Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to power adapter devices, and more particularly relates to adapters integrated with alerting and tracking modules, thereby eliminating a need for external tracking devices and reducing likelihood of loss or misplacement of the adapter.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Travel adapters are essential tools for individuals traveling across countries with varying electrical outlet standards. Travelers may lose or forget the travel adapters during trips. Globally, it is estimated that over 2 million travel adapters are lost or left behind each year, resulting in significant inconvenience and generation of electronic-waste (e-waste). The e-waste contributes to environmental degradation, as plastics, metals, and electronic components from discarded adapters release harmful toxins when improperly disposed of.
[0003] Existing external tracking devices such as Apple Air tags, Google Find My Tags and the like, track location of the travel adapters, when attached to the travel adapters. However, attaching external tracking devices adds bulk and can interfere with the compact design of the travel adapters, making them less convenient for users and also leading to a cycle of loss, replacement, and increased environmental impact. The travel adapters are prone to being misplaced or left behind in hotels, airports, or other locations due to compact size and the nature of use, as the travel adapters remain plugged into electrical sockets during use. Due to relatively low cost, consumers often handle the travel adapters carelessly and often leave them behind.
[0004] However, the existing travel adapters lack built-in alerting and location tracking solutions. There are no alternatives for the users to track and locate the misplaced adapters and the users may have to rely on external tracking devices, adding bulk, costs, and inconvenience.
[0005] Therefore, there is, a need to address at least the above-mentioned drawbacks and any other shortcomings, or at the very least, provide a valuable and cost-effective alternative to the existing methods and systems.
OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an adapter with integrated location tracking module, thereby reducing a likelihood of loss or misplacement the adapter.
[0007] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an adapter with integrated alerting modules, thereby enabling proximity alerts and reminders to users, when the users are about to forget the adapter.
[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to integrate Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports in the adapter, thereby enhancing functionality by supporting fast-charging of multiple devices.
[0009] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an adapter with tracking functionality, thereby eliminating a need for external tracking devices.

SUMMARY
[0010] Aspects of the present disclosure generally relates to power adapter devices, and more particularly relates to adapters with integrated alerting and location tracking modules, thereby eliminating a need for external tracking devices and reducing likelihood of loss or misplacement of the adapter. Further, the adapter enables proximity alerts and may notify users when the adapter is bound to be forgotten, significantly reducing the chances of loss. Additionally, the adapter facilitates fast charging for various electronic devices.
[0011] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to an adapter. The adapter may include a tracking module and a controller. The controller may be communicatively connected to the tracking module. The controller may be configured to establish a connection with a computing device and transceive one or more signals with the computing device. Further, the controller may be configured to determine a distance of the computing device from the adapter based on the reception of the one or more signals from the computing device using the tracking module. The controller may be configured to transmit an alert signal to the computing device, based on a determination that the distance of the computing device from the adapter exceeds a predefined range.
[0012] In an embodiment, the controller may be configured to establish the connection with the computing device by detecting the computing device based on the reception of the one or more signals from the computing device. The controller may be configured to transmit an authentication request to the computing device upon detection of the computing device, and receive a confirmation response from the computing device based on a successful authentication.
[0013] In an embodiment, the controller may be configured to determine that a strength of the one or more signals from the computing device exceeds a predefined threshold to determine the distance of the computing device from the adapter.
[0014] In an embodiment, the controller may be configured to determine the distance of the computing device from the adapter to determine a location of the adapter with respect to the computing device.
[0015] In an embodiment, the controller may be configured to store historical data associated with the location of the adapter in a memory.
[0016] In an embodiment, the controller may be configured to generate one or more warning signals at predefined intervals based on one or more parameters associated with the location of the adapter.
[0017] In an embodiment, the controller may include one or more alerting modules configured to emit indicator signals from the adapter, when the distance of the computing device from the adapter exceeds the predefined range.
[0018] In an embodiment, the adapter may include an actuating means configured to enable a communication between the adapter and the computing device.
[0019] In an embodiment, the adapter may include one or more ports configured to connect one or more external devices to the adapter for facilitating charging of the one or more external devices. The one or more ports may include any one or a combination of: Universal Serial Bus (USB)-A ports and USB-C ports.
[0020] In an embodiment, the adapter may include a power source configured to activate the adapter.
[0021] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate example embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary network architecture of an adapter with tracking and alerting modules, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 1B illustrates an example block diagram of the adapter, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0025] The foregoing shall be more apparent from the following more detailed description of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosures as defined by the appended claims.
[0027] Embodiments explained herein relates to power adapter devices, and more particularly relates to adapters with integrated alerting and location tracking modules, thereby eliminating a need for external tracking devices and reducing likelihood of loss or misplacement of the adapter. Further, the adapter enables proximity alerts and may notify users when the adapter is forgotten, significantly reducing the chances of loss. Additionally, the adapter facilitates fast charging for various electronic devices.
[0028] An embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an adapter. The adapter may include a tracking module and a controller. The controller may be communicatively connected to the tracking module. The controller may be configured to establish a connection with a computing device, and transceive one or more signals with the computing device. Further, the controller may be configured to determine a distance of the computing device from the adapter based on the reception of the one or more signals from the computing device using the tracking module. The controller may be configured to transmit an alert signal to the computing device, based on a determination that the distance of the computing device from the adapter exceeds a predefined range.
[0029] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will be explained in detail with reference to FIGs. 1A and 1B.
[0030] FIGs. 1A-1B illustrate an exemplary network architecture 100-A of an adapter 100 integrated with a tracking module 114 and alerting modules 116, an example block diagram 100-B of the adapter 100, and schematic representations of a user interface 110 associated with a computing device 106, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0031] Referring to FIGs. 1A-1B, the adapter 100 may include a controller 102, such as, but not limited to, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) chip (it may be appreciated that the BLE chip may be interchangeably referred to as the controller 102, throughout the disclosure). The controller 102 may be communicatively connected to the tracking module 114 via a communication network 104. The controller 102 may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, edge or fog microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that process data based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the controller 102 may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory 108 of the adapter 100. The memory 108 may be capable of handling complex computations and data processing tasks effortlessly. The memory 108 may be configured to store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, which may be fetched and executed to create or share data packets over a network service. The memory 108 may comprise any non-transitory storage device including, for example, a volatile memory such as a Random-Access Memory (RAM), or a non-volatile memory such as an Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), a flash memory, and the like.
[0032] In an embodiment, the communication network 104 may be wired communication means, or wireless communication means, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the wired communication means may include, but not limited to, wires, cables, data buses, optical fibre cables, and the like. In some embodiments, the wireless communication means may include, but not be limited to, telecommunication networks, Near Field Communication (NFC), Bluetooth, and the like. In some embodiments, the form factor of the data transmitted through the communication means may be any one or combination of including, but not limited to, analogue signals, electrical signals, digital signals, radio signals, infrared signals, data packets, and the like.
[0033] The communication network 104 may include, by way of example but not limitation, at least a portion of one or more networks having one or more nodes, that transmit, receive, forward, generate, buffer, store, route, switch, process, or a combination thereof, etc. one or more messages, packets, signals, waves, voltage or current levels, some combination thereof, or so forth. The communication network 104 may include, by way of example but not limitation, one or more of: a wireless network, a wired network, an internet, an intranet, a public network, a private network, a packet-switched network, a circuit-switched network, an ad hoc network, an infrastructure network, a public-switched telephone network (PSTN), a cable network, a cellular network, a satellite network, a fiber optic network, or some combination thereof.
[0034] In an embodiment, the processing engine(s) 112 may be implemented as a combination of hardware and programming (for example, programmable instructions) to implement one or more functionalities of the processing engine(s) 112. In examples described herein, such combinations of hardware and programming may be implemented in several different ways. For example, the programming for the processing engine(s) 112 may be processor executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and the hardware for the one or more processor(s) may comprise a processing resource (for example, one or more processors), to execute such instructions. In the present examples, the machine-readable storage medium may store instructions that, when executed by the processing resource, implement the processing engine(s) 112. In such examples, the controller 102 may comprise the machine-readable storage medium storing the instructions and the processing resource to execute the instructions, or the machine-readable storage medium may be separate but accessible to the controller 102 and the processing resource. In other examples, the processing engine(s) 112 may be implemented by an electronic circuitry.
[0035] In an embodiment, an outer body of the adapter 100 may be composed of a compact, lightweight design constructed from fire-retardant Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) material using eco-friendly manufacturing processes to minimize environmental impact. Further, the adapter 100 may include interchangeable plug modules compatible with various plug types such as Type A, B, C, D, E/F, G, H, I, J, K, L, and N standards. Further, the plug modules may be designed to be compatible with electrical outlets used in more than 150 different countries worldwide. Additionally, the adapter 100 may include a switchable plug design to enhance versatility and ease of use.
[0036] In an embodiment, the adapter 100 may include ports configured to connect external devices to the adapter 100 for facilitating charging of the external devices. The ports may include, but not limited to, Universal Serial Bus (USB)-A ports and USB-C ports. The USB ports may enhance functionality and usability, which support rapid charging for various external devices. Further, the adapter 100 may be equipped with a built-in USB-C retractable cable, allowing charging of the external devices without needing an additional cable. Further, the USB ports may allow for easy and convenient fast-charging of the external devices such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, a smartwatch and the like. For another instance, the USB-A port may serve as an additional connectivity option for the adapter 100, providing connection of the adapter 100 to a computer or other compatible devices for data transfer or internet connectivity using USB tethering.
[0037] In an embodiment, the controller 102 may be configured to establish a connection with a computing device 106. The computing device 106 may be such as, but not limited to, a smartphone, a tablet computer, a laptop, a portable media device, and the like. Further, the computing device 106 may include any web client or application that facilitates communication and interaction between the adapter 100 and the computing device 106. A user interface 110 (associated with the computing device 106 may be used for interaction with an application implemented in the computing device 106.
[0038] Further, to establish the connection with the computing device 106, the controller 102 may be configured to detect the computing device 106 based on the reception of signals from the computing device 106 by the adapter 100. Further, the controller 102 may be configured to transmit an authentication request to the computing device 106 upon detection of the computing device 106 by the adapter 100. Furthermore, the controller 102 may be configured to receive a confirmation response from the computing device 106 via the user interface 110, based on a successful authentication, to establish the connection with the computing device 106. In an exemplary embodiment, when a user registers the adapter 100 with an application such as, for example, Apple’s Find My Network, Google’s Find My Device network application or a custom network application, the computing device 106 may securely be paired with the adapter 100 to establish the connection with the computing device 106.
[0039] In an embodiment, the controller 102 may be communicatively connected to the computing device 106 via the communication network 104. The controller 102 may be configured to transceive the signals with the computing device 106 upon establishing the connection with the computing device 106. The transceiving of the signals between the adapter 100 and the computing device 106 may enable data flow in both directions, allowing for two-way communication between the adapter 100 and the computing device 106.
[0040] In an embodiment, the controller 102, via the tracking module 114 of the processing engine 112, may be configured to determine a distance of the computing device 106 from the adapter 100 based on the reception of the signals from the computing device 106. In an embodiment, the controller 102 may be configured to determine that a strength of the signals from the computing device 106 exceeds a predefined threshold to determine the distance of the computing device 106 from the adapter 100. In an embodiment, a location of the adapter 100 with respect to the computing device 106 may be determined based on the determined distance of the computing device 106 from the adapter 100. Upon determination of the location, users may return to the location where the adapter 100 is present to retrieve the adapter 100. Further, the location of the adapter 100 may be displayed on the computing device 106 via the user interface 110.
[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the tracking module 114 may utilize a low-power Bluetooth and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) chipset for precise tracking. In an instance, the adapter 100 may broadcast Bluetooth signals. The computing device 106 may measure the strength of Bluetooth signals using Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI). A stronger signal (higher RSSI) means the adapter 100 is closer to the computing device 106 and a weaker signal (lower RSSI) means the adapter 100 is farther away. The controller 102 may evaluate the signal strength and determines whether the adapter 100 is within the range or has moved beyond the predefined threshold. In another instance, when UWB is used, the controller 102 may measure the time taken for radio signals to travel between the adapter 100 and the computing device 106. The time delay in receiving the radio signals may be used to calculate the exact distance. Additionally, the UWB may provide directional tracking to know the exact direction of the adapter 100.
[0042] In an embodiment, the controller 102, via the processing engine 112, may be configured to transmit an alert signal to the computing device 106, based on a determination that the distance of the computing device 106 from the adapter 100 exceeds the predefined range. Further, the controller 102, via the processing engine 112, may broadcast Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signals for notifying users when the adapter 100 moves away from the predefined range. For example, when a user leaves a room and forgets or misplaces the adapter 100 in the room, the alert signal transmitted to the computing device 106 may trigger notifications, sound alerts, or vibration-based reminders in the computing device 106 to prompt the user to retrieve the adapter 100 before leaving it behind.
[0043] In an embodiment, the processing engine 112 may include other module(s) 118. The other module(s) 118 implements functionalities that supplement applications or functions performed by the controller 102. Further, a database 120 may be responsible for storing a wide range of data related to distance and location of the adapter 100.
[0044] In an embodiment, the controller 102 may store historical data associated with the location of the adapter 100 in the memory 108. The last known location of the adapter 100 may be securely saved, ensuring that the users may access it from any connected computing device 106.
[0045] In an embodiment, the controller 102 may generate warning signals at predefined intervals based on parameters associated with the location of the adapter 100. The warning signals may be generated based on parameters such as changes to location of the user, changes of date and time in combination with the location of the user, and the like.
[0046] In an embodiment, the processing engine 112 may include alerting modules 116 configured to emit indicator signals from the adapter 100, when the distance of the computing device 106 from the adapter 100 exceeds the predefined range. For example, the alerting modules 116 may include a built-in buzzer that can be activated through the connected computing device 106 to help users locate the adapter 100 within a room or a nearby area. Further, LED indicators may be used to display charging status and activity of the tracking module 114.
[0047] In an embodiment, the adapter 100 may include an actuating means configured to enable a connection between the adapter 100 and the computing device 106. The actuating means may be a small, integrated button on the adapter 100, allowing the users to easily pair the computing device 106.
[0048] In an embodiment, the adapter 100 may include a power source 122 configured to activate the adapter 100. The power source 122 may include such as, but not limited to, a replaceable CR2032 battery, a UN38.3-certified lithium-ion battery and the like. Further, when power drops below 25%, the user may be notified via the connected computing device 106, ensuring uninterrupted tracking functionality.
[0049] Therefore, the present disclosure proposes a portable adapter (e.g., 100 as represented in FIG.1A) with integrated tracking and alerting capabilities. By incorporating real-time tracking and customizable alerts, the adapter 100 enhances user convenience and security.
[0050] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the present disclosure, other and further embodiments of the present disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the present disclosure is determined by the claims that follow. The present disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the present disclosure when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0051] The present disclosure provides a location-tracking technology that eliminates a need for external tracking devices, reducing additional costs and size of the adapter.
[0052] The present disclosure enables proximity alerts, notifying users when the adapter is forgotten, significantly reducing the chances of loss of the adapter.
[0053] The present disclosure facilitates fast and efficient charging for electronic devices.
[0054] The present disclosure mitigates environmental impacts by reducing electronic-waste (e-waste) generated from lost adapters.
[0055] The present disclosure ensures compatibility with various international power outlets without the need for multiple adapters.
, Claims:1. An adapter (100) comprising:
a tracking module (114); and
a controller (102) communicatively connected to the tracking module (114), and configured to:
establish a connection with a computing device (106);
transceive one or more signals with the computing device (106) upon establishing the connection with the computing device (106);
determine a distance of the computing device (106) from the adapter (100) based on the reception of the one or more signals from the computing device (106) using the tracking module (114); and
transmit an alert signal to the computing device (106), based on a determination that the distance of the computing device (106) from the adapter (100) exceeds a predefined range.
2. The adapter (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller (102) is to establish the connection with the computing device (106) by being configured to:
detect the computing device (106) based on the reception of the one or more signals from the computing device (106);
transmit an authentication request to the computing device (106) upon detection of the computing device (106); and
receive a confirmation response from the computing device (106) based on a successful authentication.
3. The adapter (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller (102) is configured to determine that a strength of the one or more signals from the computing device (106) exceeds a predefined threshold.
4. The adapter (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller (102) is configured to determine the distance of the computing device (106) from the adapter (100) to determine a location of the adapter (100) with respect to the computing device (106).
5. The adapter (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the controller (102) is configured to store historical data associated with the location of the adapter (100) in the memory (108).
6. The adapter (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the controller (102) is configured to generate one or more warning signals at predefined intervals based on one or more parameters associated with the location of the adapter (100).
7. The adapter (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the controller (102) comprises one or more alerting modules (116) configured to emit indicator signals from the adapter (100), when the distance of the computing device (106) from the adapter (100) exceeds the predefined range.
8. The adapter (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises an actuating means configured to enable a connection between the adapter (100) and the computing device (106).
9. The adapter (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises one or more ports configured to connect one or more external devices to the adapter (100) for facilitating charging of the one or more external devices, wherein the one or more ports comprise any one or a combination of: Universal Serial Bus (USB)-A ports and USB-C ports.
10. The adapter (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises a power source 122 configured to activate the adapter (100).