Nanotechnology – Kannan Raman, Sai Bhanu Prakash Thupalli, Hand Held Products Inc
Abstract for “Monitoring user biometric parameter with nanotechnology in personal location beacon”
A personal locator beacon system includes a personal beacon and a biometrics tracker. A personal locator beacon has a microprocessor and a global positioning subsystem that are coupled to it. It also includes a first microprocessor and a first low-energy transceiver, which is coupled to the microprocessor. The first low-energy antennae is coupled to this first low-energy transceiver. A second microprocessor is included in the biometrics monitor. It includes a second low-energy transceiver that is coupled to the first microprocessor. The second low-energy antennae is coupled to the second low-energy transceiver. One or more nanosensors are also included.
Background for “Monitoring user biometric parameter with nanotechnology in personal location beacon”
Personal tracker beacons track the location of a person using satellite data. The beacons usually have a wireless transmitter that can activated in emergency situations to broadcast the user?s location to emergency personnel. The wireless transmitter can broadcast at a variety of frequencies such as on local cellular networks, legacy signal bands of 121.5MHz and 243 MHz, and over the international 406 MHz radio-frequency band. Under the International Cospas-Sarsat Programme (an intergovernmental cooperative of 43 nations and agencies), the 406 MHz band was designated as an emergency band. This programme maintains a network satellites and ground facilities that can receive distress signals from 406-MHz beacons, route them to the appropriate authorities in over 200 countries and territories. Although location information is crucial for locating people in emergencies, it is not possible to provide health data. Search and Rescue teams that respond to emergencies do not have access to the individual’s health data. They must therefore carry an emergency kit that covers a variety of situations. Search and Rescue teams could adapt their emergency kits to meet the individual’s needs if the personal tracker beacon had health data.
“A personal locator beacon system according to an aspect of the invention comprises: A personal locator beacon consisting of a first microprocessor and a global positioning subsystem coupled with the first microprocessor; a first low-energy transceiver and first low-energy antennae coupled the the first low-energy transceiver; and a biometrics monitoring device comprising a microprocessor and a second low-energy transceiver that is coupled to a second microprocessor; a second low to the low energy transceiver and a third low to the second Low Energy Transceiver and a low to the second to the second to the second to the second to the transceiver and a a a a a a a and one or more sensors.
“In an embodiment the first low-energy transceiver and antennae, as well as the second low-energy transceiver and second low-energy antennae, are all low-energy Bluetooth components.”
“In an embodiment, a personal locator beacon is communicatively linked to the biometrics monitor via the first low-energy transceiver/antennae and the second low-energy transceiver/antennae.”
“In one embodiment, the nanosensor can be a bioimpedance sensors that measures one or more of the user’s heart rate, respiration, or hydration levels.”
“Another embodiment of the nanosensor is an optical pulse rate sensor.”
“In another embodiment, a nanosensor is a galvanic sensor that measures user sweat levels.
“In another embodiment, a nanosensor is an accelerometer that can be used to record sudden movements or count steps taken by the user.”
“In another embodiment, the nanosensor can be a gyroscope that measures orientation of a user.”
“In another embodiment, the nanosensor can be used as a thermometer to monitor user’s body temperature.”
“In another embodiment, a nanosensor is a radiation detector that measures user radiation exposure.”
“In another embodiment, the radiation sensor measures radiation exposure to ultraviolet, high energy beta, gamma and x-ray frequencies or any combination thereof.”
“In one embodiment, the nanosensor includes a bioimpedance, an optical heart rate sensor and a galvanic sensor response sensor. An accelerometer, thermometer, ultraviolet radiation sensor or any combination thereof.
“In one embodiment, the biometrics monitoring system comprises a second GPS subsystem that is coupled to the second microprocessor.”
“Another embodiment of the GPS subsystems includes a GPS receiver, an antenna and a GPS stat memory. This memory is communicatively coupled with the GPS receiver and can store: time stamps associated to the positioning information and route information.
“In one embodiment, the personal location beacon comprises a beacon static storage communicatively coupled with the first microprocessor. It is configured to receive and store nanosensor information for a configurable period of time.”
“In one embodiment, the biometrics device is a wearable device consisting of a glove and a wristband, necklace, a bracelet, a neckband, a hat and smartphone.
“In an embodiment, a biometrics monitor can be carried in a backpack, beltpack, or other external container.
“Another aspect of the invention is a method for monitoring user biometric parameters within a personal location beacon system. This involves providing a personal beacon wirelessly coupled with a wearable biometrics sensor comprising one or several nanosensors. Detecting a user’s biometric parameter by the nanosensor; communicating that parameter to the personal beacon; broadcasting from the beacon a distress signal including the user’s biometric parameter and geographical location information.
“In one embodiment, the personal location beacon includes a GPS subsystem consisting of a GPS receiver, an antenna and a static memory that is coupled to the GPS receiver and configured for storing positioning information and time stamps.
“Another embodiment of the nanosensor includes: A bioimpedance sensor that measures one or more user-biometric parameters such as heart rate, respiration, or hydration levels; an optical sensor to measure an user’s heart rate; an accelerometer to measure user step or sudden movements; an accelerometer to monitor a users biometric parameter, and a thermometer to monitor a person’s body temperature; and a radiation sensor to monitor user radiation exposure levels.
“Another embodiment of the biometric monitor consists of a glove, wristband, necklace, headband, and smartphone.
“In one embodiment, the personal location beacon is wirelessly connected to the wearable biometric track using Bluetooth low energy.”
“In an embodiment, user biometric parameters from a biometric monitor are communicated at specified intervals to the personal locator beacon.”
“Another embodiment of the configuration intervals is event triggered intervals or predetermined fixed intervals. Profile based intervals can also be used, or any combination thereof.
“In an embodiment, a personal locator beacon can be a Cospas-Sarsat distress beacon (or a vehicle-satcom relay).
All Cospas-Sarsat beacons have the same radio frequency specifications. However, the beacons can be made into many different types of structures. The beacons can also have different activation methods. These details are often customized for different applications and named accordingly. For marine use, b) Emergency Locator Transmitter?ELT? For aviation use, b) Emergency Locator Transmitter (?ELT?) Personal and/or terrestrial use The term ‘PLB? is used for the purposes of this invention. The term?PLB? will be used in general, together with?Locator Beacon?” or?Beacon?”. Thus, ?PLB? Therefore,?PLB? should not be taken in a narrow sense unless it is explicitly stated. It will be understood to mean any type of radio locator beacon (not limited to?personal ?).”).
“In FIG. 1. A personal locator beacon 1 is a system that includes a personal beacon 100 and a biometrics monitor 200.
“In FIG. “In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the personal locator beacon 100 comprises a housing 110 with one or more radio frequency transmitters 115, signal transmittingcir 120, first radiofrequency antenna 125, and first microprocessor 130. The first memory 145, power supply 150, and first global positioning system?GPS?. subsystem 160, the first low-energy transceiver (165), and a first low-energy antenna 170.
“As shown at FIG. 2 The housing 110 houses various components of the personal location beacon 100. It can be any size or shape depending on the application. The housing 110 can be worn by the user or mounted on a vehicle. You can make the housing 110 from a thermoset, thermoplastic, metal, composite, or any combination thereof.
The radio frequency transmitter 115 has an electrical connection to the first radio frequency antenna (125) and the signal transmitting loop 120. The signal transmitting circuit 120 connects to the microprocessor 130. The signal transmitting circuit 120 sends radio transmission instructions via the first microprocessor 130 to the radio frequency transmitter. Radio frequency transmitter 115 transmits radio transmission instructions to the radio frequency receiver 115. These signals are then transmitted to the first radio frequency radio antenna 125 by the first radio frequency radio antenna 125. The first radio frequency antenna (125) transmits signals at 406 MHz in an embodiment. Another embodiment transmits signals at 121.5 MHz. Another embodiment transmits signals at around 243 MHz. Another embodiment of the first radio frequency antenna, 125 transmits signals at approximately 243 MHz. An embodiment of the personal locator beacon 100 has one or more microprocessors 130 that are connected to the transmitting signal circuit. An embodiment of the radio frequency transmitter (115) can transmit on any of the frequency bands described above. This is obvious to anyone with ordinary skill in the arts. The radio frequency transmitter 115 in an embodiment is a transceiver.
“In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2. First memory 145 may include volatile memory (e.g. RAM) 140 a, and non-volatile 135 a. ROM) electrically connected with first microprocessor 130. Personal locator beacon 100 may include or have access to a computing environment which includes a variety of computer-readable media such as volatile memory 140a and nonvolatile memory 135a, removable storage 175, non-removable storage 180, and non-volatile storage 135a. First memory 145 storage contains the random access memory 140 and read-only memories 135, as well erasable programmeable read-only (EPROM), electrically eraseable programmable memory (EEPROM), flash or other memory technologies as well as compact disc read-only (CDROM), Digital Versatile Disks(DVD), digital versatile disks (DVD), magnetic cassettes, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices or any other medium that can store computer-readable instructions.
“Personal locator beacon 100” can have access or include input 185, and/or output190. Output 190 may include a display device such as a touchscreen that can also serve as an input device. One or more of the input 185 devices can be a touchpad, mouse or keyboard, a touchscreen, touchpad or mouse, camera, or one or two device-specific buttons. There may also be one or several sensors that are integrated into or connected via wired or wireless data connections with the personal locator beacon 100 and other input devices.
“Computer-readable instruction are stored on a computer readable medium, such first memory 145. They are executable by first microprocessor 130.”
“In the embodiment shown in FIG. A power supply 150 supplies power to the components in the personal locator beacon 100. The power supply 150 could be a battery. However, other sources of power may also be available to provide the required power for the components of personal locator beacon 100.
“In FIG. 2. The first GPS subsystem 160 includes a GPS transmitter 161, GPS antenna 162, as well as a GPS static storage 163. The GPS receiver 161 connects electrically to the first microprocessor 130 and GPS antenna 162, as well as GPS static memory 163. The GPS receiver 161 processes signals from positional satellites using the GPS antenna 162. The processed signals generally consist of positioning information and associated timestamps. The GPS receiver 161 then sends the processed signals on to the GPS static storage 163. This stores past and current positioning information, as well as associated time stamps. The GPS static memory 163 can be electrically connected to the microprocessor 130. This can access the current and/or historical positioning information as well as associated time stamps. In an embodiment, the GPS static memory 163 can store speed of travel information for the user based upon the current and previous positioning information. This information can also be accessed via the first microprocessor 130.
“As shown at FIG. 2. The first low-energy transceiver (165) is connected to the first antenna 170 and the first microprocessor130. The first low-energy transceiver (165) and the first low-energy antenna (170) are low-energy Bluetooth components. The first low-energy transceiver (165) receives signals from the first low-energy antenna 170 and transmits them to the first microprocessor 130. The first low-energy transceiver (165) also receives signals from microprocessor 130 and broadcasts them via the first low-energy antenna 170.
“In the embodiment shown in FIG. “In FIG. 3, the biometrics monitoring 200 is a wearable device with a second microprocessor, second memory, wireless communication system 220 and one or more nanosensors 233. You can make the biometrics monitor 200 in any form you like a glove, wristband or necklace, hat, chest strap or other wearable device. The biometrics monitor 200, in one embodiment, is a smartwatch, smartphone, or fitness band with one or more biometric sensors 230.
The term biometric nanosensor is any biometric device that is sufficiently small and light to be used for personal purposes. Non-limiting examples of biometric nanosensors include biometric sensor placed in devices that can be carried in a backpack or beltpack/fannypack or other user-carryable housing, biometric sensors in wearable devices as discussed herein, and biometric sensor that may be injected or implanted inside the body. The biometric nanosensors may also be included in or associated to devices with significant functionality, including monitoring or measuring biometrics. These devices include smartwatches and smartphones.
“The second microprocessor (205) is electrically connected with the second memory, 210, wireless communications system 220 and one or more nanosensors 230.
“The second microprocessor (205) is substantially identical in function and structure with the first microprocessor 130. The second memory (210) is substantially the same as the first memory (14,5).
“In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3. Second memory 210 may include volatile memory (e.g. RAM) 140 b, and non-volatile 135 b (e.g. ROM) electrically connected with second microprocessor205. The Biometrics Monitor 200 can have or include access to a variety of computer-readable media such as volatile memory 140 b or non-volatile storage 135 b. A removable storage 260 and non-removable 265 are also available. Second memory 210 storage comprises the random access memory 140 b and read-only memories 135 b. Also, erasable programming read-only (EPROM), electrically eraseable programmable reading-only (EEPROM), flash memory (e.g. Solid state drives, or other memory technologies.”
Biometrics monitor 200 can have or have access to a computing ecosystem that includes input 250, and/or output 255. Output 255 may include a display device such as a touchscreen that can also serve as an input device. One or more of the input 250 devices can be a touchpad, keyboard, mouse, keyboard, or camera. It also may include one or several device-specific buttons and one or two sensors that are either wired or wirelessly connected to the biometrics monitor 200 or other input devices.
“Computer-readable instruction are stored on a computer readable medium, such as the second memory 220. They are executable by second microprocessors 205.”
“The wireless communication device 220 comprises a second low-energy (LE), transceiver 221 that is communicatively coupled with the second microprocessor205 and a second low-energy (LE), antenna 223. The second low-energy (LE), transceiver 221 is electrically coupled with the second low-energy (LE). The second low-energy transceiver 221 (low energy) and the second low-energy antenna 223 (low energy Bluetooth components) are used in an embodiment. The second low-energy transceiver 221 receives signals emitted by the second low energy antenna 223 and transmits them to the second microprocessor205. The second low-energy transceiver 221 also receives signals from second microprocessor205 and broadcasts them using second low energy antenna 223.
“As shown at FIG. “As shown in FIG. 4, the nanosensor230 is a biometric measuring device. The nanosensor 230 may be any of the following: a bioimpedance sensors 230a, 230b optical heart rate sensors 230b, 230c galvanic skin reaction sensor 230c, 230d accelerometer, 230d accelerometer, 230d gyroscope, 230e, 230d gyroscope, 230e, 230c thermometer, 230g radiation sensor, or any combination thereof. The bioimpedance sensor (230a) can be used to measure the user’s heart rate, respiration, or hydration levels. The optical heart rate sensor (230 b) measures user heart rate using a light sensor that detects small fluctuations in the user?s capillaries. Galvanic skin reaction sensor 230c can be used to measure the electrical conductance of skin and monitor sweat levels. The accelerometer 230d can be used to record movement changes or count steps. The gyroscope (230 d) is used to determine the orientation of a user. The thermometer 230f in an embodiment is used to monitor the user’s body temperature. The radiation sensor 230g in an embodiment is a radiation detector that monitors levels of radiation exposure to ultra-violet, high-energy beta, gamma and/or xray radiation.
“Each nanosensor (230 a-g) is electrically connected with the second microprocessor205 and each sends biometric data to the microprocessor205. The microprocessor205 can store and/or transmit biometric data to the wireless communication network 220.
“In one embodiment, the biometrics monitoring 200 includes a second GPS system 240. The second GPS subsystem, 240, is similar to the first GPS 160. It includes a GPS receiver 241, GPS antenna 242 and a GPS static storage 243. The GPS receiver 241 connects electrically to the second microprocessor, GPS antenna 242, GPS static memory 242, and GPS receiver 241. The GPS antenna 242 receives signals sent by global positioning satellites. The signals are sent to the GPS receiver 241 by the GPS static memory 234. This stores past and current positioning information, as well as time stamps. This information can be transmitted by the GPS receiver 241 to the second microprocessor (205), which can then send it to the second memory 220 and/or to the second low-energy transceiver 211. In an embodiment, the GPS static memory 234, which stores route information and speed information for the user, can be accessed by second microprocessor 2205.
“As illustrated in FIG. 1. The personal locator beacon 100 can be communicatively connected to the biometrics monitoring 200. The embodiment of the personal locator beacon 100 connects to the biometrics monitor 200 via the first low-energy transceiver 160 and first low-energy antenna 170, as well as the second low-energy transceiver 221, and second low antenna 223 respectively. The biometric monitor 200 transmits biometric parameters from the nanosensors230 a-g via low energy Bluetooth signals to the personal locator beacon100 at specified intervals. Configured intervals can be event-triggered intervals (e.g. Predetermined fixed intervals (e.g. activation of personal locator beam 100 to broadcast distress signal 11,) can be used. User-configured times, profile-based intervals (e.g. Schedule or activity specific times, or any combination thereof.
“In one embodiment, the biometrics monitoring 200 transmits the user’s geographical information from the second GPS subsystem 244 to the personal locator beacon 100. This can be done either separately or in combination with biometric parameters from the nanosensors 220 a-g. At the specified intervals, the user’s geographical information can be sent directly to the personal locator beacon 100.
“In one embodiment, the biometrics monitoring 200 may include an identification serial number that is unique to the biometric monitoring 200.” The personal locator beacon 100 can receive the identification serial number at the same time as the biometric parameters or user geographic information.
“In one embodiment, the personal location beacon system 1 could include two or more biometrics monitoring devices 200. Each monitor can be worn by a different person.” Each biometrics monitor 200 will have an identification serial number that is unique to that biometric beacon 100. Each biometrics track 200 can also send its serial number to the personal location beacon 100. At the same time, or at a different time, the biometric parameters and/or the user’s geographical information are sent from each biometric track 200 to the personal locate beacon 100.
“As shown generally in FIG. 1. When the personal locator beacon 100 is activated to broadcast an emergency signal 11 using radio frequency transmitter 115 via first radio frequency antenna125, the distress message includes the geographical coordinates of the first GPS subsystem 160. Another embodiment of the distress signal 11 includes both the geo coordinates from first GPS subsystem 160 as well as biometric parameters from one or more nanosensors. 230. Another embodiment of the distress signal 11 would include both the geographic coordinates from first GPS subsystem 160 as well as the user’s geographical coordinates from second GPS subsystem 244. Another embodiment of the distress signal 11 includes the geographic coordinates from first GPS subsystem 160, user geographical coordinates from second GPS subsystem 220, and biometric parameters from one or more nanosensors 233. Another embodiment of the distress signal 11 could include the geographical coordinates of the first GPS subsystem 160 and user geographic coordinates received by the second GPS subsystem 244. It also includes biometric parameters from one or more nanosensors 220, the identification serial number 200 or any combination thereof.
“Thus, in general as shown in FIG. 1. The biometrics monitor 200 broadcasts the distress signal 12 to the personal location beacon 100. The personal locator beacon 100 broadcasts the distress signal 11, which can be detected by satellite-based or ground-based communication systems. These systems then relay 14 the information contained within the distress signal 11 to the appropriate emergency personnel 15
“By adding additional biometric and geographical parameter information to the distress signal 11, emergency response teams 15 will be able to determine the exact location of the user as well as their general health condition before they embark on the rescue mission. It is possible for emergency responders 15 equip themselves with the right emergency equipment to suit the user’s needs.
FIG. 5. A method 300 for monitoring biometrics parameters within the personal location beacon system 1 includes providing a personal beacon 100 wirelessly coupled with a wearable sensor 230 at block 305, detecting a user’s biometric parameter by the nanosensors 230 and communicating that parameter to the personal beacon 100 at block 315.
“In one embodiment, biometric parameters from a biometric monitor are communicated at specified intervals to the personal locator beacon100. These intervals can be set to trigger events (e.g. When the personal locator beacon’s personal locator beacon is activated manually or automatically, predetermined intervals are set by the manufacturer or user. User profile-based intervals (e.g. Based on the activity, such as remote lone workers or adventure tourists; the working environment of the employee; or the employer’s duty of care) or any combination thereof.
“In an embodiment, personal locator beacon 100 can be a Cospas Sarsat distress beacon (or a vehicle satellite relay) in order to locate the individual.”
“To complement the present disclosure, the application incorporates entirely the following patents and patent application publications and patent applications:
“While certain exemplary embodiments of monitoring user biometric parameters using nanotechnology in personal location beacons are shown and discussed herein, it will be obvious to those of ordinary skill that modifications and rearrangements to the parts can be made without departing the spirit and scope the underlying inventive idea. The same is not limited only to the forms shown and described herein except as is indicated by the scope and limitations of the appended claims.”
Summary for “Monitoring user biometric parameter with nanotechnology in personal location beacon”
Personal tracker beacons track the location of a person using satellite data. The beacons usually have a wireless transmitter that can activated in emergency situations to broadcast the user?s location to emergency personnel. The wireless transmitter can broadcast at a variety of frequencies such as on local cellular networks, legacy signal bands of 121.5MHz and 243 MHz, and over the international 406 MHz radio-frequency band. Under the International Cospas-Sarsat Programme (an intergovernmental cooperative of 43 nations and agencies), the 406 MHz band was designated as an emergency band. This programme maintains a network satellites and ground facilities that can receive distress signals from 406-MHz beacons, route them to the appropriate authorities in over 200 countries and territories. Although location information is crucial for locating people in emergencies, it is not possible to provide health data. Search and Rescue teams that respond to emergencies do not have access to the individual’s health data. They must therefore carry an emergency kit that covers a variety of situations. Search and Rescue teams could adapt their emergency kits to meet the individual’s needs if the personal tracker beacon had health data.
“A personal locator beacon system according to an aspect of the invention comprises: A personal locator beacon consisting of a first microprocessor and a global positioning subsystem coupled with the first microprocessor; a first low-energy transceiver and first low-energy antennae coupled the the first low-energy transceiver; and a biometrics monitoring device comprising a microprocessor and a second low-energy transceiver that is coupled to a second microprocessor; a second low to the low energy transceiver and a third low to the second Low Energy Transceiver and a low to the second to the second to the second to the second to the transceiver and a a a a a a a and one or more sensors.
“In an embodiment the first low-energy transceiver and antennae, as well as the second low-energy transceiver and second low-energy antennae, are all low-energy Bluetooth components.”
“In an embodiment, a personal locator beacon is communicatively linked to the biometrics monitor via the first low-energy transceiver/antennae and the second low-energy transceiver/antennae.”
“In one embodiment, the nanosensor can be a bioimpedance sensors that measures one or more of the user’s heart rate, respiration, or hydration levels.”
“Another embodiment of the nanosensor is an optical pulse rate sensor.”
“In another embodiment, a nanosensor is a galvanic sensor that measures user sweat levels.
“In another embodiment, a nanosensor is an accelerometer that can be used to record sudden movements or count steps taken by the user.”
“In another embodiment, the nanosensor can be a gyroscope that measures orientation of a user.”
“In another embodiment, the nanosensor can be used as a thermometer to monitor user’s body temperature.”
“In another embodiment, a nanosensor is a radiation detector that measures user radiation exposure.”
“In another embodiment, the radiation sensor measures radiation exposure to ultraviolet, high energy beta, gamma and x-ray frequencies or any combination thereof.”
“In one embodiment, the nanosensor includes a bioimpedance, an optical heart rate sensor and a galvanic sensor response sensor. An accelerometer, thermometer, ultraviolet radiation sensor or any combination thereof.
“In one embodiment, the biometrics monitoring system comprises a second GPS subsystem that is coupled to the second microprocessor.”
“Another embodiment of the GPS subsystems includes a GPS receiver, an antenna and a GPS stat memory. This memory is communicatively coupled with the GPS receiver and can store: time stamps associated to the positioning information and route information.
“In one embodiment, the personal location beacon comprises a beacon static storage communicatively coupled with the first microprocessor. It is configured to receive and store nanosensor information for a configurable period of time.”
“In one embodiment, the biometrics device is a wearable device consisting of a glove and a wristband, necklace, a bracelet, a neckband, a hat and smartphone.
“In an embodiment, a biometrics monitor can be carried in a backpack, beltpack, or other external container.
“Another aspect of the invention is a method for monitoring user biometric parameters within a personal location beacon system. This involves providing a personal beacon wirelessly coupled with a wearable biometrics sensor comprising one or several nanosensors. Detecting a user’s biometric parameter by the nanosensor; communicating that parameter to the personal beacon; broadcasting from the beacon a distress signal including the user’s biometric parameter and geographical location information.
“In one embodiment, the personal location beacon includes a GPS subsystem consisting of a GPS receiver, an antenna and a static memory that is coupled to the GPS receiver and configured for storing positioning information and time stamps.
“Another embodiment of the nanosensor includes: A bioimpedance sensor that measures one or more user-biometric parameters such as heart rate, respiration, or hydration levels; an optical sensor to measure an user’s heart rate; an accelerometer to measure user step or sudden movements; an accelerometer to monitor a users biometric parameter, and a thermometer to monitor a person’s body temperature; and a radiation sensor to monitor user radiation exposure levels.
“Another embodiment of the biometric monitor consists of a glove, wristband, necklace, headband, and smartphone.
“In one embodiment, the personal location beacon is wirelessly connected to the wearable biometric track using Bluetooth low energy.”
“In an embodiment, user biometric parameters from a biometric monitor are communicated at specified intervals to the personal locator beacon.”
“Another embodiment of the configuration intervals is event triggered intervals or predetermined fixed intervals. Profile based intervals can also be used, or any combination thereof.
“In an embodiment, a personal locator beacon can be a Cospas-Sarsat distress beacon (or a vehicle-satcom relay).
All Cospas-Sarsat beacons have the same radio frequency specifications. However, the beacons can be made into many different types of structures. The beacons can also have different activation methods. These details are often customized for different applications and named accordingly. For marine use, b) Emergency Locator Transmitter?ELT? For aviation use, b) Emergency Locator Transmitter (?ELT?) Personal and/or terrestrial use The term ‘PLB? is used for the purposes of this invention. The term?PLB? will be used in general, together with?Locator Beacon?” or?Beacon?”. Thus, ?PLB? Therefore,?PLB? should not be taken in a narrow sense unless it is explicitly stated. It will be understood to mean any type of radio locator beacon (not limited to?personal ?).”).
“In FIG. 1. A personal locator beacon 1 is a system that includes a personal beacon 100 and a biometrics monitor 200.
“In FIG. “In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the personal locator beacon 100 comprises a housing 110 with one or more radio frequency transmitters 115, signal transmittingcir 120, first radiofrequency antenna 125, and first microprocessor 130. The first memory 145, power supply 150, and first global positioning system?GPS?. subsystem 160, the first low-energy transceiver (165), and a first low-energy antenna 170.
“As shown at FIG. 2 The housing 110 houses various components of the personal location beacon 100. It can be any size or shape depending on the application. The housing 110 can be worn by the user or mounted on a vehicle. You can make the housing 110 from a thermoset, thermoplastic, metal, composite, or any combination thereof.
The radio frequency transmitter 115 has an electrical connection to the first radio frequency antenna (125) and the signal transmitting loop 120. The signal transmitting circuit 120 connects to the microprocessor 130. The signal transmitting circuit 120 sends radio transmission instructions via the first microprocessor 130 to the radio frequency transmitter. Radio frequency transmitter 115 transmits radio transmission instructions to the radio frequency receiver 115. These signals are then transmitted to the first radio frequency radio antenna 125 by the first radio frequency radio antenna 125. The first radio frequency antenna (125) transmits signals at 406 MHz in an embodiment. Another embodiment transmits signals at 121.5 MHz. Another embodiment transmits signals at around 243 MHz. Another embodiment of the first radio frequency antenna, 125 transmits signals at approximately 243 MHz. An embodiment of the personal locator beacon 100 has one or more microprocessors 130 that are connected to the transmitting signal circuit. An embodiment of the radio frequency transmitter (115) can transmit on any of the frequency bands described above. This is obvious to anyone with ordinary skill in the arts. The radio frequency transmitter 115 in an embodiment is a transceiver.
“In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2. First memory 145 may include volatile memory (e.g. RAM) 140 a, and non-volatile 135 a. ROM) electrically connected with first microprocessor 130. Personal locator beacon 100 may include or have access to a computing environment which includes a variety of computer-readable media such as volatile memory 140a and nonvolatile memory 135a, removable storage 175, non-removable storage 180, and non-volatile storage 135a. First memory 145 storage contains the random access memory 140 and read-only memories 135, as well erasable programmeable read-only (EPROM), electrically eraseable programmable memory (EEPROM), flash or other memory technologies as well as compact disc read-only (CDROM), Digital Versatile Disks(DVD), digital versatile disks (DVD), magnetic cassettes, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices or any other medium that can store computer-readable instructions.
“Personal locator beacon 100” can have access or include input 185, and/or output190. Output 190 may include a display device such as a touchscreen that can also serve as an input device. One or more of the input 185 devices can be a touchpad, mouse or keyboard, a touchscreen, touchpad or mouse, camera, or one or two device-specific buttons. There may also be one or several sensors that are integrated into or connected via wired or wireless data connections with the personal locator beacon 100 and other input devices.
“Computer-readable instruction are stored on a computer readable medium, such first memory 145. They are executable by first microprocessor 130.”
“In the embodiment shown in FIG. A power supply 150 supplies power to the components in the personal locator beacon 100. The power supply 150 could be a battery. However, other sources of power may also be available to provide the required power for the components of personal locator beacon 100.
“In FIG. 2. The first GPS subsystem 160 includes a GPS transmitter 161, GPS antenna 162, as well as a GPS static storage 163. The GPS receiver 161 connects electrically to the first microprocessor 130 and GPS antenna 162, as well as GPS static memory 163. The GPS receiver 161 processes signals from positional satellites using the GPS antenna 162. The processed signals generally consist of positioning information and associated timestamps. The GPS receiver 161 then sends the processed signals on to the GPS static storage 163. This stores past and current positioning information, as well as associated time stamps. The GPS static memory 163 can be electrically connected to the microprocessor 130. This can access the current and/or historical positioning information as well as associated time stamps. In an embodiment, the GPS static memory 163 can store speed of travel information for the user based upon the current and previous positioning information. This information can also be accessed via the first microprocessor 130.
“As shown at FIG. 2. The first low-energy transceiver (165) is connected to the first antenna 170 and the first microprocessor130. The first low-energy transceiver (165) and the first low-energy antenna (170) are low-energy Bluetooth components. The first low-energy transceiver (165) receives signals from the first low-energy antenna 170 and transmits them to the first microprocessor 130. The first low-energy transceiver (165) also receives signals from microprocessor 130 and broadcasts them via the first low-energy antenna 170.
“In the embodiment shown in FIG. “In FIG. 3, the biometrics monitoring 200 is a wearable device with a second microprocessor, second memory, wireless communication system 220 and one or more nanosensors 233. You can make the biometrics monitor 200 in any form you like a glove, wristband or necklace, hat, chest strap or other wearable device. The biometrics monitor 200, in one embodiment, is a smartwatch, smartphone, or fitness band with one or more biometric sensors 230.
The term biometric nanosensor is any biometric device that is sufficiently small and light to be used for personal purposes. Non-limiting examples of biometric nanosensors include biometric sensor placed in devices that can be carried in a backpack or beltpack/fannypack or other user-carryable housing, biometric sensors in wearable devices as discussed herein, and biometric sensor that may be injected or implanted inside the body. The biometric nanosensors may also be included in or associated to devices with significant functionality, including monitoring or measuring biometrics. These devices include smartwatches and smartphones.
“The second microprocessor (205) is electrically connected with the second memory, 210, wireless communications system 220 and one or more nanosensors 230.
“The second microprocessor (205) is substantially identical in function and structure with the first microprocessor 130. The second memory (210) is substantially the same as the first memory (14,5).
“In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3. Second memory 210 may include volatile memory (e.g. RAM) 140 b, and non-volatile 135 b (e.g. ROM) electrically connected with second microprocessor205. The Biometrics Monitor 200 can have or include access to a variety of computer-readable media such as volatile memory 140 b or non-volatile storage 135 b. A removable storage 260 and non-removable 265 are also available. Second memory 210 storage comprises the random access memory 140 b and read-only memories 135 b. Also, erasable programming read-only (EPROM), electrically eraseable programmable reading-only (EEPROM), flash memory (e.g. Solid state drives, or other memory technologies.”
Biometrics monitor 200 can have or have access to a computing ecosystem that includes input 250, and/or output 255. Output 255 may include a display device such as a touchscreen that can also serve as an input device. One or more of the input 250 devices can be a touchpad, keyboard, mouse, keyboard, or camera. It also may include one or several device-specific buttons and one or two sensors that are either wired or wirelessly connected to the biometrics monitor 200 or other input devices.
“Computer-readable instruction are stored on a computer readable medium, such as the second memory 220. They are executable by second microprocessors 205.”
“The wireless communication device 220 comprises a second low-energy (LE), transceiver 221 that is communicatively coupled with the second microprocessor205 and a second low-energy (LE), antenna 223. The second low-energy (LE), transceiver 221 is electrically coupled with the second low-energy (LE). The second low-energy transceiver 221 (low energy) and the second low-energy antenna 223 (low energy Bluetooth components) are used in an embodiment. The second low-energy transceiver 221 receives signals emitted by the second low energy antenna 223 and transmits them to the second microprocessor205. The second low-energy transceiver 221 also receives signals from second microprocessor205 and broadcasts them using second low energy antenna 223.
“As shown at FIG. “As shown in FIG. 4, the nanosensor230 is a biometric measuring device. The nanosensor 230 may be any of the following: a bioimpedance sensors 230a, 230b optical heart rate sensors 230b, 230c galvanic skin reaction sensor 230c, 230d accelerometer, 230d accelerometer, 230d gyroscope, 230e, 230d gyroscope, 230e, 230c thermometer, 230g radiation sensor, or any combination thereof. The bioimpedance sensor (230a) can be used to measure the user’s heart rate, respiration, or hydration levels. The optical heart rate sensor (230 b) measures user heart rate using a light sensor that detects small fluctuations in the user?s capillaries. Galvanic skin reaction sensor 230c can be used to measure the electrical conductance of skin and monitor sweat levels. The accelerometer 230d can be used to record movement changes or count steps. The gyroscope (230 d) is used to determine the orientation of a user. The thermometer 230f in an embodiment is used to monitor the user’s body temperature. The radiation sensor 230g in an embodiment is a radiation detector that monitors levels of radiation exposure to ultra-violet, high-energy beta, gamma and/or xray radiation.
“Each nanosensor (230 a-g) is electrically connected with the second microprocessor205 and each sends biometric data to the microprocessor205. The microprocessor205 can store and/or transmit biometric data to the wireless communication network 220.
“In one embodiment, the biometrics monitoring 200 includes a second GPS system 240. The second GPS subsystem, 240, is similar to the first GPS 160. It includes a GPS receiver 241, GPS antenna 242 and a GPS static storage 243. The GPS receiver 241 connects electrically to the second microprocessor, GPS antenna 242, GPS static memory 242, and GPS receiver 241. The GPS antenna 242 receives signals sent by global positioning satellites. The signals are sent to the GPS receiver 241 by the GPS static memory 234. This stores past and current positioning information, as well as time stamps. This information can be transmitted by the GPS receiver 241 to the second microprocessor (205), which can then send it to the second memory 220 and/or to the second low-energy transceiver 211. In an embodiment, the GPS static memory 234, which stores route information and speed information for the user, can be accessed by second microprocessor 2205.
“As illustrated in FIG. 1. The personal locator beacon 100 can be communicatively connected to the biometrics monitoring 200. The embodiment of the personal locator beacon 100 connects to the biometrics monitor 200 via the first low-energy transceiver 160 and first low-energy antenna 170, as well as the second low-energy transceiver 221, and second low antenna 223 respectively. The biometric monitor 200 transmits biometric parameters from the nanosensors230 a-g via low energy Bluetooth signals to the personal locator beacon100 at specified intervals. Configured intervals can be event-triggered intervals (e.g. Predetermined fixed intervals (e.g. activation of personal locator beam 100 to broadcast distress signal 11,) can be used. User-configured times, profile-based intervals (e.g. Schedule or activity specific times, or any combination thereof.
“In one embodiment, the biometrics monitoring 200 transmits the user’s geographical information from the second GPS subsystem 244 to the personal locator beacon 100. This can be done either separately or in combination with biometric parameters from the nanosensors 220 a-g. At the specified intervals, the user’s geographical information can be sent directly to the personal locator beacon 100.
“In one embodiment, the biometrics monitoring 200 may include an identification serial number that is unique to the biometric monitoring 200.” The personal locator beacon 100 can receive the identification serial number at the same time as the biometric parameters or user geographic information.
“In one embodiment, the personal location beacon system 1 could include two or more biometrics monitoring devices 200. Each monitor can be worn by a different person.” Each biometrics monitor 200 will have an identification serial number that is unique to that biometric beacon 100. Each biometrics track 200 can also send its serial number to the personal location beacon 100. At the same time, or at a different time, the biometric parameters and/or the user’s geographical information are sent from each biometric track 200 to the personal locate beacon 100.
“As shown generally in FIG. 1. When the personal locator beacon 100 is activated to broadcast an emergency signal 11 using radio frequency transmitter 115 via first radio frequency antenna125, the distress message includes the geographical coordinates of the first GPS subsystem 160. Another embodiment of the distress signal 11 includes both the geo coordinates from first GPS subsystem 160 as well as biometric parameters from one or more nanosensors. 230. Another embodiment of the distress signal 11 would include both the geographic coordinates from first GPS subsystem 160 as well as the user’s geographical coordinates from second GPS subsystem 244. Another embodiment of the distress signal 11 includes the geographic coordinates from first GPS subsystem 160, user geographical coordinates from second GPS subsystem 220, and biometric parameters from one or more nanosensors 233. Another embodiment of the distress signal 11 could include the geographical coordinates of the first GPS subsystem 160 and user geographic coordinates received by the second GPS subsystem 244. It also includes biometric parameters from one or more nanosensors 220, the identification serial number 200 or any combination thereof.
“Thus, in general as shown in FIG. 1. The biometrics monitor 200 broadcasts the distress signal 12 to the personal location beacon 100. The personal locator beacon 100 broadcasts the distress signal 11, which can be detected by satellite-based or ground-based communication systems. These systems then relay 14 the information contained within the distress signal 11 to the appropriate emergency personnel 15
“By adding additional biometric and geographical parameter information to the distress signal 11, emergency response teams 15 will be able to determine the exact location of the user as well as their general health condition before they embark on the rescue mission. It is possible for emergency responders 15 equip themselves with the right emergency equipment to suit the user’s needs.
FIG. 5. A method 300 for monitoring biometrics parameters within the personal location beacon system 1 includes providing a personal beacon 100 wirelessly coupled with a wearable sensor 230 at block 305, detecting a user’s biometric parameter by the nanosensors 230 and communicating that parameter to the personal beacon 100 at block 315.
“In one embodiment, biometric parameters from a biometric monitor are communicated at specified intervals to the personal locator beacon100. These intervals can be set to trigger events (e.g. When the personal locator beacon’s personal locator beacon is activated manually or automatically, predetermined intervals are set by the manufacturer or user. User profile-based intervals (e.g. Based on the activity, such as remote lone workers or adventure tourists; the working environment of the employee; or the employer’s duty of care) or any combination thereof.
“In an embodiment, personal locator beacon 100 can be a Cospas Sarsat distress beacon (or a vehicle satellite relay) in order to locate the individual.”
“To complement the present disclosure, the application incorporates entirely the following patents and patent application publications and patent applications:
“While certain exemplary embodiments of monitoring user biometric parameters using nanotechnology in personal location beacons are shown and discussed herein, it will be obvious to those of ordinary skill that modifications and rearrangements to the parts can be made without departing the spirit and scope the underlying inventive idea. The same is not limited only to the forms shown and described herein except as is indicated by the scope and limitations of the appended claims.”
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