GB2630096A - Wearable and hub communication system - Google Patents

Abstract

A system 10 comprises a beacon 12, a wearable device 14, and a charging station 16. The beacon 12 includes a transmitter 22 for transmitting an identifier 24. The wearable device 14 includes a sensor 28, a memory for storing predefined beacon data and sensor data, a first transceiver 20, and an alert means 32. The identifier 24 is received via the first transceiver 20 when in proximity thereof. The alert means 32 alerts a user based on the received identifier 24 and the predefined beacon data. The charging station 16 includes a second transceiver 36 which receives sensor data from the wearable device 14 via the first transceiver 20. The charging station 16 is further coupled to a telecoms network 18 and transmits the received sensor data thereto. The charging station 16 is distinct from the beacon 12. A user wearing the wearable device 14 will be notified if they come within range of the beacon 12 and are not permitted to perform an action associated with that beacon 12. The charging station 16 allows data to be transferred to/from the wearable device 14. The wearable device therefore is not directly connected to a telecoms network.

Description

Intellectual Property Office Application No 6132307344.8 RTM Date:15 November 2023 The following terms are registered trade marks and should be read as such wherever they occur in this document: Bluetooth, Zigbee & Wi-H Intellectual Property Office is an operating name of the Patent Office www.gov.uk /ipo

WEARABLE AND HUB COMMUNICATION SYSTEM

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is in the field of communication systems. Specifically, a communication system which can be used as a workplace health and safety performance analysis system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

On-site workers such as builders, miners, factory workers, etc., face safety risks due to a constantly changing environment and are expected to have a deep knowledge of the environment to not put themselves at risk.

Real-time data about on-site workers and current risks is known to provide on-site workers with real-time knowledge about the environment so they can avoid risks. However, real-time data is difficult to obtain at on-site locations such as factories, building sites, quarries, mines, etc., due to a lack of telecommunications coverage. Existing real-time data systems are typically built around single hazard prevention (ie decibel monitors only analyse noise) or the multi-hazard prevention systems are complicated, expensive or rely on network coverage to operate successfully. In addition, there are privacy concerns with real-time data monitoring or monitoring using third-party devices (such as mobile phones and app-based systems).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An aspect of the invention provides a communication system comprising: a beacon device, a wearable device, and a charging station. The beacon device comprises a transmitter configured to broadcast a beacon identifier using a WPAN technology. The wearable device comprises: a rechargeable power source, a sensor arranged to generate sensor data, a memory arranged to store predefined beacon data and the sensor data, a first transceiver configured to receive the beacon identifier using the WPAN technology, and an alert means configured to alert a user based on the received beacon identifier and the predefined beacon data. The charging station comprises: a charger for charging the rechargeable power source of the wearable device, and a second transceiver configured to communicate with the first transceiver using a WPAN technology. The second transceiver is configured to receive the sensor data. The charging station is arranged to be coupled to a telecommunication network and configured to transmit the sensor data of the wearable device to the telecommunication network. The charging station is distinct from the beacon device.

An advantage of the aspect of the invention is that it enables on-site workers access to real-time information (e.g., hazard alerts) in a simple and inexpensive manner, while also mitigating privacy concerns by preventing real-time tracking of individuals, whilst collating a data-set that can be used historically to analyse workplace environments.

Optionally, the beacon device is arranged to only transmit data via the transmitter.

Optionally, the memory is further arranged to store a predefined distance associated with predefined beacon data, wherein the wearable device is configured to determine a distance from the beacon device based on characteristics of a signal received by the first transceiver, wherein the signal comprises the beacon identifier, wherein the alert means is configured to alert a user based on the predefined distance and the determined distance.

Optionally, the charging station is configured to receive update data from the telecommunications network, wherein the second transceiver is configured to transmit the update data to the first transceiver using the WPAN technology. Optionally, the charging station also stores 'firmware packages' within an internal memory card and may then sync this to devices from the charging station. Optionally, the charging station may also send configurations of settings to the wearable devices.

Optionally, the wearable device comprises an NFC transmitter configured to transmit a wearable identifier, wherein the memory is further arranged to store the wearable identifier.

Optionally, the charging station comprises an NFC receiver configured to receive the wearable identifier, wherein the charging station and wearable device are configured to only initiate communication after the wearable identifier is received by the charging station.

Optionally, the charging station is configured to only transmit sensor data or update data after the wearable identifier is received. Update data may include: updated settings for implementation by the wearable device; and/or updated firmware for implementation by the wearable device.

Optionally, the communication system further comprises a check-in hub comprising an NFC receiver configured to receive the wearable identifier from the NFC transmitter of the wearable device, wherein the check-in hub is arranged to be coupled to the telecommunications network and configured to: generate a timestamp when the wearable identifier is received; set a check-in timer; and, to transmit the wearable identifier to the telecommunication network after the check-in timer expires.

Optionally, the communication system further comprises a check-in hub comprising an NFC receiver configured to receive the wearable identifier from the NFC transmitter of the wearable device, wherein the check-in hub is arranged to be coupled to the telecommunications network and configured to: generate a timestamp when the wearable identifier is received to set a check-in timer; and, transmit the wearable identifier to the telecommunication network. Optionally, the telecommunications network is configured to: receive the wearable identifier and set the check-in timer; and transmit a signal to the check-in hub after the check-in timer expires.

Optionally, the check-in hub or the telecommunications network is further configured to, after the check-in timer is set, reset the check-in timer when the wearable identifier is received.

Optionally, the check-in hub further comprises a third transceiver configured to communicate with the first transceiver using the WPAN technology, wherein the third transceiver is configured to transmit confirmation data to the first transceiver, wherein the wearable device is further configured to set an internal check-in timer when the first transceiver receives the confirmation data, and wherein the alert means is further configured to alert a user after the internal check-in timer expires.

Optionally, the sensor of the wearable device comprises at least one of: a microphone; a button; an internal clock; a temperature monitor; a battery sensor; a heart rate monitor; a gyroscope; an accelerometer; a gas detection module; light sensor, and a pedometer. Preferably, the sensor comprises the microphone and the accelerometer.

Optionally, the alert means comprises at least one of: a buzzer; a speaker; a haptic motor; a display; display backlight; and a LED. Preferably, the alert means comprises the buzzer, the haptic, the display, and the display backlight.

Optionally, the transmitter of the beacon device is further configured to broadcast at least one of: a certificate requirement; an equipment requirement; an area restriction; a location; and a machinery alert.

Optionally, the first transceiver of the wearable device is configured to receive a certificate requirement. Optionally, the memory is further arranged to store one or more predefined certificates, wherein the alert means is configured to alert a user based on the received certificate requirement and the one or more predefined certificates.

Optionally the communication system is a workplace communication system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 illustrates a schematic block diagram of nodes in a communication system.

Figure 2 illustrates a schematic block diagram of nodes in another communication system.

Figure 3 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a wearable device. Figure 4 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a beacon device. Figure 5 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a charging station. Figure 6 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a check-in hub.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT(S)

By way of a non-limiting overview, there is a provided communication system which uses transmitting beacons to provide information to a wearable device. A user wearing the wearable device will be notified if they come within range of the transmitting beacon and are not permitted to perform an action (e.g., entering an area, operating machinery, not wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), etc.) associated with a respective transmitting beacon. A charger is provided to charge a battery of the wearable device and to download/upload data to/from the wearable device. Advantageously, in use the wearable device is not directly connected to a telecommunications network.

Figure 1 shows a communication system 10 comprising a beacon device 12, a wearable device 14, a charging station 16, and a telecommunications network 18. Each of the beacon device 12, wearable device 14 and charging station 16 are nodes in the communication system 10.

The beacon device 12 comprises a transmitter 22 configured to broadcast a beacon identifier using a wireless personal area network (WPAN) technology. The beacon device 12 is arranged to only transmit data 24 via its transmitter 22, and not receive any data. The WPAN technology may be at least one of: Bluetooth, RFID, ZigBee, Ultra-wideband (UWB) or other short-range (and optionally low power) communication standard. WPAN technology may be any radio communications technology with a carrier wave frequency greater than 1GHz, 2GHz, 3GHz, 4GHz, 5GHz, or 6GHz. The beacon device 12 may be used to provide proximity alerts to users (e.g., on-site workers wearing the wearable device 14) when they are: close to moving machinery; in restricted areas; or in areas where they need to put on PPE.

In an example, the beacon device 12 transmits only a beacon identifier 24 (i.e., a unique code used to identify the beacon device 12). In use with the wearable device 14, the wearable device 14 can receive the beacon identifier to determine that: (i) the beacon device 12 is in proximity to the wearable device 14; and (ii) the received beacon identifier was transmitted by a beacon device 12 of the communication system 10.

The wearable device 14 interacts with the beacon device 12 when the wearable device 14 is in proximity to the beacon device 12. The wearable device 14 is in proximity to the beacon device 12 when the wearable device 14 can successfully receive the beacon identifier 24 via a transceiver 20. The wearable device 14 includes a rechargeable power source 26 to provide power to the wearable device 14. The wearable device 14 also includes at least one sensor 28 arranged to generate sensor data. The at least one sensor 28 may be one or more of the following sensors: an internal clock; a microphone; a button; a temperature monitor; a battery sensor; a heart rate monitor; a gyroscope; an accelerometer; a gas detection module; light sensor, and a pedometer. The wearable device 14 also includes a memory 30 arranged to store the sensor data and predefined beacon data. The wearable device 14 also includes an alert means 32 configured to alert a user (wearing the wearable device 14) based on the received beacon identifier and the predefined beacon data.

The predefined beacon data may comprise one or more beacon identifiers. Once the beacon identifier 24 is received, it is compared to the predefined beacon data. The wearable device 14 may determine if the beacon identifier is identical to one of the one or more beacon identifiers of the predefined beacon data.

The beacon device 12 may be used to transmit (e.g., broadcast) additional data associated with an environmental feature to the wearable device 14. An environmental feature may be one of: moving machinery; a restricted area; or an area where a user needs to put on PPE. If the communication system 10 is set up to expect one environmental feature, then the beacon device 12 transmits only its beacon identifier and no other data. The one environmental feature may be predetermined and known at the wearable device 14. The wearable device 14 receiving only the beacon identifier would know that the beacon identifier indicates that the wearable device 14 is in proximity to the one environmental feature. The alert means 32 is able to alert a user based on the received beacon identifier and the predefined beacon data. The additional data transmitted may be associated with a physical location of the beacon device 12. For example, if the beacon device 12 is located on a forklift truck, then the additional data is associated with moving machinery.

The reception of a beacon identifier may be associated with a proximity from the wearable device 14 to a restricted area. That is, the wearable device 14 will alert users if they step into a restricted area, such as a control room. If the received beacon identifier 24 matches with one of the predefined beacon data, then the wearable device 14 may determine that the wearable device 14 is permitted within the restricted area. If the wearable device 14 determines that the restricted area associated with the beacon device 14 is accessible to the user, then the alert means 32 will not alert the user. If the wearable device 14 determines that the restricted area associated with the beacon device 14 is not accessible to the user (i.e., the predefined beacon data does not comprise the beacon identifier), then the alert means 32 will alert the user. In an alternative example, if the beacon identifier 24 matches with one of the predefined beacon data, then the wearable device 14 may determine that the wearable device 14 is not permitted within a restricted area, and the alert means 32 will alert the user.

Optionally, the wearable device 14 may also determine a characteristic (e.g., signal strength) of the received beacon identifier, which may be representative of the distance between the wearable device 14 from the beacon device 12. The wearable device 12 may determine if the signal strength of the received beacon identifier is above a threshold (associated with a distance between the wearable device 14 and the beacon device 12). The threshold may be determined through experimentation or modelling. If the signal strength is above a threshold, then the wearable device 14 may determine that the wearable device 14 is within a proximity to an environmental feature and activate or not activate the alert means 32 depending on the predefined beacon data (as discussed above).

Data from sensors may be recorded in the memory 30 of the wearable device 14 at set time intervals or during events (determined by set thresholds associated with each sensor).

Optionally, the wearable device 14 can determine its distance away from a beacon device 12, a sensor measurement (e.g., sensor data) which overcomes a predetermined threshold, and a duration of the event. For example, if the event is the reception of a beacon identifier, then the event information may comprise the beacon identifier, a time stamp (i.e., clock data), and optionally a signal strength of the received beacon identifier (which correlates to a distance between the beacon device 12 and the wearable device 14). If the event is a sensor measurement, then the event information may comprise a time stamp (i.e., clock data), a duration, and other characteristics associated with the sensor. For example, a temperature monitor may track personal heat exposure and may determine if a temperature exceeds a threshold. If the threshold is exceeded, then the duration, time and date, and/or temperature may be stored in the memory 30. An accelerometer may be used: as a pedometer; to determine if a collision between a vehicle and the wearable device 14 has taken place (e.g., the wearable device 14 may store the time and date of a determined vehicle collision and/or the duration); to determine if a user has tripped or fallen over (e.g., the wearable device 14 may track the frequency, the near misses (e.g., frantic movement tracking) and when events are impactful (injury)); to measure the movement that the hand and arm experience when using various bits of industrial machinery (e.g., the wearable device 14 may determine an exposure measurement with accumulated time count/duration and/or maximum session time). A microphone may be a decibel meter used to determine a decibel level. If the decibel level exceeds a threshold (e.g., 85dBA), then the alert means 32 may be activated and/or the duration, time and date, decibel level (e.g., maximum, average, etc.), and/or accumulated duration in a set time period (e.g., a day) may be stored in the memory 30. Alternatively, sensor data may be measured at set time intervals. For example, a heart rate monitor may log heart rate to determine an average heart rate, capture high or low durations, and/or determine stress levels.

The communication system 10, 50 may additionally comprise an external sensor arranged to removably attach to a user of the wearable device 14 and also be physically separate from the wearable device 14. The external sensor is configured to communicate directly with the wearable device 14 via any suitable communication means (e.g., wired, wireless body area network (WBAN), or WPAN technology). The external sensor may comprise one or more of the following sensors: an internal clock; a microphone; a button; a clock; a temperature monitor; a battery sensor; a heart rate monitor; a gyroscope; an accelerometer; a gas detection module; light sensor, and a pedometer. One or more external sensors may have the functionality of one or more internal sensors as described above.

The communication system shown in Figure 1 further comprises the charging station 16. The wearable device 14 also interacts with the charging station 16. The charging station 16 comprises one or more chargers 34 for charging the rechargeable power source 26 of the wearable device 14. The charging station 16 comprises a transceiver 36 configured to communicate with the transceiver 20 of the wearable device 14 using the WPAN technology. The transceiver 36 is configured to receive sensor data such as event information from the wearable 14. The charging station 16 is arranged to be coupled to a telecommunication network 18 (e.g., the internet/cloud) either via a wired or wireless connection. The charging station 16 is further configured to transmit the received sensor data of the wearable device 14 to the telecommunication network 18.

Optionally, the charging station 16 is configured to receive update data from the telecommunications network 18 for the charging station 16 and/or the wearable device 14. The update data may include settings data, firmware updates, and/or data sharing. The transceiver 36 of the charging station 16 may be configured to transmit the update data to the transceiver 20 of the wearable device 14 using the WPAN technology.

The charging station 16 is distinct from the beacon device 14. This enables data to be transmitted from the wearable device 14 to the telecommunications network 18 only at times when the wearable device 14 needs to be charged (e.g., at the end of the day or working week) while also allowing real-time feedback to the user.

The communication system 10 may advantageously be scaled to include many more devices. Optionally, the communication system 10 comprises a plurality of beacon devices (e.g., with the same features and functionality as beacon device 12), a plurality of wearable devices (e.g., with the same features and functionality as wearable device 14) and optionally, a plurality of charging stations (e.g., with the same features and functionality as charging station 16). In such a communication system only a single access point to a telecommunications network is provided which reduces system complexity and cost. The beacon device 12 may be arranged to only transmit data via the transmitter 22. That is, the beacon device 12 does not wirelessly receive data from the wearable 14. In such a system, the complexity remains low because each device is operating independently and with limited functionality. The wearable devices may also be configured to interact with each other, for example, to determine a distance between them using a characteristic (e.g., signal strength) of a received signal (e.g., for social distancing), or to implement a broadcast signal which is repeated by a receiving wearable device (e.g., such a feature would be able to quickly transmit an SOS alert message in the case of an incident). The repeating broadcast signal may be initiated by the wearable device 14 detecting a large accelerometer signal (indicative of a trip and/or fall) followed by a small accelerometer signal (indicating a lack of movement). The repeating broadcast signal may be initiated by a user pressing a button on the wearable device 14.

A communication system may be set up such that there are one or more beacon devices in the communication system. In an example, only a single type of environmental feature is used in the communication system, therefore, the wearable device 14 will be able to successfully interpret that a beacon identifier transmitted by the beacon device 12 is associated with the single type of environmental feature.

Alternatively, a communication system may be set up such that one or more beacon devices in the communication system are used to signal two or more types of environmental features. In such a system, the transmitter 22 of each beacon device 12 is further configured to transmit (e.g., broadcast) additional information which identifies or is associated with a type of environmental feature. The additional information may represent at least one of: an area restriction; a machinery alert; and an equipment requirement.

In an example, the reception of a beacon identifier is associated with an equipment requirement. That is, the wearable device 14 will alert users if they step into a zone (for example, a control room). If the received beacon identifier 24 matches with one of the predefined beacon data, then the wearable device 14 may determine that the wearable device 14 does not need to activate the alert means 32. If the additional information is an area restriction, then the wearable device 14 receiving the additional information would know that the beacon device indicates that the wearable device is in proximity to a restricted area. If the additional information is a machinery alert, then the wearable device 14 receiving the additional information would know that the beacon device 12 indicates that the wearable device is in proximity to machinery, such as, a vehicle (e.g., forklift) or a stationary device (e.g., robot). If the additional information is an equipment requirement, then the wearable device receiving the additional information would know that the beacon device indicates that the wearable device is in proximity to an area which requires a specific piece of equipment, e.g., PPE.

Optionally, the transmitter 22 of the beacon device 12 is further configured to transmit (e.g., broadcast) certification information (i.e., information indicating if the alert means 32 of the wearable device 14 will be activated or not). Certification information may define a subset of on-site workers, for example, workers with a driving licence, or a particular qualification. The predefined beacon data may comprise one or more predefined certificates. In use, the wearable device 14 may determine if the memory 30 stores a particular certificate. If the memory 30 stores the particular certificate, then the wearable device 14 prevents the alert means 32 of the wearable device 14 from activating. An appropriate certificate may indicate that a user has access to at least one of: a restricted area (e.g., the certificate may represent a management qualification, etc); a machinery alert (e.g., the certificate may represent a driving licence for a forklift truck, or a crane); and an equipment requirement (e.g., the certificate may represent a safety qualification). For example, if a user walks into the entrance of a restricted area that requires a certificate (transmitted by a Beacon device 12) the wearable device 14 will (once the beacon identifier and required certification information are received) do an automatic check for a corresponding certificate (certificates for wearable devices may be predefined). The alert means 32 may activate/not activate depending on the one or more predefined certificates. The certification information may be associated with a physical location of a beacon device.

Optionally, the transmitter 22 of the beacon device 12 is further configured to broadcast additional information such as: an alert distance; an alert type; and location information.

An alert distance is a distance away from a beacon device which can (if the wearable device determines that an alert should be triggered based on the received data from the beacon device 12) activate the alert means 32 of the wearable device 14, e.g., 1 meter, 2 meters, 3 meters, etc. The wearable device 14 may be configured to determine a characteristic (e.g., signal strength) of a signal received by the transceiver 22 of the beacon device 12. The determined characteristic may correspond to a distance from the beacon device 12, i.e., a determined distance. The signal may comprise the beacon identifier 24. The alert means 32 may be configured to alert the user based on the alert distance and the determined distance. For example, the alert distance may be 3 meters, therefore, if the wearable device 14 estimates that the received beacon identifier is 3 meters (or less) away and the wearable device 14 determines that a proximity alert should be triggered based on the received data from the beacon device 12, then the alert means 32 alerts the user (indicating that the user does not have access).

An alert type is a type of alert which the wearable device 14 activates if the wearable device 14 determines that an alert should be triggered based on the received data from the beacon device 12. The alert type may depend on the type of alert means 32 of the wearable device 14. For example, a single alert means (such as a display) may be able to provide different alert types (e.g., a display may display "unauthorised access" or "wear a hardhat"). In another example, the wearable device 14 may comprise multiple alert means 30 (e.g., a light and a buzzer), and each alert means may be associated with a unique alert type. The alert type may indicate a time duration for an alarm means, e.g., 10, 20, or 30 seconds.

Location information corresponds to the location of the beacon device 12. For example, the beacon device 12 may be mobile (if attached to a vehicle, such as a forklift) or stationary. Location information may be useful when determining and/or storing event information via the wearable device 14. In an example, the location information may be used in place of a beacon identifier (depending on the granularity of the location information).

Figure 2 illustrates another example of a communication system 50. The communication system 50 shows all of the features of the communication system 10 of Figure 1, with the addition of certain optional features. The same reference numerals are used to denote the same/corresponding features in relation to Figure 1 and will not be described in detail again below.

The wearable device 14 may be associated with a unique wearable identifier, to identify the wearable device 14 from other wearable devices within the communication system 50 (only one wearable device 14 is shown in Figure 2, although the communication system may comprise a plurality of wearable devices). The memory 30 may be arranged to store the wearable identifier. The wearable device 14 may comprise a Near Field Communication (NFC) tag 52, e.g., an NFC transmitter, configured to transmit the wearable identifier to the charging station 16. The charging station 16 may comprise an NFC receiver 54 configured to receive the wearable identifier. The charging station 16 and wearable device 14 may be configured to only initiate communication using the WPAN technology (e.g., communicate sensor data and/or update data) after the wearable identifier is received by the charging station 16 and/or after the charging station 16 initiates charging with the wearable device 14. In addition, the charging station 16 may determine if the received wearable identifier of the wearable device 14 is acceptable before initiating communication. The use of NFC requires the wearable device 14 and the charging station 16 to be very close (e.g., less than 3, 2, or 1cm) to each other such that inductive charging may take place between the charger 34 of the charging station 16 and the rechargeable power source 26 of the wearable device 14. This advantageously ensures that the communication is not interrupted before all data is communicated. Optionally, the rechargeable power source 26 of the wearable device 14 may be charged by the charger 34 of the charging station 16 after the wearable identifier is received via the NFC receiver 54 and is determined to be acceptable by the charging station 16.

The communication system arrangement 50 further comprises a check-in hub 60. By way of an overview, the check-in hub 60 enables a user to check in/out of an area (e.g., a room or the work site) and/or to activate a lone worker mode. A lone worker mode tracks the time that an individual user is working alone, e.g., working alone with a chainsaw. A user may tap the check-in hub 60 when working on their own, so that a supervisor can see that they are safe. A user may activate their lone working period by checking in at the check-in hub 60 and activating the 'lone working' mode, e.g., via a user input. The user may then go and work alone and after an allotted time (e.g., 30 minutes, 1 hour, or 1.5 hours) their wearable device 14 will alert the user to go and check back in at the check-in hub 60 if they are able. The alert means 32 of the wearable device 14 may activate (e.g., beep and vibrate) once the allotted time is over. An alert means 64 of the check-in hub 60 may also activate (e.g., beep) and wait for the lone worker to return to it. If the user of the lone working mode does not return after a further time period (e.g., 5, 10, 15 minutes) then the check-in hub 60 may transmit a message to an emergency contact via the telecommunications network 18. The alert means 32 of the wearable device 14 may be configured to activate (e.g., beep and vibrate) continuously until the user goes and taps the NFC reader 62 on the check-in hub 60. The check-in hub 60 may store the time and date of the event (e.g., the time at which the allotted time expired, or the time at which the allotted time expired plus the further time period) and the duration in which the alert means 64 of the check-in hub 60 was active for. The check-in hub 60 may transmit data comprising the time duration of each lone working session and/or, if the alert means 64 of the check-in hub 60 was activated or if the lone worker checked into the check-in hub 60 before the expiry of the allotted time.

The check-in hub 60 comprises an NFC receiver 62 configured to receive the wearable identifier from the NFC transmitter 52 of the wearable device. The check-in hub 60 is arranged to be coupled to the telecommunications network 18 and configured to generate a timestamp when the wearable identifier is received. Upon receiving the wearable identifier, a check-in timer 66 is set. The check-in timer 66 may be set automatically (depending on the task or predetermined) or manually by a user. The check-in hub 60 is further configured to transmit a message (e.g., the wearable identifier) to the telecommunication network 18 after the check-in timer expires. The check-in hub 60 may transmit the message (e.g., the wearable identifier, a timestamp, and/or other information) to the telecommunication network 18 immediately after the wearable identifier is received. The telecommunications network 18 may comprise the check-in timer 66. After the check-in timer expires, or immediately after a further time period after the check-in timer expires, the telecommunications network 18 may transmit a signal to the check-in hub. The signal may be used to activate an alert means on the check-in hub 60. The telecommunications network 18 may be configured to, after the check-in timer 66 is set, reset the check-in timer 66 when the wearable identifier is received (for a second time) via the check-in hub 60. In an alternative example, the check-in hub 60 may comprise the check-in timer 66, and the check-in hub 60 may transmit the message (e.g., the wearable identifier, a timestamp, and/or other information) to the telecommunication network 18 immediately after the check-in timer expires, or immediately after a further time period after the check-in timer expires.

The check-in hub 60 may further comprise a transceiver 68 configured to communicate with the transceiver 20 of the wearable device 14 using the WPAN technology. The transceiver 68 of the check-in hub 60 is configured to transmit confirmation data to the transceiver 20 of the wearable device 24. The confirmation data may be transmitted by the telecommunications network 18 to the check-in hub 60 if the check-in timer 66 is on the telecommunications network 18. The confirmation data confirms to the wearable device 14 that the check-in timer 66 is set. Upon receiving the confirmation data, the wearable device 14 may set an internal check-in timer 70 which is set to expire when the check-in timer 66 is set to expire. The alert means 32 is further configured to alert a user immediately after the internal check-in timer 70 expires.

Optionally, in a communication system with a plurality of wearable devices, the check-in hub 60 may be configured to enable attendance monitoring. Specifically, if the check-in hub 60 receives a wearable identifier via the NFC receiver 62, then the check-in hub 60 may record and append the wearable identifier to a list of wearable identifiers. If the check-in hub 60 receives a wearable identifier which is identical to a recorded wearable identifier on the list, then that wearable identifier is removed from the list of wearable identifiers. In use, this enables users to tap their wearable devices (e.g., for 1 second) onto the NFC receiver 62 on the check-in hub 60, the check-in hub 60 can then 'check-in' the user. The user may perform the same action (tap their wearable device onto the NFC receiver 62 of the check-in hub 60, e.g., for 1 second) to 'check-out' (e.g., when a working shift is finished). This enables the user to tap the check-in hub 60 at the beginning of the day to check-into work and to tap the check-in hub 60 end of the day to check-out of work. This list of wearable devices may be used for fire alert roll call reporting where the number of wearable identifiers (corresponding to the number of users) in a building can be clearly displayed on a check-in hub 60 display or transmitted to the telecommunications network 18 for greater access.

Figure 3 shows a schematic block diagram of an example of a wearable device 14. The wearable device 14 comprises a processor 72 coupled to a transceiver 20, a rechargeable power source 26 (e.g., a battery and charge circuitry), sensors (such as a microphone 28a, an accelerometer 28b, two buttons 28c, 28d, a clock 28e, and a battery status signal from the rechargeable power source 26), a memory 30, an alert means (such as a haptic motor 32a, a buzzer 32b, a display 32c), and a timer 70. The wearable device 14 further comprises an NFC tag 52. The memory 30 stores predefined beacon data (data suitable for interacting with a beacon device, e.g., one or more beacon identifiers, one or more predefined certificates) and sensor data received from the sensors (and/or external sensors).

The wearable device 14 may be one of many wearable devices. Each wearable device being worn by every employee (i.e., user) in a factory, on a construction/manufacturing site, etc. The wearable device 14 may be waterproof and robust. The wearable device 14 may work outdoors and indoors. The wearable device 14 may alert the user for real-time hazard prevention and may store data until it can be shared with the check-in hub 60, and/or charging station 16. All data may be anonymous.

The wearable device 14 may have the form factor of a lanyard, helmet, belt buckle, or preferably a wrist worn device. The wearable device 14 may comprise a strap for temporarily affixing the wearable device 14 to a user. The strap may be adjustable and/or quick release (for improved safety).

Figure 4 shows a schematic block diagram of an example of a beacon device 12. The beacon device 12 comprises a processor 76 coupled to a transmitter 22, a rechargeable power source 78, a memory 79 and input/output 80. The input/output 80 may be wired or wireless and used to update and/or apply settings to the beacon device 12 from a computer or mobile phone device. The input/output device may comprise the transmitter 22. The memory 79 may store the beacon identifier and/or other parameters.

The beacon device 12 may be arranged to be placed on a surface such as a wall of a building or on the surface of a machine or vehicle. The beacon device 12 may be waterproof and robust. The beacon device 12 may be arranged to work outdoors and indoors. An attachment mechanism for coupling the beacon device 12 to a surface may be adjustable so that it can be moved between areas of an environment. The beacon device 12 may be configured to be always on and operate in the background. The beacon device 12 may be configured to have a very long battery life (e.g., a week) without the need to charge often. Due to the limited functionality of the beacon device 12, it may advantageously consume very little power. The beacon device 12 may broadcast an additional signal when it is running low on battery.

Figure 5 shows a schematic block diagram of an example of a charging station 16. The charging station 16 comprises a processor 81 coupled to a transceiver 36, one or more chargers 34, an NFC chip 54 arranged to provide NFC communication, a power source 82, a telecommunications transceiver 84, a clock 85, a display 86 and a memory 88. The telecommunications transceiver 84 may be wired or wireless (e.g., WiFi, 4g/5g) and arranged to communicate with a telecommunications network 18. The power source 82 may be a wired plug connection. The display 86 may be configured to indicate which wearable devices are charging and indicate when they are fully charged. The memory 88 may store updates for the wearable device 12, data received from the wearable device 12, and/or settings for the charging station 16.

The charging station 16 may be a multi-port charger to charge one or more wearables simultaneously. The charging station 16 may be configured to transfer data to/from the wearable device 12. All data that is held on the wearable device 12 may be sent onto a cloud server on the telecommunications network 18 when the wearable device 12 is charging (e.g., plugged into) at the charging station 16. Multiple charging stations may be spread across a work site (inside or outside). The charging station 16 may be able to identify duplicate pieces of data to ensure only the most recent data is uploaded to the telecommunications network 18 from the last time of data transfer. This ensures that the data is reliable and entries corresponding to the same event from one wearable device are not duplicated.

The charging station 16 may be secured to a flat surface in a building or site that is accessible to all employees. The charging station 16 may be wall-mounted or placed on a desk. The charging station 16 may be waterproof and robust. The charging station 16 may work outdoors and indoors.

Figure 6 shows a schematic block diagram of an example of a check-in hub 60. The check-in hub 60 comprises a processor 90 coupled to a transceiver 68, an NFC chip 62 arranged to provide NFC communication, an alert means 64, a timer 66, a power source 92, one or more sensors 96, a telecommunications transceiver 98, a clock 95, a display 94, and a memory 99. The telecommunications transceiver 98 may be wired or wireless (e.g., WiFi, 4g/5g) and arranged to communicate with a telecommunications network 18. The power source 92 may be a wired plug connection. The one or more sensors 96 may comprise at least one of: a microphone, temperature monitor (for the same purposes as the microphone 28a and temperature monitor on the wearable device 12, described above), and a button configured to start a lone worker mode. The display 94 may be configured to notify employees when they've checked in/out successfully. The display 94 may also tell employees when a lone worker mode has been successfully activated or deactivated or checked-in whilst still being in lone worker mode. The display 94 may also show the battery level and display date and time from the clock 95. The memory 99 may store settings data for the check-in hub 60.

The check-in hub 60 may be secured to a flat surface in a building or site that is accessible to all employees. The check-in hub 60 may have internet connectivity (e.g., WiFi, 4g/5g) and may communicate with a cloud network. It may allow real-time attendance monitoring and building occupancy, as well as sending a message to management via the telecommunications transceiver 98 when someone does not check back in during lone worker mode. The check-in hub 60 may be wall-mounted or placed on a desk. The check-in hub 60 may be waterproof and robust. The check-in hub 60 may work outdoors and indoors. The power source 92 may be rechargeable (it may provide power for 1 week before being recharged) or wired via a plug.

In an alternative example, the beacon device 12 may be arranged to communicate (e.g., transmit data) via a second input/output component, such as a wired connector.

As an example, a proximity alert (i.e., the alert means 32) may be triggered: a) if the wearable device 14 is less than a predefined distance (such as, 3 meters) from the beacon device 12, and b) if the wearable device 14 determines that a proximity alert should be triggered based on the received data from the beacon device 12. The predefined distance between the wearable device 14 and the beacon device 12 may be: the distance between the wearable device 14 and the beacon device 12 required to successfully receive a beacon identifier from the beacon device 12; 10m; 5m; 3m; 2m; and/or lm.

In an alternative example, the memory 30 of the wearable device 14 may be arranged to store one or more predefined beacon identifiers. The wearable device is configured to determine if an alert should be triggered based on the received data from the beacon device 12 based on data stored in the memory 30, such as, one or more beacon identifiers and/or one or more predefined certificates. Such that if the beacon identifier 24 does match with one of the predefined beacon data, then the wearable device 14 may determine that the wearable device 14 does need to activate the alert means 32.

Update data may comprise settings data for the wearable device 14 and/or receiving device (e.g., charging station 16, or check-in hub 60), and firmware updates for the wearable device 14 and/or receiving device (e.g., charging station 16, or check-in hub 60), and data sharing (e.g., from the wearable device 14, the charging station 16, and/or the check-in hub 60) with the telecommunications network 18.

In an alternative example, wired charging may take place between the charger 34 of the charging station 16 and the rechargeable power source 26 of the wearable device 14 via a charging cable. If a charging cable is used, then a wearable identifier may not need to be communicated.

In an example, the transmitter 22 of the beacon device 12 does not broadcast an alert distance. In this example, the predefined beacon data may comprise a predefined distance associated with one of the one or more predefined beacon identifiers. For example, the memory 14 may store a predefined distance (e.g., lm, 2m, or 3m) associated with the beacon device 12.

The beacon device 12 may not transmit an alert type. The alert type may be associated with a beacon identifier or other additional information. For example, if a wearable device 14 understands (e.g., predetermined, or via additional information transmitted via the beacon device 12) that the beacon device 12 is associated with a restricted area, then the alert means 32 of the wearable device 14 may provide a predetermined alert associated with a restricted area.

In a system with a plurality of wearable devices, they may be structurally or functionally identical, or they may differ. For example, a first wearable device may have a particular set of sensors, and a second wearable device may have a different set of sensors.

The accelerometer 28b may be a 9 degree of freedom (DOF) sensor, which may be used to detect user trips and/or falls. The accelerometer 28b may be used to detect and monitor hand and/or arm vibration. If the accelerometer 28b is used as a pedometer (or a dedicated pedometer sensor is present) then the wearable device 14 does not track the user location.

The alert means 32 may be used to prompt the user to stretch or perform an activity in response to the accelerometer 28b detecting a long period (e.g., 10 minutes) of low activity (e.g., the signal does not exceed a pre-determined threshold).

The wearable device 14 may comprise security settings which prevent users without a security certificate to edit settings of the wearable device 14.

Although the invention has been described above with reference to one or more preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims (15)

1. CLAIMS1. A communication system comprising: a beacon device comprising a transmitter configured to broadcast a beacon identifier using a WPAN technology; a wearable device comprising: a rechargeable power source; a sensor arranged to generate sensor data; a memory arranged to store predefined beacon data and the sensor data; a first transceiver configured to receive the beacon identifier using the WPAN technology; and, an alert means configured to alert a user based on the received beacon identifier and the predefined beacon data; and a charging station comprising: a charger for charging the rechargeable power source of the wearable device; and a second transceiver configured to communicate with the first transceiver using a WPAN technology, wherein the second transceiver is configured to receive the sensor data, wherein the charging station is arranged to be coupled to a telecommunication network and configured to transmit the sensor data of the wearable device to the telecommunication network, wherein the charging station is distinct from the beacon device.
2. 2. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the beacon device is arranged to only transmit data via the transmitter.
3. 3. The communication system of any of claims 1 or 2, wherein the memory is further arranged to store a predefined distance associated with predefined beacon data, wherein the wearable device is configured to determine a distance from the beacon device based on characteristics of a signal received by the first transceiver, wherein the signal comprises the beacon identifier, wherein the alert means is configured to alert a user based on the predefined distance and the determined distance.
4. 4. The communication system of any preceding claim, wherein the charging station is configured to receive update data from the telecommunications network, wherein the second transceiver is configured to transmit the update data to the first transceiver using the WPAN technology.
5. 5. The communication system of any preceding claim, wherein the wearable device comprises an NFC transmitter configured to transmit a wearable identifier, wherein the memory is further arranged to store the wearable identifier.
6. 6. The communication system of claim 5, wherein the charging station comprises an NFC receiver configured to receive the wearable identifier, wherein the charging station and wearable device are configured to only initiate communication after the wearable identifier is received by the charging station.
7. 7. The communication system of any of claims 5 or 6, wherein the charging station is configured to only transmit sensor data or update data after the wearable identifier is received.
8. 8. The communication system of any of claims 5 to 7, further comprising a check-in hub comprising an NFC receiver configured to receive the wearable identifier from the NFC transmitter of the wearable device, wherein the check-in hub is arranged to be coupled to the telecommunications network and configured to: generate a timestamp when the wearable identifier is received to set a check-in timer; and, transmit the wearable identifier to the telecommunication network.
9. 9. The communication system of claim 8, wherein the telecommunications network is configured to: receive the wearable identifier and set the check-in timer; and transmit a signal to the check-in hub after the check-in timer expires.
10. 10. The communication system of any of claims 8 or 9, wherein the telecommunications network is configured to, after the check-in timer is set, reset the check-in timer when the wearable identifier is received.
11. 11. The communication system of any of claims 8 to 10, wherein the check-in hub further comprises a third transceiver configured to communicate with the first transceiver using the WPAN technology, wherein the third transceiver is configured to transmit confirmation data to the first transceiver, wherein the wearable device is further configured to set an internal check-in timer when the first transceiver receives the confirmation data, and wherein the alert means is further configured to alert a user after the internal check-in timer expires.
12. 12. The communication system of any preceding claim, wherein the sensor comprises at least one of: a microphone; a button; an internal clock; a temperature monitor; a battery sensor; a heart rate monitor; a gyroscope; an accelerometer; a gas detection module; light sensor, and a pedometer.
13. 13. The communication system of any preceding claim, wherein the alert means comprises at least one of: a buzzer; a speaker; a haptic motor; a display; a display backlight; and a LED.
14. 14. The communication system of any preceding claim, wherein the transmitter of the beacon device is further configured to broadcast at least one of: a certificate requirement; an equipment requirement; an area restriction; a location; and a machinery alert.
15. 15. The communication system of claim 14, wherein the first transceiver of the wearable device is configured to receive a certificate requirement, wherein the memory is further arranged to store one or more predefined certificates, wherein the alert means is configured to alert a user based on the received certificate requirement and the one or more predefined certificates.