Showing papers on "Bluetooth published in 2012"

Operator controlled device-to-device communications in LTE-advanced networks

Abstract: This article studies direct communications between user equipments in the LTE-advanced cellular networks. Different from traditional device-to-device communication technologies such as Bluetooth and WiFi-direct, the operator controls the communication process to provide better user experience and make profit accordingly. The related usage cases and business models are analyzed. Some technical considerations are discussed, and a resource allocation and data transmission procedure is provided.

Mobile Data Offloading through Opportunistic Communications and Social Participation

Abstract: 3G networks are currently overloaded, due to the increasing popularity of various applications for smartphones. Offloading mobile data traffic through opportunistic communications is a promising solution to partially solve this problem, because there is almost no monetary cost for it. We propose to exploit opportunistic communications to facilitate information dissemination in the emerging Mobile Social Networks (MoSoNets) and thus reduce the amount of mobile data traffic. As a case study, we investigate the target-set selection problem for information delivery. In particular, we study how to select the target set with only k users, such that we can minimize the mobile data traffic over cellular networks. We propose three algorithms, called Greedy, Heuristic, and Random, for this problem and evaluate their performance through an extensive trace-driven simulation study. Our simulation results verify the efficiency of these algorithms for both synthetic and real-world mobility traces. For example, the Heuristic algorithm can offload mobile data traffic by up to 73.66 percent for a real-world mobility trace. Moreover, to investigate the feasibility of opportunistic communications for mobile phones, we implement a proof-of-concept prototype, called Opp-off, on Nokia N900 smartphones, which utilizes their Bluetooth interface for device/service discovery and content transfer.

How low energy is bluetooth low energy? Comparative measurements with ZigBee/802.15.4

Abstract: Ultra low power communication mechanisms are essential for future Internet of Things deployments. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is one promising candidate for such deployments. We study the energy consumption of BLE by measuring real devices with a power monitor and derive models of the basic energy consumption behavior observed from the measurement results. We investigate also the overhead of Ipv6-based communication over BLE, which is relevant for future IoT scenarios. We contrast our results by performing similar measurements with ZigBee/802.15.4 devices. Our results show that when compared to ZigBee, BLE is indeed very energy efficient in terms of number of bytes transferred per Joule spent. In addition, IPv6 communication energy overhead remains reasonable. We also point out a few specific limitations with current stack implementations and explain that removing those limitations could improve energy utility significantly.

A 1 V 5 mA Multimode IEEE 802.15.6/Bluetooth Low-Energy WBAN Transceiver for Biotelemetry Applications

Abstract: In recent years there has been significant interest and growth in low-power wireless technologies beyond traditional consumer use cases into medical applications [1]. Previously a bastion for application specific wireless propriety protocols, the WBAN community has worked together to develop a communication standard IEEE802.15.6 optimised for low power devices in and around the human body offering the levels of QoS required for personal medical data. Additionally, the consumer electronic industry has migrated existing standardised wireless protocols such as Bluetooth to meet the demanding low energy yet robust needs of WBAN. This paper presents a transceiver chip for both IEEE802.15.6 Narrow-Band (NB) PHY draft [2] and Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) 4.0 standards as well as proprietary protocols. Multi-mode operation offers the best solution in terms of flexibility and interoperability between devices and networks, and the appropriate protocol can be chosen to optimise power consumption in numerous applications scenarios where data throughput varies dramatically; such as streaming multi-lead ECG or episodic temperature measurements. The chip operates in the 2.36GHz MBANs spectrum, specifically allocated for medical devices, and the worldwide 2.4GHz ISM band. A TX for the 780/868/915/950MHz licence-free bands in China, EU, North America and Japan respectively, is also included. The chip is architected and designed for 5mW peak active power dissipation for compatibility with 1V button cells, hence enabling small-form factor non-intrusive body worn applications.

Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) based mobile electrocardiogram monitoring system

Abstract: A wireless electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring system is developed which integrates Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology. This BLE-based system is comprised of a single-chip ECG signal acquisition module, a Bluetooth module and a smart-phone. Apple's iPhone 4S is selected as the mobile device platform, which embedded with Bluetooth v4.0, Wi-Fi and iOS. In this paper, the monitoring system is able to acquire ECG signals through 2-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor, transmit the ECG data via the Bluetooth wireless link, process and display the ECG waveform in a smart-phone. The results show that implementation of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology in the existing ECG monitoring system not only eliminates the physical constraints imposed by hard-wired link but also highly reduces the power consumption of the long-term monitoring system.

Compact UWB Printed Slot Antenna With Extra Bluetooth, GSM, and GPS Bands

Abstract: A novel compact ultrawideband (UWB) printed slot antenna with three extra bands for various wireless applications is presented. The low-profile antenna consists of an octagonal-shaped slot fed by a beveled and stepped rectangular patch for covering the UWB band (3.1-10.6 GHz). By attaching three inverted U-shaped strips at the upper part of the slot in the ground, additional triple linear polarized bands can be realized covering GPS (1520-1590 MHz), part of GSM (1770-1840 MHz), and Bluetooth (2385-2490 MHz). Simulated and measured results are presented and compared, which shows that the antenna has a stable radiation pattern both at the triple and the whole of the UWB bands.

Design and Evaluation of a Telemonitoring Concept Based on NFC-Enabled Mobile Phones and Sensor Devices

Abstract: Utilization of information and communication technologies such as mobile phones and wireless sensor networks becomes more and more common in the field of telemonitoring for chronic diseases Providing elderly people with a mobile-phone-based patient terminal requires a barrier-free design of the overall user interface including the setup of wireless communication links to sensor devices To easily manage the connection between a mobile phone and wireless sensor devices, a concept based on the combination of Bluetooth and near-field communication technology has been developed It allows us initiating communication between two devices just by bringing them close together for a few seconds without manually configuring the communication link This concept has been piloted with a sensor device and evaluated in terms of usability and feasibility Results indicate that this solution has the potential to simplify the handling of wireless sensor networks for people with limited technical skills

Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) based wireless sensors

Abstract: The following paper presents the results of a feasibility study about Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) based wireless sensors. The development of industrial wireless sensors leads to important demands for the wireless technologies like a low energy consumption and a resource saving simple protocol stack. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is a rather new wireless standard which will completely fulfill these fundamental requirements. A self-designed BLE sensor system has been used to explore the common applicability of BLE for wireless sensor systems. The evaluation results of various analyses with the BLE sensor system are now presented in this paper.

Headset Charge via Short-Range RF Communication

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention enable energy transfer via short-range RF communication between a main device and an associated device, thereby allowing the main device to energy charge the associated device. Accordingly, the need for a separate charger for the associated device can be eliminated. Embodiments of the present invention are suitable for applications in which the main device and the associated device operate in close proximity to each other. Further, embodiments of the present invention are suitable for applications in which the associated device is more energy-constrained than the main device. According to embodiments, energy transfer applications can be supported using near field communication (NFC). In an embodiment, energy transfer via NFC is enabled between a Bluetooth enabled cellular phone and a Bluetooth headset. In another embodiment, energy transfer via NFC is enabled between a Bluetooth enabled digital camera and a Bluetooth enabled digital frame.

Method and Apparatus for Interference Identification on Configuration of LTE and BT

Abstract: A method, system and device are provided for avoiding in-device coexistence interference between different radio technologies deployed in adjacent bands on the same device by estimating and identifying Bluetooth component interference activation when configuring LTE and non-LTE components to provide an in-device coexistence operation mode.

System for securing a mobile terminal

Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing user data on a mobile device using a Bluetooth fob. The method and apparatus enables robust access security, issues alerts when the user leaves proximity of his/her terminal, and can delete confidential data. The method also teaches using a Bluetooth smart phone soft token for securing data on a mobile device.

Modeling Neighbor Discovery in Bluetooth Low Energy Networks

Abstract: In this letter, an analytical model is proposed for 3-channel-based neighbor discovery in Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) networks. The model can be used to determine some important performance metrics, such as average latency or average energy consumption during the course of discovering neighbors. Since intermittent connections are frequently encountered in practical scenarios of BLE, the modeling results can provide a beneficial guidance to customize advertising or scanning behavior towards user desired performance.

Environment sensing using smartphone

Abstract: Mobile devices (in particular smartphones and tablets) can be used to monitor quality of life parameters. Today mobile devices use embedded sensors such as accelerometers, compasses, GPSs, microphones, and cameras without considering, for example, the air quality or the pollutants of the environment. This paper presents the possibility to use the smartphones capabilities to gather data from other phones or sensors. Nowadays, monitoring climate condition's parameters such as temperature and humidity is a prominent factor to control the changes of the environmental condition of living or working places for the human being. This point can be obtained by using distributed devices in different environments that containing high-resolution sensors and a wireless transmission apparatus for transferring data to smartphones. The Bluetooth was chosen as a transmission tool since it is embedded in all smartphones and it can work in the absence of the Wi-Fi connection. Smartphones are the programmable tools to have different kinds of applications that allow communicating with other devices and also gathering, analyzing and verifying data. In this paper, a novel interface by applying a Bluetooth-based sensor to sense Temperature and Humidity for monitoring of the environmental conditions using the android-based smartphone is introduced.

Bluetooth beacon based location determination

Abstract: Examples disclosed herein relate to utilizing Bluetooth beacons for location determination of a mobile device A Wi-Fi signal scan and a Bluetooth beacon scan are initiated at the mobile device A location of the mobile device is determined based on at least on at least one Bluetooth beacon detectable by the mobile device, where the at least one Bluetooth beacon is transmitted from a first location, and where the first location is the location of the mobile device A user of the mobile device is prompted for location information input, in response to determining that no Bluetooth beacons are detectable by the mobile device or when the at least one Bluetooth beacon detected is determined to be transmitted from a second location different from the location of the mobile device

RF fingerprint extraction from the energy envelope of an instantaneous transient signal

Abstract: RF fingerprinting is a technique, where a transmitter is identified from its electromagnetic emission. Most existing RF fingerprinting techniques require high sampling rates. This paper introduces a novel technique, which is effective at low sampling rates. This make RF fingerprinting more practical for resource constrained devices such as mobile transceivers. The technique is demonstrated with Bluetooth transceivers. A data acquisition system is designed to capture the Bluetooth signals in the 2.4GHz ISM band. A Spectrogram utilizing the Short Time Fourier Transform is used to obtain the energy envelope of the instantaneous transient signal and unique features are extracted from the envelope. The technique adopted for identification of the Bluetooth transmitters has shown promising results as compared to the reported techniques in the literature and have accurately classified the Bluetooth transmitters at low sampling rates.

Modeling and performance analysis of device discovery in Bluetooth Low Energy networks

Abstract: Bluetooth Low Energy (BT LE) is a low power air interface technology recently released by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (BT SIG). As a promising radio, BT LE realizes many designing features to fulfill foreseeable requirements of short range communication, such as fast device discovery, power-saving transmitting, encryption and authentication, etc. In this paper, we focus on the modeling and performance analyzing of the device discovery process in BT LE networks. A general model for device discovery on multi-channel is proposed primarily, which is then tailored and simplified for the BT LE case, where three broadcasting channels are used. Via theoretical analysis, our study reveals that some potential pitfalls are residing in the current version of BT LE specification, i.e. improper parameter settings can significantly deteriorate the device discovery latency and increase meaningless energy consumption. We accordingly propose several strategies seeking ways to tackle the problem. The results of extensive simulation show that our strategies can largely reduce undesirable latency and effectively improve the efficiency of device discovery in BT LE networks.

Mobile sensor data collector using Android smartphone

Abstract: In this paper, we present a system using an Android smartphone that collects, displays sensor data on the screen and streams to the central server simultaneously. Bluetooth and wireless Internet connections are used for data transmissions among the devices. Also, using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, we have constructed a more efficient and convenient mechanism to achieve an automatic Bluetooth connection and application execution. This system is beneficial on body sensor networks (BSN) developed for medical healthcare applications. For demonstration purposes, an accelerometer, a temperature sensor and electrocardiography (ECG) signal data are used to perform the experiments. Raw sensor data are interpreted to either graphical or text notations to be presented on the smartphone and the central server. Furthermore, a Java-based central server application is used to demonstrate communication with the Android system for data storage and analysis.

Systems for Facilitating Wireless Communication and Related Methods

Abstract: Systems for facilitating wireless communication and related methods are provided. In this regard, a representative system includes: an electronic device operative to communicate using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, the device having a Wi-Fi monitoring system operative to: monitor Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) advertising channels; receive information corresponding to a Wi-Fi-capable device via BLE Advertisement packets communicated on at least one of the BLE advertising channels; and establish communication with the Wi-Fi-capable device using the information provided by the BLE Advertisement packets.

Antennas and Propagation for Body-Centric Wireless Communications, Second Edition

Abstract: Now in a newly updated and revised edition, this timely resource provides you with complete and current details on the theory, design, and applications of wireless antennas for on-body electronic systems. The Second Edition offers readers brand new material on advances in physical phantom design and production, recent developments in simulation methods and numerical phantoms, descriptions of methods for simulation of moving bodies, and the use of the body as a transmission channel. You also find a completely revised chapter on channel characterization and antenna design at microwave frequencies.This cutting-edge volume brings you the state-of-the-art in existing applications like Bluetooth headsets together with detailed treatment of techniques, tools, and challenges in developing on-body antennas for an array of medical, emergency response, law enforcement, personal entertainment, and military applications on the horizon. The book briefs you on energy propagation around and into the body and how to estimate performance of on-body wireless links, and then dives into the nuts-and-bolts of designing antenna systems that deliver the goods. It covers on-body communication channels at microwave frequency bands and at low frequency bands, as well as ultra wideband systems for WPANs and WBANs. You get details on body-centric UWB antennas and channels, as well as advances in wearable mobile, EBG, and smart fabric antennas for cellular and WLAN communications. Chapters on telemedicine applications, such as remote diagnoses, and implantable medical devices cover crucial propagation issues and other obstacles that need to be addressed. Rounding out the coverage is a section on antenna design for body-sensor networks and their emerging military and space applications. Packed with hands-on guidance from noted experts, this volume will be indispensable for your efforts in designing and improving body-centric communication systems.Contents: Introduction to Body-Centric Wireless Communications. Electromagnetic Properties and Modeling of the Human Body. On-Body Communication Channels at Microwave Frequency Bands.Transmission Mechanism of the Wearable Devices Using the Human Body as a Transmission Channel. Body Centric UWB Communications. Wearable Antennas for Cellular and WLAN Communications. Body-Sensor Networks for Space and Military Applications. Antennas and Propagation for Telemedicine and Telecare: On-Body Systems. Antennas and Propagation for Telemedicine: Implant Systems. Summary.

Energy consumption in android phones when using wireless communication technologies

Abstract: Wireless communication technologies enable communication among different devices that are within a certain radius. Although, this radius is definite, communication when using wireless communication technologies is more flexible than when using wireline approach. This paper presents results from a measurement study where we measured energy consumption of three wireless communication technologies: Bluetooth, WiFi and 3G. We proposed an energy consumption model that is based on these measurements. Using proposed model one can calculate energy consumption for each communication technology. We show how our energy consumption model can be used on an example of the service called Collaborative Downloading. The primary goal of Collaborative Downloading service is to lower the overall energy consumption of mobile users while downloading data combining together 3G and Bluetooth or 3G and WiFi communication technologies.

System for indoor guidance with mobility assistance

Abstract: An indoor guidance system for a blind or visually impaired person. The system uses a mobile device (Smartphone, tablet, etc.) to provide maps and visual and voice guidance to assist individuals in navigating through indoor locations. Special maps are transmitted to the mobile device upon entering the facility, or downloaded in advance. The software and maps provide assistance to the user, to guide them through the facility. The system uses a combination of GPS and other technologies (Bluetooth, infrared, Wi-Fi, RFID, etc.) to provide extremely detailed and accurate location information to the user.

A Simple Design of Multi Band Microstrip Patch Antennas Robust to Fabrication Tolerances for GSM, UMTS, LTE, and Bluetooth Applications by Using Genetic Algorithm Optimization

Abstract: Design of multiband antennas with low volume is of practical interest for the ever growing wireless communication industry. In this regard, the design of a small multi band microstrip patch antenna (MPA) for GSM900 (880{960MHz), GSM1800 (1710{1880MHz), GSM1900 (1850{1990MHz), UMTS (1920{2170MHz), LTE2300 (2305{2400MHz), and Bluetooth (2400{ 2483.5MHz) applications by using a genetic algorithm (GA) is proposed. The proposed GA method divides the overall patch area into difierent cells taking into account that cells have a small overlap area between them. This avoids optimized geometries with certain cells having only an inflnitesimal connection to the rest of the patch. Therefore, the proposed method is robust for manufacturing. A shorting pin is also included for impedance matching. GA optimization combined with flnite element method (FEM) is used to optimize the patch geometry, the feeding position and the shorting position. A prototype has been built showing good agreement with the simulated results. The optimized MPA has a footprint of 46mm £ 57mm

System and method for limiting usage of a wireless communication device

Abstract: A system and method is provided for limiting, disabling and/or activating a wireless communication device during operation of a vehicle or participation in an activity. In one embodiment of the present invention, the system includes a wireless transmission device and a wireless communication device. The wireless transmission device, which includes at least one wireless transmitter, a processor, and a memory device, is configured to transmit a first wireless signal toward a first designated region, and a second wireless signal toward a second designated region. The wireless communication device, which includes at least one wireless receiver, a processor, a memory device, a keypad, and a display, is configured to receive the first wireless signal and, in response thereto, limit or disable certain features of the wireless device. This can be done by disabling certain features (e.g., cellular service, Bluetooth™, telephone calls, text messaging, emailing, its antenna, its keyboard, and/or its display) or disabling (e.g., powering down, etc.) the entire cell phone. The wireless communication device is further configured to receive a second wireless signal and, in response thereto, enable the features that have been disabled or limited via the first wireless signal. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first wireless signal is a Bluetooth signal, and the second wireless signal is an IR signal.

Bluetooth security threats and solutions : a survey

Abstract: Bluetooth technology has become an integral part of this modern society. The availability of mobile phones, game controllers, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) and personal computers has made Bluetooth a popular technology for short range wireless communication. However, as the Bluetooth technology becomes widespread, vulnerabilities in its security protocols are increasing which can be potentially dangerous to the privacy of a user’s personal information. The security issues of Bluetooth have been an active area of research for the last few years. This paper presents the vulnerabilities in the security protocols of this technology along with some past security threats and possible countermeasures as reported in the literatures which have been surveyed and summarized in this paper. It also presents some tips that end-users can implement immediately to become more cautious about their private information. Finally, the paper concludes with some recommendations for future security enhancements that can be implemented in the Bluetooth standard.

Bluetooth low energy approach detections through vehicle paired capable devices

Abstract: A method of enabling communications between a Bluetooth low energy master communication device in a vehicle and a slave communication device. The slave communication device is successfully paired with a Bluetooth high energy master communication device in the vehicle. An identifier of the slave communication device is stored when it is successfully paired with the Bluetooth high energy master communication device. The Bluetooth low energy master communication device identifies an advertising event broadcast by the slave communication device. The advertising event relates to a notification by the slave communication device of the availability of its services. A determination is made whether the identifier of the slave communication device matches the stored identifier. Wireless communications between the Bluetooth low energy master communication device and the slave communication device is autonomously established without a manual pairing operation in response to an identifier of the slave communication device matching the stored identifier.

Interference avoidance for in-device coexistence in 3GPP LTE-advanced: challenges and solutions

Abstract: With the ever growing usage of various wireless technologies and services, more and more handheld devices are equipped with multiple radio transceivers (e.g., LTE, WiFi, Bluetooth, and GNSS). As a result, in-device coexistence interference has become a serious problem due to the extreme proximity of multiple radio transceivers within the same device. It has been shown by the studies of 3GPP that for some specific frequency bands, concurrent operations of LTE and ISM/GNSS radios working in adjacent or sub-harmonic frequencies will result in significant in-device coexistence interference that cannot be completely eliminated by filter technology. This motivates 3GPP to introduce signaling mechanisms and procedures, which enable the devices to effectively solve the indevice coexistence problems with help from the LTE network. This article first discusses the scenarios in which coexistence interference may happen, and then provides an overview of main solutions and related procedures specified in 3GPP Release-11 standards for LTE. In addition, some aspects of device-internal coordination and implementation to facilitate the coexistence scenarios are also discussed.

Smart home system for Disabled People via Wireless Bluetooth

Abstract: This paper describes the Smart Home System for Disabled People via Bluetooth Wireless. Smart home system for disable people is the system called assistive domestics focuses on making it possible for the disabled to motivate them carry out the daily activity, safe and comfortable. However in our research work, we attempt to design the smart home system including the wireless controller via Bluetooth technology. This software application adapt in mobile phone, PDA, mobile computer (Samsung Galaxy Tab) using android's operating system (OS). This software application will control the electrical appliances switches wirelessly (Bluetooth). Results from this study found that the system was successfully produced where it is able to control any of the wireless switches at a distance of approximately 25 meter radius from the main controller. The system is seen potentially be used in hospitals, home care for the elderly and facilities for disabled users.