California Patent of the Month – January 2021

Smart devices are a part of everyday life and with the use of Bluetooth connections, we don’t even need to have our phone in our pocket to be using it. This convenience opens us up to risk – such as walking off the bus with your music still playing, but your phone on the bus seat. Intel Corp might not be able to stop you from losing your phone, but they might be able to help protect your data. 

The speed at which data can be sent or received through a Bluetooth connection depends on the distance between the devices. The greater the distance, the greater the time it takes – this is called latency.  Some methods of measuring distance between devices require high powered beacons, but measuring the latency is a low energy alternative which means your devices will save power.

Both the user device (e.g. smart watch, fob, tablet) and the computing device (e.g. laptop, in-vehicle infotainment system, tablet) are equipped with a transceiver that communicates over various wireless networks. The devices connect over Bluetooth, and the host contacts the user device which responds with a data packet. The host device measures the time it takes to receive the data packet, taking numerous measurements over time to establish a baseline. When the distance passes a threshold, the computing device could lock or log the user off. Now, if you leave your phone on the bus seat, at least you know it will be locked and your data will be protected. 

Are you adapting existing products for new applications? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

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