Method of using location information for interference protection
US6643517B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 15, 1999 |
| Grant date | Nov 4, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 15, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04W16/14
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A problem with mobile radio systems is the potentially harmful interference they may cause to other electronic equipment. Such interference can be dangerous and even life-threatening in hospitals and aircraft. The present invention provides a method to protect against improper operation of mobile radios, e.g. cellular phones, by making use of a “location technique” and knowledge of the mobile's location to determine if the mobile is inside a protected region and thus needs to constrain its operation. Two modes of operation are possible: one utilising a location technique that is part of the mobile radio system, and the second utilising a location service that is independent of the mobile radio system (such as the satellite based GPS system). The present invention includes control of operation, such as no audible ringing, or outgoing calls only, as well as possible control of transmitter power to protect against interference. This allows for the safe operation of mobile radios in regions where interference could cause serious problems and also provides a method for maintaining social etiquette. Protected region boundaries and conditions of restricted operation are broadc…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.