Description:F O R M 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
The patent Rule, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10 and rule 13)

A SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATIC IDENTIFICATION AND LOCATION OF PERSONNEL IN DISTRESS

PARETO TREE PVT. LTD
C-9/120, Sector-8, Rohini,
Delhi-110085, India

The following specification describes the invention and the manner in which is to be performed

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure pertains to safety and emergency response systems, particularly focusing on automatic identification and location of personnel in distress situations.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Emergency response scenarios, whether in industrial settings, remote work environments, or natural disasters, often pose significant challenges in swiftly identifying and locating individuals in distress. Traditional methods of reporting emergencies or communicating distress signals may suffer from delays, inaccuracies, or limitations, thereby impeding timely assistance and potentially exacerbating the severity of the situation.

[0003] In recent years, advancements in technology have led to the development of various systems aimed at improving the identification and location of distressed personnel. These systems typically incorporate elements such as wearable devices, GPS tracking, wireless communication, and intelligent data analytics to enable real-time monitoring and rapid response by emergency responders.
[0004] While existing solutions have shown promise in enhancing emergency response capabilities, there remains a need for further improvements in terms of reliability, accuracy, and usability. Moreover, the evolving nature of emergency scenarios and the increasing demand for proactive safety measures necessitate ongoing innovation in this field.
[0005] In view of the foregoing discussion, it is portrayed that there is a need to have a system for automatic identification and location of personnel in distress, designed to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of emergency response efforts.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present disclosure seeks to provide a wearable personal alert safety system designed to enhance the safety and security of emergency responders and isolated workers operating in high-risk environments. The system encompasses wearable technology, sensor networks, and communication systems to provide continuous monitoring, communication, and assistance to individuals facing hazardous conditions or potential emergencies. By proactively addressing the challenges associated with working in remote or dangerous settings, the invention aims to improve the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of emergency response efforts and mitigate risks to personnel in demanding operational contexts.

[0007] In an embodiment, a system for automatic identification and location of personnel in distress is disclosed. The system includes a wearable or handheld device having a clipping mechanism to clip the device to a jacket or belt and or a strapping mechanism to strap the device on an arm of a person, waist, wrist, or other locations of a body with a loud audio and visual alarm to identify and locate personnel in distress. The wearable device comprises a motion sensor to continuously monitor motion of the person and identify distress, falls, and inactivity; a temperature sensor to sense temperature of environment surrounding the person wearing or holding the device; an optional single gas or multiple gases detector to detect toxic and immediately dangerous to life and health gases in the environment surrounding the person holding or wearing the device, wherein the gases are selected from Hydro Carbon, Ammonia, Carbon dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, Hydrogen Sulfide, Chlorine, Chlorine Dioxide, Hydrogen Cyanide, Hydrogen Fluoride and Nitrogen Dioxide; an optional GPS location and wireless communication modules to receive and transmit precise location of the person to a control station or server or other such wearable devices nearby or mobile phones or other electronic devices or handheld location tracking devices; an optional integration piece to integrate the device to existing breathing apparatus to allow for automatic activation of an alarm unit when a breathing apparatus is activated, wherein the alarm unit consists a loud audio alarm system and bright visual alarm system powered by a battery to allow for at least 2 hours of continuous operation; an optional pressure sensing module to continuously monitor pressure of a tank in the breathing apparatus and communicate this information over wireless communication; an optional accountability key that attaches to the device and allows for immediate activation when the key is removed from the device, the key comprises a magnet or a mechanical extrusion and an individual labeling or personnel coding mechanism; and a charging unit that uses USB connectors or magnetic socket connectors or a wireless charging system, wherein the charging unit consisting a docking mechanism where one or multiple devices are placed or docked for charging.
[0008] The system further includes a central control station that connects with one or many of such wearable or handheld devices and or connects with one or many gateways and or direct power lines to continuously monitor the GPS location or relative location of one or many devices, wherein the central control station comprises a display unit with a location map and accountability map displaying a precise location of one or many wearable or handheld devices and displaying identification and accountability of each wearable or handheld device.
[0009] The system further includes a handheld location tracking device to track a relative proximity of one or many wearable or handheld devices, wherein the handheld location tracking device comprises: a wireless communication tracking module like radio frequency to track proximity of one or many wearable or handheld devices; a display unit with light and or audio indicators indicating the proximity of one or many wearable or handheld devices, wherein the indicators increasing or decreasing in brightness or loudness based on the proximity; and a charging unit having a charging dock, a plurality of magnetic connectors and connecting interfaces.
[0010] The system further includes a mesh network connecting two or more wearable or handheld devices, connect directly, as opposed to through a central hub/system, wherein the mesh network creates a star-like network where different nodes are connected through each other as per the proximity and communication via multiple nodes of wearable or handheld devices rather than a point to point fashion.

[0011] An object of the present disclosure is to address the challenges faced by emergency responders operating in immediately dangerous to life and health environments, such as flame-engulfed buildings, earthquakes, floods, and other disasters.
[0012] Another object of the present disclosure is to mitigate the risk of emergency responders going missing during operations, particularly in scenarios where they may be incapacitated or trapped in hazardous conditions.
[0013] Another object of the present disclosure is to develop a device capable of detecting when an emergency responder is in need of assistance and alerting fellow responders for prompt rescue operations.
[0014] Another object of the present disclosure is to cater to the safety needs of emergency responders across various environments, including firefighters, search & rescue personnel, police officers, and others involved in mitigating natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, avalanches, hurricanes, and tornados.
[0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to extend the benefits of the invention to industrial workers operating in hazardous environments such as mines, tunnels, oil and gas plants, chemical plants and confined spaceswhere immediate response to life-threatening situations is essential.
[0016] Another object of the present disclosure is to address the safety concerns of isolated workers across diverse industries by providing a means of rapid distress signal transmission and location identification in emergency situations.
[0017] Yet another object of the present invention is to deliver an expeditious and cost-effective system for rapidly identifying and locating incapacitated or distressed emergency responders, both on land and on waterborne vessels, where time is of the essence in firefighting and damage control scenarios.

[0018] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail in the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
[0019] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read concerning the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system for automatic identification and location of personnel in distress in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of a wearable or handheld device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 3 illustrates an architecture of a wearable personal alert safety system for emergency responders and isolated workers in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 4 illustrates multiple devices communicating with multiple gateway/servers onboard ship and transferring location data and other information using wireless communication technology like Wi-Fi, LoRaWAN, NB-IoT, IoT, Zigbee, BLE, GSM, and any other wireless communication protocols in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 5 illustrates a handheld tracker device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 6 illustrates the components of the acoustic system of the wearable or handheld device;
Figure 7 illustrates an exemplary profile of a handheld tracker device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary profile of a handheld tracker device with strap in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
Figure 9 illustrates a clipping mechanism (214), and a D-ring (212) attached on the back of the device to hang or to clip the device (102) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the flow charts illustrate the method in terms of the most prominent steps involved to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present disclosure. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] To promote an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[0021] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0022] Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0023] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises...a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

[0024] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0025] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below in detail concerning the accompanying drawings.

[0026] Referring to Figure 1, a block diagram of a system for automatic identification and location of personnel in distress is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 100 includes a wearable or handheld device (102) having a clipping mechanism to clip the device to a jacket or belt and a strapping mechanism to strap the device on an arm of a person, waist, wrist or other locations of a body with a loud audio and visual alarm to identify and locate personnel in distress.

[0027] The wearable device comprises a motion sensor (102A) to continuously monitor motion of the person and identify distress, falls, and inactivity.
[0028] In one embodiment, a temperature sensor (102B) is used to sense the temperature of the environment surrounding the person wearing or holding the device.
[0029] In one embodiment, an optional single gas or multiple gasses detector (102C) is used to detect toxic and immediately dangerous to life and health gasses in the environment surrounding the person holding or wearing the device, wherein the gasses are selected from Hydro Carbon, Ammonia, Carbon Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, Hydrogen Sulfide, Chlorine, Chlorine Dioxide, Hydrogen Cyanide, Hydrogen Fluoride and Nitrogen Dioxide.
[0030] In one embodiment, an optional GPS location (102D) and wireless communication modules are used to receive and transmit precise location of the person to a control station or server or other such wearable devices nearby or mobile phones or other electronic devices or handheld location tracking devices.
[0031] In one embodiment, an optional integration piece (102E) is used to integrate the device to an external breathing apparatus to allow for automatic activation of an alarm unit when a breathing apparatus is activated, wherein the alarm unit (102F) consists a loud audio alarm system (102J) and bright visual alarm system (102K) powered by a battery to allow for at least 2 hours of continuous operation.
[0032] In one embodiment, an optional pressure sensing module is used to continuously monitor pressure of a tank in the breathing apparatus and communicate this information over wireless communication using the wireless communication module (102G).
[0033] In one embodiment, an optional accountability key (102H) that attaches to the device and allows for immediate activation when the key is removed from the device, wherein the key comprises a magnet or a mechanical extrusion and an individual labeling or personnel coding mechanism.
[0034] In one embodiment, a charging unit (102I) that uses USB connectors or magnetic socket connectors or a wireless charging system, wherein the charging unit consists of a docking mechanism where one or multiple devices are placed or docked for charging.

[0035] In an embodiment, a central control station (104) that connects with one or many of such wearable or handheld devices and or connects with one or many gateways and or direct power lines to continuously monitor the GPS location or relative location of one or many devices.
[0036] The central control station comprises a display unit (104A) with a location map and accountability map displaying a precise location of one or many wearable or handheld devices and displaying identification and accountability of each wearable or handheld device (102).

[0037] In an embodiment, a handheld location tracking device (106) to track a relative proximity of one or many wearable or handheld devices.
[0038] The handheld location tracking device comprises a wireless communication tracking module (106A) like radio frequency to track proximity of one or many wearable or handheld devices.
[0039] In one embodiment, a display unit (106B) with light and or audio indicators indicating the proximity of one or many wearable or handheld devices, wherein the indicators increase or decrease in brightness or loudness based on the proximity.
[0040] In one embodiment, a charging unit (106C) has a charging dock, a plurality of magnetic connectors, and connecting interfaces.
[0041] In an embodiment, a mesh network (108) connecting two or more wearable or handheld devices, connect directly, as opposed to through a central hub/system, wherein the mesh network creates a star-like network where different nodes are connected through each other as per the proximity and communication via multiple nodes of wearable or handheld devices rather than a point to point fashion.

[0042] In another embodiment, the wearable or handheld device (102) comprises an information processing apparatus that captures motion data from the motion sensor in the device, wherein the information processing apparatus comprises a calculation unit to calculate derivative of the real-time stream of motion data gathered from the motion sensor to understand change or slope of a real-time motion data.
[0043] In one embodiment, a slope-based distress determination, fall detection, and inactivity detection to trigger the audio (102J) and visual alarm system (102K) based on established slope values and ranges.

[0044] In another embodiment, the wearable or handheld device (102) has an operating temperature range of at least 0° to 60°, wherein the operating temperature is higher or lower depending on industrial application, preferably in case of firefighting the temperature goes up to 300° and for Search and Rescue the temperature goes up to negative 30°.

[0045] In one embodiment, the wearable or handheld device (102) is operational in at least 1 meter of depth of water for at least 30 minutes and the wearable device or handheld device is corrosion resistant, chemical resistant, oil resistant, intrinsically safeand safe to operate in explosive environments, and the handheld location tracking device has a range of at least 500 meters radius.

[0046] Yet, in another embodiment, the wearable or handheld device (102) with an audio alarm system (102J) based on piezo acoustics, wherein the audio alarm system (102J) comprising a piezoelectric acoustic element or bender soldered to a PCB with a through hole in the center of a diameter equal to the diameter of the piezo element plus at least 1 mm, wherein the PCB with a through hole via having one or many such vias on the connection pad equal to a diameter of at least 1.8% of the diameter of the piezo element, and wherein assembly of the PCB on one side a piezo element and on another side a metal bowl equal to the diameter of a piezo element with a lip of at least 7% of the piezo element diameter.

[0047] In one embodiment, the wearable device comprising four modes selected from an active sensing mode, in which continuous motion sensing of the user is performed, a pre-alarm mode, activated after 20 seconds of user inactivity, emitting a 75dBA to 105dBA audio alarm and flashing bright red lights for 12 seconds, a full-alarm mode, featuring a 92dBA audio alarm with flashing bright red lights until manually terminated, triggered if user remains inactive during Pre-Alarm Mode, and a charging mode, exclusively for recharging the device's battery, wherein in charging mode all other modes are deactivated and only the charging mode is active, wherein charging indications are based on battery level, in which Blue LED blinks once in 5 seconds if battery is less than 20%, Blue LED blinks once in 3 seconds if battery is between 20% and 40%, Blue LED blinks once in 2 seconds if battery is between 40% and 90%, Blue LED blinks once every second if battery is between 90% and 98%, and alternating Blue and Green LEDs blinking once every second if battery is greater than 98%.

[0048] In another embodiment, the device further comprises an integrated health monitoring unit to monitor a wide variety of physiological, cardiovascular or pulmonary parameters of the user using a one or more of the following sensors selected from ECG, PPG, ICG, BCG, and PCG, wherein a multiwavelength PPG sensor with at least 2 wavelengths of light in the visible and IR region to monitor the following parameters selected from Pulse Rate, Oxygen Saturation, Respiration Rate, Breathing Effort, Tidal Volume, Blood Pressure, Skin Temperature, Core Body Temperature, Cardiac Output, Stroke Volume, Cardiac Index, Stroke Volume Variability, Systemic Vascular Resistance, Hydration Content, and Stress Levels.

[0049] In another embodiment, the biological and physiological parameters are determined using advanced signal processing techniques and Artificial Intelligence selected from Discrete Fourier Transform, Oscillatory mode decomposition, Wavelet decomposition, wherein the parameters are measured using either frequency or time domain information of the multi-wavelength PPG signals, wherein Blood pressure is measured by calculating the phase delay between multiple wavelengths.

[0050] In one embodiment, the ECG and PPG sensors accurately measure a range of vital parameters with clinical precision selected from Heart Rate, calculated via the dominant frequency of the PPG signal; Respiratory Rate, derived from the dominant frequency in the respiratory component of the PPG signal; Blood Pressure, determinable through Pulse Transit Time (PTT) or Pulse Arrival Time (PAT) approaches utilizing either PPG alone or in conjunction with ECG readings; Cardiac Output, quantifiable by assessing the area under the curve of PPG signals; Stroke Volume, calculated as the ratio of Cardiac Output to Heart Rate; and Oxygen Saturation, measurable through the PPG sensor.

[0051] In another embodiment, the central control station further comprises a microcontroller unit (MCU) configured to capture and process data from peripheral sensors continuously, initiating Radio Frequency (RF) data transmission by critical use cases, wherein the MCU is further operable to receive commands over the RF channel via an RF receiver and relay them to the MCU for turning on and turning off the device.
[0052] In another embodiment wearable or handheld device activates upon removal of the activation key from the device which turns on a reed sensor switch allowing for activation and functioning of the device and the activation key with a magnet needs to be placed on top of the device which in turn turns off the reed sensor switch, thereby turning off the device and moving to standby mode.

[0053] The system comprising a radio frequency and GPS unit to communicate real-time GPS location of each wearable device in the system with each other and the central control station using any radio frequency protocol like LoRaWAN.

[0054] Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of a wearable or handheld device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The device employs a variety of sensors that communicate via serial protocols such as UART, I2C, or SPI. During the initialization process, the device configures various register addresses according to the manufacturer's APIs/drivers, tailored to specific applications and use cases. In one embodiment, the initialization unfolds as follows: The device boot sequence commences upon pressing the Power button, prompting the MCU to register the button presses and generate interrupts to awaken the core. Subsequently, the MCU initializes peripherals such as clocks, frequencies, communications, timers, ADCs, and GPIOs, configuring them to their respective values and modes. Once MCU peripherals are initialized, sensors connected via I2C or SPI are invoked, and their addresses are read to verify connections and sensor presence. Following successful verification, further steps include sensor initialization. The MCU utilizes sensor drivers to activate features and set configuration parameters, encompassing sampling rates, inactivity detection, thresholds, IMU sensitivity, data width, range, bandwidth, power modes, among others. Once configuration is complete, sensors begin collecting data, processing it, and analyzing it based on set features, subsequently transmitting data and interrupts to the MCU for further processing and action.
[0055] The device is designed to trigger an alarm when an individual experiences distress or remains inactive for a specific duration. Traditional devices rely on an absolute measurement threshold of Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) data, resulting in alarms being activated only when the person is completely inactive, typically indicating unconsciousness. However, our innovation introduces a slope-based detection system, enabling the early detection of distress motions and timely alarm activation. Unlike absolute measurement thresholds, our system establishes relative measurement thresholds by analyzing the rate of change of IMU data, which includes accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer readings. This approach allows for a more nuanced assessment of activity levels, ensuring that alarms are sounded early, facilitating prompt intervention. Our system can utilize one or more of these IMU sensors to effectively achieve the objectives of distress and inactivity detection, enhancing the overall safety and responsiveness of the device.
[0056] Our invention introduces a wearable personal alert safety system meticulously designed to ensure wearer safety through continuous motion sensing capabilities. Upon detecting wearer inactivity for a specified duration, the system triggers a robust 92dB loud alarm, immediately alerting nearby responders. This innovative device operates across four distinct modes to accommodate various scenarios seamlessly:
[0057] Active Sensing Mode: Constantly monitoring wearer motion, this mode serves as the system's default state, ensuring real-time responsiveness to wearer inactivity.
[0058] Pre-Alarm Mode: Activated after 20 seconds of wearer inactivity, this mode initiates an attention-grabbing audio alarm ranging from 75dBA to 105dBA, accompanied by flashing bright red lights. Lasting for 12 seconds, during which the device continuously monitors for any wearer movement, it automatically transitions to Full-Alarm Mode if wearer inactivity persists.
[0059] Full-Alarm Mode: In this mode, the device emits a continuous 92dBA loud audio alarm, complemented by bright red flashing lights, ensuring prolonged alertness for at least 10 hours until manually deactivated.
[0060] Charging Mode: Reserved solely for battery recharge, this mode deactivates all other functions. Charging indicators, delineated by distinct LED blink patterns based on battery levels, facilitate intuitive battery monitoring and management.
Charging indications are provided as below:
• If battery < 20% - Blue LED blinks once in 5 seconds
• If battery 20%<>40% - Blue LED blinks once in 3 seconds
• If battery 40%<>90% - Blue LED blinks once in 2 seconds
• If battery 90%<>98% - Blue LED blinks once every second
• If battery > 98% - Blue and Green LED blink alternatingly once every second
Additionally, our device boasts exceptional durability and adaptability to diverse environmental conditions and operational settings:
The device can be submergedin water for at least 30 minutes at a minimum depth of 1 meter, ensuring resilience in aquatic environments.
Operating within an extensive temperature range from negative 20 degrees Celsius to positive 260 degrees Celsius, the device remains functional in extreme thermal conditions.
Withstanding drops from heights of up to 3 meters onto concrete surfaces, the device exhibits remarkable durability in rugged environments.
Offering versatile wearing options including clipping, arm strapping utilizing an additional arm strap accessory, or waist strapping employing an additional waist strap accessory, the device accommodates wearer preferences and comfort.
Engineered to withstand flames up to 1000 degrees Celsius for at least 10 seconds, the device ensures wearer safety even in high-temperature environments.
Furthermore, our device features a specialized mode tailored for operation onboard waterborne vessels. Leveraging advanced continuous motion sensing hardware and methodology, the device discerns wearer inactivity amidst varying vessel speeds and motions such as rolling and pitching. This specialized mode caters to personnel operating onboard waterborne vessels during harbor activities, navigation, and voyages in turbulent high seas, facilitating heightened safety and responsiveness. This capability is achieved through our proprietary system of classifying inactivity based on the slope of the acceleration signal from the inertial measurement unit, ensuring precise and reliable operation in maritime environments.
[0061] Figure 3 illustrates an architecture of a wearable personal alert safety system for emergency responders and isolated workers in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system utilizes wearable or handheld devices equipped with various sensors to track a person's location, health vitals, and overall well-being in real-time. This allows for immediate intervention in case of emergencies and helps maintain worker safety.
Wearable/Handheld Devices: These devices are designed to be worn comfortably on clothing or strapped securely to a person's body. They come equipped with a clipping mechanism or straps for easy attachment. The core functionality of these devices revolves around a motion sensor that continuously monitors the wearer's movements. By analyzing movement patterns, the sensor can identify potential dangers such as falls, inactivity, or signs of distress.

Optional Features for Enhanced Monitoring: The base device can be further customized with a variety of optional features to cater to specific needs. These features include:

Temperature sensor: This sensor monitors the surrounding environment, alerting personnel to extreme temperatures that could pose health risks.
Gas detector: This detector identifies the presence of hazardous gases in the vicinity, allowing workers to evacuate the area promptly.
Communication modules:
GPS: This integrated GPS unit provides the wearer's precise location data, enabling rescue teams to locate them quickly in case of emergencies.
Wireless communication: This allows the device to transmit data to a central control station, nearby devices worn by colleagues, or even mobile phones for wider communication and faster response times.
Breathing apparatus integration: This feature seamlessly integrates with breathing apparatus, automatically triggering an alarm if the apparatus is activated, indicating a potential emergency situation.
Pressure sensor (breathing apparatus): This sensor continuously monitors the pressure within the breathing apparatus tank, ensuring sufficient air supply and alerting personnel when a refill is necessary.
Accountability key: This key is attached to the device and acts as a safety measure. If removed, it triggers an immediate alarm, alerting others to a potential issue.
Health monitoring unit: This advanced unit collects a wide range of physiological data using sensors like ECG (electrocardiogram) and PPG (photoplethysmography). This data provides valuable insights into the wearer's health vitals, including heart rate, oxygen saturation, and respiration rate.
Operational Modes: The wearable/handheld devices offer various operational modes to optimize functionality based on the situation. These modes typically include:
Active sensing mode: This mode continuously monitors the wearer's movement.
Pre-alarm mode: This mode activates after a period of inactivity, triggering audio and visual alerts to prompt the wearer to respond.
Full-alarm mode: If the wearer remains inactive during the pre-alarm phase, this mode escalates the alert with a louder audio alarm and brighter visual indicators.
Charging mode: This mode prioritizes battery recharging, deactivating all other functionalities. Visual indications provide battery level status.

Centralized Monitoring and Tracking:
Central Control Station: This station acts as the central hub of the system, connecting to all wearable devices within its range. It receives and processes data from the devices, displaying the wearer's location and status on a dedicated map in real-time. This allows for centralized monitoring of personnel and facilitates a coordinated response during emergencies.
Handheld Location Tracking Device: This is a portable device used to track the relative proximity of other wearable devices within a specific radius using radio frequency signals. This can be helpful for locating colleagues or team members within the vicinity.
[0062] The system is designed with durability in mind, featuring a rugged construction suitable for harsh environments. It also boasts a long battery life with various charging options to ensure uninterrupted operation. Data processing is handled by microcontrollers within the devices, with the potential for integration of artificial intelligence for advanced analysis in future iterations. Activation and deactivation of the devices can be achieved conveniently using a key or magnet, depending on the specific configuration.
[0063] Emergency responders confront perilous situations daily, navigating through environments that pose immediate threats to their safety and well-being, including infernos, seismic disturbances, deluges, and other catastrophic events. One of the most dreaded scenarios in emergency response is the disappearance of a fellow responder, potentially entrapped in a burning structure or buried beneath the rubble of an earthquake. Presently, there exists no efficient method for responders to swiftly detect incapacitated colleagues or pinpoint their locations, exacerbating the urgency and complexity of rescue missions. Our groundbreaking device addresses this critical gap by autonomously identifying when an emergency responder requires assistance, promptly triggering alerts to mobilize fellow responders for immediate rescue operations.
[0064] These life-threatening situations are not confined to land; they also manifest aboard waterborne vessels where every passing moment is crucial. Firefighting aboard maritime vessels demands rapid responses, complicated further by the vessel's intricate layout comprising numerous compact compartments. Locating incapacitated firefighters or damage control personnel amidst flooding scenarios presents an immense challenge. Our innovation is tailored to safeguard the lives of emergency responders both on land and at sea, catering to diverse professions such as firefighters, search & rescue personnel, and industrial workers facing hazardous environments in mines, tunnelsand confined spaces.
[0065] The environments encountered by emergency responders are paralleled by those confronted by isolated workers across a spectrum of industries. These individuals contend with immediate threats to life and health, compounded by the absence of immediate assistance. Our device extends its protective mantle to isolated workers, ensuring their safety in hazardous work settings. By addressing the safety needs of emergency responders, maritime personnel, and isolated workers alike, our invention represents a pioneering advancement in occupational safety, reshaping the landscape of emergency response and industrial safety practices.
[0066] Current inactivity detection systems operate on the premise of requiring absolute stillness of the device before triggering an alarm. However, relying solely on absolute inactivity as a trigger for distress alerts proves to be impractical, especially in scenarios where time is of the essence and lives hang in the balance. Recognizing the critical importance of swift response in emergency situations, our method employs a proactive approach by detecting distress motions before the onset of absolute inactivity, thus enabling timely alerts to be issued. This capability is made possible through our innovative accelerometer slope-based approach, which discerns subtle changes in motion patterns indicative of distress, ensuring that alerts are triggered at the earliest signs of trouble.
[0067] The device allows for the capability to detecting inactivity of the wearer onboard waterborne vessels, allows for detecting wearer distress using adaptive motion sensing that detects patterns of movements in distress - even when the individual is not completely inactive, and allows for a louder sound using our proprietary alarm system.
[0068] Figure 4 illustrates multiple devices communicating with multiple gateway/servers onboard ship and transferring data location and other information using wireless communication technology like Wifi, LoraWAN, NB-IoT, IoT, Zigbee, BLE, GSM, and any other wireless communication protocols in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0069] Additionally, the device is powered on by pressing the designated Power Button and features a manual alarm button positioned at the center, enabling users to manually activate the Full-Alarm Mode when necessary. These meticulously designed modes ensure versatile functionality and effective response in a variety of emergency situations.
[0070] The wearable personal alert safety system caters to a wide range of professionals operating in hazardous and demanding environments, including emergency responders such as firefighters, search & rescue personnel, and avalanche rescue teams. Additionally, the system serves the safety needs of isolated workers, industrial workers in mines and tunnels, surveying personnel in underground environments, naval damage control personnel, as well as individuals working in the oil & gas industry and chemical plants. By providing proactive monitoring and alerting capabilities, the device enhances the safety and security of these professionals, ensuring prompt response and assistance in critical situations.
[0071] The device may include a radio frequency beacon to help locate the wearer. The system may comprise of another device to track the radio frequency beacon that can locate the precise location of the beacon, thus the wearer. The radio frequency beacon and its corresponding tracking device may have a range of greater than or equal to 500 meters.
[0072] In some embodiments this range can be upto 15 kilometers.
[0073] In some embodiments the beacon and beacon tracking device can communicate at depths of at least 10 meters.
[0074] In some embodiments this depth can be upto 1.5 kilometers.
[0075] The device may continuously monitor health parameters of the wearer including but not limited to heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, skin temperature, oxygen saturation, cardiac output, respiratory effort, tidal volume, stroke volume and ECG.
[0076] Figure 5 illustrates a handheld tracker device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The MCU captures, processes the peripheral/sensor data continuously and invokes RF data transmission as per critical use cases, it also happens other way around when RF receiver receives commands over RF channel and relays to the MCU for further processing and execution/actuation. MCU prepares commands, sensor information, data packets as per the RF communication protocol and sends it to the RF channel over serial communication protocols like UART/I2C/SPI etc where RF module encodes, modulates and transmits the sent packets over RF antenna. For reception, RF receiver picks up the signals through antenna, demodulates it and sends the decoded data back to the MCU, which is stored and processed as per the defined protocol.
[0077] A mesh network is a type of wireless communication network where devices, called nodes, connect with each other directly, as opposed to through a central hub/system like a traditional communication. This type of system creates a star like network where different nodes are connected through each other as per the proximity and communication happens via multiple nodes rather than a point to point fashion. This type of network offers longer coverage, as each node can relay signals and acts as a transceiver. It is easier to add more nodes in the network to achieve scalability and enhance coverage. Much more suitable for dynamic environments where each node can reroute data in case of failure due to changes and movements.
[0078] The device integrates with the breathing apparatus by connecting to one of the pressure gauges on the breathing apparatus. As soon as the oxygen flow is initiated from the tank in the breathing apparatus - the pressure changes based on the amount and duration of oxygen consumed. This change in pressure is reflected at the pressure gauge and captured by our device.
[0079] When the oxygen consumption in the breathing apparatus is initiated, the device registers it and sounds a loud (upto 110dBA) alarm.
[0080] The activation key is an important security feature that allows for the device to be only deactivated once this physical plastic key with a magnet is placed on top of the device. The shape of this key can take numerous forms based on the design of the device.
[0081] In the activation key embodiment - the device only activates upon the removal of the activation key from the device - this turns on the reed sensor switch - allowing for activation and functioning of the device.
[0082] The reed sensor switch is connected directly to the MCU with a GPIO pin and sends a signal to activate the main electronics from MCU standby mode. The reed sensor allows for turning on and turning off the device. In order to turn off the device; the activation key with the magnet needs to be placed on top of the device - which in turn, turns off the reed sensor switch, thereby turning off the device and moving to standby mode.
[0083] This is considering an embodiment:
• Using ECG and PPG on the wearable device can measure the following parameters with clinical grade accuracy:
• Heart Rate - can be calculated by measuring the dominant frequency of PPG signal and multiplying it by 60
• Respiratory Rate - can be calculated by measuring the dominant frequency in the respiratory component of the PPG signal and multiplying it by 60
• Blood Pressure - Blood Pressure can be calculated using a Pulse Transit Time (PTT) or Pulse Arrival Time (PAT) approach using either PPG alone or a combination of ECG and PPG
• Cardiac Output - Cardiac Output can be measured using area under the curse of PPG signals
• Stroke Volume - Stroke Volume can be calculated by dividing Cardiac Output by Heart Rate
• One Lead ECG can be measured with the ECG sensor
• Oxygen Saturation can be measured using the PPG sensor
[0084] Figure 6 illustrates perspective views of the device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The piezoelectric acoustic element generates an alarm when mounted on our PCB as shown in figures. The alarm is a primary function of the device and would not be possible without the piezoelectric acoustic element. Piezo element when mounted on our PCB along with a brass bowl shaped instrument on the PCB; it generates sound levels up to 92dBA.
[0085] The acoustic system includes the following components represented in figures:
- PCB with Via: Available in dimensions of 27mm and 35mm, serving as the core electronic circuitry of the device.
- Piezo: Also available in 27mm and 35mm dimensions, responsible for generating sound alerts.
- Brass Bowl: Can be assembled either through soldering or sealants, providing a housing for the Piezo component.
- Wire Soldering: Utilized to securely connect electronic components.
- Epoxy / Sealants / Gasket Makers / Potting Resins: Used to seal and protect electronic components from environmental hazards.
- Connectors: Facilitating the integration of various electronic and mechanical components.
[0086] In another embodiment, the functionality of the device is expanded by incorporating gas detector sensors, capable of detecting gases such as hydrocarbons or other hazardous substances. The device can trigger alarms or send GPS locations based on the detection of specific gases, enhancing user safety in potentially dangerous environments.
[0087] In another embodiment,
¦ Activation Key
? The device can have a Reed Sensor (a magnet based switch) that when in close contact with a magnet would complete the circuit of the and automatically deactivate the device
? Our system can have a separate activation key mechanical device with a small magnet inside - which when removed would activate the device
? This activation key can also be integrated with the charging dock or docking station or charging block and conduct the same functionality of activation and deactivation while charging or auto-cut charging
[0088] In another embodiment,
¦ BSCA Integration
? The device can be integrated with any breathing apparatus
? It can automatically be activated when the breathing apparatus is activated either manually or automatically
? The device when integrated with BSCA, can also monitor pressure levels of the breathing apparatus tank along with GPS information
[0089] In another embodiment,
¦ Battery charging
[0090] In one embodiment - the batteries can be removed from the device and then recharged separately
[0091] In another embodiment the charging can occur using a USB port inbuilt in the device as seen in figures
? This USB port can be a Micro USB or USB C or Lighting Port or Mini USB or any magnetic connectors or any custom made charging connectors
¦ Charging Dock or Charging Station or Charging Block
[0092] In one embodiment the charging dock or station can use magnetic connectors or pogo pin type connectors or wireless charging of any kind
? In this configuration, the device can be simply placed on the dock and can charge the device seamlessly without human intervention
? The entire station including the connection mechanism can be waterproof to at least 20 centimeters of depth
[0093] In another embodiment,
¦ Temperature Sensor
[0094] In another embodiment,
¦ Integrated GPS and location tracking
? The device can have GPS tracking and location capabilities
? It can share location details like latitude, longitude with timestamps using any wireless radio frequency based communication protocol like Wifi, LoraWAN, NB-IoT, IoT, Zigbee, BLE, GSM and any other wireless communication protocol
? It can support features like geofencing, geo-tagging
[0095] In another embodiment,
¦ Data Logging
[0096] In one embodiment the device can be configured to log, store and communicate data of important incidents
? The following information can be logged along with a timestamp
? Device/System Turn On
? Device Actively Sensing Initiation
? Device Pre-alarm Activation
? Device Full-alarm Activation
? Device Manual Full-alarm Activation
? Device worn or not worn
? This data can be stored in multiple format on the device either in the microcontroller or other storage mediums like flash memory
? This data can also be communicated wirelessly within the system using above mentioned wireless communication technologies
[0097] In another embodiment,
¦ Location tracking onboard ships
? In one embodiment of the system, there can be multiple gateways onboard ships - one or more in each compartment of the ship and outside areas
? The wearable devices can connect with any one or more gateways and communicate the location of the device
? These gateways can be connected to a central station on the ship using power lines that run through each compartment and location on the ship
? The devices can communicate with the gateways using any wireless communication technology like Wifi, LoraWAN, NB-IoT, IoT, Zigbee, BLE, GSM and any other wireless communication protocol.

[0098] Figure 7 illustrates an exemplary profile of a handheld tracker device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 shows two LEDs (202a and 202b), an alarm button (204), and a power button (206) disposed to a top of the device (102)
[0099] Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary profile of a handheld tracker device with strap in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 shows straps (208a and 208b) attached to the strapping mechanism (210) on a back to wear the device (102) on the arm or waist.
[0100] Figure 9 illustrates a clipping mechanism (214), and a D-ring (212) attached on the back of the device to hang or to clip the device (102) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0101] The drawings and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible. The scope of embodiments is at least as broad as given by the following claims.

[0102] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above about specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any component(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature or component of any or all the claims.

SHWETA SEN IN/PA No-3010
Dated- 19th June, 2024 Patent Agent For Applicant , Claims:WE CLAIM:

1. A system for automatic identification and location of personnel in distress, the system comprises:
- a wearable or handheld device having a clipping mechanism to clip said device to a jacket or belt and or a strapping mechanism to strap said device on an arm, waist, wrist or other locations of a human body with a loud audio and visual alarm to identify and locate personnel in distress, said wearable device comprises:
- a motion sensor to continuously monitor motion of said person and identify distress, inactivity, and falls;
- a temperature sensor to sense temperature of environment surrounding the person wearing or holding the device;
- a piezoelectric acoustic system to generate an at least 92dBA level audio alarm;- a visual alarm system to generate bright focused beam red lights at specified intervals to signal distress;
- an optional single gas or multiple gases detector to detect toxic and immediately dangerous to life and health gases in the environment surrounding the person holding or wearing the device, wherein the gases are selected from Hydro Carbon, Ammonia, Carbon Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, Hydrogen Sulfide, Chlorine, Chlorine Dioxide, Hydrogen Cyanide, Hydrogen Fluoride and Nitrogen Dioxide;
- an optional GPS location and wireless communication modules to receive and transmit precise location of the person to a control station or server or other such wearable devices nearby or mobile phones or other electronic devices or handheld location tracking devices;
- an optional integration piece to integrate the device to an external breathing apparatus to allow for automatic activation of the alarm unit when a breathing apparatus is activated, wherein said alarm unit consists a loud audio alarm system and bright visual alarm system powered by a battery to allow for at least 2 hours of continuous operation;
- an optional pressure sensing module to continuously monitor pressure of a tank in the breathing apparatus and communicate this information over wireless communication;
- an optional accountability key that attaches to the device and allows for immediate activation when the key is removed from the device, said key comprises a magnet or a mechanical extrusion and an individual labeling or personnel coding mechanism;
- a charging unit that uses USB connectors or magnetic socket connectors or a wireless charging system, wherein said charging unit consisting a docking mechanism where one or multiple devices are placed or docked for charging;
- a central control station that connects with one or many of such wearable or handheld devices and or connects with one or many gateways and or direct power lines to continuously monitor the GPS location or relative location of one or many devices, said central control station comprises:
- a display unit with a location map and accountability map displaying a precise location of one or many wearable or handheld devices and displaying identification and accountability of each wearable or handheld device;
- a handheld location tracking device to track a relative proximity of one or many wearable or handheld devices, said handheld location tracking device comprises:
- a wireless communication tracking module like radio frequency to track proximity of one or many wearable or handheld devices;
- a display unit with light and or audio indicators indicating the proximity of one or many wearable or handheld devices, said indicators increasing or decreasing in brightness or loudness based on the proximity;
- a charging unit having a charging dock, a plurality of magnetic connectors and connecting interfaces; and
- a mesh network connecting two or more wearable or handheld devices, connect directly, as opposed to through a central hub/system, wherein the mesh network creates a star-like network where different nodes are connected through each other as per the proximity and communication via multiple nodes of wearable or handheld devices rather than a point to point fashion.

2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable or handheld device comprises an information processing apparatus that captures motion data from the motion sensor in the device, said information processing apparatus comprises:
- a calculation unit to calculate derivative of the real-time stream of motion data gathered from the motion sensor to understand change or slope of a real-time motion data; and
- a slope-based distress determination, fall detection, and inactivity detection, to trigger the audio and visual alarm based on established slope values and ranges.

3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable or handheld device has an operating temperature range of at least 0° to 60°, wherein the operating temperature goes higher or lower than the operating temperature range depending on industrial application, preferably in case of firefighting the temperature goes up to 300? and for Search and Rescue the temperature goes up to negative 30°.

4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable or handheld device is operational in at least 1 meter of depth of water for at least 30 minutes and the wearable device or handheld device is corrosion resistant, chemical resistant, oil resistant, intrinsically safe and safe to operate in explosive environments.

5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable or handheld device with an audio alarm system based on piezo acoustics, said audio alarm system comprising:

- a piezoelectric acoustic element or bender soldered to a PCB with a through hole in the center, of a diameter equal to the diameter of the piezo element plus at least 1 mm,
- wherein said PCB with a through hole via having one or many such vias on the connection pad equal to a diameter of at least 1.8% of the diameter of the piezo element, and wherein assembly of said PCB, on one side a piezo element and on another side a metal bowl equal to the diameter of a piezo element with a lip of at least 7% of the piezo element diameter.

6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable device comprising four modes selected from an active sensing mode, in which continuous motion sensing of the user is performed, a pre-alarm mode, activated after 20 seconds of user inactivity, emitting a 75dBA to 105dBA audio alarm and flashing bright red lights for 12 seconds, a full-alarm mode, featuring a 92dBA audio alarm with flashing bright red lights until manually terminated, triggered if user remains inactive during Pre-Alarm Mode, and a charging mode, exclusively for recharging the device's battery, wherein in charging mode all other modes are deactivated and only the charging mode is active, wherein charging indications are based on battery level, in which Blue LED blinks once in 5 seconds if battery is less than 20%, Blue LED blinks once in 3 seconds if battery is between 20% and 40%, Blue LED blinks once in 2 seconds if battery is between 40% and 90%, Blue LED blinks once every second if battery is between 90% and 98%, and Blue and Green LEDs blink alternating once every second if battery is greater than 98%.

7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device further comprises an integrated health monitoring unit to monitor a wide variety of physiological, cardiovascular or pulmonary parameters of the user using a one or more of the following sensors selected from ECG, PPG, and ICG, wherein a multi-wavelength PPG sensor with at least 2 wavelengths of light in the visible and IR region to monitor the following parameters selected from Pulse Rate, Oxygen Saturation, Respiration Rate, Breathing Effort, Tidal Volume, Blood Pressure, Skin Temperature, Core Body Temperature, Cardiac Output, Stroke Volume, Cardiac Index, Stroke Volume Variability, Systemic Vascular Resistance, Hydration Content, and Stress Levels.

8. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the biological and physiological parameters are determined using advanced signal processing techniques and Artificial Intelligence selected from Discrete Fourier Transform, Oscillatory mode decomposition, Wavelet decomposition, wherein said parameters are measured using either frequency or time domain information of the multi-wavelength PPG signals, wherein Blood pressure is measured by calculating the phase delay between multiple wavelengths.

9. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ECG and PPG sensors accurately measure a range of vital parameters with clinical precision selected from Heart Rate, calculated via the dominant frequency of the PPG signal; Respiratory Rate, derived from the dominant frequency in the respiratory component of the PPG signal; Blood Pressure, determinable through Pulse Transit Time (PTT) or Pulse Arrival Time (PAT) approaches utilizing either PPG alone or in conjunction with ECG readings; Cardiac Output, quantifiable by assessing the area under the curve of PPG signals; Stroke Volume, calculated as the ratio of Cardiac Output to Heart Rate; and Oxygen Saturation, measurable through the PPG sensor,

10. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable or handheld device activates upon removal of the activation key from the device which turns on a reed sensor switch allowing for activation and functioning of the device and the activation key with a magnet needs to be placed on top of the device which in turn, turns off the reed sensor switch, thereby turning off the device and moving to standby mode.

11. The system as claimed in Claim 1, comprising a radio frequency and GPS unit to communicate real-time GPS location of each wearable device in the system with each other and the central control station using any radio frequency protocol like LoRaWAN .

SHWETA SEN IN/PA No-3010
Dated- 19th June, 2024 Patent Agent For Applicant