.
- emergency personnel searching for a vehicle involved in a collision - will be able to detect the SSID broadcast and using sensor signal strength be able to detect the approximate location of the vehicle.
- the editable data comprises at least one of text, images or audio files which data evidences actions performed on the sensor, alternately for the user associated with the sensor.
- the senor is programmable whilst operative, wherein programming instructions are transmitted to the sensor from a remote communication device such as a computer or phone having enabling software.
- a remote communication device such as a computer or phone having enabling software.
- This is typically transmitted using a wireless communication protocol such as wifi, Bluetooth or GSM.
- input and output data may be communicated to and from the sensor via a sensor specific data address such as an cellular phone number, IP address, IPv6 address, MAC Address, or an equivalent address format that will identify a specific sensor or virtual address where data can be transferred via the Internet or other wireless communication protocol.
- a sensor specific data address such as an cellular phone number, IP address, IPv6 address, MAC Address, or an equivalent address format that will identify a specific sensor or virtual address where data can be transferred via the Internet or other wireless communication protocol.
- a plurality of sensors may be paired, wherein sensor activity or a lack thereof of a paired sensor is communicated to other paired sensors. Accordingly, non-responsiveness of a paired sensor will result in a functioning paired sensor - transmitting a fault report in accordance with the sensor's fault detection transmission criteria.
- a method of enabling computing device functionality in the absence of data transfer between two sensors of the invention comprising the step of activating the controller wifi and first sensor, the controller sensor and a second sensor affiliated with a computing device detecting each other by virtue of their respective SSID broadcasts; the SSID information broadcast resulting in an authentication of the user whereafter the computing device enables functionality in accordance with predetermined use criteria.
- a user driving a vehicle having a controller sensor and a mobile phone being a second sensor paired to the controller sensor - will be able to open a software application on the phone such as a camera, voice recorder app or emergency contact software application.
- the user can activate the software applications by voice activation. As such the user does not have to be able to be in physical contact with the controller sensor to activate the required emergency service or phone software functionality.
- emergency controller unit having wireless communication identification sensor comprising a unique wireless identifier combined with programmable broadcast data, wherein the programmable data is configurable to identify the sensor.
- the sensor data comprises an instruction data set, wherein said data causes the activation, alternately deactivation of a function associated with the sensor.
- the wireless communication identification sensor having a unique identifier is enabled to perform functions and employ methods of use as they pertain to the aforementioned uses of a BSSID combined with programmable SSID data to identify the sensor
- a wifi router comprises a unique BSSID in conjunction with a SSID which typically has 31 bytes of programmable characters. Wifi devices simply scan for the name allocated to a wifi device and not the BSSID. Upon further interrogation, the BSSID may be revealed although the BSSID is not replicable.
- the characters of the SSID are used to either transmit information, alternately control the activation a desired functionality.
- the initial 3 characters of a SSID are allocated to sending a message type, by example "@@@" results in a request to access files notification. The remaining characters pertain to information of the device affiliated with the user or information pertaining to the user.
- the information contained in the SSID broadcast is processed in accordance with pre-programmed parameters and a desired function activated.
- a user scanning for wifi signals and having the software application of the invention installed onto their computing device - will be able to process and analyse the information contained in the SSID broadcast.
- the SSID broadcast and its analysis thereof is thus achieved without data transfer, rather via SSID broadcast and wifi receiver detecting the broadcast.
- a lack of data availability or connectivity will still enable line-of-site communication between a sensor and a computing device having the software application of the invention installed.
- a controller wifi having a sensor of the invention upon activation of a distress notification, a controller wifi having a sensor of the invention - the sensor is paired to and utilises the controller's wifi engine and BSSID and SSID. Accordingly, the activation of the controller sensor results in the sensor BSSID and SSID being broadcast for detection by relevant communicating devices. Said broadcast is detected by a network of emergency responder sensors affiliated with a computing device which the user intends notifying about their emergency assistance request. This step of sensor detection and authentication is achieved without data transfer, in particular, it achieved by simply detecting SSID broadcasts and in some instances, modification of sensor SSID broadcast in response to response to third party sensor broadcasts detected.
- the SSID broadcast comprises details both the person requiring assistance and the emergency responder. Emergency responders may additionally set the status of their availability to respond. Accordingly, distress notifications will only be transmitted or broadcast to sensors of active duty responders.
- a user driving a vehicle having a controller sensor and a mobile phone being a second sensor paired to the controller sensor - the user will be able to open a software application on the phone such as a camera, voice recorder app or emergency contact software application.
- the user can activate the software applications by voice activation.
- the user does not have to be able to be in physical contact with the controller sensor to activate the required emergency service or phone software functionality. Accordingly, in the event of an emergency distress notification, the user can speak to emergency responders using the phone without needing to be in contact with the phone or dial an emergency service provider.
- the sensors of the invention enable computing device functionality to be enabled without data transfer. This is enabled due to the BSSID and SSID being broadcast whilst the wifi engine is operational. Any suitably enabled wifi reader is able to detect the presence and potentially the proximity of the wifi engine based on signal strength.
- the invention thus enables communication between sensors even when network connection problems are experienced by a computing device and a remote authentication server.
- the invention ameliorates the problems associated with data transfer, which is dependent on a data availability and internet connectivity; and wifi devices without access to data usage, which are unable to transfer data.
- the controller sensor comprises a housing having at least one button, which when pushed, activates an emergency assistance request.
- the controller sensor comprises a wifi engine and gps functionality.
- the button of the sensor When the button of the sensor is pushed by a user - the sensor broadcasts data programmed into the SSID. Additionally, the sequence and duration of pushing the sensor button will determine the type of data broadcast.
- a single push of the button results in an emergency assistance request signal being incorporated into the SSID broadcast; while a double button push results in cancellation signal being incorporated into the SSID broadcast and termination of the emergency assistance request.
- - sensor events may be transmitted to local server, alternately a cloud based server or a combination thereof.
- a MySQL database would typically be used to track and record sensor events.
- the sensor selects the destination to where specific event data must be transmitted thereby maintaining data confidentiality and preventing unauthorised interception by a non- authorised reader. Accordingly, the sensor may broadcast both restricted and unrestricted data in addition to being able to transmitted restricted confidential data to a server.
- dormant wifi engines may be activated for a limited period of time as and when the sensor data is needed. Activation can be in response to a physical event which event is determined by a suitable sensor, such as an impact sensor, a time based event, proximity to a RFID type device resulting in the activation of the wifi engine from a sleep condition. This results in a prolonged battery life where the wifi engine does not utilise an external power supply.
- a suitable sensor such as an impact sensor, a time based event, proximity to a RFID type device resulting in the activation of the wifi engine from a sleep condition.
- the sensor comprises an independent battery power supply to enable the transmission of event notifications.
- the sensor may however be plugged into an external power supply source to charge the battery.
- the sensor comprises at least one environmental variation sensor for detecting environmental changes.
- environmental changes may include at least one of a thermostat sensor, impact sensor, light sensor, audio sensor, chemical composition sensor, electrical magnetic sensor, gps sensor, altitude sensor or humidity sensor.
- the invention is not limited to the precise details described above. Modifications may be made and other embodiments developed without departing from the spirit of the invention.
- data generated from sensor activity may be stored at least partially on the sensor itself - the sensor having data storage capacity.
- storage of event data may be stored on one or more of the sensors thereby enabling sharing of data storage generated from sensor activity.
- the term BSSID may extend to any unique identifier whose unique identifier can be broadcast and wirelessly detected by a suitably enabled device.
- a wireless communication device having a unique identifier in addition to a BSSID - interacts with one or more electronic communication devices by virtue of the unique identifier and/or the interaction of the unique identifier with the BSSID of the wireless communication device.
- the unique identifier may be a mobile phone number, or IMEI number affiliated with a mobile phone or GSM modem.
- the method of broadcast may be any wireless protocol including wifi, gsm, Bluetooth.
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Abstract
An emergency controller unit having wireless communication identification sensor comprising a wifi BSSID combined with programmable SSID data, wherein the BSSID in combination with the programmable data is configurable to uniquely identify the sensor, which SSID is broadcast upon activation of the controller, in use. The activation of the sensor by a trigger event causes the BSSIDs in a predetermined distance from the sensor to be recorded, alternately tracked. The sensor uses a software application enables the user to input and store personal identifying information on the user sensor as an aspect of the SSID data broadcast, alternately a user may input said information on a remote server which interacts with the software application and communicates the user information when appropriately accessed.
Description
AN EMERGENCY WIFI AUTHENTICATION SENSOR FOR USE WITH AN EMERGENCY
DISPATCH NETWORK OF RESPONDERS
The present invention relates to an emergency controller unit having a wifi sensor for requesting emergency assistance.
BACKGOUND
The use of wireless communication systems such as wifi and blue tooth routers are well known. Similarly, wireless communication devices which are enabled to report the occurrence of a notifiable event through the internet are well known. By example, a suitably enabled tracking device may be programmed to transmit a gps coordinate notification to an internet server upon a vehicle being involved a collision. The event is logged, stored on the server and the event data being individually transmitted as a report at a later point to a user, again through internet and GSM communication.
Of particular relevance to the invention is the ability to detect the unique identity of a wireless communication device by other wireless communication devices regardless of whether the devices are a known or affiliated with one another. In this regard, the invention pertains to the use of a BSSID (basic service set identifier) associated with wifi communication devices as a unique device identification means. As is known to those skilled in the prior art - every wifi engine is manufactured with a unique BSSID at time of manufacture and the BSSID is fixed
and non-changeable. Accordingly, when the wifi engine of a wireless communication device broadcasts its identification data - the BSSID is broadcast and readable by any suitably enabled device. As the BSSID of a wifi engine is detectable without authentication - the unique BSSID can be even be detected by unaffiliated or unpaired wifi devices thus making identification possible. It would thus be beneficial to create a method and apparatus for using the BSSID of a wifi communication device for at least one of: securely communicating data; uniquely identifying and tracking the user of such device; authenticating the identity of a device user; enabling access of a device user; regulating use of electronic devices; regulating use of software; activating device or software functionality; use for emergency purposes.
The invention seeks to provide a suitable I/O devices for use with a wireless network communication system that at least partially ameliorates the abovementioned disadvantages associated with the prior art.
The term I/O refers to devices being input-output enabled, whereby they can transmit data and process instructional data received and transmitted.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
According to the invention there is provided an emergency controller unit having wireless communication identification sensor comprising a wifi BSSID combined with programmable SSID data, wherein the BSSID in combination with the programmable data is configurable to uniquely identify the sensor. In use, the sensor is affiliated with a user whose identity and authority to enable computing device functionality is registered on a computing device affiliated database. Alternately, the sensor is affiliated with an object such as a vehicle whose identity and control thereof is registered on a computing device affiliated database.
Conveniently the programmable data comprises an instruction data set, wherein a computing device with enabling software for analysing and processing the data set causes an activation, alternately deactivation of a function associated with the sensor. By example, the first three programmable characters of said programmable data when using enabling software to analyse and process the SSID data - result in the initiation of a message to be broadcast by the sensor. In the case of a user emergency - the activation of a sensor broadcasts a distress notification integral with the SSID, and additionally transmits a distress notification to a server whereby the nearest appropriate emergency service providers are notified of the emergency service request. The sensor SSID identifies at least one of the user or an object affiliated with the user such as a vehicle. The activation of a controller wifi sensor broadcasts an emergency distress notification which notification is automatically detected by computing devices paired to the response network.
Conveniently the sensor information is readable using a suitably enabled software application on a wireless communication device, wherein the software, once activated, searches for wifi networks resulting in sensors within wifi range being detected. The signal strength of the sensor relative to the wireless communication device is used to determine the location of the sensor, when using enabling software.
Conveniently the software application, which when loaded on to a suitably enabled computing device, serves as the user interface to activate the sensor functionality. In particular, the software application may either pair with an external sensor, alternately, utilise its own hardware having BSSID and SSID and thereby enabling the controller unit to act as a sensor of the invention.
Preferably, the software application enables the user to input and store personal identifying information on the user device, alternately on a remote server which has enabling software and hardware to interact with the software application and communicate the user information.
Conveniently the software application provides the user with a plurality of buttons, alternately tabs to activate a desired emergency service request. By example, the software application display screen comprises an Emergency tab + "Emergency type name" tab; and a Phone Function + "function name" tab. By pushing the desired tab - the sensor broadcasts an appropriate BSSID plus SSID data to enable activating the required emergency service, alternately software application on the phone of the user.
Conveniently when the computing device functionality is activated, the software application utilises the sensor gps coordinates to transmit the appropriate notification to predetermined persons advising them of the functionality activation or emergency service request.
Conveniently the sensor comprises event triggered programmable data. Accordingly, the SSID data broadcast comprises sensor environment information. By example, a user whose sensor comprises a biometric and gps enabled sensor will broadcast user biometric information with a location of the sensor. Furthermore a movement behaviour pattern recordable by the sensor can be used as a trigger event for purposes of populating the SSID with sensor movement pattern authentication. Still further, the trigger event may be caused due to passivity or non-detection of controller sensor.
Conveniently sensor affiliated computing device is enabled to detect emergency responders by at least one of detecting the responder sensor BSSID and SSID; receiving a notification from a responder who has transmitted a notification confirming response to the emergency distress notification. By example, a user activates their sensor and transmits a distress notification and SSID broadcast. Thereafter, an appropriate emergency responder accepts the request to respond to the emergency, whereafter the emergency responder sensor transmits a notification to the user advising of his response. The notification includes a gps coordinate and an option to track the movement of the emergency responder. Additionally the SSID of the emergency responder's sensor includes details associated with the responder
which may include personal details, a photo of the responder and a performance rating.
Conveniently sensors having varying functionality may be paired and their combined functionality usable by each individual sensor.
Conveniently where a plurality of sensors are connected, storage of event data may be stored on one or more of the sensors thereby enabling sharing of data storage generated from sensor activity. Alternately, data stored may be duplicated on one or more connected sensors thereby serving as a data back-up means. Alternately, in the case of multiple users being paired - the proximity of paired individuals to one another and the recording of group data on each paired sensor enables the tracking of each individual whilst in contact with the group.
Conveniently, the controller sensor comprises a sensor for detection of at least one of moisture, pressure, light, impact, temperature, biometrics, altitude, chemical composition, sound, wherein a predetermined sensor reading results in the activation, alternately deactivation of a sensor communication device function.
Conveniently, the sensor additionally comprises at least one of a gps device, a speaker, a light, a vibration generator or an electrical shock generator which are activated in accordance with programmable parameters.
Conveniently a sensor notification is generated upon function criteria being met, wherein in addition to the sensor data being broadcast, a notification is sent to at least one of a predetermined telephone number, email or other communication destination (such as a whatsapp, website, hashtag, social media profile) using a suitably enabled communication device such as a phone, tablet or PC having GSM or wifi capabilities.
Conveniently, the sensor is enabled to operate as either
- a client via a suitably enabled wifi router, pc or suitable electronic communication device, whereby data stored on the device is accessible by a suitably enabled and linked wireless communication device; or
- a Webserver wherein the device comprises RAM for storage of user data and whereby the data is accessible by using a web browser of a paired wireless communication device.
Conveniently the sensor comprises a signal strength detector thereby enabling at least one of directional and distance tracking of the device while in range of one or more wifi routers. In this way, the device can activate predetermined notifications, alternately cause the activation of predetermined functions upon the movement pattern of the device. By example, a user whose sensor comprises an impact sensor will broadcast excessive g-force impact events. Accordingly, an emergency rescuer utilising suitably enabled software will be able to scan for wifi networks in range, identify the specific sensor and determine details associated with the emergency including patient details, patient image, time and severity of impact. When the sensor includes body vital sign functionality - the vital signs and the fluctuation can similarly be incorporated into the data broadcast. Additionally, the notification may comprise a GPS location, visual details of the wearer being viewable on monitoring devices of emergency responders.
Conveniently the sensor comprises at least two modes of functionality, wherein the sensor "bleeps" or remains in a dormant sleep mode. The frequency of audible bleeps are variable in accordance with activation parameters. Activation of the controller may include the broadcast of a sound tone to provide audible confirmation that the controller has been activated
Conveniently the sensor comprises data fields which are editable and where data is uploadable onto the sensor and accessible through a web browser. Accordingly, a third party user does not require specialised software to interrogate, alternately edit the data on the device. By example, emergency personnel searching for a vehicle
involved in a collision - will be able to detect the SSID broadcast and using sensor signal strength be able to detect the approximate location of the vehicle.
Conveniently the editable data comprises at least one of text, images or audio files which data evidences actions performed on the sensor, alternately for the user associated with the sensor.
Conveniently access to data or modification thereof is limited in accordance with user access criteria, which criteria are programmable.
Conveniently the sensor is programmable whilst operative, wherein programming instructions are transmitted to the sensor from a remote communication device such as a computer or phone having enabling software. This is typically transmitted using a wireless communication protocol such as wifi, Bluetooth or GSM.
Conveniently input and output data may be communicated to and from the sensor via a sensor specific data address such as an cellular phone number, IP address, IPv6 address, MAC Address, or an equivalent address format that will identify a specific sensor or virtual address where data can be transferred via the Internet or other wireless communication protocol.
Conveniently a plurality of sensors may be paired, wherein sensor activity or a lack thereof of a paired sensor is communicated to other paired sensors. Accordingly, non-responsiveness of a paired sensor will result in a functioning paired sensor - transmitting a fault report in accordance with the sensor's fault detection transmission criteria.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention there is provided a method of enabling computing device functionality in the absence of data transfer between two sensors of the invention, comprising the step of activating the controller wifi and first sensor, the controller sensor and a second sensor affiliated
with a computing device detecting each other by virtue of their respective SSID broadcasts; the SSID information broadcast resulting in an authentication of the user whereafter the computing device enables functionality in accordance with predetermined use criteria. By example, a user driving a vehicle having a controller sensor and a mobile phone being a second sensor paired to the controller sensor - will be able to open a software application on the phone such as a camera, voice recorder app or emergency contact software application. Preferably, the user can activate the software applications by voice activation. As such the user does not have to be able to be in physical contact with the controller sensor to activate the required emergency service or phone software functionality.
According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided emergency controller unit having wireless communication identification sensor comprising a unique wireless identifier combined with programmable broadcast data, wherein the programmable data is configurable to identify the sensor.
Conveniently the sensor data comprises an instruction data set, wherein said data causes the activation, alternately deactivation of a function associated with the sensor.
Conveniently the wireless communication identification sensor having a unique identifier is enabled to perform functions and employ methods of use as they pertain to the aforementioned uses of a BSSID combined with programmable SSID data to identify the sensor
Further features, variants and/or advantages of the invention will emerge from the following non-limiting description of an example of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
A wifi router comprises a unique BSSID in conjunction with a SSID which typically has 31 bytes of programmable characters. Wifi devices simply scan for the name allocated to a wifi device and not the BSSID. Upon further interrogation, the BSSID may be revealed although the BSSID is not replicable. In accordance with the invention, the characters of the SSID are used to either transmit information, alternately control the activation a desired functionality. By example, the initial 3 characters of a SSID are allocated to sending a message type, by example "@@@" results in a request to access files notification. The remaining characters pertain to information of the device affiliated with the user or information pertaining to the user. When used with a suitably enabled software application - the information contained in the SSID broadcast is processed in accordance with pre-programmed parameters and a desired function activated. A user scanning for wifi signals and having the software application of the invention installed onto their computing device - will be able to process and analyse the information contained in the SSID broadcast. The SSID broadcast and its analysis thereof is thus achieved without data transfer, rather via SSID broadcast and wifi receiver detecting the broadcast. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art - a lack of data availability or connectivity will still enable line-of-site communication between a sensor and a computing device having the software application of the invention installed.
In accordance with the invention, upon activation of a distress notification, a controller wifi having a sensor of the invention - the sensor is paired to and utilises the controller's wifi engine and BSSID and SSID. Accordingly, the activation of the controller sensor results in the sensor BSSID and SSID being broadcast for detection by relevant communicating devices. Said broadcast is detected by a network of emergency responder sensors affiliated with a computing device which the user intends notifying about their emergency assistance request. This step of sensor detection and authentication is achieved without data transfer, in particular, it achieved by simply detecting SSID broadcasts and in some instances, modification of sensor SSID broadcast in response to response to third party sensor broadcasts detected.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the SSID broadcast comprises details both the person requiring assistance and the emergency responder. Emergency responders may additionally set the status of their availability to respond. Accordingly, distress notifications will only be transmitted or broadcast to sensors of active duty responders.
In another embodiment of the invention, a user driving a vehicle having a controller sensor and a mobile phone being a second sensor paired to the controller sensor - the user will be able to open a software application on the phone such as a camera, voice recorder app or emergency contact software application. The user can activate the software applications by voice activation. As such the user does not have to be able to be in physical contact with the controller sensor to activate the required emergency service or phone software functionality. Accordingly, in the event of an emergency distress notification, the user can speak to emergency responders using the phone without needing to be in contact with the phone or dial an emergency service provider.
As will be appreciated - the sensors of the invention enable computing device functionality to be enabled without data transfer. This is enabled due to the BSSID and SSID being broadcast whilst the wifi engine is operational. Any suitably enabled wifi reader is able to detect the presence and potentially the proximity of the wifi engine based on signal strength. The invention thus enables communication between sensors even when network connection problems are experienced by a computing device and a remote authentication server. As will be appreciated, the invention ameliorates the problems associated with data transfer, which is dependent on a data availability and internet connectivity; and wifi devices without access to data usage, which are unable to transfer data.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention the controller sensor comprises a housing having at least one button, which when pushed, activates an emergency assistance request. By example, the controller sensor comprises a wifi engine and gps functionality. When the button of the sensor is pushed by a user - the sensor
broadcasts data programmed into the SSID. Additionally, the sequence and duration of pushing the sensor button will determine the type of data broadcast. By illustration, a single push of the button results in an emergency assistance request signal being incorporated into the SSID broadcast; while a double button push results in cancellation signal being incorporated into the SSID broadcast and termination of the emergency assistance request.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention - sensor events may be transmitted to local server, alternately a cloud based server or a combination thereof. A MySQL database would typically be used to track and record sensor events. The sensor selects the destination to where specific event data must be transmitted thereby maintaining data confidentiality and preventing unauthorised interception by a non- authorised reader. Accordingly, the sensor may broadcast both restricted and unrestricted data in addition to being able to transmitted restricted confidential data to a server.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, dormant wifi engines may be activated for a limited period of time as and when the sensor data is needed. Activation can be in response to a physical event which event is determined by a suitable sensor, such as an impact sensor, a time based event, proximity to a RFID type device resulting in the activation of the wifi engine from a sleep condition. This results in a prolonged battery life where the wifi engine does not utilise an external power supply.
The sensor comprises an independent battery power supply to enable the transmission of event notifications. The sensor may however be plugged into an external power supply source to charge the battery.
The sensor comprises at least one environmental variation sensor for detecting environmental changes. These may include at least one of a thermostat sensor, impact sensor, light sensor, audio sensor, chemical composition sensor, electrical magnetic sensor, gps sensor, altitude sensor or humidity sensor.
The invention is not limited to the precise details described above. Modifications may be made and other embodiments developed without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, data generated from sensor activity may be stored at least partially on the sensor itself - the sensor having data storage capacity. Further, where a plurality of sensors are connected, storage of event data may be stored on one or more of the sensors thereby enabling sharing of data storage generated from sensor activity. In this invention, the term BSSID may extend to any unique identifier whose unique identifier can be broadcast and wirelessly detected by a suitably enabled device. Additionally, a wireless communication device having a unique identifier in addition to a BSSID - interacts with one or more electronic communication devices by virtue of the unique identifier and/or the interaction of the unique identifier with the BSSID of the wireless communication device. By example, the unique identifier may be a mobile phone number, or IMEI number affiliated with a mobile phone or GSM modem. The method of broadcast may be any wireless protocol including wifi, gsm, Bluetooth. The Summary of Invention and Claims forms an integral aspect of the description of the invention.
Claims
1. An emergency controller unit having wireless communication identification sensor comprising a wifi BSSID combined with programmable SSID data, wherein the BSSID in combination with the programmable data is configurable to uniquely identify the sensor.
2. The controller sensor as claimed in claim 1, having sensor data comprising an instruction data set, wherein a computing device with an enabling software application for analysing and processing the data set causes an activation, alternately deactivation of a function associated with the sensor upon predetermined sensor activation parameters being reached, in use.
3. The controller sensor as claimed in claim 2, wherein the software application enables the user to input and store personal identifying information on the user sensor as an aspect of the SSID data broadcast, alternately a user may input said information on a remote server which interacts with the software application and communicates the user information when appropriately accessed.
4. The controller sensor as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 comprising a sensor for detection of at least one of moisture, pressure, light, impact, temperature, biometrics, altitude, chemical composition, sound, wherein a predetermined sensor reading results in the activation, alternately deactivation of a sensor communication device function.
5. The controller sensor as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4 comprising at least one of a gps device, a speaker, a light, a vibration generator, or an electrical shock generator, which functionality is activated upon predetermined activation criteria being met.
6. The controller sensor as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a sensor notification is generated upon function activation criteria being met, a notification being transmitted to at least one of a predetermined telephone number, email or other communication destination in addition to the sensor data being broadcast.
7. The controller sensor as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the sensor is enabled to operate as either:
- a client via a suitably enabled wifi router, pc or suitable electronic communication device, whereby data stored on the device is accessible by a suitably enabled and linked wireless communication device; or
- a Webserver wherein the device comprises RAM for storage of user data and whereby the data is accessible by using a web browser of a paired wireless communication device.
8. The controller sensor as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sensor comprises a signal strength detector thereby enabling at least one of directional or distance tracking of the sensor while in range of one or more wifi routers, and in conjunction with utilising suitably enabled software and hardware.
9. The controller sensor as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the activation of the sensor by a trigger event causes the BSSIDs in a predetermined distance from the sensor to be recorded, alternately tracked.
10. The controller sensor as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the sensor comprises event triggered programmable data, the programmable data broadcast with the SSID comprises sensor environment information.
11. The controller sensor as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein sensor functionality is activated but at least one of voice command, movement, gesture, impact or pushing a button on the controller unit.
12. A method of activating an emergency assistance request using a controller sensor as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 comprising the steps of activating controller sensor, the controller sensor transmitting an emergency assist request comprising at least controller sensor gps coordinates; a second emergency responder affiliated sensor is enabled to detect the emergency request by at least one of detecting the controller sensor BSSID and SSID or receiving an emergency request notification.
13. The method of activating an emergency assistance request as claimed in claim 12, wherein the emergency responder transmitts a notification confirming to the controller sensor confirming response to the emergency distress notification.
14. The method of activating an emergency assistance request as claimed in claim 12 or 13, wherein the emergency responder notification includes a gps coordinate and an option to track the movement of the emergency responder.
15. The method of activating an emergency assistance request as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the SSID of the emergency responder sensor includes details associated with the responder which may include at least one of responder vehicle, responder personal details, a photo of the responder and a performance rating.
16. An emergency controller unit having wireless communication identification sensor comprising a unique wireless identifier combined with programmable broadcast data, wherein the programmable data is configurable to identify the sensor.
17. The sensor as claimed in claim 16 comprising an instruction data set, wherein said data causes the activation, alternately deactivation of a function associated with the sensor.
18. The sensor as claimed in claim 16 or 17, wherein the wireless communication identification sensor having a unique identifier is enabled to perform functions as they pertain to the aforementioned sensors in claims 3 to 11.
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ZA2018/03140 | 2018-05-14 |
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