Advanced Wireless Locatable Tags for Harsh Environments
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
Traditional wirelessly locatable tags face limitations in harsh environments, posing challenges for tracking high-value assets, guiding rescue efforts, and monitoring environmental parameters. The original patent's audio output system for a wirelessly locatable tag lacked the necessary adaptations for these specialized scenarios.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel adaptations for specialized environments, including water-resistant materials, secure compartments, and integration with personal protective equipment. These innovations provide a non-obvious solution to the limitations of traditional wirelessly locatable tags.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include using different materials for the tag's housing, varying the frequency of the wireless signal, or incorporating additional sensors for environmental monitoring. Variations may also include adapting the tag for use in other niche markets, such as search and rescue operations or wildlife tracking.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The invention has significant commercial potential in industries such as asset tracking, disaster relief, high-security facilities, emergency response, and environmental monitoring. The market for specialized wirelessly locatable tags is expected to grow as the need for efficient and reliable tracking solutions increases.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Wireless tracking and localization technologies, specifically electronic tagging systems with embedded wireless communication and sensor capabilities
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
An electrical engineer with expertise in wireless communication, embedded systems design, sensor integration, and experience with location tracking technologies. Familiar with miniaturized electronic components, wireless protocols, and adaptable hardware design
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the source patent's wirelessly locatable tag provides a fundamental platform that can be readily adapted for specialized environments by applying standard engineering techniques. The core wireless localization mechanism remains consistent across the PTD's variations, with modifications representing predictable extensions of the original design. These adaptations leverage known materials, sensor integration methods, and wireless communication principles that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,063 |
|---|---|
| Title | Audio output system for a wirelessly locatable tag |
| Assignee(s) | Apple Inc. |