Abstract:
An personal portable communication device and system is provided which includes a handheld beacon that has a controller, a short range signal transmitter, and a power source, and at least one switch, an indicator light and a short range signal receiver that transmits and receives signals to a secondary relay communication device such as a smartphone wherein the secondary device sends second communication signals including messages according to predetermined instructions to predetermined destinations.

Description:
The Applicant claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 62/000,178 filed on May 19, 2014. This invention is directed to a portable device, system and method for a person to communicate with multiple recipients simultaneously over an established network. The device connects wirelessly to a pre-existing local communications module that is in turn connected to a network. The device triggers an application within the local communications module—such as a cellphone—to invoking a series of actions. The local communications module can be but is not limited to, a smartphone, tablet or home computer. The application running in the local communications module relays preselected information over a network. The process can be reversed whereas a signal is transmitted to a local communications module that includes the application and is relayed to the primary device. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a portable device which is used to communicate with multiple recipients simultaneously using numerous means of communication, and can be triggered by different scenarios including medical situation or being in a potentially dangerous situation. 
     BACKGROUND OF INVENTION 
     Although there are more cell phones in the United States then people, the FBI statistics of people who are involved in emergency situations is staggering. Every second in the United States someone is involved with a car accident. A property crime occurs every 3.5 seconds in the United States. Every 5 seconds someone is a victim of larceny, aggravated assault, every 42 seconds, a robbery every 1.5 minutes, a rape every 6 minutes and a murder every 36 minutes. Hundreds of people go missing each day in America and thousands are abducted each month. 
     The elderly demographic, defined as persons older than 56 years old, is the one of the fastest growing group of mobile device users and has been reported up 18% in the last few years. While there are existing alert systems that are optimized and marketed to the elderly, many of these alert systems use the outdated. Some derive from a pendant that is wirelessly connected with a speaker system located somewhere inside a house. Other systems involve the transmission of a predetermined message using cellular transmission. However many of todays seniors remain active and do not need to be constrained within the confines of their home to feel secure or have access to a security or alter system. It is an object of the present invention to provide these people an alert system that enhances their independence to allow them to enjoy life. 
     It is an object of the invention to provide a simple, inexpensive system that allows people in emergency situations to establish rapid contact with friends, relatives and first responders and to make them aware of emergency situations. In the ever-evolving world of extreme sports, people may be found in unusual emergency situations in remote backcountry areas where contact with others may be limited or infrequent. Moreover, in many instances, people that are active in backcountry recreational activities, such as riding motorcycles, bicycling, skiing, snowboarding and horseback riding, will often wear a helmet and gloves which can impede the ability to easily communicate using a conventional cell phone. For example, in some emergency circumstances, such as after an injury, it may be difficult or impossible to manipulate a conventional cell phone transmitter and a helmet can further impede the use. 
     If a person becomes lost or is missing, the person&#39;s friends and relatives may not be able to easily find them and may be required to obtain a court order to allow for the release of cell phone records that may help locate the person. 
     The horrific mass shootings that have occurred in recent history also illustrate a need for improved communications technology. In this regard, many police chiefs have instructed people to follow the following protocol who find themselves in these situations. 1) Remove oneself from the dangerous location and retreat to a secure and safe location; 2) Barricade oneself in a safe spot and turn off your cellphone or any device that will ring; 3) Attempt to make contact with third parties without compromising a secret location and wait for help. 
     A significant concern to many people is the fear they experience when there is uncertainty regarding the whereabouts and wellbeing of our loved ones. This present invention can provide peace of mind by immediately contacting loved ones and allowing them to track the subscriber to the system and communicate in real time. 
     SUMMARY OF INVENTION 
     The present invention proves a rapid manner for a user to contact preselected persons by multiple manners including phone calls, texts and email. Further, according to a feature of the invention, recipients of the communication can instantly be made aware of their GPS location and follow the user. The invention also allows the user to send this information to multiple recipients which saves battery life, time and the user&#39;s strength. 
     Accordingly, by way of a simple user interface with relatively few buttons, a user can easy initiate communications with predetermined persons in emergency situations. The secondary wireless device can easily be programmed with contact numbers. Because communication can be initiated by simply accessing a single switch or button, some of the limitations of present wireless communications devices are mitigated. 
     Other objects and features will become apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying system schematics and flow diagrams. It is understood, however, that the specification and drawings, are solely for the purpose of illustration and describe specific embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limits the invention, for which reference should be made to the appended claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic diagram of an overview of an exemplary embodiment of the system architecture of a wireless communication device according to the invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a schematic diagram of an overview of another exemplary embodiment of the system architecture of a wireless communication device including the device and cellular smartphone communications module. 
         FIG. 3  is a screen display of the software application than may be operated on the cellular smartphone. 
         FIG. 4  is a screen display of the software application than may be operated on the cellular smartphone. 
         FIG. 5  is a screen display of the software application than may be operated on the cellular smartphone. 
         FIG. 6  is a screen display of the software application than may be operated on the cellular smartphone. 
         FIG. 7  is a screen display of the software application than may be operated on the cellular smartphone. 
         FIG. 8  is a screen display of the software application than may be operated on the cellular smartphone. 
         FIG. 9  is a screen display of a software application reflecting emergency contacts data that may be entered by the user of the device according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a screen display of the of a software application reflecting a screen that allows for contact data import according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 11  is a screen display of the of a software application reflecting a screen that allows for contact data import according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a screen display of the of a software application reflecting an options/Settings display screen according to an embodiment of the invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Now referring to  FIG. 1  an overview of an exemplary embodiment of the system architecture of a wireless communication device is depicted. Wireless communication primary device  100  (which is all of  FIG. 1 ) includes switch  110 ,  112  and  114 . In an exemplary embodiment, contact button  110  may be used to initiate contact with a first address such as a primary emergency contact. Switch  112  may be used to contact a second address such as secondary emergency contact. The third switch  114  may be programmed to call an emergency number such as 911 that is used in most regions in the United States. As used herein, the “primary device”, the “wireless communication primary device”, the “handheld beacon” and the “portable beacon” all refer to the same structure as schematically illustrated in  FIG. 1  and in  FIG. 2  at reference No.  250 . 
     The contact buttons may have easily identifiable icons or symbols to facilitate easy dialing. In embodiments, these icons or symbols can be altered to correspond to the programming of the application that resides on the local cellular communication secondary device. In embodiments, primary device  100  may also have communications buttons  116 ,  118 . The communication buttons may include talk switch  116  and off switch  118 . 
     Communications primary device  100  is controlled by processor  130  which coordinates the electronic processes of wireless communications primary device  100 . Device  100  may also include a power button  120 , for activating the primary device  100 . In embodiments a volume switchers or dial  122  is provided for increasing or decreasing the speaker volume of the device. 
     Device  100  also includes power supply  132  which is connected with rechargeable or other batteries. In this embodiment a charger  134  is coupled with a power charging device such as a DC phone charger as known by those skilled in the art. 
     Wireless communications primary device  100  also has a memory  136  which, when used in conjunction with microprocessor  130 , is used to store on board software and/or firmware programs that implement the functionality of the wireless communications primary device  100 . Memory  136  may also include storage for phone numbers as discussed above. 
     Wireless communications primary device  100  may also have power light  138  to indicate the status of the device and can provide information relating to the battery life. Wireless communications primary device  100  may also have a radio frequency antenna  170  which as needed, may both receive and send radio frequency signals for wireless communication as is known by those skilled in the art. Signals received by a radio frequency antenna  170  are processed by cellular receiver  156 , amplified by audio amplifier  158  and, in turn, transmitted through speaker  160  such as an audible signal that may be heard by a user. 
     The primary device  100  includes a microphone  150 , which when coupled with the blue tooth radio transmitter  140  may wirelessly transmit a signal via radio frequency antenna  170  to the local communication secondary device. A indictor light and accelerometer may also be optionally included with device. In embodiment the device may initiate a signal based upon input to the controller from an accelerometer. 
     The wireless communication primary device  100  is described herein as being a “blue tooth” device, other short range wireless communication system may be advantageously used with the device. 
     Thus the portable primary device  100  includes the components recited above mounted on a PC board and is designed to allow for the transfer of information to and from the secondary device and application designed for receiving the re-transmitting the information. In embodiments Bluetooth 3.0 or 4.0 technology is used to transfer data to and from the primary device  100  to a local secondary device which comprises a smartphone. 
     Bluetooth 4.0 refers to a standard is a wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances using short-wavelength UHF radio waves in the ISM band from 2.4 to 2.485 GHz. Bluetooth was first standardized as IEEE 802.15.1 but the standard is no longer maintained. The Bluetooth Special Interest Group presently oversees the development of the specification, manages the qualification program, protects the trademarks. 
     The communication protocol allows the application running on the secondary device to signal the primary device itself as well as provide audio communication via the speaker. The exterior of the device is constructed from a waterproof material to be able to connect during a storm or even after submergence in water. 
     In embodiments, the primary device can also be triggered by proximity sensor or a rapid change in heart rate that would alert the Network. The primary device also includes the means to transfer signal to a network, send and receive real time audio transmissions, include a method of powering an LED to bring visual awareness as well as buttons that are used to trigger the Network via the application. 
     Data that is transmitted from the primary device my include voice, preselected alert notifications, status information of the device, geographic position, and other data collected from input sensors. In addition to a microphone, the input sensors may include accelerometers, and photo-detectors. Data transmission may be triggered by the activation of a switch by the user or be activated by other preselected input such as a signal from an accelerometer. 
     Accordingly, embodiments of the portable primary device include a speaker, microphone, rechargeable battery, battery cable connection port, waterproof shell, LED light and input switches. It may be worn, strapped, clipped or mounted on user or object. After a switch or sequence of switches is activated, a signal to the local is transmitted to a network. The network includes but is not limited to, mobile phones, house phones, laptop, home or office computer, smartphone, satellite phone, wifi. Functions for the device are provided by the application, wherein a series of actions may be invoked upon reception of a signal from the primary portable device. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 2 , the system includes the primary device  250 , and a secondary device  260  that is connect to a communications network  291 . In preferred embodiments, the secondary communications device is a smartphone running an application that allows the primary device to activate the communication functions of the phone. The application in the cellphone allows user input, including data relating to phone numbers, to be dialed in response to communication from the primary device. In addition, a communication protocol that includes text messaging, and the replay of GPS data generated from either the primary or secondary device may be transmitted in response to predetermined signals from the primary device. If a voice connection has been made, the system will allow for voice communication from primary device, through the secondary device to a third party at a remote destination. 
       FIG. 3  is a screen display  301  of the welcome screen for the application that is run on the secondary communication device or smartphone. In the embodiment depicted in  FIGS. 3-12 , the smartphone has a touch screen and that allows the functions discussed herein to be implemented. In order to access the system, a user must enter a phone number at field  305 , an email address at field  307  and password at field  309 . This shows the logon and user information screen, using the user&#39;s phone number it gives a unique 2 way verifying process connecting to our server for tracking and database services allowing others to connect as well. 
       FIG. 4  is a screen display  401  main menu that includes menu selections my location  407 , that allows the user to activate GPS functions, A large beacon switch or button  420  is located at the bottom for emergencies. The color of the activation button changes from gray to blue when the device is connected to the primary device via Bluetooth communication, therefore reflecting that existence of the signal. When a user physically presses the emergency button on the device, the location will again respond by changing the color of the button to red and the application will initiate the emergency communication protocol. The screen includes a ‘My Location’ feature  407  that shows the users current location used for tracking or identified whereabouts. In addition, it includes a‘Distress Signal’  408  alerts users of the detection of a signal from the primary device to reflect the existence of an emergency situation. Clicking this location on the screen will access the user&#39;s information and map of the user&#39;s current location.  FIG. 4  also illustrates other accessible features of the system including “Options”  410  that allows the user to access a screen to allow the control and adjustment of various functions on the device, as well as enabling and disabling various functions. See  FIG. 12 . The “Upgrade” feature  420  allows users to add extra functionality to the application. The “User Guide” function  425  provides information regarding the features and functions of the system. The “Log out” function  430  logs the user out of the application. The “Page Information” function  470  at bottom left provides information relating to the functionality of each button, switch or link on the screen. At the bottom right of the display, a “Battery” icon  490  is provided that shows the amount of power that is remaining on the device. A shortcut to the easy set-up function is provided at link  414 . 
     Now referring to  FIG. 5 , an “Easy Setup” display screen  501  is depicted. This device interface allows users to store their information and set up the device, including adding their respective contacts and provide input for the various other options available. The “My Information” field  512  provides a link to a screen to accept data entry and allows the user to set up his personal information including setting up various features like his or her email address and phone carrier. In an embodiment the system includes a “Call Center Information” field  514  allows a user to access or make direct contact to a support call center operated by the service provider that can assist with the setting up a user account. The user may also use the call center for other technical support and ask questions pertaining to the service or implementing features of the system. The “text message setup” field  520  allows users to create a custom message and title for their emergency text messages. See  FIG. 8 . The “email message setup” field  520  provides a link to a further screen to allow users to create a custom message and title for their emergency email messages. The “Emergency Contact Setup” field  515  provides a link to another screen that allows users to add emergency contact information either from phones contacts or manually. (screen  5   a ) 
       FIG. 6  is a screen display of a distress map  601 . The distress map is displayed when the user gets a push notification, or text, or the silent beacon device alerts you, or the application is open when a contact is in an emergency. In real time it will show the current GPS location of the person in emergency so that they can be tracked and will transmit the information from the local communication device to a remote location via phone, text or email. The software will drop a marker or pin such as  615  and  628  to identify where the person is and correlate the time with the location. The time of the drop is reflected at referenced number  615  and  628 . As the individual moves, a red line is drawn that tracks the pathway  612  and times are correlated at predetermined intervals. 
       FIG. 7  is the “My Information” screen display  701 . This screen allows for various information of the user to be stored and modified. One feature of this display allows the user to import the information from a contact listing. A user enter his or her first and last name along with the users email address, mobile number, the users mobile phone carrier and other information can be entered at the users option. This screen also provides for the functionality for setup of an email account to be used in distributing the emergency alert. The screen includes an activation link to  707  allow importing data from contacts. The user may also manually enter data in fields provided including first name  710 , last name  711 , email  712 , mobile phone  713 , carrier information  714 . The device also allows the user to set up an email account at link  720 . 
     Now referring to  FIG. 8 , an Email Message set up display screen  801  is displayed. This page allows the user to setup a custom email message by activation of link  806  that will be transmitted to selected emergency contacts and used to advise the contacts that they are in an emergency situation. The text if the email is displayed at field  808 . The user can test the settings by activation on the smaller beacon icon that is reflected in the present embodiment by a green lighthouse icon in field  810 . 
       FIG. 9  is the “Emergency Contacts” display screen  901 . Screen  901  is provides a list of emergency contacts  905 - 907  as well as fields to allow data entry to add additional contact  908  and  909 . Upon activation of the link, a new screen is opened and the relevant data may be entered into the application. Where a user may provide data relating to emergency contacts are added including data fields  904 - 909 . The user may add manually contact information via a contacts list stored within the mobile smartphone device as well as edit them. There is a small beacon, such as beacon  920  associated with each contact that identifying by color the status of the users. In this embodiment, gray indicate the contact is not connected; the color blue indicates that that contact is connected, and red indicates the contact is in an emergency status. You can click or access each of the users name to show their GPS positioning in real time. 
       FIG. 10  is a Text Message display screen. This display allows the user to enter information to setup a custom text message letting their emergency contacts know they are in an emergency situation. The user may test the settings on the smaller beacon icon in green. 
       FIG. 11  is the Contact Setup display screen. The Contact Setup display screen allows users to add the fields of their emergency contacts. This setup can be manually inputted with data or the data may imported from the smartphone contact list. The data fields that may be populated include (1) the user&#39;s first and last name (2) users email address (3) the user&#39;s mobile number (4) additional phone numbers and (5) the user&#39;s mobile phone carrier. 
       FIG. 12  is the “Options/Settings” display screen. This screen allows users to select communications options including Activating the Call Center call option”, 911, GPS Tracking enabling, Email Messaging, Text messaging, and device sounds. 
     The application on the secondary communication device may access a local memory or can access memory stored on the network. This information may include but is not limited to names, email addresses, phone numbers, social media, and other contact information that identifies a person. 
     The application utilizes functions within the network and can communicate with multiple recipients. Forms of communication include but are not limited to, email, SMS messaging, push notifications, app alerts, video chat, voice calls, audio recordings and instant messaging. 
     In an embodiment, the user may choose which forms of communication are to be used. The option of turning them on or off is within the application installed on the smartphone. Options include but are not limited to, texting from the secondary device of a user&#39;s location using a GPS function, texting to turn on tracking, email to show GPS location, email to alert that a user is in distress or needs assistance, contacting multiple people at once, contacting an emergency response center to communicate your current emergency. The application also connects to servers which relay in real-time the location of the network triggered by the portable device. 
     Anyone who is connected to the user and possesses the application and portable device will be alerted if someone else has alerted the network. The application itself displays who has altered the network and they will be able to be viewed in real time with GPS. In an embodiment, a call center can automatically tracks a subscriber as well and can relay in real time to authorities or an emergency response center the whereabouts and condition of the user. 
     In an embodiment, the application is programmed to sequentially contact persons by phone on the list until a successful call is placed. In another embodiment, the system will phone and text contacts on a predetermined list until a text or phone call is successfully completed or a text is acknowledged and a return text is transmitted. In alternative embodiments, messages and phone calls are simultaneously transmitted upon the activation of the switch. In yet further alternative embodiment of the invention, the user can select the option at the beacon to sequentially attempt to make contact or simultaneously make contact. In the embodiment that involves transmission of text, a signal is transmitted back to the beacon that reflects a responsive text has been received. In alternative embodiment, the text message requests that the recipient call the sender. The application will received the call and retransmit the voice signal to the beacon or first device. 
     The present invention and its various advantages will be understood from the foregoing description and that it will be readily apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art so that various changes may be made in form, construction and arrangement without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. While specific embodiments of the invention have been disclosed and discussed herein, the invention is not intended to be limited by the specific embodiments described in the specification but rather, the scope of the invention should be measured by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.