System for, and method of, monitoring the movement of mobile items
US7528723B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 4, 2008 |
| Grant date | May 5, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 4, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04W64/00
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system monitors parameters (e.g., speed, position, threshold boundaries) of mobile items attached to beacons and produces signals indicating these parameters. The system also monitors non-mobile parameters (e.g., battery life, door locks, windows) in the items. Different technologies (e.g., wireless) are provided for communicating between the beacons and a beacon controller interface. Different technologies are provided for locating and indicating item positions. The beacons and the interface provide for new beacons to be added to the system with different characteristics than the existing beacons for monitoring the operation of new beacons without affecting the operation of existing beacons. The system includes resellers, retailers, users and subscribers in a flexible relationship to enhance the ease in the system operation. Beacons can perform more than one function (e.g. tracking, threshold monitoring) simultaneously. Scenarios for the beacons can be created and monitored. Recovery personnel can intervene to resolve crises.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.