Abstract:
A device, system, and method for determining a user&#39;s proximity within a predefined radius. A mobile electronic device with location software thereon can record and analyze ambient noise to determine after initiated the user&#39;s estimated locations as well as to track the user&#39;s movements throughout a predefined radius. The mobile locate software may present information to the user according to the user&#39;s position within the radius of the area. The type and nature of the information presented to the user can be changed according to the user&#39;s distance from emergency services as well as how quickly the user is approaches the safe zones. The software may provide detailed data about the movement of the user and additional users of the software that are within the determined radius. This information may be correlated with local, state and federal officials in the determination of the initial incident.

Description:
FIELD 
       [0001]    An emergency alert notification device, system, and method for locating and adaptively communicating with a user, for example, based on the proximity of the user relative to an incident or event and the location of one or more safety zones. 
         [0002]    The emergency alert notification device, method, and system are in the technical field of direct to mobile notifications. More particularly, in the technical field of notification of the existence of an emergency situation to mobile and non-mobile communication devices. 
         [0003]    Further, the emergency alert notification device, method, and system are in the technical field of mobile to mobile and server to client alert. In addition, the emergency alert notification device, method, and system relate to a personal safety device, system, and method for determining user proximity to one or more safety zones as well as adaptive communication with the user. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0004]    A significant safety issue within our society is the speed at which law enforcement and those determined to provide protection to an area arrive at the affected location or scene. Additionally, the personal safety is often viewed as the sole responsibility of the individual. Accordingly, what is needed is a device, system, and method for improving the time span between when an incident occurs and the arrival of emergency personnel (i.e. decreasing response time). There is a need for a system that reduces the overall response time involved to determine a victim&#39;s current location, and the location at which the initial incident occurred. 
         [0005]    With the advent of mobile communications, no method or process exists in regards to ability to communicate to devices regardless of the OS (operating system) the drives of the devices. There is no universal way or protocol for users of these devices to receive notification based on their present location. 
         [0006]    Further, there is no way to send an emergency alert notification to an individual within a computed radial distance from a situation that requires attention. 
         [0007]    Many lives have been lost due to an individual entering into an area that could be considered dangerous due to an emergency situation including, but not limited to, fire, tornado, dangerous individual(s) nearby, school shooter, threats of violence, or person in need of help nearby. Emergency personnel have struggled with the inability to identify and notify individual(s) that may have either been involved or been in proximity to an event or scene that requires evacuation and/or assistance. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0008]    An emergency notification device, method, and system. 
         [0009]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for alerting a person or user. 
         [0010]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for alerting a person or user of a threat. 
         [0011]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for allowing a person or user to initiate a call for help to one or more points. 
         [0012]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for automatically performing various actions based on data from one or more 911 calls. 
         [0013]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert. 
         [0014]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for alerting and communicating with a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert. 
         [0015]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert, and communicating information to the user. 
         [0016]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert, and instructing the user. 
         [0017]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert, and instructing the user to avoid personal harm. 
         [0018]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert, and instructing the user with directions to one or more safety zones. 
         [0019]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for alerting and communicating with a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert, and tracking the movement of the user. 
         [0020]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for alerting a user located within a zone containing the location of an initial alert. 
         [0021]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for alerting a user located within proximity of a radius distance of the location of an initial alert. 
         [0022]    An emergency notification device for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert comprising or consisting of a transmitter for generating one or more alert notifications. 
         [0023]    An emergency notification device for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert comprising or consisting of a transmitter for generating one or more alert notifications, and a tracker for tracking the user. 
         [0024]    An emergency notification device for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert comprising or consisting of a transmitter for generating one or more alert notifications, and a tracker for tracking one or more mobile devices within proximity of the location of the initial alert. 
         [0025]    An emergency notification device for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert comprising or consisting of a transmitter for generating one or more alert notifications, and a tracker for single to multiple mobile and stationary devices. 
         [0026]    An emergency notification device for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert comprising or consisting of a transmitter for generating one or more alert notifications, and a tracker of single to multiple mobile and stationary devices based on a distance or radial distance proximity to an initial alert location. 
         [0027]    An emergency notification method or system for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert comprising or consisting of generating one or more alert notifications; and transmitting the one or more alert notifications to a user. 
         [0028]    An emergency notification method or system for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert comprising or consisting of generating one or more alert notifications; transmitting the one or more alert notifications to a user; and tracking the user. 
         [0029]    An emergency notification method or system for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert comprising or consisting of generating one or more alert notifications; transmitting the one or more alert notifications to a user; and tracking one or more mobile devices within the proximity of the location of the initial alert. 
         [0030]    An emergency notification method or system for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert comprising or consisting of generating one or more alert notifications; transmitting the one or more alert notifications to a user; and communicating the direction or location of one or more safety zones to the user. 
         [0031]    An emergency notification method or system for alerting a user within proximity of the location of an initial alert comprising or consisting of generating one or more alert notifications; transmitting the one or more alert notifications to a user; communicating the location of one or more safety zones to the user; and tracking one or more mobile devices within the proximity of the location of the initial alert. 
         [0032]    An emergency notification device, method, and system, for example, a personal safety device, method, and system using one or more mobile devices. 
         [0033]    An emergency notification device, method, and system for alerting a person or user comprising or consisting of an alert initiation device, step, or procedure. 
         [0034]    The device, system, and method are being developed in response to the present state of the art and, in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been solved by currently available devices, methods, and systems. Accordingly, the device, system, and method are being developed for facilitating the speed at which emergency responders can locate a victim and determine an origin of incident. 
         [0035]    The device, system, and method have been developed to provide a checkout process where a user may use software (which may include personal alert software to facilitate the sending of an alert including but not limited to direct connection, SMS, mms, Text, Voice, audible and physical, herein referred to generally as personal alert software) on a mobile electronic device such as a tablet computer or a mobile telephone. The personal alert software may interact with the user during the alert initiation process. 
         [0036]    For example, the personal alert process can involve the user&#39;s mobile electronic device, such as a smart phone (e.g. iPhone, Android) or tablet. The personal alert software may interact with other electronic devices to determine the user&#39;s proximity to a safe zone. Upon interaction with external devices, the personal alert software may then interact with the user and allow the user to begin the alerting process. 
         [0037]    For example, a machine-readable code can be used to interact between the user&#39;s mobile electronic device and the personal alert system. The machine-readable code may comprise a conventional barcode or a two-dimensional barcode (e.g., a Quick Response (QR) Code). The data encoded within a machine-readable code may vary between different embodiments and different purposes or goals of the embodiment. In selected embodiments, a machine-readable code may encode a transaction identification (ID) uniquely identifying a particular information set. Alternatively, or in addition thereto, a machine-readable code may encode data regarding the alert software and/or its location therein. 
         [0038]    For example, sound can be used to interact between the user&#39;s or individual&#39;s mobile electronic device and the personal alert software. The mobile electronic device may detect sound from the user&#39;s or individual environment and from other devices located within the predetermined radius. The detected sound can be processed to determine the user&#39;s or individual&#39;s location within an area and, more particularly, the user&#39;s or individual&#39;s proximity to a predetermined safe-zone. 
         [0039]    For example, personal alert software on the user&#39;s mobile electronic device can change functionality or modify how it interacts with the user or individual based on the user&#39;s or individual&#39;s proximity to predetermined locations and predetermined safe zones. The personal alert software can provide different information to the user or individual, and can initiate different steps of the personal alert process based on proximity to a predetermined safe zone (area). 
         [0040]    For example, the user can configure the personal alert software on the user&#39;s mobile electronic device to ignore notifications and alerts from other devices and/or from the server for a period of time (e.g. calendar-based do not disturb). 
         [0041]    For example, the user can configure the personal alert software on the user&#39;s mobile electronic device to receive notifications and alerts designated for particular groups of devices. 
       Emergency Alert Notification 
       [0042]    The emergency alert notification device, method, and system can alert one or more users located within proximity of an incident or scene. For example, an incident occurs at point  C  and a first user (e.g. victim) involved in the incident located at point A makes the initial alert, for example, using his or her mobile device. Alternatively, another or second user within proximity of point  C  (e.g. within viewing distance) can provide the initial alert as to the existence of the incident involving the first user (e.g. victim). 
         [0043]    After the initial alert, all or some of the users located within proximity of the incident can be alerted, for example, by their mobile devices. The proximity, for example, can be a distance from the location of the initial alert, a radial distance from the location of the initial alert, a zone containing the initial alert, or a zone within a distance from the location of the initial alert. A protocol can be developed when to alert or not alert a particular user or users within proximity. For example, a user (e.g. most likely the aggressor) in closest proximity to the first user (e.g. victim) can be blocked from being alerted, or alerted in a manner different from the other users in proximity to the incident to likely cause the aggressor to flee the incident (e.g. loud alarm or siren signal, electronic voice instructing aggressor in a manner to deter ongoing actions or involvement such as an alert “police are on the way” or indicating “scene is now being recorded by audio and/or video”, or “we know your identity and your name is . . . ”). 
       Device 
       [0044]    The emergency alert notification device can be a personal electronic device such as a mobile device (e.g. cell phone, smart phone, tablet, notebook, computer watch). The emergency alert notification device can be configured as purchased to operate with the emergency alert notification system, and/or an application can downloaded to the device to operate with the emergency alert notification system. 
       System 
       [0045]    The emergency notification system comprises or consists of one or more electronic devices capable of audio, visual, tactile feedback, or any combination thereof and a local area network (LAN) comprising a server. For example, the one or more electronic devices can be a personal electronic device or mobile electronic device or personal computing device such as a smart phone, iPhone, Android phone, pad, iPad, iWatch, computer watch, or otherwise a portable electronic device that can be carry by or on a user. 
         [0046]    The emergency notification system can comprise or consist of a proximity locating device, method, and system for locating a user. For example, a device, method, and system for determining a user&#39;s proximity within a predefined radius. A mobile electronic device with location software thereon can record and analyze ambient noise to determine after initiated the user&#39;s estimated locations and tracking the user&#39;s movement throughout a predefined radius. The mobile locate software can present information to the user according to the user&#39;s position within the radius of the area. The type and nature of the information presented to the user can be changed according to the user&#39;s distance from emergency services as well as how quickly the user approaches one or more safe zones. The software can provide detailed data about the movement of the user and additional users of the software that are within the determined radius. This information can be correlated with local, state, and federal officials in the determination of the initial incident. 
       Method 
       [0047]    The emergency notification method can comprise or consist of one or more of the following steps:
       1) initiating alert signal by an individual or user at or in proximity of an incident or scene (e.g. pressing button, touching screen, voice command, switch or sensor on mobile device (e.g. mobile device accelerometer sensing thrown mobile device impact ground or object);   2) communicating the initiating alert to a local area network (LAN) comprising a server;   3) generating personal alert for one or more selected users in proximity of location of incident; and   4) communicating information or instructions to users alerted (e.g. location or directions to one or more safety zones or locations).       
 
         [0052]    The emergency alert notification method can comprise or consist of transmitting an alert notification. Further, the emergency alert notification method can comprise or consist of transmitting an alert notification in combination with location tracking of single to multiple mobile and stationary devices based on radial distance proximity to an initial alert location. 
       Alert Initiation 
       [0053]    The alert can be activated in conjunction with the application and server user interface. For example, the alert can be activated manually by 1) a user or person pressing an icon/link/button within the mobile application using a mobile device; 2) a user or person using a gesture such as a swipe within the mobile application using a mobile device; 3) a user or person pressing an icon/link/button from a Web Brower (Web App Version) using the mobile device; 4) initiating via the Main Server Control UI (User Interface); 5) a user or person conducting a long press/hold of the mobile device physical button(s) such as i) Home button, ii) Volume Up button, iii) Volume Down button, and/or iv) combination of multiple buttons; and 6) the physical movement of the mobile device such as i) shaking the mobile device, ii) drastic change in elevation of the mobile device (e.g. dropping device, rapidly lifting device), and iii) combination of physical gestures (e.g. moving device left to right and then shaking mobile device). 
         [0054]    Alternatively, or in addition, for example, the alert can be activated automatically by 1) the physical movement described above regarding the manual activation; 2) an alert or alerts being initiated within a predetermined radius (e.g. within a predetermined radius of the incident or event); 3) an alert or alerts being initiated from, for example, i) Emergency Tower, ii) Call Box, iii) Pedestal, and iv) Other altering devices or apparatus; 4) Audio Detection, for example, of i) Gunshot, ii) Glass Breaking, iii) Vocal Inflection (e.g. Drastic alteration in pitch or tone), iv) Screaming, v) Whistling, vi) Other predetermined sound parameter(s); 5) Proximity to potential threat (e.g. user or person), for example, initiated from main User Interface (UI); 6) Proximity to man-made threat, for example, i) initiated from CAP message, and ii) initiated from Server User Interface (UI); 7) Proximity to other user(s) or person(s); 8) entering or leaving a predetermined area radius, for example, Geo-Fence; 9) being Time-Based, for example, user or person in geo-fenced area in excess of allowed time; 10) being in Restricted Area; 11) being in Proximity to BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) Device(s); and 12) a Third Party Application, for example, via ValcomLocate API using, for example, i) eLaunch, and/or ii) BlackBoard. 
         [0055]    Any variations or combinations of the above alert initiations can be used to initiate alerts to end users or persons. The actual values (e.g. distances, ranges, and time of the day) can be set and/or customized per location(s). 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0056]      FIG. 1  is a schematic block diagrammatic view of an ambient noise determination system. 
           [0057]      FIG. 2  is a schematic block diagrammatic view of a multiple ambient noise determination system in the context of an enterprise-wide system. 
           [0058]      FIG. 3  is a flow chart diagrammatic view of the operation of the emergency alert. 
           [0059]      FIG. 4  is a graphic view illustrating a method for verifying the location of a mobile electronic device. 
           [0060]      FIG. 5  is a diagrammatic view illustrating a personal alert being initiated, and actively tracking devices within a core radius. 
           [0061]      FIG. 6  is a diagrammatic view illustrating passively tracking devices within a secondary radius alerted. 
           [0062]      FIG. 7  is a diagrammatic view illustrating radial proximity movement in relation to a device that initiated an original personal alert. 
           [0063]      FIG. 8  is a flow chart diagrammatic view illustrating an emergency notification alert method and system. 
           [0064]      FIG. 9  is a flow chart diagrammatic view for determination of proximity of devices to a device initiated alert. 
           [0065]      FIG. 10  is a flow chart diagrammatic view of a process of determination for alert recipients. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0066]    An Emergency alert notification system  10  is illustrated in  FIG. 1 . The emergency alert notification system  10  comprises or consists of a Server  12 , a Local Area Network (LAN)  14 , and a User Device  16 . In the arrangement, for example, the Server  12  and User Device  16  can wirelessly communicate with each other through the Local Area Network (LAN)  14 . 
         [0067]    The User Device  16  can comprise a control (e.g. button, slide, control device on Graphic User Interface (GUI)) to allow the user to activate an alert. Alternatively, the User Device can be configured (e.g. using a software application) to initiate an alert in other manners. For example, the User Device  16  can initiate an alert when thrown by the user and impacting the ground, wall, a person (e.g. assailant), or object (e.g. car, desk, cabinet) utilizing the accelerometer of the User Device  16 , a special voice command (e.g. high pitch scream and/or yell for “HELP”), specific series of taps on User Device  16  by the user, blowing into orifice in device (e.g. causing an internal fan motor to spin and create control signal for alert and making audio alert like a whistle). 
         [0068]    The alert from the User Device  16  can be transmitted or communicated in various manners. All types of communications for phone to phone, to server, for location, fine tune location can be used. For example, the alert can be a wireless signal communicated via a Local Area Network (LAN), cellular network and/or radio transmission. The User Device  16  can also be configured to make an audio warning (e.g. noise, siren, voice) upon initiating the alert to alert others within hearing distance of the User Device  16  of an incident or event. For example, the audio warning can only be shut off by the user using his or her access code. 
         [0069]    Another Emergency alert notification system  110  is illustrated in  FIG. 2 . The Emergency alert notification system  110  comprises Server  112 A, Server  112 B, independent Server  112 C, Cloud  114 , and User Device  116 . The Server  112 A and Server  112 B operate in conjunction using Enterprise Wide software. The Server  112 A, Server  112 B, independent Server  112 C, and User Device  116  can wirelessly communicate with each other through the Cloud  14 . 
         [0070]    The Emergency alert notification systems  10  and  110  can be used independently, or in conjunction together. 
         [0071]    The operation of the of the emergency alert notification system  10  and/or  110  is illustrated in the operational flow chart  220  shown in  FIG. 3 . 
         [0072]    The operation begins with the sequence Start (Step  222 ), Open Personal Alert Software (Step  224 ), Determine GeoLocation (Step  226 ), and then Initiate Alert (Step  228 ). 
         [0073]    After the Initiate Alert (Step  228 ), simultaneously the Send Alert to Server (Step  230 ), Send Alert to NearField Devices (Step  232 ), and Begin Ambient Noise Recording (Step  234 ) occur. The Begin Ambient Noise Recording (Step  234 ) proceeds is a sequence to Ambient Noise Analysis (Step  236 ), Ambient Noise Analysis Completed (Step  238 ), Send Results to Server (Step  240 ), and then Stop (Step  242 ). 
         [0074]    After the Server  12  receives the Results from Send Results to Server (Step  240 ), then the Server  12  proceeds to Send Alert to Nearby Device (Step  244 ). 
         [0075]    The graph shown in  FIG. 4  illustrates the method for verifying the location of other electronic devices (e.g. mobile telephones) relative to a first electronic device initiating the alert. The graph sets the location of the first electronic device at 0.0 and the location of the other electronic devices by fractions (or percentages) of the selected core radius CR (x-axis) verses the signal strength (y-axis). The graph illustrates three (3) other electronic devices located around 0.58CR, 0.78CR, and 0.89CR. 
         [0076]    The device location can be determined by a number of methods. For example, the following methods can be used:
       1) Device&#39;s internal GPS (Global Positioning System, a space-based satellite navigation system that provides location and time information in all weather conditions, anywhere on or near the Earth where there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more GPS satellites).   2) BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy proximity sensing which can transmit the UUID which is picked up by nearby device or server and is turned into a physical location).   3) Wi-Fi LAN Connection (this is done by determining the signal strength between the device and the nearest Wi-Fi router that it is connected to). This is unique to the disclosed device, system, and method, and not a standard protocol.       
 
         [0080]    The user ID can be determined based on the device UUID (universally unique identifier). The UUID is an identifier standard used in software construction, standardized by the Open Software Foundation (OSF) as part of the Distributed Computing Environment (DCE). Multiple devices can be linked to a single user based on username and password (both determined by the end user). 
         [0081]    To determine who else or what other devices are in the vicinity, this is determined as follows:
       1) Devices “check-in” to server with geo-location (latitude and longitude) at pre-determined time intervals. This information is not saved on the server until an alert has been initiated and only if that device has either initiated the alert or is within a pre-determined radius of a device initiating an alert. Information is then relayed to all devices within the pre-determined radius.   2) Using NFC (Near field communication, a set of standards for smartphones and similar devices to establish radio communication when they are within proximity on one another). NFC standards cover communications protocols and data exchange formats, and are based on existing radio-frequency identification (RFID) standards including ISO/IEC 14443.       
 
         [0084]    The data passed between the phone and server during the alert is as follows. After installation of the application, the only information that is passed at regular intervals between the device and server is the UUID and Geo-Location. Once an alert is initiated additional information is sent to the server including but not limited to UUID, Geo-Location, Time stamp, Device Information. Information passed to devices, which have not initiated the alert, but are within the pre-determined radius, includes only that an alert has been initiated and the geo-location information of the initiating device. Alerts that originate from the server are one-way only. These alerts may include text, images, video, and/or audio. Alert information may include but is not limited to Custom and CAP (Common Alerting Protocol, an XML-based data format for exchanging public warnings and emergencies between alerting technologies) messages. 
         [0085]    Alert information is sent in JSON (JavaScript Object Notation, is an open standard format that uses human-readable text to transmit data objects consisting of attribute-value pairs. It is used primarily to transmit data between a server and web application.). This is done using TCP/IP and/or Bluetooth (when enabled and within proximity). 
         [0086]    When an alert is received from a device, the server performs several parallel actions.
       1) The server begins to “actively track” the device. This means device information is saved and displayed on the server side UI (user interface). Any device that is within the pre-determined “urgent proximity zone” are also actively tracked. These remain active for the duration of the alert.   2) Devices within the pre-determined “alert proximity zone” are then notified, using protocols above, that there is a user in-need of assistance. These devices may be displayed though the server UI for the duration of the alert, however they are not “actively tracked”.   3) Notification of an alert (including device information) is relayed to required authorities via pre-determined means (this can include but is not limited to email, SMS, direct push, voice and/or video connection).   4) A direct voice/video connection is also available via both the server UI and the direct send to the administrative users.       
 
         [0091]    To determine who or which device initiated an alert (e.g. by pressing the alert button), the UUID from the particular device is used to determine the User ID. 
       System 
       [0092]    The environment  310  around the incident or event involving the emergency alert communication system is illustrated in  FIGS. 5  thru  7 . 
         [0093]    As illustrated in  FIG. 5 , a first user  312  is located at the center C of the environment  310  and a second user  314  is in proximity relative to the first user  312  within the environment  310 . 
         [0094]    The first user  312  initiates a personal alert from his or her personal electronic device. Based on the latitude and longitude for the personal electronic device of the first user  312 , which is determined when the personal alert is initiated, a core alert radius  316  is determined and users (e.g. first user  312  and second user  314 ) are tracked when moving within the core alert radius  316 . The personal electronic devices of all users (e.g. first user  312  and second user  314 ) that reside within the core alert radius  316  are continuously monitored regardless of proximity to the initiating or alerting personal electronic device, until manually deactivated. 
         [0095]    As illustrated in  FIG. 6 , a secondary alert radius  318  is determined in addition to the core alert radius  316 . The personal electronic devices of the first user  312 , second user  314 , and additional users  320  located within the secondary alert radius  318  are alerted to the location of the initiating or alerting personal electronic device and their proximity to that location. 
         [0096]    The personal electronic devices located within the secondary radius are passively tracked. Specifically, while the initial alert is active and the personal electronic devices remain within the secondary alert radius  318 , the information from these person devices is relayed to another system (e.g. tracking system) to be displayed in real-time. 
         [0097]    Once a personal electronic device that existed within the original secondary alert radius  318  leaves that secondary alert radius, that particular personal electronic device is no longer relaying movement location to the other system (e.g. tracking system). If a personal electronic device enters the secondary alert radius  318  after an alert has been initiated, an alert is pushed to that particular personal electronic device and then monitored for the duration of the alert while residing within the secondary alert radius  318 . The movement of the core alert radius  316  and the secondary alert radius  318  are determined based on the movement of the personal electronic device that initiated the alert. 
         [0098]    As illustrated in  FIG. 7 , as the personal electronic device initiating the alert moves, so does the core alert radius  316  along with the secondary alert radius  318 . The measured distance from the point of origin of the personal alert to the outer edge of the core alert radius  316  and to the outer edge of the secondary alert radius are determined dynamically based on the particular programming. 
         [0099]    A flow chart diagram  410  illustrating the operation of the emergency alert communication system is illustrated in  FIG. 8 . 
         [0100]    The sequence begins with the User Alarm Initiated (Step  412 ). After the alarm is initiated, a Yes or No decision Are Users Nearby? is made (Decision  414 ). If No, then Contact Server (Step  416 ) and then Contact Emergency Services (Step  418 ) occur. If Yes, then Alert Nearby Users (Step  420 ) occurs within a Defined Radius (Parameter  422 ). 
         [0101]    After Alert Nearby Users (Step  420 ), then decision Others In Immediate Danger? is made (Decision  424 ). If Yes, then Alert Evacuate Area (Step  426 ). If No, then Alert User Nearby Requires Assistance (Step  428 ). 
       Determination of Proximity 
       [0102]    A flow chart  510  for determination of proximity of devices to a device initiated alert is illustrated in  FIG. 9 . 
         [0103]    The User Initiates Alert (Step  512 ) using the personal electronic device  16  resulting in An Alert Activated (Step  514 ) followed by Determine Communication Protocol (Step  516 ). Then Is NFC? (i.e. is Near Field Communication Available?) (Decision  518 ). 
         [0104]    If Yes for Decision  518 , then Nearby NFC Devices? (i.e. are there any Near Field Communication Devices Available?) (Decision  520 ). If Yes for Decision  520 , then Send Direct (i.e. send by NFC communication) (Step  522 ) to personal electronic device  16  to then Display Alert (Step  524 ). 
         [0105]    If No for Decision  518 , then the Alert Activated (Step  514 ) is communicated thru the Cloud  526  to the Server  12 . The location information of the personal electronic device  16  is sent to Monitoring  528  to display the person device  16  location displayed on a map. 
         [0106]    The Server  12  determines whether there are Devices Nearby? (i.e. are there Other Personal electronic devices  534  nearby or in proximity to the Device  16 ?) (Decision  530 ). If Yes, then Send (Step  532 ) an alert to the other devices  534  to Display Alert (Step  536 ). 
       Determination for Alert Recipients 
       [0107]    A flow chart  610  for determination for alert recipients is illustrated in  FIG. 10 . 
         [0108]    In the event of a Send Alert (Step  612 ) thru the Server Interface, or End User Initiated (i.e. an End User Initiated alert) (Step  614 ), then the Alert Activated (Step  616 ) occurs, which is communicated to the Server  12  to Process Alert Type (Step  618 ). 
         [0109]    After processing the alert type, then Direct Alert? (Decision  620 ). If Yes, then Send To One (1) User (Step  622 ) via Unicast (i.e. Unicast transmission) (Step  624 ). If No, then Personal Alert? (Decision  626 ). If Yes, then Send To Users Within Radius (Step  628 ) via Mulitcast (Step  630 ). If No, then All Users Alert? (Decision  632 ). If Yes, then Send To All Users (Step  634 ) and then Broadcast (Step  636 ). 
         [0110]    It will be readily understood that the components of the present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the Figures herein, can be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the invention, as represented in the Figures, is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is merely representative of certain examples of presently contemplated embodiments in accordance with the invention. The presently described embodiments will be best understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. 
       Alert Initiation Parameters 
       [0111]    An alert initiation by a person or user can be accomplished in various ways. The following list includes, but is not limited, to the various ways the alert is/can be activated in conjunction with the application and Server User Interface. 
         [0112]    1. Manually
       a. Press icon/link/button within the mobile application;   b. Use a gesture such as a swipe within the mobile application;   c. Press icon/link/button from Web Browser (Web App Version);   d. Initiated via the Main Server Control UI (User interface);   e. Long press/hold of mobile device physical button(s);
           i. Home;   ii. Volume Up;   iii. Volume Down; and   iv. Combination of multiple.   
           f. Physical movement of device
           i. Shaking;   ii. Drastic change in elevation (drop);   iii. Combination of physical gestures;
               Example, Move device left to right then shake   
               
               
 
         [0127]    2. Automatic
       a. See Physical movement, above,   b. Alert(s) initiated within predetermined radius;   c. Alert(s) initiated from:
           i. Emergency Tower;   ii. Call Box;   iii. Pedestal; and   iv. Other Alerting apparatus.   
           d. Audio Detection (not limited to):
           i. Gunshot;   ii. Glass Breaking;   iii. Vocal inflection; and
               Example, Drastic alteration in pitch or tone   
               iv. Other predetermined sound parameters.   
           e. Proximity to potential threat (user)
           i. Initiated from main UI   
           f. Proximity to natural threat
           i. Initiated from CAP message; and   ii. Initiated from Server UI.   
           g. Proximity to man-made threat
           i. Initiated from CAP message; and   ii. Initiated from Server UI.   
           h. Proximity to other user(s)   i. Enter or Leave predetermined area radius
           i. Geo-Fence   
           j. Time-based
           i. User in geo-fenced area in excess of allowed time   
           k. Restricted Area
           i. User(s) and Server UI alerted when entering/exit   
           l. Proximity to BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) Device(s)
           i. Ex. Tags, iBeacon(s), etc.   
               
 
         [0158]    3. From 3 rd  Party Application via ValcomLocate API
       a. Ex. From eLaunch, BlackBoard, etc.       
 
         [0160]    4. Any variation or combination of the above can be used to initiate alerts to the end users. The actual values (distance, range, and time of day) can be set/customized per location(s). 
       Installation 
       [0161]    The requirements for a stand-alone server: hardware, operating system, and Utilities, include: 
       Hardware 
       [0000]    
       
         A 1.0 Ghz processor or higher 
         512 mb RAM or higher 
         1 Gig Storage Space (150 mb is used for application) 
         10/100 LAN (Ethernet or Wi-Fi) 
       
     
       Operating System 
       [0166]    Windows Server 2003 (or higher) 
         [0167]    OSX Server 10.6 (or higher) 
         [0168]    Linux Server (any distribution) 
       Utilities 
       [0169]    Web Server (any) 
         [0170]    Internet Access 
         [0000]    Generic Instructions for Server Setup—What Functionality must be Available from the Server 
         [0171]    1. Install software using Server Application installer. 
         [0172]    2. Follow the prompts from installer. 
         [0173]    3. Requires Internet Access. 
         [0174]    4. Requires Local LAN Access. 
       Specific Instructions for Installing Valcom Code on Server (Stand-Alone or Shared) 
       [0175]    There are no specific instructions for installer the Server Application on a stand-alone or shared server other than using the operating system specific installer. 
       Installing the App on Phones 
       [0176]    Application can be installed via the device&#39;s specific “store” or via connect to link on server. 
         [0177]    1. iOS Device—iTunes App Store 
         [0178]    2. Windows Device—Widows App Store 
         [0179]    3. Android Device—Google App Store 
         [0180]    4. Fire Device—Amazon App Store 
       Running the App as a Service 
       [0181]    Application runs automatically using device operating system specific controls 
       Updating the App 
       [0182]    Application is updated automatically via the device&#39;s “app store” (see above). 
       Removing the App 
       [0183]    Application is removed using method specific to device&#39;s operating system. 
         [0000]    Communications—Very Specifically, What Communications Types/Protocols are used for Determining Location 
         [0184]    See Above 
       Fine-Tuning Location 
       [0185]    See Above 
         [0000]    Phone to/from Server 
         [0186]    See Above 
       When Alert on Phone is Pressed 
       [0187]    See Above 
       Architecture 
     General 
       [0188]    The emergency alert notification system is a collection of modules, each able to perform a specific task related to delivering timely and relevant information to people, based on their absolute location, or their location relative to the location of an incident or event. 
       Basic Functionality 
       [0000]    
       
         
           
             1) Being able to get information to users, based on their location, effectively instantaneously; 
             2) User reads and acknowledge receipt of the information; and 
             3) Server is able to determine an individual&#39;s location within a very small margin of error, whether outdoors, or within a large, multistory building. 
           
         
       
     
       Server 
       [0000]    
       
         
           
             1) Server modules necessary to provide the functionality requested by the customer can be activated via new serial code or by separate plug-in download (I envision our own “app store” giving customers access to 3 rd  party plug-ins or features that are not directly created by us. For example the ability to connect to 3 rd  party authentication system like Blackboard); and 
             2) Active features are determined by the server, and could be made available via Valcom, Inc. 
           
         
       
     
       Client 
       [0000]    
       
         
           
             1) Based on device the client application will be available to the end-users via their devices app store as a free download; 
             2) Client abilities are universal across all devices and app stores, and all client downloads contain all possible client functionality; 
             3) All participating users must install the program; and 
             4) Upon install, the application runs in the background without visibility to the user, end-user interaction is only available when alert (message) becomes active either via the server or personal alert. 
           
         
       
     
       Alerts 
       [0000]    
       
         
           
             1) The system can push custom alert information to a mixed group of devices (see Compatibility). 
             2) A “group” may be any size, from 1 to SystemMax(?) System Max really based on Server Hardware. No current limitations. 
             3) Device independence is achieved by including any specific controls needed for the target platform when compiling the application for a specific device. 
           
         
       
     
       Personal Help Button 
       [0000]    
       
         
           
             1) Installed on each device as part of the Alert program; 
             2) Enables the user to initiate a request for help from anywhere; 
             3) Allows the server to immediately know the exact location of the help request; 
             4) Tracking also begins immediately upon alert activation; 
             5) Passive tracking is used (latitude and longitude sent when user moves X+ from starting location); and 
             6) Location movement is handled by device. Relayed to server only when required. 
           
         
       
     
       Platform 
     Compatibility 
     Server 
       [0207]    Windows is neither required nor used. The server can run on Linux (Ubuntu 12.04 LST), and can be ported to any Server OS (Windows, Linux, or OSX Server). 
       Client 
       [0208]    The client program can run on most current devices and operating systems, including:
       1) PC Desktop/Laptop computers (2014, Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8.1) (Microsoft will no longer support XP after April 8 th );   2) Microsoft Surface RS/Pro (Windows 8.1 or above);   3) 3 rd  Party Windows Tablets (Windows 8.1 or above);   4) Windows Phone (Windows 8 Mobile or above);   5) Apple Desktop/Laptops (OSX 10.7 or above);   6) Apple iPhone (iOS 7.0 or above);   7) Apple iPad (iOS 7.0 or above);   8) Android Phone (4.3 or above);   9) Android Tablet (4.3 or above); and   10) Linux Desktops/Laptops (Ubuntu 10.04 and above recommended).       
 
       Interoperability 
       [0219]    The system can be “totally” flexible. Via API, the system can be extended to send data or commands, or receive data or commands, to/from almost any other equipment. This could include, but not be limited, to 3 rd  Party Authentication systems, RFID monitoring systems or various information providers. 
         [0220]    The system can monitor external equipment (e.g. Valcom, Inc. equipment, or other suitable equipment), filter the information, and determine if it should: 
         [0221]    1) Automatically do something; 
         [0222]    2) Automatically notify someone; and 
         [0223]    3) No action required—continue monitoring. 
       Valcom VE602× Products 
       [0224]    The system can be designed or configured to interact with Valcom, Inc. servers. Further, the system can interact with fixed communication devices (non-smart), including: 
         [0225]    1) Loudspeakers; and 
         [0226]    2) LED signs. 
       User Interface 
     Management Graphic User Interface (GUI) 
       [0227]    The system can comprise a management Graphic User Interface (GUI) that can provide the setup, options, and interface required for users to utilize their installed features. 
       Client Graphic User Interface (GUI) 
       [0228]    The system can comprise a client Graphic User Interface (GUI) that can provide, when an alert is received on a device, the following: 
         [0229]    1) Alert text pops up on screen; 
         [0230]    2) Alert tone activated; and 
         [0231]    3) If silenced device is vibrated. This also can occur in addition to the Tone. 
         [0232]    The system can be configured or designed so that, when the user presses the Acknowledge button, the following occurs:
       1) Audible alert turns off; and   2) User Acknowledgment is relayed to server. Note: can include time user received alert, time user acknowledged alert, immediate location (latitude/longitude) initiate tracking (personal alert).       
 
         [0235]    The system can be configured or designed so that, when the user closes the alert window, the following occurs:
       1) Alert screen is minimized; and   2) Note: Closing the Alert Screen does not end the program, but just closes the pop-up screen. Additional alerts will still be received.       
 
       Options: 
       [0238]    The system can comprise the following options:
       1) Pop up window vs full screen;   2) Do not lock up machine vs lock up the machine; and   3) Optional features can be either active or non-active based on administrator&#39;s choice.       
 
       Alert Notification “Pop-Up” Software 
     Server Software 
       [0242]    Server to destination device
       1) The communication is the same regardless of server platform or destination device type, making the system universal;   2) The method of sending alerts to multiple devices based on direct radius distance from initial start location;   3) The method can also be dynamic, based on number of people near the event, crowd density, type of alert, potential danger, or any number of other conditions;   4) The messages may be sent directly to the originator of the alert. At the same time a different message could go to the inner radius group, and yet a 3 rd  message to the outer radius group;   5) Using whatever resources are required (browser capabilities, Valcom, Inc. plug-ins, Google, . . . ) translate messages to the originator to a pre-determined primary language; and   6) Audio to/from phone, TTS, STT.       
 
       Client Software 
       [0000]    
       
         
           
             1) The client program is required. That is how the server receives its location information and the users receive the alerts. 
             2) Depending on device and location infrastructure, a “silent” install can be provided. 
             3) The Client Application is “Silent” by default (no direct interaction from end-user until required (i.e. running invisible—meaning it appears to be a device system function may be possible for some devices). 
             4) With no user, will be able to run as a service and provide audible alert (no visual); and 
             5) When a user is logged-in, he will be made aware of an alert via pop-up and loud audible alert. 
           
         
       
     
       Static, Dynamic, Precision, Zone, and Special Case Alerts 
     Static Alerts 
       [0254]    An alert can be broadcast as a facility-wide call, with everyone who is within range of the destination devices (loudspeakers, LED signs, . . . ) receiving the same message. 
         [0255]    The alert can also be directed somewhat more specifically, such as to, “North Campus” or “Johnson Hall”. 
       The Real-Time Capabilities of a Dynamic Alert: 
       [0256]    With Dynamic alerts, the groups do not need to be defined ahead of time. Further, there is no need to go to a larger group, combine groups, nor disturb everyone with all a call when the desired destinations don&#39;t match the predefined ones. With this system, the destination is simply clicked on, and the particular radius is then clicked on to send the alert. 
       Precision Alerts: 
       [0257]    Alerts can be sent to any or all people within a defined area or location. Different messages can be precisely delivered to the individuals or users who need the information. For example, the Personal Assistance Button is pressed on a phone by a user at location “M”. A general Warning message is immediately sent to everyone within 100 feet of location “M”. For example, then a request for assistance is sent to the closest people (e.g. closest six (6) people relative to location “M”). Situation updates are sent to the originator of the alarm. 
       Zone Alerts: 
       [0258]    A zone is a defined location or area of interest. Among other uses, a zone can keep a record of who enters and leaves the zone. For example, if an employer want to know how much time John Doe spends smoking, or if the employer wants to receive a notification when John Doe arrives at or leaves work, this information can be available with the system. 
       Special Case Alerts: 
       [0259]    For example, these functions can have the capability of taking over or bringing down an entire network depending on the situation and threat level. 
       Windows Clients Only 
       [0260]    Windows requires written request and indemnification on file from the owner of system. Possible options include taking over the entire screen, or locking up machines for a designated length of time. 
       Typical System Operation 
       [0261]    The system can immediately locate and identify people in an area, or in the vicinity of an area, event, or incident. All “Automatic” functions below can have setup options for automatic and/or manual initiation. 
         [0262]    The system can be designed or configured to provide Automatic creation and launch of CAP-based alert, based on the following: 
         [0263]    1) The location of the help request; and 
         [0264]    2) The vicinity (radius around) of help request. 
         [0265]    The system can be designed or configured to provide Automatic simultaneous broadcast of the alert to the following:
       1) Smart phones;   2) Portable smart devices;   3) Fixed (desktop) devices;   4) Loudspeakers;   5) LED signs; and   6) Various and custom customer provided communications and end-point equipment.       
 
       Automatic Notification of Security 
     Automatic 911 
       [0272]    The system can be designed or configured to Automatically initiates Real-Time Location and Tracking functions to provide the following: 
         [0273]    1) can provides authorities with critical real-time information during the Crisis; 
         [0274]    2) can provide information during Crisis Handling Evaluation; and 
         [0275]    3) can provide evidence for prosecution. 
         [0276]    The system can be designed or configured to Immediately provides authorities with the following: 
         [0277]    1) possible witness(es); 
         [0278]    2) possible perpetrator(s); 
         [0279]    3) Current Location, Direction of movement, Tracking, of people in the area; and 
         [0280]    4) Event Logging 
       Summary of Location, Tracking, and Alert Capabilities 
       [0281]    The system can provide various ways information can be handled, including:
       1) an emergency alarm is activated;   2) the location of the emergency is immediately known and provided to Security via their smart phones, wherever they are positioned at the facility at the time of the event or incident;   3) information is obtained about people in the area, such as how many people, exactly where they are located, speed, and direction of movement. Authorities are provided with information on possible witnesses, possible perpetrator(s);   4) an alert can be sent to the individuals or users closest to the emergency location, notifying them of an immediate potential for danger. The term “closest” is very flexible. At the time of the initial alert it could mean anyone within 100 feet of the location of the event or incident. As things develop it could refer to the six (6) people closest to the originator of the emergency event (even if the originator has changed location). Later it could show (for example) the three (3) people who were nearby, and who went the opposite direction;   5) the individuals or users near the incident or event can also be told a person may be in need of assistance at such and such location;   6) authorities can keep track of the location of the originator of the alarm, who often keeps moving;   7) authorities can see who moves toward the victim (help) and away (self-protection, possible perpetrator);   8) a situation like this rarely plays out in one location. Dynamic tracking and alerting provide a new level of information; and   9) the location of a situation may change as events progress, requiring new or updated alerts to various participants.       
 
       Additional Features 
       [0291]    The system can be designed or configured to provide the following: 
         [0292]    1) 2-way keyboard based communications; 
         [0293]    2) Text to Speech communication; 
         [0294]    3) Speech to Text communication; and 
         [0295]    4) Two-way Voice communications. 
       Products 
       [0296]    eHelp 
         [0297]    The system can be designed or configured to provide the following features: 
         [0298]    1) Student emergency call button; 
         [0299]    2) Secure; 
         [0300]    3) Includes GIS info; 
         [0301]    4) Initiate calls—one to many; 
         [0302]    5) Answered call plays out to one or more other points; 
         [0303]    6) All activity date/time stamp—data and audio logged/recorded; 
         [0304]    7) Easy access to duress button—logo driven; 
         [0305]    8) Activate lights/camera at our closest emergency telephones; 
         [0306]    9) Notify others within given distance of the event; 
         [0307]    10) Track phone movement after call initiated; 
         [0308]    11) Record and track others within “x” distance of event; and 
         [0309]    12) PC tool bar help icon. 
         [0000]    eLaunch 
         [0310]    The system can be designed or configured to provide the following features: 
         [0311]    1) Limited message; and 
         [0312]    2) Secure. 
         [0000]    eLocate 
         [0313]    The system can be designed or configured to provide the following features: 
         [0314]    1) Designate points (LAT/LON) with tags back to database; 
         [0315]    2) Track movement of vehicles, etc.; and 
         [0316]    3) Barcode reader passes Mac address and LAT/LON. 
         [0000]    eNotification 
         [0317]    The system can be designed or configured to provide the following features: 
         [0318]    1) Replaces SMS—Provides “Screen Pop”; 
         [0319]    2) Drive prioritized message to device; and 
         [0320]    3) Record acknowledge; 
         [0321]    4) No user sign-up required; 
         [0322]    5) “Instant view” at prioritized level; 
         [0323]    6) After acknowledge—Visual notification remains; 
         [0324]    7) With adjustable time-0ut; 
         [0325]    8) Can be GEO targeted; 
         [0326]    9) School Logo; 
         [0327]    10) Auto purge option; 
         [0328]    11) Secure; and 
         [0329]    12) Silent loopback to ensure operation.