Methods and apparatus for generating, transmitting and/or using beacons
US10219166B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 28, 2015 |
| Grant date | Feb 26, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 28, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04W88/08
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Methods and apparatus for using beacon signals are described. One or more sectorized base stations are used in some embodiments to transmit beacon signals into zones, e.g., each zone being at least partially covered by one or more beacon signals. Use of sectorized base stations allows a single base station, e.g., a Bluetooth or other base station capable of transmitting beacon signals, to cover a number of different zones avoiding the need for multiple different beacon transmitters at different locations to establish different beacon coverage areas. Sectorization of a Bluetooth base station and the ability to remotely or locally configure the base station allows for great flexibility to use beacon signals in stores or other locations without the need for numerous individual battery powered beacon transmitters at floor or display level.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.