Mobile device detection and tracking
US10156167B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 18, 2017 |
| Grant date | Dec 18, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 18, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S903/951
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Mobile devices emit signals in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and cellular (i.e. 2G, 3G, 4G, Edge, H+, etc.). These signals attempt to connect to paired devices, hotspots, cell towers, or other suitable wireless connection points to greater networks. In order to connect to connect to hotspots mobile devices send out identifying data to establish a connection. Hotspots may unobtrusively collect the identification data of the mobile device, and then reject the connection request. The hotspots collect data in real time on the mobile device, and by association, the human carrying the mobile device without having alerted or impeded the human carrier. The system uses analytical software to determine, for example, an approaching unique ID user's presence, history, frequency of visits, duration of presence and so on.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.