GB2569050B

GB2569050B - Method and system for managing the download of data

Info

Publication number: GB2569050B
Application number: GB1902084.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Stanford Colin
Original assignee: Pinnacle Response Ltd
Current assignee: Pinnacle Response Ltd
Priority date: 2016-06-30
Filing date: 2017-06-30
Publication date: 2019-10-09
Anticipated expiration: 2037-06-30
Also published as: GB201902084D0; GB201710516D0; GB2554136A; GB201611454D0; GB2569050A; GB2554136B; GB2573077A; GB201910592D0

Description

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MANAGING THE DOWNLOAD OF DATA

The present invention relates to wearable devices having data capturing means, and in particular to wearable devices such as body cameras where data is uploaded from the wearable devices to a computer system.

Front line personnel, such as members of the military, police and private security often find themselves in hostile environments where they are alone or outnumbered and at risk of being subject to verbal harassment and physical confrontation. These environments can often come about quickly and unpredictably and are often triggered by something seemingly innocuous. Verbal and physical confrontation can lead to physical and mental trauma for the personnel, cause stress, and generally lead to a loss of man hours and a high turnover in these professions. Equally, members of the public are often concerned about the heavy handedness and lack of accountability of personnel, particularly in view of a number of high-profile cases.

Wearable devices with data capturing means such as body worn cameras have found a role in meeting the concerns of both the personnel and the public. In particular, having a wearable device in a visible position on the personnel modifies and calms both the behaviour of the public and the personnel as they know their actions are being recorded. This can deter against acts of aggression and de-escalate tense situations. Wearable devices with data capturing means are important in improving the public perception of personnel by ensuring transparency and accountability. Wearable devices also have a general role in surveillance and can be discreetly mounted on a person for covert surveillance. Having verifiable audio/video reporting is beneficial in evidence gathering as it provides an overview of the scene, time-stamp, verbal exchanges, sequence of events and first-account witness statements.

One existing body worn camera system by Reveal Media Ltd. comprises a battery, camera and memory storage unit disposed in a housing which can be clipped or otherwise fastened to an operator’s torso. After an operation is complete, the data recorded on the body worn camera is transferred to a computer system which manages data retention and analysis. To transfer the data, the operator will physically connect the body worn camera to the computer/server over a wired connection. This can either be through a direct wired connection, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection, between the body worn camera and the computer system or alternatively can be through an indirect wired connection where the body worn camera is physically mounted in a hub station that is directly wired to the computer system. Using the hub station is generally the preferred option as it can physically support a number of body worn cameras while only requiring one wired connection to the computer system.

Having the body worn camera transmit/receive data over a wired connection to the computer system can be disadvantageous, as it places a restriction on the location of the hub station I body worn camera. For example, in large organisations, each member of front line personnel will typically be assigned a body worn camera, and there will be a single computer system to manage and retain the data. In such an arrangement, the front line personnel would have to travel to this central room in order to perform the data transfer, wasting valuable time.

Another existing body worn camera by Utility Associates Inc. automatically offloads data recorded on the body worn camera to a local portable hub, such as in a police vehicle, over a wireless network. In this system, the local portable hub acts as a Wi-Fi (RTM) hotspot to provide wireless connectivity over a limited range around the vehicle. The local portable hub will in turn be connected to a computer system to complete the data upload. While this system does avoid the problem of having to connect the body worn camera to a computer system over a wired network, continuously transmitting data over a wireless network throughout an operation will drain the battery of the body worn camera, decreasing its operational life. Further, the instant transferal of data from the body worn camera can be undesirable in situations where it is important to preserve the integrity and security of the recorded data. Further still, the body worn camera will only be fully operational when in wireless communication range of the local portable hub.

It is an object of the present invention, to obviate and/or mitigate the existing problems associated with wearable devices such as body worn cameras that utilise either wired or wireless connections to a computer system.

It is a further object of the present invention, to obviate and/or mitigate problems associated with the upload of data from wearable devices such as body worn cameras to a computer system.

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a device comprising: data capturing means; and wireless communication means, the wearable device being operable to automatically activate the wireless communication means to connect to/establish a wireless network in response to the wearable device being positioned in a hub station.

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a wearable device comprising: data capturing means; and wireless communication means, the wearable device being operable to automatically activate the wireless communication means to connect to/establish a wireless network in response to the wearable device being positioned in a hub station.

In existing wireless systems with hub stations, the wearable device transmits/receives data over a wired connection between the hub station and a computer system. The present invention is able to avoid this wired connection requirement by providing a wireless communication means in the wearable device. The wireless communication means can transmit/receive data, and no data connection between the hub station and a computer system is required. This removes the location restriction on the hub station so that they can be located anywhere within the wireless network rather than having to be hard wired to the computer system. As a result, a front line personnel will not have to travel to a central room/office to perform the data upload. Instead, the front line personnel can have their own hub station located anywhere within the wireless network, such as their home or office. This reduce the burden associated with using the wearable device and frees up vital time for the personnel.

In addition, the present disclosure provides a wearable device having a wireless communication means which is automatically activated to connect to/establish a wireless network in response to being positioned in a hub station.

Automatically activating the wireless communication means in response to being placed in the hub station avoids the operator having to manually switch on the wireless communication means. This reduces the operator’s burden and further avoids the situation where the operator forgets to switch on the wireless communication means, thereby preventing the transmission/receiving of data. The data to be transmitted and/or received could relate to vital evidence in an investigation. By automatically activating the wireless communication means to transmit data, the present disclosure prevents the situation where the operator fails to upload vital evidence to a computer system by forgetting to switch the wireless communication means on.

Ideally, the wearable device comprises one or more contact points on its base, the wireless communication means of the wearable device being automatically activated to connect to/establish a wireless network in response to the one or more contact points contacting corresponding contact points provided on a hub station.

Preferably, the one or more contact points comprises three contact points, and the hub station comprising three corresponding contact points.

Ideally, the wireless communication means of the wearable device only activates when the data storage means has stored data.

Ideally, the wearable device being operable to automatically deactivate the wireless communication means in response to the wearable device being removed from the hub station.

Automatically deactivating the wireless communication means in response to the wearable device being removed from the hub station reduces the power consumption of the wearable device, as it prevents the wireless communication means from draining power when it is not needed. This helps the wearable device of the present disclosure operate for longer. It can be appreciated that the time span of an operation and when vital evidence needs to be recorded will be unknown quantities, and therefore it is beneficial for the wearable device to have as long an operational life as possible to avoid the situation where evidence is not recorded due to the wearable device running out of power.

Preferably, the wearable device being operable to automatically transmit/receive data over the wireless network in response to the wearable device being positioned in the hub station.

Ideally, the wearable device being operable to automatically connect to a computer system over the wireless network in response to the wearable device being positioned in the hub station.

Preferably, the wearable device being operable to automatically transmit/receive data to/from the computer system over the wireless network.

Advantageously, when the wearable device is positioned in the hub station it automatically establishes a wireless connection with the computer system, this enables the wearable device to transmit data to the computer system and receive data therefrom automatically, without requiring any actions from the user either at the wearable device side or the computer system side.

Preferably, the wearable device being operable to automatically transfer data from the wearable device to the computer system, and vice versa, over the wireless network in response to the wearable device being positioned in the hub station.

By transfer we mean the bidirectional exchange of information between the wearable device and the computer system over a suitable exchange medium, such as a wireless network, Bluetooth (RTM), NFC, wired connection, or any other suitable means of transferring data. This can involve the upload of data, such as audio/video captured footage from the wearable device to the computer system, and the download of data such as firmware updates to the wearable device from the computer system.

Advantageously, positioning the wearable device in the computer system triggers the wearable device to automatically upload data over the wireless connection to the computer system. This provides a seamless and potentially error-free way for ensuring that data present on a wearable device is uploaded to the computer system.

Ideally, the wireless communication means comprising a wireless transmitter, wireless transmitter-receiver, wireless transceiver or wireless router.

Preferably, the wireless network being one of a wireless personal area network (WPAN), wireless local area network (WLAN), and cellular network.

Ideally, the communication means being operable to act as a wireless access point.

Ideally, the wireless communication means being operable to act as a wireless access point, the wireless communication means being operable to receive a connection from a computer system to the wireless access point, and upload data from the wearable device to the computer system.

Ideally, the uploaded data comprising at least one or any combination thereof, of image, video and audio data.

Advantageously, the image/video/audio data may relate to evidence recorded by personnel during an investigation/altercation, the data can be automatically uploaded to the computer system for safe keeping and analysis.

Preferably, the wearable device comprising a memory storage unit.

Ideally, the memory storage unit capable for storing at least one or any combination of image, video and audio data to be uploaded over the wireless connection, the wearable device being operable to automatically erase the memory storage unit when the data upload is complete.

Advantageously, once the data upload has been completed, the wearable device automatically erases the memory storage unit, freeing up the memory storage unit to record data for future operations. Moreover, automatically erasing the data ensures that the data is erased as soon as it is no longer needed on the wearable device, helping to maintain data security. The data on the memory storage unit may be highly sensitive, and it would be desirable to remove the data from the memory storage unit as soon as possible as the wearable device is more likely to get lost/fall into the wrong hands than the computer system.

Ideally, the wearable device being operable to encrypt the data captured by the data capturing means. Advantageously, this means that if the wearable device is lost or stolen there will be no/minimal danger of the data recorded thereon from being accessed.

Preferably, the wearable device being operable to deactivate the wireless communication means when the data upload is complete.

Advantageously, deactivating the wireless communication means as soon as the data upload is complete, reduces the time the wireless communication means is on to the bare minimum required to perform the data upload. This can help reduce power consumption by the wearable device or ensure more efficient charging of the wearable device (eg. charging of a battery in the wearable device) if the hub station has charging capabilities. Moreover, deactivating the wireless communication means frees up the wireless channel over which the data was uploaded for another wearable device.

Ideally, the data capturing means comprising at least one of a video camera, audio recorder, and still picture camera.

Preferably, the wearable device comprising a memory storage unit, the wearable device operable to store at least one of image, video and audio data in the memory storage unit.

Ideally, the memory storage unit comprising flash memory.

Preferably, the flash memory comprises a non-removable SD memory card.

Preferably, the wearable device comprising a controller.

Ideally, the controller being operable to automatically activate the wireless communication means to connect to/establish a wireless network in response to the wearable device being positioned in the hub station.

Preferably, the controller being operable to automatically deactivate the wireless communication means in response to the wearable device being removed from the hub station.

Preferably, the controller being operable to activate the data capturing means to capture data and/or deactivate the data capturing means.

Ideally, the controller being operable to store the captured data in the memory unit.

Preferably, the controller being a microcontroller or microprocessor executing software or firmware instructions.

Ideally, the controller, preferably microprocessor, is operable to accept secure firmware updates and modifications.

Ideally, the wearable device comprising a housing, wherein one or more components of the wearable device, in any combination thereof, being disposed in the housing.

Ideally, the data capturing means and wireless communication means being disposed in the housing.

Preferably, the wearable device comprising a memory storage unit, the memory storage unit being disposed in the housing.

Ideally, the wearable device comprising a controller, the controller being disposed in the housing.

Preferably, the housing being sized to be attached or affixed to a human torso.

Ideally, the housing comprising fastening means adaptable to be attached or affixed to a human torso.

Preferably, the fastening means comprises one or more of a fixed spring clip, an adjustable spring clip, a Police dock stud attachment, and an adjustable Police dock stud attachment.

Ideally, the housing being a rugged housing.

Advantageously, having a rugged housing means that the wearable device can withstand violent altercations.

Preferably, the housing being constructed from plastic and/or an over moulded rubber. Over moulded rubber has been found to provide a ruggedized finish. The wearable device has been drop tested from a height of 2 metres onto a concrete surface.

Ideally, the wearable device comprising a power supply for powering the wearable device.

Preferably, the power supply comprising at least one battery.

Ideally, the hub station comprising charging means, the charging means adaptable to charge the power supply when positioned in the hub station.

Advantageously, the hub station has the dual function of acting as a trigger for the wearable device to activate the wireless communication device and as a charging point to charge the wearable device for future operations.

Preferably, the wearable device comprising at least one light source.

Ideally, the at least one light source being located on the wearable device such that light emitted by the at least one light source is visible to an operator of the wearable device.

Ideally, the wearable device comprising a housing, the at least one light source being mounted on the housing such that light emitted by the at least one light source is visible to an operator of the wearable device.

Preferably the at least one light source being adaptable to emit at least one or more light patterns for indicating the status of the wearable device in relation to the connectivity of the wearable device to at least one wireless network and/or at least one computer system, or the status of a data transfer from the wearable device.

Preferably, the at least one light source being adaptable to emit a first light pattern indicative of a first status of the wearable device.

Ideally, the at least one light source being adaptable to emit a second light pattern indicative of a second status of the wearable device, second light pattern being visually distinct from the first light pattern.

Preferably, the at least one light source comprising a first light source, preferably mounted on the side of the wearable device. The first light source is ideally adaptable to emit a first light pattern indicative of the wearable device searching for a computer system over which a wireless communication can be established/ a wireless network to connect to.

Ideally, the first light source being adaptable to emit a second light pattern indicative of the wearable device uploading data to the computer system.

Advantageously, the first light source provides status information to the operator. If after placing the wearable device into the hub station, the first light source only emits the first light pattern and does not change to emit the second light pattern, then the operator will know that there is a problem with the wireless connection between the wearable device and the computer system. This could be due to wearable device being out of wireless communication range with the computer system, for example, or there could be a problem with the computer system. In addition, when the second light pattern is being emitted by the first light source, the operator knows that data upload is taking place and thus that they should not remove the wearable device from the hub station.

Ideally, the first light pattern being an intermittent emission of light.

Preferably, the second light pattern being a continuous emission of light.

Ideally, the first light source being a light emitting diode (LED), and preferably a blue LED.

Preferably, the first light source being adaptable to emit a third light pattern, the third light pattern being indicative of whether a pre-record function has been activated. The third light pattern preferably comprises an intermittent emission (i.e. flashing) of light for a short period of time, such as 0.2 seconds, and then no emission of light for a longer period of time, such as 4.8 seconds.

Ideally, the at least one light source comprises a second light source preferably mounted on the top of the wearable device.

Preferably, the second light source being adaptable to emit a recording light pattern when the data capturing means of the wearable device is capturing data. The recording light pattern is preferably an intermittent emission of light, most preferably green light.

Ideally, the second light source being adaptable to emit a charging light pattern when the wearable device is being charged. The charging light pattern is preferably a continuous emission of light, most preferably red light.

Preferably, the second light source being adaptable to emit a ready for use light pattern when the wearable device has finished a data upload, the wearable device is fully charged, and preferably the memory of the wearable device is cleared. The ready for use light pattern is preferably a continuous emission of green light.

Ideally, the second light source is an LED.

Ideally, the wearable device being a body worn camera.

Preferably, the data capturing means can start and/or stop data capture by the data capturing means is operable by manual, automatic or sensory means.

Ideally, the wearable device comprising a power switch adaptable to start/stop recording by the wearable device.

Alternatively, the wearable device comprising a sensing means operable to start/stop recording by the wearable device in response to detecting a sensory input.

In this alternative arrangement, the sensing means comprising at least one of a light, motion or audio sensor which triggers the wearable device to start recording when the detected light, motion or audio input increases above a threshold value.

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a method of operating a device comprising data capturing means and wireless communication means, the method comprising: automatically activating the wireless communication means to connect to/establish a wireless network in response to the wearable device being positioned in a hub station.

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a method of operating a wearable device comprising data capturing means and wireless communication means, the method comprising: automatically activating the wireless communication means to connect to/establish a wireless network in response to the wearable device being positioned in a hub station.

Preferably, the method comprising transmitting/receiving data over the wireless network in response to the wearable device being positioned in the hub station.

Ideally, the method comprising automatically connecting to a computer system over the wireless network in response to the wearable device being positioned in the hub station.

Preferably, the method comprising automatically transmitting data to/receiving data from the computer system over the wireless network.

Preferably, the method comprising automatically uploading data from the wearable device to the computer system over the wireless connection in response to the wearable device being positioned in the hub station.

Preferably, the method comprising automatically deactivating the wireless communication means in response to the wearable device being removed from the hub station.

Ideally, the method comprising automatically erasing data stored on a memory storage unit of the wearable device when the data upload is complete,

Preferably, the method comprising deactivating the wireless communication means when the data upload is complete.

Ideally, the method comprising charging a power supply of the wearable device when the wearable device is positioned in the hub station.

Preferably, the method comprising emitting a first light pattern when searching for a computer system to upload data to.

Ideally, the method comprising emitting a second light pattern when uploading data to the computer system.

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a wearable device comprising: data capturing means; and wireless communication means, the wearable device being operable to automatically deactivate the wireless communication means in response to the wearable device being removed from a hub station or in response to an upload of data from the wearable device to a computer system being complete.

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a method for operating a wearable device comprising data capturing means and wireless communication means, the method comprising: automatically deactivating the wireless communication means in response to the wearable device being removed from a hub station or in response to an upload of data from the wearable device to a computer system being complete.

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a system comprising: a computing device; a wearable device comprising data capturing means and wireless communication means; and a hub station being adaptable to removably receive the wearable device, wherein the wearable device being operable to automatically activate the wireless communication means to connect to/establish a wireless network in response to the wearable device being positioned in the hub station.

Ideally, the at least one wearable device being configured to connect to the computing device over the wireless network.

Preferably, the wearable device being configured to upload data to the computing device over the wireless network.

Ideally, the at least one computing device being configured to control the upload of data from the wearable device over the wireless network.

Ideally, the at least one wearable device comprising a plurality of wearable devices.

Preferably, the at least one hub station comprising a plurality of hub stations.

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a system comprising: a computing device; a wearable device comprising data capturing means and wireless communication means; and a hub station being adaptable to removably receive the wearable device, wherein the wearable device being operable to automatically deactivate the wireless communication means in response to the wearable device being removed from the hub station or in response to an upload of data from the wearable device to the computing device being complete.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a method for managing the download of data from a plurality of wearable devices having wireless communication means according to claim 1.

In contrast to downloading data from a plurality of wearable devices at the same time over the same channel, the present invention dynamically uses multiple data channels to perform the data downloads. In this way, the present invention makes more efficient use of the available bandwidth at any one time, resulting in faster download speeds. As a result of this, the present invention advantageously reduces the amount of time a wearable device is out of service due to having to perform the data download.

Preferably, downloading data from the wearable device over the unoccupied data channel comprises: instructing the wearable device to act as a wireless access point on the unoccupied data channel; connecting to the wireless access point on the unoccupied data channel; and downloading data from the wearable device over the unoccupied data channel.

Ideally, the method comprising storing the data downloaded from the wearable device.

Preferably, the method comprising: detecting the number of channels; assigning a first one of the channels to be the queuing channel; and assigning the remainder of the channels to be data channels.

Ideally, the method comprising: detecting a plurality of wearable devices joining the queuing channel of the wireless network; and for each of the wearable devices: identifying an unoccupied data channel in the wireless network; assigning the unoccupied data channel to the wearable device; and downloading data from the wearable device over the unoccupied data channel.

Preferably, in response to determining that all data channels are occupied, the method comprising holding the wearable device on the queuing channel until a data channel becomes available.

In contrast to assigning wearable devices to already occupied data channels, the present invention holds wearable devices on the queuing channel until a data channel becomes available. This avoids the scenario where a wearable channel is held on a data channel which is being used by another device to perform a large data download. As a result, the queuing system of the present invention ensures that all devices operate a minimum time and that there is no ‘best queue’ to be on.

Preferably, the method comprising detecting whether the step of downloading data from the wearable device is complete.

Ideally, in response to detecting that the step of downloading data from the wearable device is complete, the method comprising: instructing the wearable device to erase the captured data stored on the wearable device.

Advantageously, deactivating the wireless communication means as soon as the data download is complete reduces the time the wireless communication device is on to the bare minimum required to perform the data download. This can help reduce power consumption by the wearable device or ensure more efficient charging of the wearable device (eg. charging of a battery in the wearable device) if the hub station has charging capabilities.

Preferably, in response to detecting that the step of downloading data from the wearable device is complete, the method comprising instructing the wearable device to deactivate the wireless communication means of the wearable device.

Ideally, in response to detecting that the step of downloading data from the wearable device is complete, the method further comprising identifying the data channel used to perform the data download as an unoccupied data channel.

Preferably, in response to detecting that the step of downloading data from the wearable device is complete, the method further comprising assigning the unoccupied data channel to a second wearable device being held on the queuing channel, and downloading data from a second wearable device.

Ideally, downloading data from the second wearable device comprising: instructing the second wearable device to act as a wireless access point on the unoccupied data channel; connecting to the wireless access point on the unoccupied data channel; and downloading data from the second wearable device over the unoccupied data channel.

Advantageously, deactivating the wireless communication means frees up the wireless channel over which the data was downloaded for another wearable device.

Ideally, the method further comprising detecting whether a download from a wearable device has finished, and determining whether the download was complete. Here complete means that all of the data intended to be downloaded from the wearable device was downloaded.

Preferably, the method further comprising repeating the download in response to determining that the download was incomplete.

Advantageously, repeating a download procedure if not completed correctly helps ensure that no files are deleted from the wearable device until they have been downloaded completely.

Ideally, the method further comprising: uploading data downloaded from the wearable device to a secure data management server.

Preferably, the secure data management server running Digital Evidence Management Software (DEMS).

Ideally, the upload to the secure data management server being performed over a secure data communication channel.

Preferably, the secure data communication utilizing the Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP).

Ideally, the method comprising connecting to the wearable device using a secure handshake procedure.

Preferably, the secure handshake procedure involves the SFTP over Remote Network Driver Interface Specification (RNDIS) protocol. Advantageously, using SFTP over RNDIS means that the wearable device appears as a network adapter when plugged in. The method preferable comprises sending a command to the wearable device via SFTP to unlock the drive. As every wearable device has a unique IP address as well as a unique serial number, there is an extra layer of protection provided as compared to existing systems which use a common password unlock for all wearable devices. For example, in order to begin the data transfer, the correct IP address for the wearable device that is desired to be connected to must be identified; a user datagram protocol (UDP) packet containing the password is sent to the wearable device via the command line before the SFTP transfer can be initiated. As a result, the SFTP transfer can only be initiated if the correct keys are in place on the computer trying to download.

Preferably, the wearable device comprising a data capturing means.

Ideally, the data capturing means being at least one of an audio, camera, and video camera.

Preferably, the wearable device being operable to automatically activate the wireless communication means to connect to the queuing channel of the wireless network in response to the wearable device being positioned in a hub station.

Accordingly, the present invention further provides a system for managing the download of data from a plurality of wearable devices having wireless communication means according to claim 24.

Preferably, the at least one computing device being configured to download data from the wearable device over the unoccupied data channel comprises, the at least one computing device being configured to: instruct the wearable device to act as a wireless access point on the unoccupied data channel; connect to the wireless access point on the unoccupied data channel; and download data from the wearable device over the unoccupied data channel.

Ideally, the at least one computing device being configured to store the data downloaded from the wearable device.

Preferably, the at least one computing device being configured to: detect the number of channels; assign a first one of the channels to be the queuing channel; and assign the remainder of the channels to be data channels.

Ideally, the at least one computing device being further configured to: detect a plurality of wearable devices joining the queuing channel of the wireless network; and for each of the wearable devices: identify an unoccupied data channel in the wireless network; assign the unoccupied data channel to the wearable device; and download data from the wearable device over the unoccupied data channel.

Preferably, in response to determining that all data channels are occupied, the at least one computing device being configured to hold the wearable device on the queuing channel until a data channel becomes available.

Ideally, the at least one computing device being configured to detect whether the download from the wearable device is complete.

Preferably, in response to detecting that the download of data from the wearable device is complete, the at least one computing device being further configured to: instruct the wearable device to erase the data stored on the wearable device.

Preferably, in response to detecting that the download of data from the wearable device is complete, the at least one computing device being further configured to: instruct the wearable device to deactivate the wireless communication means of the wearable device.

Ideally, in response to detecting that the download of data from the wearable device is complete, the at least one computing device being further configured to: identify the data channel used to perform the data download as an unoccupied data channel.

Preferably, in response to detecting that the download of data from the wearable device is complete, the at least one computing device being further configured to: assign the unoccupied data channel to a second wearable device being held on the queuing channel, and download data from the second wearable device.

Ideally, the at least one computing device being configured to download data from the second wearable device comprises the at least one computing device being configured to: instruct the second wearable device to act as a wireless access point on the unoccupied data channel; connect to the wireless access point on the unoccupied data channel; and download data from the second wearable device over the unoccupied data channel.

Ideally, the at least one computing device being configured to detect whether a download from a wearable device has finished and determine whether the download was complete. Here complete means that all of the data intended to be downloaded from the wearable device was downloaded.

Preferably, the at least one computing device being configured to repeat the download from the wearable device in response to determining that the download was incomplete.

Ideally, the at least one computing device being further configured to: upload the data previously uploaded to a computer system to a secure data management server.

Ideally, the at least one computing device comprising a number of wireless devices corresponding to the number of data and queuing channels.

Preferably, the at least one computing device being configured to set a first one of the wireless devices as a wireless access point for the queuing channel, and set the remainder of the wireless devices as clients for connecting to the wireless access points provided by the wearable devices.

Ideally, the wireless devices comprising USB dongles.

Preferably, the at least one computing device comprising at least one USB expander hub for receiving the plurality of USB dongles.

Alternatively or additionally, the wireless devices being implemented with USB 2.0, USB 3.0 or Wi-Fi (RTM) without dongles.

Preferably, the wearable device comprising a data capturing means.

Ideally, the wearable device being a body worn camera,

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides at least one computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon which, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations for managing the download of data from a plurality of wearable devices having wireless communication means, the download of data being over a wireless network having a plurality of channels including a queuing channel and at least one data channel, the operations comprising: detecting a wearable device joining the queuing channel of the wireless network; identifying an unoccupied data channel in the wireless network; assigning the unoccupied data channel to the wearable device; and downloading data from the wearable device over the unoccupied data channel.

Ideally, the operations comprising storing the data downloaded from the wearable device.

Preferably, the operations comprising: detecting the number of channels; assigning a first one of the channels to be the queuing channel; and assigning the remainder of the channels to be data channels.

Ideally, the operations further comprising: detecting a plurality of wearable devices joining the queuing channel of the wireless network; and for each of the wearable devices: identifying an unoccupied data channel in the wireless network; assigning the unoccupied data channel to the wearable device; and downloading data from the wearable device over the unoccupied data channel.

Preferably, in response to determining that all data channels are occupied, the operations comprising holding the wearable device on the queuing channel until a data channel become available.

Ideally, the operations comprising detecting whether the step of downloading data from the wearable device is complete.

Preferably, in response to detecting that the download of data from the wearable device is complete, the operations comprising: instructing the wearable device to erase the data stored on the wearable device.

Ideally, in response to detecting that the download of data from the wearable device is complete, the operations comprising: instructing the wearable device to deactivate the wireless communication means of the wearable device.

Preferably, in response to detecting that the download of data from the wearable device is complete, the operations comprising: identifying the data channel used to perform the data download as an unoccupied data channel.

Ideally, in response to detecting that the download of data from the wearable device is complete, the operations comprising: assigning the unoccupied data channel to a second wearable device being held on the queuing channel, and downloading data from the second wearable device

Preferably, downloading data from the second wearable device comprising: instructing the second wearable device to act as a wireless access point on the unoccupied data channel; connecting to the wireless access point on the unoccupied data channel; and downloading data from the second wearable device over the unoccupied data channel.

Ideally, the operations comprising: detecting whether a download from a wearable device has finished, and determining whether the download was complete. Here complete means that all of the data intended to be downloaded from the wearable device was downloaded.

Preferably, the operations comprising repeating the download in response to determining that the download was incomplete.

Ideally, the operations comprising: uploading data downloaded from the wearable device to a secure data management server.

Preferably, the wearable device comprising a data capturing means.

Ideally, the wearable device being a body worn camera,

Accordingly, the present invention provides a method performed by a wearable device having wireless communication means for uploading data to a computing device according to claim 25.

The skilled man will appreciate that all preferred or optional features of the invention described with reference to only some aspects or embodiments of the invention may be applied to all aspects of the invention.

It will be appreciated that optional features applicable to one aspect of the invention can be used in any combination, and in any number. Moreover, they can also be used with any of the other aspects of the invention in any combination and in any number. This includes, but is not limited to, the dependent claims from any claim being used as dependent claims for any other claim in the claims of this application.

The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawing which shows by way of example only one embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the invention.

In the drawings:

Figure 1 is a schematic view of a system comprising a plurality of wearable devices, hub stations and a computing device according to an illustrative implementation;

Figure 2 is a block diagram of a wearable device according to an illustrative implementation;

Figure 3 is a block diagram of a system comprising wearable devices, hub stations and a computing device according to an illustrative implementation;

Figure 4 is a block diagram of a section of the system shown in Figure 2 according to an illustrative implementation;

Figure 5 is a block diagram of a section of the system shown in Figure 2 according to an illustrative implementation;

Figure 6 is a flow diagram of a process for managing the download of data from a plurality of wearable devices according to an illustrative implementation;

Figure 7 is a flow diagram of a process for ending a data download procedure according to an illustrative implementation; and

Figure 8 is a block diagram of a computer system according to an illustrative implementation.

Figure 1 shows an overview of a system 1 comprising wearable devices 100, such as body worn cameras, releasably positioned in hub stations 150. In response to being positioned in hub stations 150, the wireless devices 100 are activated to connect to/establish a wireless network, and in particular connect to computer system 160 over the wireless network. Once connected to computer system 160 over the wireless network, the wearable devices 100, automatically upload data to the computer system 160. The uploaded data may comprise audio, image or video data recorded by the wearable device 100, and is uploaded to the computer system 160 for data retention and data management. The computer system 160 may control the upload of data by the wearable devices 100 (download of data from the perspective of the computer system 160) and manage how the wearable devices use the available wireless network resources. The computer system 160 can in turn be connected to a secure digital management server 180 for the secure retention and management of the uploaded data.

Figure 2 shows a diagram of a wearable device 100, such as a body worn camera, according to one illustrative implementation of the present invention. The wearable device 100 of Figure 2 comprises a data capturing device 105, wireless communication device 110, controller 115, memory storage unit 120, power unit 135, light source 130, and power switch 140, disposed within a housing 125.

Data capturing device 105 is for capturing data related to the environment in which the operator of the wearable device 100 is located. In most arrangements, the data capturing device 105 is expected to comprise a video camera and an audio recorder although other arrangements where just a video camera or an audio recorder is provided are envisioned. In addition, the data capturing mechanism 105 can comprise a still picture camera

Wireless communication device 110 is for connecting to/establishing a wireless network to allow the wearable device 10 to transmit/receive data. The wireless network can be a Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN), Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) or cellular network. The wireless communication device 110 can be a wireless transmitter, wireless transmitter-receiver, wireless transceiver or wireless router. The wireless communication device 110 is normally deactivated so that the wireless communication device 110 is not connected to a wireless network/the wireless network is not established. However, in response to being positioned in a hub station 150 (Figure 1), the wearable device 100 is operable to automatically activate the wireless communication device 110 to connect to/establish a wireless network. The hub station 150 is located within wireless communication range with the computer system 160 so that the wearable device 100 can transmit data to the computer system 160 when positioned in the hub station 150. The hub station 150 also comprises a power charging device to charge the power unit 135 of the wearable device 100.

As communication between the computer system and the wearable device is performed by the wireless communication device 110 in the wearable device 100 rather than a wired connection between the hub station 150 and the computer system 160, there is no requirement that the hub station 150 be wired to the computer system 160. This means that the hub station 150 can be physically separate from the computer system 160 and located anywhere within the wireless network. For example, the computer system 160 could be located in a central room/office. Typically access to the central room/office will be strictly controlled as the computer system 160 may contain sensitive information from a number of different operations. The hub stations 150 can be located away from this secure central room such as in the home or office of the operator of the wearable device 100. This reduce the burden associated with using the wearable device 100 and frees up vital time for the personnel.

In addition, automatically activating the wireless communication device 110 to transmit/receive data in response to being placed in the hub station 150 avoids the operator having to manually switch on the wireless communication device 110. This reduces the operator’s burden and further avoids the situation where the operator forgets to switch on the wireless communication device 110, preventing the transmission/receiving of data. The data to be transmitted and/or received could relate to vital evidence in an investigation. By automatically activating the wireless communication device 110 to transmit data, the present system avoids the situation where the operator fails to upload vital evidence to a computer system 160 by forgetting to switch the wireless communication device 110 on.

The wearable device 100 is also operable to automatically deactivate the wireless communication device 110 in response to the wearable device 100 being removed from the hub station 150. Automatically deactivating the wireless communication device 110 in response to the wearable device 100 being removed from the hub station 150 reduces the power consumption of the wearable device 100 as it prevents the wireless communication device 110 from draining power when it is not needed. This helps the wearable device 100 of the present system operate for longer. It can be appreciated that during the time span of an operation and when vital evidence needs to be recorded will be unknown quantities, and therefore it is beneficial for the wearable device 100 to have as long an operational life as possible to avoid the situation where evidence is not due to the wearable device 100 running out of power.

Memory storage unit 120 is for storing at least one of image, video and audio data captured by the data capturing device 105. The memory storage unit 120 comprises a read-write memory such as flash memory, and in some arrangements is a non-removable SD memory card. The memory unit 120 stores the captured data so that it can be uploaded to the computer system 160 once the wearable device 100 is positioned in the hub station 150. In some but not all of the arrangements of the present invention, the wireless communication device 110 of the wearable device 100 is only activated when the wearable device is positioned in the hub station 150 and the memory unit 120 has captured data stored thereon. The captured data stored on the memory unit 120 is encrypted so that if the wearable device 100 is lost or stolen there will be no/minimal danger of the captured data being accessed.

Controller 115 is for controlling the operation of the data capturing device 105, wireless communication device 110, memory storage unit 120 and light source 130 and is operatively connected to each to each element. The controller 115 can be any suitable hardware unit executing software or firmware instructions such as, but not limited to, microcontrollers, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSP), application specific or general application integrated circuits (ASIC), field programmable gate arrays (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gates or transistor logic. The controller 115 is operable to automatically activate the wireless communication device 110 to connect to/establish a wireless network in response to the wearable device 100 being positioned in the hub station 150. The controller 115 is further operable to activate the data capturing device 105 to capture data and/or deactivate the data capturing device 105, and control the storing of data in the memory unit 120.

Housing 125 is sized to be attached or affixed to an operator, such as on the operator’s torso or attached to the operator’s head gear. The housing 125 comprises a fastening device such as a clip or clasp. In particular arrangements, the fastening device is one or more of a fixed spring clip, an adjustable spring clip, a Police dock stud attachment, and an adjustable Police dock stud attachment. The housing 125 is rugged so that the wearable device 100 can withstand violent altercations. The housing 125 is constructed from plastic and over moulded rubber.

Power supply 135 is for powering the wearable device 100 and comprises at least one battery. When the wearable device 100 is positioned in the hub station 150, the hub station 150 is operable to charge the power supply 135. This enables the hub station 150 to have the dual function of acting as a trigger for the wearable device 100 to activate/deactivate the wireless communication device 110 and as a charging point to charge the wearable device 100 for future operations. The wearable device 100 comprises one or more, and in particular three, contact points on its base which are able to contact with corresponding contact points provided in the hub station 150. When the contacts of the wearable device 100 contact with the contacts of the hub station 150, the wearable device 100 is automatically activated to connect to/establish a wireless network.

Light source 130 is mounted on a side portion of the housing 125 such that the light emitted from the light source 130 is visible to an operator of the wearable device 100 and/or a person in the proximity of the wearable device 100. The light source 130 is adaptable to emit a first light pattern indicative of a first status of the wearable device 100 and a second light pattern indicative of a second status of the wearable device 100. The first light pattern and second light pattern are visually distinct from one another so that the operator can identify the status of the wearable device 100 based on the emitted light pattern. The first light pattern is emitted when the wearable device 100 is searching for a computer system 160 to upload data. The second light pattern is emitted when the wearable device 100 is uploading data to the computer system 160. The light source 130 updates the operator of the status of the wearable device 100 and also has a diagnostic role. For example, if after placing the wearable device 100 in the hub station 150, the light source 130 only emits the first light pattern and does not change to emit the second light pattern, then the operator will know that there is a problem with the wireless connection between the wearable device 100 and the computer system 160. This could be due to wearable device 100 being out of wireless communication range with the computer system 160, for example, or there could be a problem with the computer system 160. In addition, when the second light pattern is being emitted by the light source 130, the operator knows that data upload is taking place and thus that they should not remove the wearable device 100 from the hub station 150. In one expected arrangement, the first light pattern is an intermittent emission of light such as a flashing on/off of the light source 130 while the second light pattern is a continuous emission of light such as the continuous emission of light by the light source 130. In most expected arrangements the light source 130 will be an LED emitting blue light, although other colours and types of light source are also envisioned. In some arrangements, the light source 130 emits a third light pattern which is indicate of whether a pre-record function has been activated on the wearable device 100. The third light pattern is an intermittent emission of light for a short period of time followed by a longer period of no emission of light. In one particular, arrangement the intermittent emission will occur for 0.2 seconds while no emission will occur for 4.8 seconds.

An additional second light source (not shown) such as an LED is also provided on the top ofthe wearable device 100. The second light source emits a recording light pattern when the data capturing device 105 ofthe wearable device 100 is capturing data. This acts as visual indication to the operator that the wearable device 100 is recording. The recording light pattern is an intermittent emission of green light. The second light source also emits a charging light pattern when the wearable device 100 is being charged. The charging light pattern is a continuous emission of red light. The second light source also emits a ready for use light pattern when the wearable device 100 has finished a data upload, the wearable device 100 is fully charged, and the memory device 120 is cleared of captured data. The ready for use light pattern is a continuous emission of green light.

Power switch 140 enables the operator to switch the wearable device 100 on to start recording and/or switch the wearable device 100 off to stop recording and is disposed on the side of the housing 125. In some arrangements, it is expected that power switch 140 is not provided and the wearable device 100 is always on to record data (while power supply 135 contains sufficient charge). In other arrangements, power switch 140 is replaced by a sensor such as light, motion or audio sensor which will trigger the wearable device 100 to start recording. For example, the wearable device will be powered to start recording in response to detecting a sensor input such as light, motion or audio level, which is above a threshold value.

In use, the operator of the wearable device 100 will fasten or otherwise affix the wearable device 100 to their clothing such that the data capturing device 105 is able to capture data related to the operator’s surroundings. In applications where the wearable device 100 is intended to de-escalate situations, the wearable device 100 will be positioned in a prominent visible position such as on the torso or headgear so that persons interacting with the operator know that they are being recorded. Meanwhile, in operations where covert surveillance is required, the wearable device 100 will be fastened or otherwise affixed in a more discrete manner. The operator will press the power switch 140 to turn the wearable device 100 on and start the data record or alternatively, the wearable device will automatically be switched on for example based on a sensor input.

Once the data record is complete, the operator will transfer the data stored on the wearable device 100 to a computer system 160 for data retention, management and analysis. The operator does this by positioning the wearable device 100 in the hub station 150 located within wireless communication distance of the computer system 160. Once positioned in the hub station 150, the wearable device 100 is operable to automatically activate the wireless communication device 110 to connect to/establish a wireless network. Once connected to the wireless network or the wireless network is established, the wireless communication device 100 is operable to automatically transmit data to and receive data from the computer system 160 over the wireless network. This enables the wearable device 100 to transmit data to the computer system 160 and receive data therefrom automatically, without requiring any actions from the user either at the wearable device 100 side or the computer system 160 side.

Once the wireless connection with the computer system 160 is established, the wireless communication device 110 is operable to automatically upload data from the wearable device 100 to the computer system 160 over the wireless connection. The act of positioning the wearable device 100 in the hub station 150 triggers the wearable device 100 to automatically upload data over the wireless connection to the computer system 160, and thus the present system provides a seamless and potentially error-free way for ensuring that data present on a wearable device 100 is uploaded to the computer system. As explained in greater detail below, the computer system 160 manages the upload of data from the wearable device 100 to the computer system 160.

Once the data upload is complete, the wearable device 100 is operable to automatically erase the memory storage unit 120 and deactivate the wireless communication device 110. This frees up the memory storage unit 120 to store data for future operations. Moreover, automatically erasing the data ensures that the data is erased as soon as it is no longer needed on the wearable device 100, helping to maintain data security. The data on the memory storage unit 120 may be highly sensitive, and it would be desirable to remove the data from the memory storage unit 120 as soon as possible as the wearable device 100 is more likely to get lost/fall into the wrong hands than the computer system 160.

Further, deactivating the wireless communication device 110 as soon as the data upload is complete, reduces the time the wireless communication device 110 is on to the bare minimum required to perform the data upload. This can help reduce power consumption by the wearable device 100 or ensure more efficient charging of the wearable device 100 (eg. charging of the power supply 135 in the wearable device 100) if the hub station 150 has charging capabilities. Moreover, deactivating the wireless communication device 110 frees up the wireless channel over which the data was uploaded for another wearable device 100.

Figure 3 shows one illustrative arrangement ofthe system 1 detailed in Figure 1. In this illustrative arrangement, system 200 comprises a computer system 220 that manages the download of data from wearable devices 205a, 205b, 205c positioned in hub stations 210a, 210b, 210c. It will be appreciated that the difference between a wearable device uploading data to a computer system and a computer system downloading data from a wearable device is just a difference in perspective, with no other change in meaning intended.

The computer system 220 is operably connected to a hub 224 such as a USB expander hub comprising a plurality of wireless devices 222a-222m such as USB dongles. In Figure 3 there are thirteen USB dongles 222a-222m corresponding to the thirteen wireless channels available in the United Kingdom. The USB dongles 222a-222m are configured to act as either clients or wireless access points on the wireless channels. When acting as a wireless access point, the USB dongles 222a-222m allow the wearable devices 205a, 205b, 205c to connect to the computer system 220 over the wireless network. In contrast, when acting as clients, the USB dongles 222a-222m are configured to connect to wireless access points provided by the wearable devices 205a, 205b, 205c and download data therefrom.

One of the channels #1 is a queuing channel onto which wearable devices 205a, 205b, 205c initially join the wireless network. The remainder of the channels #2-#13 are data channels over which the computer system 220 downloads data from wearable devices 205a, 205b, 205c. In Figure 3, USB dongle 222a acts as a wireless access point for the queuing channel #1, and the remaining USB dongles 222b-222m act as clients on data channels #2-#13.

In Figure 3, wearable device 205a has just joined the wireless network and is connected to the computer system 220 over queuing channel #1. In particular, wearable device 205a has been positioned in hub station 210a. In response to this, wearable device 205a activated its wireless communication device to connect to the wireless network over queuing channel #1. Wearable device 205b has been assigned data channel #2 and acts as a wireless access point enabling client USB dongle 222b to download data from the wearable device 205b to the computer system 220. In a similar fashion, wearable device 205c has been assigned data channel #3 and acts as a wireless access point enabling client USB dongle 222c to download data from the wearable device 205c to the computer system 220. As discussed above, a USB dongle downloading data from wearable device to the computer system 220 is equivalent to the wearable device 205a, 205b, 205c uploading the data to the computer system 220, namely that data is transmitted from the wearable device 205a, 205b, 205c to the computer system 220.

Once the data download from wearable device 205a, 205b, 205c, is complete, the computer system 220 uploads the data to a secure data management server 230. The secure data management server 230 could be integral with the computing system 220, but in the example shown in Figure 3 is connected to the computer system 220 over a network 225, such as the Internet. The secure data management server 230 runs Digital Evidence

Management Software (DEMS), and the data is uploaded to the secure data management server 230 over a secure data communication channel which utilizes the Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP). In addition, the computer system 220 connects to the wearable device 205a, 205b, 205c using a secure handshake procedure. The secure handshake procedure involves the SFTP over Remote Network Driver Interface Specification (RNDIS) protocol. Advantageously, using SFTP over RNDIS means that the wearable device 205a, 205b, 205c appears as a network adapter when plugged in. The computer system 220 sends a command to the wearable device 205a, 205b, 205c via SFTP to unlock the drive. As every wearable device 205a, 205b, 205c has a unique IP address as well as a unique serial number, there is an extra layer of protection provided as compared to existing systems which use a common password unlock for all wearable devices. For example, in order to begin the data transfer, the correct IP address for the wearable device 205a, 205b, 205c that is desired to be connected to must be identified; a user datagram protocol (UDP) packet containing the password is sent to the wearable device 205a, 205b, 205c via the command line before the SFTP transfer can be initiated. The SFTP transfer can only be initiated if the correct keys are in place on the computer system 220 trying to download.

In response to detecting wearable device 205a joining queuing channel #1, computer system 220 identifies an unoccupied data channel of the wireless network (e.g. channel #4), assigns wearable device 205a to this unoccupied data channel and downloads data from the wearable device 205a over the unoccupied data channel. This is illustrated in Figure 4 which, for clarity, uses the same references numerals as Figure 3. In particular, computer system 220 instructs wearable device 205a to act as a wireless access point on data channel #4 and client USB dongle 222c downloads data from the wearable device 205a over data channel #4. Therefore, in contrast to having the computer system 220 download data from the plurality of wearable devices 205a, 205b, 205c on the same channel at the same time, the present invention dynamically uses multiple data channels to perform the data download. In this way, the present invention makes more efficient use of the available bandwidth at any one time, resulting in faster download speeds. As a result of this, the present invention advantageously reduces the amount of time a wearable device 205a, 205b, 205c is out of service due to having to perform the data upload.

The process of assigning wearable devices to unoccupied data channels is repeated for any other wearable devices joining the wireless network until, as shown in Figure 5 all of the data channels #2...#13 are occupied by wearable devices 205b, 205c,... ,205m. At this point, any incoming wearable devices 205n will be held on the queuing channel #1 until data channels become available. Therefore, in contrast to assigning wearable devices 205n to already occupied data channels, the present invention holds wearable devices 205n on the queuing channel #1 until a data channel #2-#13 becomes available. This avoids the scenario where a wearable device 205n is held on a data channel #2-#13 which is being used by another device to perform a large data download. In such a scenario, the wearable device 205n would remain queuing on the data channel even while other data channels become available. The queuing system of the present invention avoids the situation where some queues are preferable to others. There is no ‘best queue’ or ‘worst queue’ for wearable devices 205a-205n and instead they all queue for a minimum time.

Figure 6 provides further detail of the process performed by the computer system 220 in managing the download of data by the wearable devices 205a-205n.

At step 305, upon initialisation or start-up of specialised software running on the computer system 220, the computer system 220 detects the number of wireless channels available, which in the example given in Figures 2-4 is thirteen and corresponds to the thirteen available USB dongles 222a-222m.

At step 310, the computer system 220 assigns one of the available wireless channels to be a queuing channel and assigns the remained to be data channels. In the example given previously in Figures 3-5, channel #1 is assigned to be the queuing channel and channels #2-#13 are assigned to be data channels.

At step 315, the computer system 220 scans for wearable devices 205a, 205b, 205c, 205n joining the queuing channel #1. If a wearable device 205a, 205b, 205c, 205n is detected on the queuing channel, the computer system proceeds to step 330.

At step 330, the computer system 220 determines whether there is a free data channel available. If a free data channel is available, the computer system proceeds to step 335 otherwise the computer system proceeds to step 325.

At step 335, the computer system 220 downloads data from the wearable device 205a-205n and marks the free data channel as being occupied. In one example, the computer system 220 instructs the wearable device 205a-205n to act as a wireless access point on the free data channel, the computer system 220 connects to the wireless access point on the free data channel (using a USB dongle), and downloads data from the wearable device 205a-205n over the free data channel.

At step 325, the computer system 220 proceeds to step 325 and hold the wearable device 205a- 205n on the queuing channel.

Figure 7 provides further detail of the process performed by computer system 220 to detect whether or not a data download has been completed.

At step 405, the computer system 220 detects the status of the wearable device 205b-205n downloading data on a data channel. If the computer system 220 detects that the wearable device has completed the data download, the computer system 220 proceeds to step 415. Otherwise, the computer system returns to step 405. Advantageously, repeating an upload procedure if not completed correctly helps ensure that no files are deleted from the wearable device until they have been uploaded.

At step 415, the computer system instructs the wearable device 205a-205n to delete/erase the captured data stored on the wearable device 205a-205n, and deactivate its wireless communication device. Advantageously, this deactivates the wireless communication device as soon as the data upload is complete, reduces the time the wireless communication device is on to the bare minimum required to perform the data upload. This can help reduce power consumption by the wearable device or ensure more efficient charging of the wearable device (eg. charging of a battery in the wearable device) if the hub station has charging capabilities. The computer system then proceeds to step 420.

At step 420, the computer system 220 marks the data channel used by the wearable device 205a-205n as an unoccupied data channel, The computer system is then free to assign the unoccupied data channel to another wearable device to perform a data download. The computer system then proceeds to step 425.

At step 425, the computer system uploads the data previously downloaded from the wearable device 205a-205n to the secure data management server 230.

Having thus described an exemplary embodiment of the operation of the computer system 220, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the steps above as described through reference to the figures may be performed in a different order or combination.

In order to provide additional context for various aspects of the invention, Figure 8 and the following discussion are intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable operating environment in which various aspects of the invention may be implemented. While the invention is described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, executed by one or more computers or other devices, those skilled in the art will recognise that the invention can also be implemented in combination with other program modules and/or as a combination of hardware and software.

Generally, however, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular data types. The operating environment is only one example of a suitable operating environment and is not intended to suggest any limitation as to the scope of use or functionality of the invention. Other well-known computer systems, environments, and/or configurations that may be suitable for use with the invention include but are not limited to, personal computers, hand-held or laptop devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based systems, programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, distributed computing environments that include the above systems or devices, and the like.

With reference to Figure 8, an exemplary environment for implementing various aspects of the invention includes a computer system 500 that can be used, for example, as an illustrative computer system 220 for managing the upload of data from wearable devices 210a-210n, as described in the present disclosure. The computer system 500 includes a processing unit 505 coupled to the data bus 520 for processing information. The processing unit 505 can comprise, amongst other things, an arithmetic and logic unit which can perform operations on quantities contained in registers, and a control unit to direct operation ofthe processing unit. The processing unit 505 can be any of various available processors. Dual microprocessors and other multiprocessor architectures also can be employed as the processing unit 505.

The computer system 500 includes a main memory 525, such as a random access memory or other dynamic storage device, is for storing instructions and information to be executed by the processing unit 505. The computer system 500 may also include a read only memory (ROM) or other static storage device coupled to the data bus 520 for storing static instructions and information to be executed by the CPU 505. The computer system 500 may also have a storage device 535, such as a solid state device, magnetic disc, or optical disc, coupled to the data bus 520 for persistently storing instructions and information.

The computer system 500 may also include an input device 515 coupled to the data bus 520 for communication user commands or information to the programming unit 505.

Input device 515 can comprise, for example, a pointing device such as a mouse, trackball, stylus, touch screen, keyboard, microphone, joystick, game pad and the like. The computer system 500 may also include a display 510, such as a liquid crystal display or active matrix display, coupled to the data bus 520 for conveying information to a user.

The computer system 500 may also comprise a communications adapter 540 coupled to the bus 520 to allow the computer system 520 to enable communications with a network 545 and/or other remote computers. Any type of networking configuration may be achieved using communications adapter 540 including, but not limited to, wired (e.g., via Ethernet), wireless (e.g., via Wi-Fi (RTM), Bluetooth (RTM), etc,), pre-configured, ad-hoc, LAN, WAN, etc.

According to various implementations, as aspects of the present invention, such as managing the upload of data from wearable devices 210a-210n, as described in the present disclosure, can be achieved by the computer system 500 in response to the processing unit 505 executing an arrangement of instructions contained in main memory 525. Such instructions can be read into the main memory 525 from another computer-readable medium, such as storage device 535.

In relation to the detailed description of the different embodiments of the invention, it will be understood that one or more technical features of one embodiment can be used in combination with one or more technical features of any other embodiment where the transferred use of the one or more technical features would be immediately apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art to carry out a similar function in a similar way on the other embodiment.

In the preceding discussion of the invention, unless stated to the contrary, the disclosure of alternative values for the upper or lower limit of the permitted range of a parameter, coupled with an indication that one of the said values is more highly preferred than the other, is to be construed as an implied statement that each intermediate value of said parameter, lying between the more preferred and the less preferred of said alternatives, is itself preferred to said less preferred value and also to each value lying between said less preferred value and said intermediate value.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description or the following drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing a disclosed function, or a method or a process of attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may separately, or in any combination of such features be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Claims

1. A method for managing the download of data from a plurality of wearable devices having wireless communication means, the download of data being over a wireless network having a plurality of channels including at least one queuing channel and at least one data channel, the method comprising: a. joining, by a wearable device, the wireless network on the queuing channel; b. identifying an unoccupied data channel in the wireless network; c. assigning the unoccupied data channel to the wearable device; d. and downloading data from the wearable device to a computer over the unoccupied data channel.

2. A method as claimed in claim 1 wherein the method further comprises instructing the wearable device to act as a wireless access point on the unoccupied data channel.

3. A method as claimed in claim 2 wherein the step of downloading data from the wearable device to the computer further comprises connecting, by the computer, to the wireless access point on the unoccupied data channel.

4. A method as claimed in claim 1 wherein the method further comprises detecting whether the step of downloading data from the wearable device is complete.

5. A method as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the method further comprises instructing the wearable device to erase the captured data stored on the wearable device.

6. A method as claimed claim 1 wherein the method further comprises assigning the unoccupied data channel to a second wearable device being held on the queuing channel, and downloading data from the second wearable device.

7. A method as claimed in claim 1 wherein the method further comprises, if no unoccupied data channel is available, holding the wearable device on the queuing channel until an unoccupied data channel is available.

8. A method as claimed in any of the previous claims wherein the computer is connected to a hub comprising a plurality of wireless devices configured to act as either clients or wireless access points on the wireless channels.

9. A method as claimed in claim 8 wherein one of the wireless devices acts as a wireless access point for the queuing channel and the remaining wireless devices act as clients on data channels.

10. A method as claimed claim 9 wherein the wearable device acts as a wireless access point enabling a client wireless device to download data from the wearable device to the computer.

11. A method as claimed in any of claims 8-10 wherein the wireless devices are USB dongles.

12. A method as claimed in any of the previous claims wherein the download of data is repeated if not completed correctly.

13. A method as claimed in any of the previous claims further comprising, by the computer, detecting the number of wireless channels available and assigning one of the available wireless channels to be a queing channel and assigning the remaining wireless channels to be data channels.

14. A method as claimed in any of the previous claims further comprising, once the data download from the wearable device is complete, uploading the data to a secure data management server via a secure data communication channel which utilizes a Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP).

15. A method as claimed in any of the previous claims wherein the computer connects to the wearable device using a secure handshake procedure.

16. A method as claimed in any of the previous claims wherein the process of assigning wearable devices to unoccupied data channels is repeated for any other wearable devices joining the wireless network until all of the data channels are occupied by wearable devices.

17. A method as claimed in claim 16 wherein the method further comprises, when all of the data channels are occupied by wearable devices, holding any incoming wearable devices on the queuing channel until data channels become available.

18. A method as claimed in any of the previous claims wherein the the wireless network is a Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN), Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) or cellular network.

19. A method as claimed in any of the previous claims wherein the the wireless communication means is a wireless transmitter, wireless transmitter-receiver, wireless transceiver or wireless router.

20. A method as claimed in any of the previous claims wherein the method further comprises automatically activating the wireless communication means to connect to the queuing channel of the wireless network in response to the wearable device being positioned in a hub station.

21. A method as claimed in claim 20 or 21 wherein the method further comprises automatically deactivating the wireless communication means in response to the wearable device being removed from the hub station.

22. A method as claimed in any of the previous claims wherein the data comprises audio, image or video data recorded by the wearable device.

23. A method as claimed in any of the previous claims wherein the wearable device comprises a video camera, audio recorder and/or still picture camera.

24. A system for managing the download of data from a plurality of wearable devices having wireless communication means, the download of data being over a wireless network having a plurality of channels including a queuing channel and at least one data channel, the system comprising at least one computing device operably coupled to at least one memory and configured to: detect a wearable device joining the wireless network on the queuing channel; identify an unoccupied data channel in the wireless network; assign the unoccupied data channel to the wearable device; and download data from the wearable device over the unoccupied data channel.

25. A method of uploading data from a wearable device having wireless communication means to a computing device, the upload of data being over a wireless network having a plurality of channels including a queuing channel and at least one data channel, the method comprising: joining, by the wearable device, the wireless network on the queuing channel; receiving, by the wearable device, instructions to act as a wireless access point on the data channel; and uploading data from the wearable device to the computing device over the data channel.