WO2005104795A2 - System and method using location-aware devices to provide content-rich mobile services in a wireless network - Google Patents

System and method using location-aware devices to provide content-rich mobile services in a wireless network Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2005104795A2
WO2005104795A2 PCT/US2005/014806 US2005014806W WO2005104795A2 WO 2005104795 A2 WO2005104795 A2 WO 2005104795A2 US 2005014806 W US2005014806 W US 2005014806W WO 2005104795 A2 WO2005104795 A2 WO 2005104795A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
location
providing
information
wireless network
identification item
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2005/014806
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2005104795A3 (en
Inventor
Sarosh Vesuna
Original Assignee
Symbol Technologies, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Symbol Technologies, Inc. filed Critical Symbol Technologies, Inc.
Priority to EP05742127A priority Critical patent/EP1741303A2/en
Publication of WO2005104795A2 publication Critical patent/WO2005104795A2/en
Publication of WO2005104795A3 publication Critical patent/WO2005104795A3/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q30/00—Commerce
    • G06Q30/02—Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/08—Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W4/00—Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
    • H04W4/02—Services making use of location information
    • H04W4/029—Location-based management or tracking services
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W4/00—Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
    • H04W4/02—Services making use of location information

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to systems and methods for combining location-aware barcodes, RFID tags, or Infobuttons, with wireless network functionality to provide content-rich mobile commerce services.
  • Wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs) are rolled out with increased geographic coverage as these technologies develop.
  • Wireless LAN "Hot Spots" are becoming increasingly common in public places such as parks and cafes, while wireless WAN networks are implemented in expanding geographic regions for use with laptops and cellular phones. Additionally, as the technology progresses, bandwidth continues to increase to allow higher data dates with more reliability than was available with previous generation wireless LANs and WANs.
  • a mobile device user navigates various different types of available wireless networks, the move device is generally unaware of its present location unless some system is put in place which provides this information.
  • Some cellular information carriers for example, provide GPS (Global Positioning Systems) services for emergency response such that the location of the cellular phone or mobile device may be ascertained.
  • GPS Global Positioning Systems
  • a GPS system can be costly to implement in small or medium scales, and may not provide the accuracy required for certain localized applications. Additionally, such a system cannot provide local information directly to the mobile device, which information may be useful in conjunction with information obtained over the wireless network. It would be advantageous to provide a system and method for utilizing these emerging wireless network technologies in various applications to provide enriched location-based content to users of mobile wireless devices. Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a system and method for relating geographic location information with a location-aware device to provide enriched content to a mobile terminal.
  • a method for providing location-based information over a wireless network including the steps of providing at a geographic location a machine-readable coded identification item to provide data for uniquely identifying the geographic location, providing a first database correlating the data to the geographic location, providing a second database having information correlated to the geographic location, reading the identification item with a portable reader to obtain the identification data, using the first database to ascertain the geographic location, and using the second database to retrieve information correlated to the geographic location.
  • a system for providing location-based information which system includes a wireless network, a machine-readable coded identification item for storing location data, a mobile device, which mobile device includes at least a processor, a memory, a wireless radio configured to communicate on said wireless network, and a reader capable of reading data from said machine-readable coded identification item, wherein the mobile device is configured to read data from the machine-readable coded identification item and transmit the data over the wireless network and receive from the wireless network information relating to the location of the machine-readable coded identification item.
  • a method for providing location-based information over a wireless network including the steps of providing at a geographic location a machine-readable coded identification item providing data for uniquely identifying the geographic location, and reading said identification item with a portable reader to obtain information regarding said geographic location.
  • a system for providing location-based information including a wireless network, a machine- readable coded identification item storing data related to the location of the machine- readable coded identification item, and a mobile device, which mobile device includes at least a processor, a memory, a wireless radio configured to communicate on the wireless network, and a reader capable of reading data from the machine-readable coded identification item, wherein the mobile device is configured to read the data from the machine-readable coded identification item to obtain information regarding the location of the mobile device.
  • a method for providing location-based information over a wireless network including the steps of providing at a geographic location a machine-readable coded identification item providing data for uniquely identifying the geographic location, providing a database correlating the data to information relating to the geographic location, reading the identification item with a portable reader to obtain the identification data, and providing the information relating to the geographic location to the portable reader.
  • FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary wireless local area network and location identification apparatus which may be used in conjunction with the present invention
  • Fig. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary mobile unit according to the present invention
  • Fig. 3 is an illustration of an exemplary system and method according to the present invention in operation.
  • an exemplary wireless network 10 is shown, which may preferably comprise, for example, a network in a public location for providing content-rich mobile services to mobile device users.
  • Wireless network 10 may preferably be a Wireless WAN or alternatively may be a Wireless LAN, depending upon the particular requirements and implementation of the embodiment of the present invention.
  • the wireless wide area network may operate according to a standard protocol such as GPRS, or the wireless local area network may operate according to a standard protocol such as IEEE standard 802.11 protocol or Bluetooth protocol. It is noted that the present invention is not limited to these exemplary types of wireless networks - the present invention may be implemented in any type of wireless network.
  • Wireless network 10 perferably includes a server computer 12 coupled to a plurality of access points ("AP") 16.
  • APs 16 may preferably be wireless access points as would normally be implemented in accordance with the selected wireless network type.
  • APs 16 may be cellular communications towers operating in the downtown area of a city.
  • the access points 14 may be coupled to a server computer 12 by a link 14 which may be a standard Ethernet network cable, T- 1, ISDN, Internet, or any other means for bi-directional data transmission.
  • Server computer 12 of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention described in Fig. 1 is also preferably coupled to a database 18.
  • Database 18 is preferably used to store one or more database tables which comprise information respecting various locations, as will be discussed further hereinafter.
  • infrastructure 20 may preferably be any fixed element in a public area upon which a location information device may be affixed, such as a bus stop shelters, signposts, lampposts, mall directories, kiosks, hotels, convention centers, museums, grocery stores and other storefronts.
  • a location information device 22-26 is preferably affixed to infrastructure 20.
  • the location information device of the present invention i.e., a machine-readable coded identification item, may be a bar code 22, an information button 24, an RFID tag 26, some combination of these, or any other device which is capable of storing location data.
  • the information stored on location information device 22-26 may be any information sufficient to uniquely identify the geographic location of location information device 22-26.
  • information buttons or “infobuttons” are electronic devices which can store up to approximately 2K of data and which can be read using a contact reading device, which device is placed in contact with the information button to perform the reading function.
  • Information buttons are available from, e.g., Dallas Semiconductor, and are described more fully at www.ibutton.com.
  • buttons may preferably be used to store useful information concerning location of the button in order to allow a mobile device 30, which may include a processor coupled to an information button reader as described in further detail hereinafter, to ascertain the present location of the device.
  • Bar codes can also be used to encode location information into a format which can be read by a bar code scanner.
  • RFID tags may encapsulate this information in such manner that an RFID reader device may extract the location information.
  • location information device 22-26 in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. For example, these devices may store location information, which information can be used to ascertain the current location of the mobile device.
  • the location may be a localized location, such as a position in a single room, or a location based on some larger scale, such as position within a shopping mall or geographic location in a city or state. Regardless, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the present invention applies to varying scopes with respect to location information. Furthermore, the location information may be stored in numerous ways, such as with a unique identifier which indirectly may provide the location of location information device 22-26, or a more direct manner, such as address information, coordinates, latitude and longitude values, two- or three- dimensional coordinate values for a space within a particular building or room, etc.
  • Mobile device 30 preferably includes a processor 38, which maybe a microcontroller, microprocessor, digital signal processor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or any other control circuit which would be known to one of ordinary skill in the art.
  • processor 38 maybe a microcontroller, microprocessor, digital signal processor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or any other control circuit which would be known to one of ordinary skill in the art.
  • Processor 38 may communicate with a memory 40, which may be random access memory (RAM), readonly memory (ROM), or any other type of memory which is known to one of ordinary skill in the art.
  • Processor 38 may also communicate with RF radio 36, which is equipped with an antenna 34 for sending and/or receiving data over the wireless network.
  • RF radio 36 is configured to communicate in accordance with the selected type of wireless area network.
  • RF radio 36 may be a GPRS radio, 802.1 lb radio, Bluetooth radio, or any other device capable of transmitting and receiving data over the selected type of wireless network.
  • Mobile device 30 is also preferably configured with a device reader 32.
  • Device reader 32 may be one or more of a bar code scanner, RFID tag reader or Infobutton reader.
  • Device reader 32 may be any apparatus which is capable of reading the location information stored on the location information devices 22-26 of Fig. 1, or any other location information device used in accordance with the present invention.
  • Mobile device 30 may also preferably be configured with a display (not shown).
  • the display may be a standard LCD display suitable for displaying information retrieved over the wireless network.
  • the mobile device 30 may also preferably be configured with input apparatus to receive input from the mobile device user (not shown).
  • the input apparatus may be touch-screen functionality in the LCD display, buttons, a text or numeric keypad, a pointer device, pen-based, or any other means for receiving user input by the mobile device 30 as would be known to one of ordinary skill in the art.
  • mobile device 30 may preferably be a single integrated standalone unit, it need not be.
  • Mobile device 30 may be composed of a traditional laptop computer, personal digital assistant (PDA), handlield computer, cellular phone, or similar computing device which is configured to communication over a wireless network, used in combination with an attached reading device capable of reading information from location information devices 22-26, such as a handheld barcode scanner or RFID reader accessory.
  • PDA personal digital assistant
  • cellular phone or similar computing device which is configured to communication over a wireless network, used in combination with an attached reading device capable of reading information from location information devices 22-26, such as a handheld barcode scanner or RFID reader accessory.
  • location information devices 22-26 such as a handheld barcode scanner or RFID reader accessory.
  • Fig. 3 in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system and method described may be implemented to provide content enriched information regarding public transportation systems.
  • Location devices such as bar code 22 may preferably be affixed on infrastructure 20, in this example, a train station.
  • Additional barcodes 22 may be placed in surrounding areas on bus stop shelters, mailboxes, parking meters, restaurant storefronts, business storefronts, and any other location. Bar code 22 is preferably encoded with unique information regarding its location.
  • a train commuter 42 utilizing mobile device 30 may scan barcode 22 to enable the mobile device 20 to determine its location based on information read from barcode 22.
  • the mobile device 30 may scan the barcode 22 and transmit the scanned information over the wireless network via a wireless radio (as described in connection with Fig. 2) and utilizing antenna 34.
  • a server such as server 12 or other computing device which is coupled to the wireless network, can receive the transmitted information scanned from barcode 22 and determine the location of mobile device 30 using the information, possible by accessing a database such as database 18.
  • the device may then preferably receive data via the wireless network which is specifically tailored to the location.
  • the information may include schedule information for train station 20, realtime reports regarding rail conditions, delays, and service outages, fare information tied to the particular train station, etc.
  • the display 44 of mobile device 30 may then display this information for the user. The user may interact using an input means to select additional or different information, as desired.
  • the location information device - in this case barcode 22 - may also be used to store information locally in addition to location information.
  • barcode 22 may store static information locally, such as schedule information, fare information, train system maps, etc. Such information may be read using mobile device 30 and thereafter provided to train commuter 42 via display 44.
  • static information such as schedule information, fare information, train system maps, etc.
  • Such information may be read using mobile device 30 and thereafter provided to train commuter 42 via display 44.
  • Such functionality may provide several benefits. First, the information can be provided immediately to the user, with no waiting time for transmission of data over the wireless network. Additionally, if only such basic information is required, wireless network access may be avoided, thus prolonging battery life for the mobile device 30, conserving wireless network bandwidth for other users, and potentially alleviating service costs for wireless network access. Further, in the event of a wireless network outage or weak signal in the vicinity, train commuter 42 may still access the information sought.
  • the barcodes and other location devices may also store location-based content and advertising.
  • barcode 22 of Fig. 3 may also store advertising information relating to stores and restaurants in the vicinity of train station 20. This information may be provided to train commuter 42 via display 44. Additionally, or in the alternative, similar location-specific advertising information may be provided via the wireless network, and displayed to the user in a similar manner. In this way, the system and method of the present invention can be used to provide more effective, targeted advertising to a mobile device user based on the present location of the user.
  • a content-enriched wireless network may be implemented in a museum. In such an environment, it may be practicable and preferable to implement the present invention using a wireless local area network, such as an 802.11 network. Museum visitors may be provided with a mobile device 30 of Fig. 2.
  • Location information devices 22-26 may be affixed throughout the museum, for example, at each exhibit location. As a user traverses the museum, the user may read information devices 22-26 using the mobile device 30 to obtain enriched content concerning the selected exhibit. The enriched content may be read directly from the location information devices, may be received over the wireless network based on a location read from the location information devices, or in some combination thereof.
  • a content-enriched wireless network may be implemented in a shopping mall. Shoppers may be provided with a mobile device 30 of Fig. 2. Location information devices 22- 26 may be affixed throughout the shopping mall, for example, at each store or on mall directory displays.
  • the shopper may use the mobile device to read information devices 22-26 and obtain content concerning the selected stores or locations.
  • Content may include information about particular stores, including sales and special promotional events.
  • the content may also include directory information including maps and other information which may aid the shopper in navigating the shopping mall.
  • content-enriched wireless network functionality may be implemented at public transportation terminals, such as train stations.
  • the location information devices may be used to store, for example, train schedule and fare information.
  • the information may be location-based custom information, such as fares from the particular location to some destination, schedule information at the particular station location, etc.

Abstract

A system and method is provided for providing enriched content over a wireless network to a mobile device based on location information read by the mobile device from a location information storage device. The location information storage device may be a bar code, RFID tag, Infobutton, or any other device which may be affixed to a fixed location and which may store unique location information to be read by the mobile device.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD USING LOCATION- AWARE DEVICES TO PROVIDE CONTENT-RICH MOBILE SERVICES IN A WIRELESS NETWORK
SPECIFICATION
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to systems and methods for combining location-aware barcodes, RFID tags, or Infobuttons, with wireless network functionality to provide content-rich mobile commerce services. Wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs) are rolled out with increased geographic coverage as these technologies develop. Wireless LAN "Hot Spots" are becoming increasingly common in public places such as parks and cafes, while wireless WAN networks are implemented in expanding geographic regions for use with laptops and cellular phones. Additionally, as the technology progresses, bandwidth continues to increase to allow higher data dates with more reliability than was available with previous generation wireless LANs and WANs. As a mobile device user navigates various different types of available wireless networks, the move device is generally unaware of its present location unless some system is put in place which provides this information. Some cellular information carriers, for example, provide GPS (Global Positioning Systems) services for emergency response such that the location of the cellular phone or mobile device may be ascertained. However, a GPS system can be costly to implement in small or medium scales, and may not provide the accuracy required for certain localized applications. Additionally, such a system cannot provide local information directly to the mobile device, which information may be useful in conjunction with information obtained over the wireless network. It would be advantageous to provide a system and method for utilizing these emerging wireless network technologies in various applications to provide enriched location-based content to users of mobile wireless devices. Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a system and method for relating geographic location information with a location-aware device to provide enriched content to a mobile terminal.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In accordance with the invention there is provided a method for providing location-based information over a wireless network, including the steps of providing at a geographic location a machine-readable coded identification item to provide data for uniquely identifying the geographic location, providing a first database correlating the data to the geographic location, providing a second database having information correlated to the geographic location, reading the identification item with a portable reader to obtain the identification data, using the first database to ascertain the geographic location, and using the second database to retrieve information correlated to the geographic location. In accordance with the invention there is provided a system for providing location-based information, which system includes a wireless network, a machine-readable coded identification item for storing location data, a mobile device, which mobile device includes at least a processor, a memory, a wireless radio configured to communicate on said wireless network, and a reader capable of reading data from said machine-readable coded identification item, wherein the mobile device is configured to read data from the machine-readable coded identification item and transmit the data over the wireless network and receive from the wireless network information relating to the location of the machine-readable coded identification item. In accordance with the invention there is further provided a method for providing location-based information over a wireless network, including the steps of providing at a geographic location a machine-readable coded identification item providing data for uniquely identifying the geographic location, and reading said identification item with a portable reader to obtain information regarding said geographic location. In accordance with the invention there is further provided a system for providing location-based information, including a wireless network, a machine- readable coded identification item storing data related to the location of the machine- readable coded identification item, and a mobile device, which mobile device includes at least a processor, a memory, a wireless radio configured to communicate on the wireless network, and a reader capable of reading data from the machine-readable coded identification item, wherein the mobile device is configured to read the data from the machine-readable coded identification item to obtain information regarding the location of the mobile device. In accordance with the invention there is further provided a method for providing location-based information over a wireless network including the steps of providing at a geographic location a machine-readable coded identification item providing data for uniquely identifying the geographic location, providing a database correlating the data to information relating to the geographic location, reading the identification item with a portable reader to obtain the identification data, and providing the information relating to the geographic location to the portable reader. For a better understanding of the present invention, together with other and further objects, reference is made to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and its scope will be pointed out in the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING Fig. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary wireless local area network and location identification apparatus which may be used in conjunction with the present invention; Fig. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary mobile unit according to the present invention; Fig. 3 is an illustration of an exemplary system and method according to the present invention in operation. Throughout the figures, unless otherwise stated, the same reference numerals and characters are used to denote like features, elements, components, or portions of the illustrated embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Referring to Fig. 1, an exemplary wireless network 10 is shown, which may preferably comprise, for example, a network in a public location for providing content-rich mobile services to mobile device users. Wireless network 10 may preferably be a Wireless WAN or alternatively may be a Wireless LAN, depending upon the particular requirements and implementation of the embodiment of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, the wireless wide area network may operate according to a standard protocol such as GPRS, or the wireless local area network may operate according to a standard protocol such as IEEE standard 802.11 protocol or Bluetooth protocol. It is noted that the present invention is not limited to these exemplary types of wireless networks - the present invention may be implemented in any type of wireless network. Wireless network 10 perferably includes a server computer 12 coupled to a plurality of access points ("AP") 16. These access points may preferably be wireless access points as would normally be implemented in accordance with the selected wireless network type. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention utilizing a GPRS wireless WAN, APs 16 may be cellular communications towers operating in the downtown area of a city. The access points 14 may be coupled to a server computer 12 by a link 14 which may be a standard Ethernet network cable, T- 1, ISDN, Internet, or any other means for bi-directional data transmission. Server computer 12 of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention described in Fig. 1 is also preferably coupled to a database 18. Database 18 is preferably used to store one or more database tables which comprise information respecting various locations, as will be discussed further hereinafter. In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, infrastructure 20 may preferably be any fixed element in a public area upon which a location information device may be affixed, such as a bus stop shelters, signposts, lampposts, mall directories, kiosks, hotels, convention centers, museums, grocery stores and other storefronts. Also in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a location information device 22-26 is preferably affixed to infrastructure 20. The location information device of the present invention, i.e., a machine-readable coded identification item, may be a bar code 22, an information button 24, an RFID tag 26, some combination of these, or any other device which is capable of storing location data. The information stored on location information device 22-26 may be any information sufficient to uniquely identify the geographic location of location information device 22-26. For example, information buttons (or "infobuttons") are electronic devices which can store up to approximately 2K of data and which can be read using a contact reading device, which device is placed in contact with the information button to perform the reading function. Information buttons are available from, e.g., Dallas Semiconductor, and are described more fully at www.ibutton.com. Similar functionality may be provided, in accordance with the present invention, using bar codes and/or RFID tags. In accordance with the present invention, information buttons may preferably be used to store useful information concerning location of the button in order to allow a mobile device 30, which may include a processor coupled to an information button reader as described in further detail hereinafter, to ascertain the present location of the device. Bar codes can also be used to encode location information into a format which can be read by a bar code scanner. RFID tags may encapsulate this information in such manner that an RFID reader device may extract the location information. A wide variety of information may be stored by location information device 22-26 in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. For example, these devices may store location information, which information can be used to ascertain the current location of the mobile device. The location may be a localized location, such as a position in a single room, or a location based on some larger scale, such as position within a shopping mall or geographic location in a city or state. Regardless, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the present invention applies to varying scopes with respect to location information. Furthermore, the location information may be stored in numerous ways, such as with a unique identifier which indirectly may provide the location of location information device 22-26, or a more direct manner, such as address information, coordinates, latitude and longitude values, two- or three- dimensional coordinate values for a space within a particular building or room, etc. Such additional information may preferably be stored on location information device 22-26 as would be advantageous within the context of the implementation of the system and method of the present invention. For example, it may be beneficial to store location-based information which can be read by a mobile reader device without use of the wireless network or in conjunction with the wireless network. Such embodiments are further described hereinafter. Referring now to Fig. 2, an exemplary embodiment of a mobile device 30 of the present invention is shown. Mobile device 30 preferably includes a processor 38, which maybe a microcontroller, microprocessor, digital signal processor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or any other control circuit which would be known to one of ordinary skill in the art. Processor 38 may communicate with a memory 40, which may be random access memory (RAM), readonly memory (ROM), or any other type of memory which is known to one of ordinary skill in the art. Processor 38 may also communicate with RF radio 36, which is equipped with an antenna 34 for sending and/or receiving data over the wireless network. RF radio 36 is configured to communicate in accordance with the selected type of wireless area network. Depending upon the selected type of wireless network, RF radio 36 may be a GPRS radio, 802.1 lb radio, Bluetooth radio, or any other device capable of transmitting and receiving data over the selected type of wireless network. Mobile device 30 is also preferably configured with a device reader 32. Device reader 32 may be one or more of a bar code scanner, RFID tag reader or Infobutton reader. Alternatively, Device reader 32 may be any apparatus which is capable of reading the location information stored on the location information devices 22-26 of Fig. 1, or any other location information device used in accordance with the present invention. Mobile device 30 may also preferably be configured with a display (not shown). The display may be a standard LCD display suitable for displaying information retrieved over the wireless network. The mobile device 30 may also preferably be configured with input apparatus to receive input from the mobile device user (not shown). The input apparatus may be touch-screen functionality in the LCD display, buttons, a text or numeric keypad, a pointer device, pen-based, or any other means for receiving user input by the mobile device 30 as would be known to one of ordinary skill in the art. It is further noted that while mobile device 30 may preferably be a single integrated standalone unit, it need not be. Mobile device 30 may be composed of a traditional laptop computer, personal digital assistant (PDA), handlield computer, cellular phone, or similar computing device which is configured to communication over a wireless network, used in combination with an attached reading device capable of reading information from location information devices 22-26, such as a handheld barcode scanner or RFID reader accessory. Referring now to Fig. 3, in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system and method described may be implemented to provide content enriched information regarding public transportation systems. Location devices such as bar code 22 may preferably be affixed on infrastructure 20, in this example, a train station. Additional barcodes 22 may be placed in surrounding areas on bus stop shelters, mailboxes, parking meters, restaurant storefronts, business storefronts, and any other location. Bar code 22 is preferably encoded with unique information regarding its location. In operation, a train commuter 42 utilizing mobile device 30 may scan barcode 22 to enable the mobile device 20 to determine its location based on information read from barcode 22. Alternatively, the mobile device 30 may scan the barcode 22 and transmit the scanned information over the wireless network via a wireless radio (as described in connection with Fig. 2) and utilizing antenna 34. Then a server, such as server 12 or other computing device which is coupled to the wireless network, can receive the transmitted information scanned from barcode 22 and determine the location of mobile device 30 using the information, possible by accessing a database such as database 18. Using the known location of the mobile device 30, the device may then preferably receive data via the wireless network which is specifically tailored to the location. The information may include schedule information for train station 20, realtime reports regarding rail conditions, delays, and service outages, fare information tied to the particular train station, etc. The display 44 of mobile device 30 may then display this information for the user. The user may interact using an input means to select additional or different information, as desired. Additionally, the location information device - in this case barcode 22 - may also be used to store information locally in addition to location information. For example, barcode 22 may store static information locally, such as schedule information, fare information, train system maps, etc. Such information may be read using mobile device 30 and thereafter provided to train commuter 42 via display 44. Such functionality may provide several benefits. First, the information can be provided immediately to the user, with no waiting time for transmission of data over the wireless network. Additionally, if only such basic information is required, wireless network access may be avoided, thus prolonging battery life for the mobile device 30, conserving wireless network bandwidth for other users, and potentially alleviating service costs for wireless network access. Further, in the event of a wireless network outage or weak signal in the vicinity, train commuter 42 may still access the information sought. In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the barcodes and other location devices may also store location-based content and advertising. For example, barcode 22 of Fig. 3 may also store advertising information relating to stores and restaurants in the vicinity of train station 20. This information may be provided to train commuter 42 via display 44. Additionally, or in the alternative, similar location-specific advertising information may be provided via the wireless network, and displayed to the user in a similar manner. In this way, the system and method of the present invention can be used to provide more effective, targeted advertising to a mobile device user based on the present location of the user. In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a content-enriched wireless network may be implemented in a museum. In such an environment, it may be practicable and preferable to implement the present invention using a wireless local area network, such as an 802.11 network. Museum visitors may be provided with a mobile device 30 of Fig. 2. Location information devices 22-26 may be affixed throughout the museum, for example, at each exhibit location. As a user traverses the museum, the user may read information devices 22-26 using the mobile device 30 to obtain enriched content concerning the selected exhibit. The enriched content may be read directly from the location information devices, may be received over the wireless network based on a location read from the location information devices, or in some combination thereof. In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a content-enriched wireless network may be implemented in a shopping mall. Shoppers may be provided with a mobile device 30 of Fig. 2. Location information devices 22- 26 may be affixed throughout the shopping mall, for example, at each store or on mall directory displays. As a shopping navigates the shopping mall, the shopper may use the mobile device to read information devices 22-26 and obtain content concerning the selected stores or locations. Content may include information about particular stores, including sales and special promotional events. The content may also include directory information including maps and other information which may aid the shopper in navigating the shopping mall. In still another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, content-enriched wireless network functionality may be implemented at public transportation terminals, such as train stations. The location information devices may be used to store, for example, train schedule and fare information. The information may be location-based custom information, such as fares from the particular location to some destination, schedule information at the particular station location, etc. While there have been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the present invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further changes may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and embodiments as fall within the true scope of the invention.

Claims

I CLAIM: 1. A method for providing location-based information over a wireless network, comprising: providing at a geographic location a machine-readable coded identification item, said item providing data for uniquely identifying said geographic location; providing a first database correlating said data to said geographic location; providing a second database having information correlated to said geographic location; reading said identification item with a portable reader to obtain said identification data; using said first database to ascertain said geographic location; and using said second database to retrieve information correlated to said geographic location.
2. A method as specified in claim 1, wherein said identification item is a bar code label.
3. A method as specified in claim 1, wherein said identification item is an RFTD tag.
4. A method as specified in claim 1, wherein said identification item is an information button.
5. A method as specified in claim 1 wherein providing said second database includes providing a map.
6. A method as specified in claim 1 wherein providing said second database includes providing information regarding businesses located in the vicinity of said geographic location.
7. A method as specified in claim 1 wherein said information correlated to said geographic location is retrieved via a wireless network.
8. A system for providing location-based information, comprising: a wireless network; a machine-readable coded identification item, said item storing data related to the location of said machine-readable coded identification item; and a mobile device, which mobile device includes at least a processor, a memory, a wireless radio configured to communicate on said wireless network, and a reader capable of reading data from said machine-readable coded identification item; wherein said mobile device is configured to read said data from said machine- readable coded identification item and transmit said data over said wireless network, and further to receive from said wireless network information relating to said location of said machine-readable coded identification item.
9. The system of claim 8 wherein the machine-readable coded identification item is a bar code.
10. The system of claim 8 wherein the machine-readable coded identification item is an RFID tag.
11. The system of claim 8 wherein the machine-readable coded identification item is an information button.
12. A method for providing location-based information over a wireless network, comprising: providing at a geographic location a machine-readable coded identification item, said item providing data for uniquely identifying said geographic location; and reading said identification item with a portable reader to obtain information regarding said geographic location.
13. A system for providing location-based information, comprising: a wireless network; a machine-readable coded identification item, said item storing data related to the location of said machine-readable coded identification item; and a mobile device, which mobile device includes at least a processor, a memory, a wireless radio configured to communicate on said wireless network, and a reader capable of reading data from said machine-readable coded identification item; wherein said mobile device is configured to read said data from said machine- readable coded identification item to obtain information regarding the location of said mobile device.
14. A method for providing location-based information over a wireless network, comprising: providing at a geographic location a machine-readable coded identification item, said item providing data for uniquely identifying said geographic location; providing a database correlating said data to information relating to said geographic location; reading said identification item with a portable reader to obtain said identification data; and providing said information relating to said geographic location to said portable reader.
PCT/US2005/014806 2004-04-28 2005-04-28 System and method using location-aware devices to provide content-rich mobile services in a wireless network WO2005104795A2 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP05742127A EP1741303A2 (en) 2004-04-28 2005-04-28 System and method using location-aware devices to provide content-rich mobile services in a wireless network

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/834,747 2004-04-28
US10/834,747 US20050245271A1 (en) 2004-04-28 2004-04-28 System and method using location-aware devices to provide content-rich mobile services in a wireless network

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2005104795A2 true WO2005104795A2 (en) 2005-11-10
WO2005104795A3 WO2005104795A3 (en) 2006-04-06

Family

ID=35187781

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2005/014806 WO2005104795A2 (en) 2004-04-28 2005-04-28 System and method using location-aware devices to provide content-rich mobile services in a wireless network

Country Status (3)

Country Link
US (1) US20050245271A1 (en)
EP (1) EP1741303A2 (en)
WO (1) WO2005104795A2 (en)

Families Citing this family (72)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AUPQ439299A0 (en) * 1999-12-01 1999-12-23 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Interface system
US7831244B2 (en) * 1999-06-30 2010-11-09 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Retrieving an image via a coded surface
US20050052661A1 (en) * 1999-06-30 2005-03-10 Paul Lapstun Cartridge with identifiers
US7558563B2 (en) * 1999-09-17 2009-07-07 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Retrieving contact details via a coded surface
US7558598B2 (en) 1999-12-01 2009-07-07 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Dialling a number via a coded surface
US7404520B2 (en) * 2004-04-28 2008-07-29 Symbol Technologies, Inc. System and method for providing location information in transaction processing
CN1632811A (en) * 2004-11-10 2005-06-29 北京银河视讯传媒广告有限公司 Advertisement information acquisition and real-time analysis system and method thereof
US7426197B2 (en) * 2004-11-24 2008-09-16 Qualcomm Incorporated Method and apparatus for location determination of a wireless device within an environment
CN1779481B (en) * 2004-11-26 2011-12-14 国际商业机器公司 Position identifying method, mobile terminal and system
US20060143090A1 (en) * 2004-12-27 2006-06-29 Barry Ridings Method and system for identifying wireless network coverage gaps
US20080300780A1 (en) * 2005-02-07 2008-12-04 Dmitry Domnin Method for automating task with portable device
WO2006090855A1 (en) * 2005-02-25 2006-08-31 Kyocera Corporation Read device, information providing system, and provided information acquisition method
US9088665B2 (en) * 2005-06-28 2015-07-21 Avaya Inc. Context awareness for a mobile communication device
JP2007089131A (en) * 2005-07-25 2007-04-05 Sony Corp Information processor and method, program, and recording medium
US7783323B2 (en) * 2005-09-19 2010-08-24 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing a web page using a mobile device
US7742755B2 (en) * 2005-09-19 2010-06-22 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Retrieving a bill via a coded surface
US7761090B2 (en) 2005-09-19 2010-07-20 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Print remotely to a mobile device
US7778666B2 (en) * 2005-09-19 2010-08-17 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing a gambling ticket using a mobile device
US7654444B2 (en) 2005-09-19 2010-02-02 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Reusable sticker
US7747280B2 (en) 2005-09-19 2010-06-29 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Retrieving a product via a coded surface
US7724399B2 (en) 2005-09-19 2010-05-25 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Method of downloading and installing a software object
US7738919B2 (en) * 2005-09-19 2010-06-15 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Link object to card
US20070064075A1 (en) * 2005-09-19 2007-03-22 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing a membership using a mobile device
US7672664B2 (en) 2005-09-19 2010-03-02 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing a reminder list using mobile device
US7697714B2 (en) * 2005-09-19 2010-04-13 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Associating an object with a sticker and a surface
US7774025B2 (en) * 2005-09-19 2010-08-10 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing content on a reverse side of a coded surface
US7805162B2 (en) 2005-09-19 2010-09-28 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Print card with linked object
US7621442B2 (en) 2005-09-19 2009-11-24 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing a subscription using a mobile device
US7708203B2 (en) 2005-09-19 2010-05-04 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Link object to sticker
US7756526B2 (en) * 2005-09-19 2010-07-13 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Retrieving a web page via a coded surface
US7689249B2 (en) * 2005-09-19 2010-03-30 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing a security identification using a mobile device
US7403796B2 (en) * 2005-09-19 2008-07-22 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing dating information using a mobile device
US7855805B2 (en) 2005-09-19 2010-12-21 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing a competition entry form using a mobile device
US7558597B2 (en) * 2005-09-19 2009-07-07 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd. Retrieving a ringtone via a coded surface
US20070064259A1 (en) * 2005-09-19 2007-03-22 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing a timetable using a mobile device
US7558599B2 (en) 2005-09-19 2009-07-07 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Printing a bill using a mobile device
US7668540B2 (en) 2005-09-19 2010-02-23 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Print on a mobile device with persistence
US20070106897A1 (en) * 2005-11-07 2007-05-10 Michael Kulakowski Secure RFID authentication system
US7515576B2 (en) * 2006-01-31 2009-04-07 Microsoft Corporation User interface and data structure for transmitter fingerprints of network locations
US7885668B2 (en) * 2006-01-31 2011-02-08 Microsoft Corporation Determining the network location of a user device based on transmitter fingerprints
EP1816845B1 (en) 2006-02-06 2020-03-04 Swisscom AG Method and system for location dependent charging of services
US7933612B2 (en) * 2006-02-28 2011-04-26 Microsoft Corporation Determining physical location based upon received signals
US8370381B2 (en) * 2006-09-22 2013-02-05 Microsoft Corporation Location based information
US8126782B1 (en) * 2006-10-06 2012-02-28 Sprint Communications Company L.P. Method and device for location integrated ordering and queue placement
ITUD20060243A1 (en) * 2006-11-23 2008-05-24 Eurotech S P A EQUIPMENT AND PROCEDURE FOR THE DISSEMINATION OF VOCAL MESSAGES RELATING TO SITES, WHICH MUSEUMS, PARKS, PUBLIC INTEREST SITES, ETC.
US20080154673A1 (en) * 2006-12-20 2008-06-26 Microsoft Corporation Load-balancing store traffic
US8159329B1 (en) 2007-03-14 2012-04-17 At&T Intellectual Property Ii, L.P. Location determination and guidance using radio frequency identification
US7659823B1 (en) * 2007-03-20 2010-02-09 At&T Intellectual Property Ii, L.P. Tracking variable conditions using radio frequency identification
US20090058647A1 (en) * 2007-08-27 2009-03-05 International Business Machines Corporation System and method for rfid dynamic content presentation
US8010286B2 (en) 2007-09-07 2011-08-30 Maritz Inc. Automated narration and recording for drive events
US8121784B2 (en) * 2007-09-07 2012-02-21 Maritz, Inc. GPS triggered narration and recording for drive events
US8494589B2 (en) * 2007-09-28 2013-07-23 First Data Corporation Service discovery via mobile imaging systems and methods
US20090112684A1 (en) * 2007-10-26 2009-04-30 First Data Corporation Integrated Service Discovery Systems And Methods
US9208293B1 (en) * 2008-01-28 2015-12-08 Sprint Communications Company L.P. Authentication for tag-based content delivery
US11017428B2 (en) 2008-02-21 2021-05-25 Google Llc System and method of data transmission rate adjustment
US10013986B1 (en) 2016-12-30 2018-07-03 Google Llc Data structure pooling of voice activated data packets
US8065185B2 (en) * 2008-02-21 2011-11-22 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method of providing targeted advertisements from subscribers of directory services
FR2934106B1 (en) * 2008-07-21 2010-09-03 Anthoine Laetitia Caroline Edmee Gazel DEVICE FOR DISPLAYING MOBILE PHONES WITH VARIABLE INFORMATION ACCORDING TO THE TIME AND POSITION OF THE TELEPHONE IN THE URBAN ENVIRONMENT
FI20085778A0 (en) * 2008-08-18 2008-08-18 Upc Konsultointi Oy Location in mobile device
TWI384201B (en) * 2008-08-21 2013-02-01 Mstar Semiconductor Inc Identification tag navigation system and method of the same
US20100125516A1 (en) 2008-11-14 2010-05-20 Wankmueller John R Methods and systems for secure mobile device initiated payments
US8489112B2 (en) * 2009-07-29 2013-07-16 Shopkick, Inc. Method and system for location-triggered rewards
US9264151B1 (en) 2009-07-29 2016-02-16 Shopkick, Inc. Method and system for presence detection
US8249563B1 (en) * 2009-10-30 2012-08-21 Sprint Communications Company L.P. Location specific content for mobile communication devices
US20110131203A1 (en) * 2009-12-02 2011-06-02 International Business Machines Corporation Determining Website Relevancy at the Time of Asset Usage using Location Based Services
US8326281B2 (en) * 2011-02-16 2012-12-04 Research In Motion Limited Mobile wireless communications device providing object reference data based upon near field communication (NFC) and related methods
US8078349B1 (en) * 2011-05-11 2011-12-13 Google Inc. Transitioning a mixed-mode vehicle to autonomous mode
US8929922B2 (en) * 2011-06-03 2015-01-06 Airborne Media Group, Inc. Mobile device for venue-oriented communications
WO2013025536A1 (en) * 2011-08-12 2013-02-21 Ebay Inc. Systems and methods for personalized pricing
KR20130137489A (en) * 2012-06-07 2013-12-17 주식회사 케이티 Method and system for providing service
US20150024711A1 (en) * 2013-07-19 2015-01-22 James A. STOB Method and system for compiling map data
US9697395B2 (en) * 2014-07-11 2017-07-04 The Boeing Company Mobile tag reader portal

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6053030A (en) * 1999-01-22 2000-04-25 Bacou Usa Safety, Incorporated Instrument information and identification system and method
US20020057780A1 (en) * 1998-08-10 2002-05-16 Carol Shifrin Gruchala System and method for selecting a destination number upon receiving a dialed number from a calling party
US20020102989A1 (en) * 2001-01-26 2002-08-01 Calvert Brian Edward Method and apparatus for accurately locating a communication device in a wireless communication system
US6671698B2 (en) * 2002-03-20 2003-12-30 Deere & Company Method and system for automated tracing of an agricultural product

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20020057780A1 (en) * 1998-08-10 2002-05-16 Carol Shifrin Gruchala System and method for selecting a destination number upon receiving a dialed number from a calling party
US6053030A (en) * 1999-01-22 2000-04-25 Bacou Usa Safety, Incorporated Instrument information and identification system and method
US20020102989A1 (en) * 2001-01-26 2002-08-01 Calvert Brian Edward Method and apparatus for accurately locating a communication device in a wireless communication system
US6671698B2 (en) * 2002-03-20 2003-12-30 Deere & Company Method and system for automated tracing of an agricultural product

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2005104795A3 (en) 2006-04-06
EP1741303A2 (en) 2007-01-10
US20050245271A1 (en) 2005-11-03

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US20050245271A1 (en) System and method using location-aware devices to provide content-rich mobile services in a wireless network
US9420423B1 (en) RF beacon deployment and method of use
JP4489863B2 (en) Location information system
US9491584B1 (en) Hospitality venue navigation, guide, and local based services applications utilizing RF beacons
KR100598266B1 (en) Method of sharing information relating to an information transmitting medium among mobile terminals
US7940171B2 (en) Machine-readable representation of geographic information
EP1743274B1 (en) System and method for providing location information in transaction processing
US8866673B2 (en) System and method for providing indoor navigation and special local base service application for malls stores shopping centers and buildings utilize RF beacons
Fouskas et al. On the potential use of mobile positioning technologies in indoor environments
US20060144920A1 (en) Identifiable reading tag, commercial system and portable device applying identifiable reading tag
US20030061110A1 (en) Location based services virtual bookmarking
US6983155B1 (en) Providing geographic directions to a destination using a mobile wireless communication device
JP2002048586A (en) Navigation method, portable information apparatus, navigation server, and optical data analytic server
WO2002075692A2 (en) Information system for travellers
JP4801657B2 (en) Advertisement map display system and server
CN103148857A (en) Information providing method and system thereof
KR100757980B1 (en) Location based service system for pedestrian and the method thereof
JP2000205888A (en) Method and apparatus for acquiring position and orientation information
US20020142768A1 (en) Position display system using wireless mobile terminals
US20140058658A1 (en) Location-based service navigation system and navigation display method thereof
JP2002228481A (en) Method and apparatus for acquiring position relating information
EP1837781A1 (en) Method, device and system for automated context information based selective data provision by identification means
JP2002288385A (en) Congesting situation detector
JP2004341460A (en) Method and device for displaying map
CN108093365B (en) Geographical sign information sending method and device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated states

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): AE AG AL AM AT AU AZ BA BB BG BR BW BY BZ CA CH CN CO CR CU CZ DE DK DM DZ EC EE EG ES FI GB GD GE GH GM HR HU ID IL IN IS JP KE KG KM KP KR KZ LC LK LR LS LT LU LV MA MD MG MK MN MW MX MZ NA NI NO NZ OM PG PH PL PT RO RU SC SD SE SG SK SL SM SY TJ TM TN TR TT TZ UA UG US UZ VC VN YU ZA ZM ZW

AL Designated countries for regional patents

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): BW GH GM KE LS MW MZ NA SD SL SZ TZ UG ZM ZW AM AZ BY KG KZ MD RU TJ TM AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LT LU MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR BF BJ CF CG CI CM GA GN GQ GW ML MR NE SN TD TG

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2005742127

Country of ref document: EP

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

WWW Wipo information: withdrawn in national office

Country of ref document: DE

WWP Wipo information: published in national office

Ref document number: 2005742127

Country of ref document: EP