Showing papers on "Bluetooth published in 2002"

Modular personal network systems and methods

Abstract: We have disclosed a modular personal network (MPN) that includes multiple devices that may be worn, carried, or used in close proximity to a user. The devices communicate wirelessly. Functions of the MPN may be modified by adding or removing components. The MPN may communicate with a personal computer. General purpose devices may include a control unit, a display, a user input, and an audio output. The MPN may provide a variety of functions, including time, communication, entertainment, organization, guidance, athletic, medical, travel, outdoors, identity, security and military. The wireless protocol is preferrably based on the Bluetooth or IEEE 802.15 standards.

Power-saving protocols for IEEE 802.11-based multi-hop ad hoc networks

Abstract: Power-saving is a critical issue for almost all kinds of portable devices. In this paper, we consider the design of power-saving protocols for mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) that allow mobile hosts to switch to a low-power sleep mode. The MANETs being considered in this paper are characterized by unpredictable mobility, multi-hop communication, and no clock synchronization mechanism. In particular, the last characteristic would complicate the problem since a host has to predict when another host will wake up to receive packets. We propose three power management protocols, namely dominating-awake-interval, periodically-fully-awake-interval, and quorum-based protocols, which are directly applicable to IEEE 802.11-based MANETs. As far as we know, the power management problem for multi-hop MANETs has not been seriously addressed in the literature. Existing standards, such as IEEE 802.11, HIPERLAN, and Bluetooth, all assume that the network is fully connected or there is a clock synchronization mechanism. Extensive simulation results are presented to verify the effectiveness of the proposed protocols.

Dynamic content delivery responsive to user requests

Abstract: A method and system for establishing a dynamic content delivery system is disclosed. In one embodiment, a Bluetooth (103) enabled mobile communications unit is used to communicate with a server (105) in order to make a request for the delivery of specific content, such as a song, video, or the like, to a separate output device, such as a loudspeaker (109), a display screen (113), or the like. In another embodiment the content is delivered back to the requesting mobile communications device (111). In some embodiments, hybrid networks may be used for requesting and delivering content. A narrowband, bi-directional, unicast network may be used for requesting content and acknowledging the requests, while a broadband uni-directional, multicast network may be used to deliver the requested content to the requesting client device (111). The order in which the content is delivered may be modified by user requests according to a predetermined algorithm.

RFID device, system and method of operation including a hybrid backscatter-based RFID tag protocol compatible with RFID, bluetooth and/or IEEE 802.11x infrastructure

Abstract: An RFID system includes a hybrid backscatter-based RFID tag protocol-compatible with existing 802.11x/Bluetooth Standards as well as RFID standards. The tag is linked to a multi-protocol Interrogator via a generated RF Continuous Wave (CW) field. The tag includes an antenna coupled to an RFID and a Bluetooth/802.11x transceiver section. A Protocol Processor services RFID and transceiver sections and is coupled to the antenna via a backscatter switch. The Interrogator can switch the tag to an RFID backscatter radiation mode where the processor switches the antenna impedance to reflect the CW signal. For transceiver operation the processor switches antenna impedance in synchronization with a frame organized bit stream. For reception, the RFID section utilizes demodulation techniques, typically Amplitude Shift Keying (ASK), and provides a wake up mode within a predetermined distance of the Interrogator. The transceiver may operate in a backscatter or regular mode as directed by an Access Point.

Patient monitoring area network

Abstract: A system that allows patient monitoring data obtained by patient connected devices to be transferred by wireless signals to another device such as a patient monitoring processor. The same patient connected devices are used to transfer data to the patient monitor processor or a central station depending on the location of the patient. A single device is used for both a personal area network and a telemetry/transport application. The same wireless technology is used in both situations and eliminates the need to deploy more than one antenna/receiver system. Existing wireless transfer protocols such as Bluetooth are used, thereby reducing transmission power when the two communicating devices are in close proximity.

Wearable identification appliance that communicates with a wireless communications network such as bluetooth

Abstract: An identification appliance such as a wristband, headband, armband, ankleband, or legband which has a wireless communication circuit to communicate with a system, network, or device. The identification appliance preferably communicates with a Bluetooth local network and may issue or receive commands or data including voice data. An example command is to expand privileges given to the user of the identification appliance, such as entrance into a restricted area. The information appliance may broadcast its location via a Global Positioning System and have voice activation or speech recognition. The appliance may provide information about the authorized bearer such as his name, address, phone number, passport number, driver's license data, social security number, credit card information, fingerprint data, biometric voice characteristics, retinal characteristics, medical data and so on.

Dual mode bluetooth/wireless device with power conservation features

Abstract: In a dual mode Bluetooth/wireless mobile unit, the next sleep mode Bluetooth wakeup time is rescheduled to synchronize with any upcoming idle mode wireless wakeup time that will otherwise precede the Bluetooth wakeup time. The Bluetooth clock is advanced, or other reconfiguration made to the Bluetooth module, as appropriate to prevent the scanning frequency from changing during a sleep mode Bluetooth wakeup/scanning interval commencing at the resynchronized Bluetooth wakeup time.

Bluenet - a new scatternet formation scheme

Abstract: Bluetooth is a novel promising local area wireless technology designed to enable voice and data communication among various electronic devices. We believe that Bluetooth networks will provide reliable, flexible and cost-efficient telecommunication support for the post-deregulation electric power systems. Though not specified in version 1.0 of the Bluetooth specification, communication by way of multi-hop routing (characteristic of ad hoc networks) within a scatternet will offer a new and exciting extension to this technology. The topology of such an ad-hoc scatternet would have a significant effect on the overall performance of the network. We present "Bluenet" as a novel and practical scheme for building an efficient scatternet and discuss the basic rules followed by the Bluenet scheme. Two methods are introduced to evaluate the performance of the resulting scatternets based on average shortest path length and maximum traffic flows respectively. Finally the effectiveness of the Bluenet scheme is demonstrated through simulations and comparison.

Method and apparatus for increasing the security of wireless data services

Abstract: The security of wireless communications between two or more devices is enhanced by requiring detection of the physical proximity of the devices. One or more of the devices operates in a non-secure mode, wherein the authentication process required to enter into secure communications is disabled. Upon detection of the physical proximity of another device, the device enters a secure mode, wherein authentication is enabled. The entry of a security code required by the authentication process may comprise the transmission of a device address or other data, either across the proximity detection interface or via the wireless communications interface. In addition to the detection of physical proximity, a hardware handshake protocol between the two devices may be defined. For additional security, the device must enter a handshake mode before the hardware handshake will complete. The handshake mode may require entry of a password or screening by a biometric sensor. Preferrably, the wireless communication system is based on the Bluetooth technology.

The Challenge of Mobile Devices for Human Computer Interaction

Abstract: Current mobile computing devices such as palmtop computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and mobile phones, and future devices such as Bluetooth and GSM enabled cameras, and music players have many implications for the design of the user interface. These devices share a common problem: attempting to give users access to powerful computing services and resources through small interfaces, which typically have tiny visual displays, poor audio interaction facilities and limited input techniques. They also introduce new challenges such as designing for intermittent and expensive network access, and design for position awareness and context sensitivity. No longer can designers base computing designs around the traditional model of a single user working with a personal computer at his/her workplace. In addition to mobility and size requirements, mobile devices will also typically be used by a larger population spread than traditional PCs and without any training or support networks, whether formal or informal. Furthermore, unlike early computers which had many users per computer, and PCs with usually one computer per user, a single user is likely to own many mobiles devices [1] which they interact with indifferent ways and for different tasks.

Bluetooth in wireless communication

Abstract: Bluetooth is a method for data communication that uses short-range radio links to replace cables between computers and their connected units. Industry-wide Bluetooth promises very substantial benefits for wireless network operators, end workers, and content developers of exciting new applications. This article delves into the implementation and architecture of Bluetooth. It also describes the functional overview and applications of Bluetooth, and deals with the development of a model for recording, printing, monitoring, and controlling of eight process variables at the same time, using a distributed control system. We explain industrial automation via Bluetooth using IISS. Industrial automation is one of the major applications of Bluetooth technology. Industrial automation, in terms of controlling or monitoring a factory, office, or industrial process, means to install machines that can do the work instead of human workers. Industrial plants consists of many devices interconnected in different ways ranging from simple data collection units (I/O) to more intelligent devices such as sensors, one-loop controllers, or programmable controllers, and a supervisory system used as a human-machine interface (HMI) for data logging and supervisory control. An IISS is a controlling device that monitors the devices in a company. It basically communicates via the interface card in the PC; the hardware is connected parallel across the device, and it is interfaced with the PC via a transceiver. The device can be accessed both manually via the switches and remotely via the PC. A simulation of connecting a PC with the machines in a company was executed. Also, we wrote a software program using C language; we will show how the remote monitoring takes place between the control room and the PC. These details in the article establish the growing need for Bluetooth technology.

Coexistence mechanisms for interference mitigation between IEEE 802.11 WLANs and Bluetooth

Abstract: Different wireless systems sharing the same frequency band and operating in the same environment are likely to interfere with each other and experience a severe decrease in throughput. We consider IEEE 802.11 WLANs and Bluetooth-based WPANs, which operate in the 2.4 GHz ISM bands. We propose two coexistence mechanisms based on traffic scheduling techniques, which mitigate interference between the two technologies. The proposed algorithms can be applied either when 802.11 and Bluetooth are able to exchange information as well as when they operate independently of one another. Results show that through the proposed coexistence mechanisms the interference between 802.11 and Bluetooth can be reduced and the throughput of the two systems is significantly improved at the expense of a small additional delay in the transfer of data traffic.

Efficient piconet formation and maintenance in a Bluetooth wireless network

Abstract: The invention is addressing the problem of efficient formation and maintenance of piconets with assistance from the master of an already existing piconet. The master of an existing piconet initiates the formation of a new helper piconet by at least two of its slaves. One of the slaves of the existing piconet becomes the master of the newly formed helper piconet and the other slave becomes a slave of the helper piconet. This process can be used to expand the number of Bluetooth devices that can use an Internet access point. It can also be used to permit two slave devices to communicate directly with one another so as not to unnecessarily use bandwidth available through the master. Finally, the method and system could be used to provide a method of efficient hand-off from one piconet to another.

Wireless communication system and method

Abstract: A wireless communication system for use in well, subsea, and oilfield-related environments employs one or more wireless network devices that offer short-range wireless communication between devices without the need for a central network which may have a device using a BLUETOOTH protocol. The system may be used for telemetry, depth correlation, guidance systems, actuating tools, among other uses. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).

Eyewear with exchangeable temples housing bluetooth enabled apparatus

Abstract: A wireless and hoc pico network is formed by eyewear and other devices sucha as a computer, a bracelet and a telephone having similar transceivers mounted on them. Master slave relationships are configurable. Other devices, such as a radio, a CD plaxer, a hand held global positioning satellite system and a heart rate monitor, having similar transceivers, can also be connected with the transceiver of the eyewear. The transceivers operate on globally available, unlicensed radio band, 2.45 gigahertz (GHz) and conforms to the Bluetooth standard. The power consumption of Bluetooth enabled devices is less than three percent of the power consumption of a mobile phone. The eyewear includes a frame and connected to the frame are two temples. Temples are connected to frame via hinges. Temples have a male portion of a connector incorporated in them. Female portion of the connector is made integral with the hinges. When the male portion is inserted in the female portion the temple is attached to the frame. The temples can be removed by pulling the connector apart, and a temple with different apparatus within it can be inserted in place of the removed temples. The temple may have co-molded within its body, an apparatus such as an audio device, a camera, a speaker, and a microphone, and a display device such as liquid crystal or an alarm. In another embodiment, eyewear constitutes a distance alarm to monitor the movement o, for example, a child. A device in form of, for example, a bracelet is worn by the child. The transceivers in the eyewear and the bracelet form a small-range wireless network, i.e., piconet, wherein the eyewear and the bracelet communicate using signals conforming to the Bluetooth technology. The transceiver in the eyewear is configured to generate an alarm when the bracelet exceeds a predetermined distance from eyewear.

Apparatus, method and system for a Bluetooth repeater

Abstract: An apparatus, method and system to extend the range of effective communication as between Bluetooth enabled devices. A Bluetooth repeater may receive Bluetooth communications from an originating Bluetooth enabled device within range and then forward the same data to an intended recipient that was outside the range of the originating Bluetooth enabled device. In one embodiment, the data is forwarded with minor modifications to the source address so that subsequent message replies will be sent to the Bluetooth repeater for forwarding to the proper message originator. Source, destination, and repeater transceiver addresses are stored in the translation database to insure proper forwarding of Bluetooth messages between out of range Bluetooth devices.

Selective fusion location estimation (SELFLOC) for wireless access technologies

Abstract: In an RF environment serviced by 802.11, Bluetooth (TM), or other network transmitters, or combinations, location-estimation methods and systems can advantageously use redundancy to refine an estimated location of an RF receiver. In one embodiment, a method for finding a receiver's location includes receiving signals from fixed transmitters, calculating preliminary location estimates, and combining the estimates using predetermined reference information on the RF environment. The reference information preferably includes minimum mean-squared error optimizing coefficients.

Wireless communications and networking: an overview

Abstract: This paper presents an overview of wireless local-area networks (LANs) and wireless personal area networks (PANS), with emphasis on the two most popular standards: IEEE 802.11, and Bluetooth. While there are many such surveys in the current literature and online, we attempt here to present wireless LANs and PANS in a unified fashion as a viable alternative to wired LANs, while stressing the remaining challenges and limitations.

Smart-tag based data dissemination

Abstract: Monitoring wide, hostile areas requires disseminating data between fixed, disconnected clusters of sensor nodes. It is not always possible to install long-range radios in order to cover the whole area. We propose to leverage the movement of mobile individuals, equipped with smart-tags, to disseminate data across disconnected static nodes spread across a wide area. Static nodes and mobile smart-tags exchange data when they are in the vicinity of each other; smart-tags disseminate data as they move around. In this paper, we propose an algorithm for update propagation and a model for smart-tag based data dissemination. We use simulation to study the characteristics of the model we propose. Finally, we present an implementation based on Bluetooth smart-tags.

Rapid heterogeneous ad hoc connection establishment: accelerating Bluetooth inquiry using IrDA

Abstract: Bluetooth device discovery is a time-intensive phase of the Bluetooth connection-establishment procedure. In this paper we propose a technique that integrates existing IrDA technology with Bluetooth technology to improve the ad hoc connection establishment time of Bluetooth devices. We accomplish this improvement by first establishing an IrDA connection between two devices equipped with both Bluetooth and IrDA capabilities and then exchanging Bluetooth device discovery information via the established IrDA connection. As a result of this cooperative exchange, the devices are able to bypass the time-intensive Bluetooth device discovery procedure. Our research shows that IrDA-assisted Bluetooth connection establishment is up to four times faster than the normal ad hoc Bluetooth connection establishment procedure. In addition, it provides other time-savings in subsequent device selection procedures.

Communication system and method

Abstract: The present invention relates to communication systems and methods which allow the partner of communication to be easily specified. A portable telephone 52 is provided with a non-contact IC card which communicates with a reader/writer of a personal computer 51 by electromagnetic waves. When the non-contact IC card receives electromagnetic waves emitted by the reader/writer, the portable telephone 52 reports the card ID assigned to the non-contact IC card to the personal computer 51. The card ID includes the Bluetooth address of the portable telephone 52. When the personal computer 51 obtains the Bluetooth addresses of the portable telephone 52 and a PDA 53 at an inquiry, the personal computer 51 specifies the portable telephone 52 as a Bluetooth device with which synchronization is established, according to the Bluetooth address reported in advance. The present invention can be applied to information processing apparatuses such as personal computers and portable telephones.

Authorization of payment for a commercial transaction via a bluetooth enabled device

Abstract: A personal payment system that enables a desired items to be purchased by the customer utilizing a wireless enabled device such as a cellular phone, PDA, etc. The system comprises a background structure that enables electronic payment transactions, a terminal linked to the background structure having wireless interactive capabilities, and a customer device with wireless capabilities that enables the customer to remotely interact with the terminal and authorize payment for a financial transaction within the background structure. The wireless transmission features of the invention are implemented via Bluetooth protocol.

Methodology for portable wireless devices allowing autonomous roaming across multiple cellular air interface standards and frequencies

Abstract: Subscriber units and base stations of telecommunication systems are equipped with RF to IF (EXA) circuit boards which provide complete flexibility for radio communication. The boards may communicate on any air interface standard (CDMA, TDMA, Bluetooth, 3G cellular, etc.) at any frequency or band of frequencies. Separate, independent forward and reverse channels may be assignment, each having its own air interface and frequency band. When a call is initiated, a set of optimum forward and reverse channels are assigned, taking into account relevant factors such as traffic, subscriber requirements for high speed data, etc., so that the channel assignment is tailored to the current communication needs. Channel assignment is updated as needs change, as other channels become available and at handoff. In a business model, air time on multiple telecommunication systems is sold to subscribers who can use this technology to roam widely. Revenue is also generated from licensing of the EXA circuit boards in subscriber units and in base stations.

A Bluetooth radio in 0.18 μm CMOS

Abstract: This paper describes the results of an implementation of a Bluetooth radio in a 0.18m CMOS process. A low-IF image-reject conversion architecture is used for the receiver. The transmitter uses direct IQ-upconversion. The VCO runs at 4.8–5.0 GHz, thus facilitating the generation of 0 and 90 signals for both the receiver and transmitter. By using an inductor-less LNA and the extensive use of mismatch simulations, the smallest silicon area for a Bluetooth radio implementation so far can be reached: 5.5 mm. The transceiver consumes 30 mA in receive mode and 35 mA in transmit mode from a 2.5 to 3.0-V power supply. As the radio operates on the same die as baseband and SW, the crosstalk-on-silicon is an important issue. This crosstalk problem was taken into consideration from the start of the project. Sensitivity was measured at 82 dBm.

Bluetooth: Operation and Use

Abstract: From the Publisher: Unlike most other references on the market, this next-generation resource goes well beyond Bluetooth specifications and thoroughly examines different implementation approaches—as taught by a "master instructor." * Discusses Bluetooth in detail, covering both operational characteristics as well as its use in a wireless communications system * Addresses the coexistence of Bluetooth's with other wireless networks * Provides information on the significant security problems that exist when communicating without wires * Based on 2 very popular and highly effective courses the author has been teaching for more than a year BLUETOOTH Bringing low-cost, low-power wireless connectivity to data-driven devices, Bluetooth is revolutionizing human/technology interaction. Revenue generated by Bluetooth devices was $2 billion in 2001. Bluetooth revenue will skyrocket to $333 billion per year by 2006, according to international marketing, consulting, and training firm Frost & Sullivan. WORKING BLUETOOTH If you're the one who puts the bite into Bluetooth, this meaty guide is for you. In these pages, master Bluetooth instructor Dr. Robert Morrow lays out precise guidance on making Bluetooth work in today's and next-generation applications. THE INSIDE TRACK FOR WIRELESS PROFESSIONALS Packed with priceless experience, Bluetooth Implementation and Use cuts the time it takes you to * Implement “wireless cable” for phones, other handhelds, and portables * Build futuristic Bluetooth apps—for refrigerators that update PDA shopping lists, PDAs that survey local stores for the best prices, and as many others as you can dream up * Examine operational characteristics in detail * Solve security issues * Get technical insights on Bluetooth's coexistence with other wireless devices * Find the facts you want on packet structure, paging, host interfacing, and designing and testing the Bluetooth module * Probe the math behind the specifications for further research THE HANDS ON GUIDE TO BLUETOOTH Anyone tackling a job involving Bluetooth needs this in-depth guide. It goes beyond introducing the technology and prepares you for hands-on involvement with uses today and applications to come.

Location-based services for mobile stations using short range wireless technology

Abstract: A system and method for location-dependent services for mobile stations using short range wireless technology such as Bluetooth. In an advantageous embodiment, the location-based service is a suggested profile change for a mobile station. A suggested profile may be a mode of operation for the mobile station's current location (e.g., silence in a meeting room) and may be accompanied by the period of time that the profile is valid and a timer value for a forced change to the suggested profile in the absence of user interaction. In response to a prompt from a mobile station that has received a suggested profile, a user may either accept or cancel the suggested profile. Various mechanisms are disclosed for ensuring that services such as a suggested profile change is sent to mobile stations having more than a passing association with the access point's coverage area.

Low-voltage low-power CMOS-RF transceiver design

Abstract: Research over the last ten years has resulted in attempts toward single-chip CMOS RF circuits for Bluetooth, global positioning system, digital enhanced cordless telecommunications and cellular applications. An overview of the use of CMOS for low-cost integration of a high-end cellular RF transceiver front-end is presented. Some fundamental pitfalls and limitations of RF CMOS are discussed. To circumvent these obstacles, the choice of transceiver architecture, circuit topology design, and systematic optimization of the different transceiver blocks is necessary. Moreover, optimization of the transceiver as one single block by minimizing the number of power-hungry interface circuits is emphasized. As examples, a fully integrated cellular transceiver front-end, a low-power extremely low noise-figure low-noise amplifier, and a very efficient power amplifier are demonstrated.

System and method of extracting data from vending machines

Abstract: Aspects of the invention are found in a method for collecting information associated with a vending machine The method has the steps of detecting a vending event associated with the vending machine; storing a dataset stored in a standard format associated with the vending event; retrieving the dataset; parsing at least one data field from the dataset; transmitting the at least one data field In one embodiment the standard format is the DEX format Further the data field may be sent in a data packet The data packet may be compressed and encrypted before sending Further, the data packet may be transmitted with an identifier associated with the machine The data field can be transmitted to a handheld circuitry, which could be wireless in nature The at least one data field may be transmitted to a central monitoring facility The data field may be transmitted by wireless communication and/or through an interconnected network Further the data packet may be transmitted through various communications means including a telephone line, an Ethernet, a wireless Ethernet, a two-way paging system, a mobile phone system, a cellular phone system, a packet-radio system, a fiber optic network and the Bluetooth (TM) wireless communication standard The data packet may also be parsed and/or sent in response to a polling signal