Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR INITIATING AND
HANDLING AN EMERGENCY CALL
BACKGROUND
1. Field of the Disclosure
The present disclosure relates to telecommunication systems. In
particular, it relates to telecommunications systems to initiate and handle
emergency calls such as 911 calls.
2. General Background
Emergency calls to emergency service, such as 9-1-1, are increasingly
originated from portable wireless devices such as cellular telephones.
Establishing the responsible public safety answering point (PSAP) for each
emergency call is crucial. Because of the natural mobility of cellular phones,
establishing the responsible public safety answering point to handle the call
has
become increasingly difficult. In addition providing for accurate updates of
the
location of the portable wireless device to the public safety answering point
is
also critical.
SUMMARY
In one aspect, there is a method of updating location information of a
portable computing device. Location data is received from a positioning
device.
The positioning device can be a ground positioning system device. A voice link
is utilized for communication between the portable computing device and a call
center. The call center can be a public safety answering point. A dual-tone
multi-frequency signal is mapped to a pre-determined range of movement. The
dual-tone multi-frequency signal is transmitted to the call center when a
longitude measurement in the location data indicates a change in longitude
that
is within the pre-determined rage of movement. The dual-tone multi-frequency
signal is transmitted as an indicator of longitude change of location of the
1
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
portable computing device. In addition, the dual-tone multi-frequency signal
is
transmitted to the call center when a latitude measurement in the location
data
indicates a change in latitude that is within the pre-determined rage of
movement. The dual-tone multi-frequency signal is transmitted as an indicator
of latitude change of location of the portable computing device. The dual-tone
multi-frequency signal is transmitted through the voice link. In addition, the
portable computing device is a personal data assistant, a cellular telephone,
a
smart phone, or a laptop computer.
In one embodiment, the pre-determined range of movement is 0 degrees
to 0.0045 degrees. In another embodiment, pre-determined range of
movement is 0.0046 degrees to 0.0090 degrees.
Furthermore, the call center can calculate a new location latitude of the
portable computing device by adding an old location latitude of the portable
computing device and the pre-determined range of movement corresponding to
the dual-tone multi-frequency signal received. In addition, the call center
can
calculate a new location longitude of the portable computing device by adding
an old location longitude of the portable computing device and the division of
the pre-determined range of movement corresponding to the dual-tone multi-
frequency signal received by the cosine of the old location longitude.
In another aspect, there is a portable computing device. The portable
computing device comprises a positioning device, a memory module, a voice
communication transceiver, and a processor. The positioning device receives
location data. The memory module stores a table that includes a dual-tone
multi-frequency signal mapped to a pre-determined range of movement. The
voice communication transceiver communicates with a call center through a
voice link. The processor can be configured to determine when a longitude
measurement in the location data indicates a change in longitude that is
within
the pre-determined rage of movement. The processor can be further
configured to transmit the dual-tone multi-frequency signal to the call canter
through the voice communication transceiver. The dual-tone multi-frequency
2
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
signal can be transmitted as an indicator of longitude change of location of
the
portable computing device. In addition, the processor can be configured to
determine when a latitude measurement in the location data indicates a change
in latitude that is within the pre-determined rage of movement. The processor
is further configured to transmit the dual-tone multi-frequency signal to the
call
canter through the voice communication transceiver. The dual-tone multi-
frequency signal being transmitted as an indicator of latitude change of
location
of the portable computing device.
In another aspect, there is a method of updating location information of a
portable computing device. Location data is received from a positioning
device.
The portable computing device communicates with a call center through a data
link. A movement indicator is mapped to a pre-determined range of movement.
The movement indicator is transmitted to the call center in a first data
packet
when a longitude measurement in the location data indicates a change in
longitude that is within the pre-determined rage of movement. The movement
indicator indicates a longitude change of location of the portable computing
device. Moreover, the movement indicator is transmitted to the call center in
a
second data packet when a latitude measurement in the location data indicates
a change in latitude that is within the pre-determined rage of movement. The
movement indicator indicates a latitude change of location of the portable
computing device.
In another aspect, there is a method of making an emergency voice call.
A location area identifier that represents a geographical area in which the
portable computing device is located is determined. A coverage area identifier
that matches the location area identifier can be further determined. The
coverage area identifier represents an emergency service area being serviced
by a public safety answering point. A voice call destination number associated
with the coverage area identifier is identified. The voice call destination
number
is utilized in order to communicate with the public safety answering point.
3
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
The location area can be a pixilated image. In addition, the geographical
area can be an irregular area. The emergency service area can also be an
irregular area.
In a further aspect of the method, the voice call destination number can
be a telephone number of the public safety answering point or an Internet
protocol address of the public safety answering point.
Furthermore, the coverage area identifier and the location area identifier are
correlated in a lookup table. The lookup table can reside in the portable
computing device or a remote server. Moreover, the coverage area identifier
and the voice call destination number are correlated in a lookup table. The
lookup table can reside in the portable computing device or a remote server.
The method can further comprise receiving an emergency call input from a user
to initiate the emergency voice call. Alternatively, the emergency voice call
can
be automatically initiated if a preconfigured event occurs.
In another aspect, there is a portable computing device to make an emergency
voice call. The portable computing device comprises a positioning device
receives location data, a processor, and a dialing module. The processor
determines a location area identifier corresponding to a geographical area
encompassing a geographical location being represented by the location data.
The processor can be configured to identify a voice call destination number
associated with the location area identifier. The dialing module utilizes the
voice call destination number in order to establish communication with a
public
safety answering point.
In one aspect, there is a method of making an emergency voice call from
a portable computing device. The portable computing device communicates
with the cellular base station. A cellular base station identifier that
corresponds
to the cellular base station is determined. A public safety answering point
identifier associated with the cellular base station identifier is determined.
The
public safety answering point identifier corresponds to a public safety
answering point responsible to handle emergency calls being routed through
4
CA 02648328 2010-12-07
pre-determined range of movement, wherein the processor is further configured
to transmit the dual-tone multi-frequency signal to the call center through
the
voice communication transceiver, the dual-tone multi-frequency signal being
transmitted as an indicator of latitude change of location of the portable
computing device.
According to a further aspect, there is provided a method of updating
location information of a portable computing device, comprising: receiving
location data from a positioning device; communicating with a call center
through a data link; mapping a movement indicator to a pre-determined range
of movement; transmitting to the call center the movement indicator in a first
data packet when a longitude measurement in the location data indicates a
change in longitude that is within the pre-determined range of movement,
wherein the movement indicator indicates a longitude change of location of the
portable computing device; and transmitting to the call center the movement
indicator in a second data packet when a latitude measurement in the location
data indicates a change in latitude that is within the pre-determined range of
movement, wherein the movement indicator indicates a latitude change of
location of the portable computing device.
DRAWINGS
By way of example, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings.
Figure 1 illustrates a system for communication between a portable computing
device and a control center.
Figure 2 illustrates a component diagram of a portable computing device
configured to determine the appropriate destination number of a control
center.
Figure 3 illustrates a system for communication between a portable computing
device and a control public safety answering point.
5a
CA 02648328 2010-12-07
Figure 4 illustrates a component diagram of a portable computing device
configured to determine the appropriate destination number of a public safety
answering point.
Figure 5A illustrates a system for communication between a portable computing
device and a control public safety answering point, wherein the portable
computing device acquires a public safety answering point emergency number
from a network server.
Figure 5B illustrates a system for communication between a portable computing
device and a public safety answering point, wherein one or more public safety
answering points communicate with a centralized communication data interface
module.
Figure 6 illustrates cellular base stations pre-assigned to specific public
safety
answering points.
Figure 7 illustrates a table of cellular base station identifiers and
corresponding
public safety answering point identifiers.
5b
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
Figure 8 illustrates a data flow diagram for a process of determining the
appropriate public safety answering point in an emergency call.
Figure 9 illustrates geographical area assigned to specific public safety
answering points.
Figures 10A-10B illustrate a pixilated image representing a geographical zone
assigned to the public safety answering point.
Figure 11 illustrates a data flow diagram for a process of determining, based
on
pre-configured geographical areas, the appropriate public safety answering
point in an emergency call.
Figure 12 illustrates a screenshot of a user interface for dialing to a public
safety answering point.
Figure 13 illustrates a screenshot of a user interface for entering
communication data.
Figure 14 illustrates a screenshot of a user interface for customizing user
information to be reported to the public safety answering point.
Figure 15 illustrates a flow diagram for a process of performing an emergency
call to a public safety answering point.
Figure 16 illustrates a flow diagram for a process of updating location data.
Figure 17 illustrates a flow diagram for a process of receiving an emergency
call at a public safety answering point.
Figures 18A-18C illustrate data packet and voice transmissions during an
emergency call at a public safety answering point.
Figure 19 illustrates an exemplary mapping of DTMF tones to ranges of
movement in latitude or longitude.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present system and method permits a portable computing device to
make an emergency call to an emergency center directly (e.g. directly dialing
6
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
the telephone number of the responsible emergency center) independent of
movement of the portable computing device. Therefore, routing mechanisms
and infrastructure are bypassed and circumvented so as to establish an
emergency call faster and more efficiently. The present system and method
also permits a portable computing device to update a call center, such as an
emergency call center, of the location change of the portable computing
device.
In one embodiment, the updates can be performed utilizing dual-tone multi-
frequency (DTMF) tones.
The system and method disclosed herein provides a portable computing
device configured to directly contact the public safety answering point that
is
responsible to handle the call by the portable computing device. The public
safety answering point responsible to handle the call is identified by the
portable computing device by performing a search in a database stored in the
portable computing device. In another embodiment, the portable computing
device requests a server to provide the public safety answering point
responsible to handle an emergency call by the computing device.
The portable computing device can determine the responsible public
safety answering point by utilizing various searching methods and algorithms.
In one embodiment, a lookup table having data pairs (e.g., cellular base
station,
public safety answering point identifier) indicative of the call receiving
points for
which each public safety answering point is responsible can be utilized.
Examples of call receiving points are cellular base station or WiFi antennas.
The call receiving point through which the call is to be made is determined.
The call receiving point identifier is searched in the lookup table, and the
corresponding public safety answering point is established as the responsible
public safety answering point.
In another embodiment, the portable computing device includes a
positioning device, such as a ground positioning system (GPS) receiver that
obtains the location of the portable computing device. Geographical zones
marked by irregular boundaries can also be stored in the computing device.
7
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
The public safety answering point responsible for the zone in which the device
is located is established as the responsible public safety answering point.
The
computing device can then establish a geographical zone in which the portable
computing device is located. Furthermore, the computing device can identify
the public safety answering point assigned to serve the geographical zone in
which the portable computing device is located.
In addition, as the portable computing device, new location information
can be updated by transmitting DTMF tones from the wireless device to the
public safety answering point. A combination of DTMF tones can be utilized to
transmit a latitude and longitude position change. The DTMF tones can be
transmitted over an Internet Protocol (IP) network, a cellular network, or any
other communications network.
As such, a voice call from a portable computing device can include
originator location data such that at the receiving site, the caller
identifier ANI
(automatic number identification), and physical location of the caller. This
information can be made available to a public safety answering point operator
in real time during the voice call. In addition, correct location information
can
be provided to the public safety answering point operator in compliance with
current U.S. Federal Communications Commission guidelines for 911 location
identification.
Figure 1 illustrates a system for communication between a portable computing
device and a control center. A portable computing device 110 can
communicate wirelessly through multiple communications networks. In one
example, the portable computing device 110 can communicate through a voice
network 104 with a response console 108. The response console 108 permits
an operator to handle an incoming call from the portable computing device 110.
The operator can utilize a voice interface 116 to interact and carry a voice
conversation with the user of the portable computing device 110. In one
example, the voice network can be a telephone network. In another example,
the voice network can be an IP network.
8
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
In addition, the portable computing device 110 can communicate with a data
network 106 to transmit data (e.g. data packets) to the call center 114. The
data received by a communication data interface module 112 which processes
information and can relay the information to the response console 108 at the
control center 114. In addition, the communication data interface module 112
can include logic to store data incoming from the portable computing device
110 in the device database 120. Information stored in the device database 120
comprises portable computing device location information, encoded
information, etc. The portable computing device 110 can acquire positioning
data from a positioning satellite network 102. In one example, communication
data interface module 112 is a centralized server that communicates with one
or more response consoles at multiple control centers. Thus, the portable
computing device 110 communicates with the communication data interface
module 112, which in turn communicates with the appropriate response
console 108. In another example, the portable computing device 110 can
utilize the positioning data to determine which control center, of a selection
of
control centers, to call. In another example, the portable computing device
110
can utilize a table of cellular base stations correlated with a particular
control
center in order to establish which control center to call.
The system illustrated in Figure 1 can be applied to any system wherein the
portable computing device is a nomadic device that depending upon the
location of the portable computing device a new call center must be
identified.
In one example, the call center can be a tourist information center. As the
portable computing device travels and changes its location (e.g., from one
city
to another), the relevant information center may change. Based on a list of
tourist information centers stored in the portable computing device and
portable
computing device positioning information, the portable computing device can
identify the responsible or appropriate information center to call. In another
example, the call center can be a pharmacy. As the portable computing device
travels from one neighborhood to another, the most appropriate pharmacy to
call can be identified by the portable computing device.
9
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
Figure 2 illustrates a component diagram of a portable computing device
configured to determine the appropriate destination number of a control center
as illustrated in Figure 1. A positioning device 202, such as a ground
positioning system, can communicate with the satellite network 102 to gather
positioning information. Processor 208 coordinates and processes all data
transmission requests, calculations, and any operations required by the
modules and transceivers in the portable computing device 200.
The voice communication transceiver 204 can include a dialing function or
dialer module (not shown) that permits the portable computing device 200 to
make voice calls to the call center 108. The voice communication transceiver
204 permits the portable computing device 200 to communicate through the
voice network 104. As such, the voice communication transceiver 204 is
equipped with logic and protocol information to exchange digital and analog
information with the voice network 104. The data communication transceiver
206 can also permit the portable computing device 200 to exchange data with
the data network 106. The data exchanged can be analog or digital. Thus, for
example, the data can be in a packet switched protocol.
In one embodiment, the portable computing device 200 can further include user
interface modules. In one example, an input module 210 and an output module
212 can be provided. Known interfaces for input and output can be provided to
interact with the user.
Finally, the portable computing device 200 can also be provided with a call
center database 214. The call center database 214 can include a listing of all
call centers, calling information of the call centers, and correlated location
of
each of the call centers. In one example, the call center database 214
includes
call center numbers and assigned geographical areas of service. In another
example, the call center database 213 includes call center numbers and
cellular base station identifiers. In yet another example, where the call
centers
are public safety answering points that answer emergency calls, the call
center
database 214 includes a list of numbers corresponding to all the public safety
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
answering points, and the geographical zone being serviced by each public
safety answering point. Further, in another example, the call center database
214 may include a public safety answering point calling information and
related
cellular base stations serviced.
Figure 3 illustrates a system for communication between a portable computing
device and a control public safety answering point. The portable computing
device 110 can be used by a user that needs to make an emergency call (e.g.
911 calls). As a user changes location within a city, a county, a state, or a
country, the appropriate emergency call center, or public safety answering
point, may also change.
The portable computing device 110 can be located at a remote location from
one or more public safety answering points. The portable computing device
110 is capable of making a voice call, transmitting data over a data link, and
of
determining the portable computing device 110 location using a location
receiver. The portable computing device 110 can be any one of a cellular
telephone, a personal data assistant (PDA), a smart phone, a laptop, IP phone,
etc.
In one embodiment, the portable computing device 110 is configured to use two
channels of communication with the public safety answering point. A voice
channel can use a voice network to communicate with the public safety
answering point. For example, the voice network can be a cellular network
306. The second channel can be a data channel that communicates through a
data network, such as, for example, the Internet 308.
In another embodiment, the portable computing device 110 is configured to use
one channel to communicate with the public safety answering point. For
example, the portable computing device 110 may communicate with the public
safety answering point 110 exclusively through the Internet 308. Therefore,
the
portable computing device 110 can utilize a data channel and a voice channel
to communicate with the public safety answering point 310. Both channels can
be implemented utilizing the Internet 308. In yet another embodiment, the
11
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
portable computing device 110 can establish a voice channel and a data
channel through the cellular network 306.
The public safety answering point 310 can include a communication data
interface module 314 which is a software module on a computer server, or any
other computing device. The communication data interface permits the public
safety answering point 310 to communicate with the portable computing device
110 through the Internet 308. The communication data interface module 314
can access, retrieve, store, and in general, manage data in the device
location
information (DLI) database 320. Therefore, the communication data interface
module 314 includes logic to receive location position from the portable
computing device 110. In addition, the communication data interface module
314 can also provide device location information to an emergency response
console 312. Further, the communication data interface module 314 may
receive updated location information or other user data, portable computing
device 110 data, or other useful information from the emergency response
console 312. The communication data interface module 314 can then store
such information in the device location information database 320.
The device location information database 320 can reside in a disk file or any
other storage medium that is accessible to the communication data interface
module 314. In one embodiment, the device location information database 320
has one set of table entries for each portable computing device 110
transmitting data to the public safety answering point 310. The table entry
may
be created the first time the communication data interface module 314
encounters a data packet sent by the portable computing device 110 or a
location data query from the emergency response console 312. A table entry
can be uniquely identified by the caller identifier (e.g., the phone number,
IP
address), and may contain the latest location data set and the latest
supplementary data from the portable computing device 110. Other attributes
can be updated when a call is received. For example, active call status can be
set true when the communication data interface module 314 receives an active
call message from the emergency response console 312. Active call status
12
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
can be set false when the communication data interface module 314 receives a
call termination message from the emergency response console 312
component. In one example, the device location information database 320 is
formatted according to Table 1.
Data Data Item Description Units Data Type/Size
Address mobile device caller identification (phone ASCII string (10
characters)
number)
Latitude position east(+)/west(-) of prime meridian Degrees float (5 decimal
places)
Longitude position north(+)/south(-) of the equator Degrees float (5 decimal
places)
Altitude position relative to sea level (above +, below -) meters signed
integer
SOG speed over ground meters/sec unsigned integer
COG course over ground current direction of travel degrees unsigned integer
GPS time time of last position in seconds since 1 Jan 1970 sec unsigned long
First Name wireless device supplementary data item ASCII string (variable)
Last Name wireless device supplementary data item ASCII string (variable)
HIPAA 1 wireless device supplementary data item number float (whole number)
HIPAA 1 wireless device supplementary data item number float (whole number)
Text wireless device supplementary data item ASCII string (50 characters)
Call Routing IP address of last requesting ERC ASCII string (variable)
Port port number of last requesting ERC number unsigned long
Call Active logic state of call in progress true/false boolean (1 bit)
Position Data logic state of whether there is location data for true/false
boolean (1 bit)
Active this device
Additional logic state of whether there is supplementary true/false boolean (1
bit)
Data Active data available for this device
Table 1
The emergency response console 312 can be a software module residing on a
standalone server, or an integrated server, and can communicate with the
communication interface module 314 in order to exchange update data
regarding active calls, etc. In another embodiment, the emergency response
console 312 is a computer application that resides at personal computer 318.
The emergency repose console 312 can be configured to operably
communicate with a modem (not shown) at the personal computer 318 in order
13
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
to handle the incoming voice call. In another embodiment, the emergency
response console 312 resides in a private branch exchange (PBX) (not shown)
within the public safety answering point 310.
The emergency response console 312 can be configured to execute various
one or more operations. For example, the emergency response console 312
can receive the voice calls from the portable computing device 110, extract
caller identifier, extract portable computing device 110 location data
received
during an emergency call (e.g. using DTMF tones), retrieve associated data
from the communication data interface module 314, process emergency calls
received by the public safety answering point 310, create a call record, and
display the location and caller information on a monitor mapping screen. In
another example, the emergency response console 312 can be configured to
record and/or report the conversation during the emergency call on tape or
digitally. In another example, the emergency response console 312 can be
configured to display of the change of location of the portable computing
device
110 on a computer display. In yet another example, the emergency response
console 312 can be configured to geo-code the location of the portable
computing device 110.
In one embodiment, the emergency response console 312 handles one or
more emergency operators. An emergency operator can utilize a telephone
316 to handle a voice call, and a personal computer 318 to view and handle the
incoming and outgoing data related to the emergency call. The emergency
response console 312 can therefore be connected to a plurality of telephones,
or other voice call interface. In addition, the emergency response console 312
can also be connected to a plurality of personal computer or terminals used by
each emergency operator.
In one embodiment, the emergency response console 312 may provide a real
time continuous update of the location mapping of the portable computing
device 110 during an emergency call. The emergency response console 312
can receive location updates from the portable computing device 110 via DTMF
14
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
tones. In another example, emergency response console 312 can receive
location updates via data packets.
If the location updates are received as DTMF tones, the emergency response
console 312 can be configured with logic to interpret DTMF tones into location
information based on a pre-established protocol used by the portable
computing device 100 and the emergency response console 312. As such, the
emergency response console 312 monitors the voice call for DTMF tones
signaling a change in location. The DTMF tones may be deciphered as
described below. The location change information may be utilized by the
emergency response console 312 component to compute a new location
latitude and longitude. Based on the difference in locations and the time
difference, the emergency response console 312 component may compute a
new speed and course over ground. A location data message may be sent to
the communication data interface module 314 for updating the device location
information database 320.
In one example, the location interpreted by the emergency response console
312 can be relayed to the personal computer 318 for display. In addition, the
emergency response console 312 can provide zoom-in, zoom-out, and labeling
functions for use with a location map displayed at an output screen. The
output
screen can be operably connected to the personal computer 318.
In another embodiment, location data for mapping purposes may be obtained
from the communication data interface module 314. In one embodiment, the
location data mapping can include a symbol representing the portable
computing device 110 placed at the center of the reported location. Further
mapping logic can be provided at the emergency response console 312 so that
supplementary information regarding each mapped portable computing device
110 can also be provided either on an output screen or via audio. In one
example, the mapping logic resides in the emergency response console 312,
and the mapping information and supplementary data are transmitted to the
personal computer 318 for presentation purposes only. In another
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
embodiment, the emergency response console 312 simply transmits longitude
and latitude data, or location data in any other location data format, to the
personal computer 318 for processing and mapping.
In yet another embodiment, the emergency response console 312 is configured
to create an emergency call record for every voice call received by the
emergency response console 312. The emergency call record includes data
acquired during the emergency call. In one example, the data format can
conform to the format show in Table 2.
Data Item Data Item Description Units Data Type/Size
Caller ID the phone number of the wireless device ASCII string (10 characters)
Receive ID the phone number of the call destination ASCII string (10
characters)
Receive Time complete date and time of call reception YYYYMMDD Date/Time
HHMMSS
Answer Time complete date and time call is answered YYYYMMDD Date/Time
HHMMSS
Disconnect Time complete date and time call is terminated YYYYMMDD Date/Time
HHMMSS
Table 2
In another embodiment, the emergency response console 312 is also
configured to detect an incoming voice call and extract the caller identifier
(e.g.,
phone number) from the call stream. Further, the time at which the emergency
call was received can be recorded and reported, along with the identification
information, to a real time status panel provided in the personal computer
318.
In addition, the emergency call record may be initialized with the caller
identification and the time of call receipt.
Furthermore, in one embodiment, the emergency response console 312 may
send an active call state message to the communication data interface module
314 for updating the device location information database 320. The
communication data interface module 314 can return either a location data
packet or a missing data message to the emergency response console (ERC)
312. Subsequently, once the communication data interface module 314 has
received the indication of an active emergency call, location data messages
16
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
can automatically be sent to the emergency response console 312
corresponding to the portable computing device 110 in the emergency call. In
addition, once the communication data interface module 314 has received the
indication of an active emergency call, supplementary data messages can
automatically be sent to the emergency response console 312 corresponding to
the portable computing device 110.
Figure 4 illustrates a component diagram of a portable computing device
configured to determine the appropriate destination number of a public safety
answering point. A portable computing device 400 can be provided for
communicating with a public safety answering point. The components and
computer logic in the portable computing device 400 can be incorporated into
existing portable devices such as cellular telephones and personal data
assistants.
The portable computing device 400 can include a ground positioning system
received 406 that receives geo-positioning data from a satellite constellation
such as satellite network 102. The information received at the ground
positioning system can be processed at process 412 and utilized for
calculations of new location, public safety answering point determination,
etc.
Furthermore, a cellular transceiver 404 can be provided to communicate the
portable computing device 400 with a cellular network. The cellular
transceiver
404 can be configured for transmitting voice and data over a communications
network such as a cellular network. Likewise, an Internet data transceiver 402
can be provided to transmit voice and data over a communications network
such as the Internet. In addition, an audio processing module 414 can be
provided to receive audio (e.g., voice) for processing and transmission over a
data channel or a voice channel. Additional input and output modules can be
provided and attached to the portable computing device 400. For example, an
input module 408 such as a keyboard can be coupled with the portable
computing device 400. In another example, an output module 410, such as a
screen or speakers can be coupled with the portable computing device 400.
17
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
The portable computing device 400 can also include a public safety answering
point database 418. In one example, the public safety answering point
database 418 can store records of all available public safety answering points
in the United States. In one example, the public safety answering point
database 418 can store records of all available public safety answering points
in Canada or Mexico, or any other foreign jurisdiction. In another example,
the
public safety answering point database 418 can store records of local
available
public safety answering points within a local area such as a state or county.
Figure 5A illustrates a system for communication between a portable
computing device and a control public safety answering point, wherein the
portable computing device acquires a public safety answering point emergency
number from a network server. As previously discussed, the portable
computing device 110 may include a public safety answering point database.
In another example, the portable computing device 110 may not include a
public safety answering point database. The portable computing device 110
can make a direct voice emergency call, or telephone call to the responsible
public safety answering point by first inquiring to a call destination server
506
regarding the correct public safety answering point to call. In one
embodiment,
the portable computing device 110 communicates with the call destination
server 502 through the Internet.
The destination server 506 can include a public safety answering point
search module 504 and a public safety answering point database 506. In one
embodiment, a plurality of destination servers can be provided to serve
portable computing devices requests. The requests by the portable computing
devices can be randomly assigned to one of the plurality of destination
servers.
In another example, the requests by the portable computing device can be
assigned based on load of the destination servers.
The data provided by the portable computing device 110 to the call
destination server 502 can depend on the configuration and the pre-established
protocol of operation between the public safety answering point and the call
18
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
destination server 502. In one example, the portable computing device 110
may provide the current location of the portable computing device 110 to the
call destination server 502. The call destination server 502 can then
determine,
based on the location of the portable computing device 110, the communication
point (e.g., cellular base station or tower) closest to the portable computing
device 110 and further determine the public safety answering point responsible
to serve portable computing devices connected to that communication point. In
another example, the portable computing device 110 can provide the
communication point (e.g., tower number, cellular base station) to the call
destination server 502. The call destination server 502 can then determine the
public safety answering point responsible to serve the portable computing
devices connected to that communication point and provide to the portable
computing device 110 the public safety answering point number for initiating a
voice call.
In another embodiment, the portable computing device 110 provides the
geographical position of the portable computing device 110, and the call
destination server 502 determines the responsible public safety answering
point. The call destination server 502 can be configured with a list of
irregular
zones that correspond to each service area of a public safety answering point.
Therefore, the call destination server 502 can be configured with logic to
determine in which geographical zone the portable computing device 110 is
located, and further identify the public safety answering point serving the
geographical zone in which the portable computing device is located. Once the
public safety answering point is identified, the contact data for the public
safety
answering point (e.g., telephone number, voice call number) can be provided to
the portable computing device 110.
In one embodiment, the portable computing device 110 requests the
public safety answering point information subject to the location of the
portable
computing device 110. For example, if the portable computing device 110 is
located in an area that is considered or configured as being local to the
portable computing device 110, then the portable computing device 110 can
19
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
lookup a public safety answering point database that includes only the local
public safety answering points. On the other hand, if the portable computing
device 110 is in an area that is considered foreign to the portable computing
device 110, then the portable computing device 110 can query a call
destination server 502 for the appropriate public safety answering point to
contact in an emergency. Thus, if the user of the portable computing device
110 lives in Los Angeles, California, the portable computing device 110 can
include a public safety answering point database that includes information
about all of the public safety answering points serving Los Angeles,
California.
If the user requests an emergency call, the portable computing device 110 can
simply query a public safety answering point database stored in the portable
computing device 110, and quickly dial the responsible public safety answering
point number. If the same user travels outside of Los Angeles, California, the
portable computing device 110 can query the call destination server 502 via
the
Internet 308 regarding the responsible public safety answering point as the
portable computing device 110 travels and changes location.
In one example, the geographical region considered local to the portable
computing device 110 can be a city, county, state, province or country. In
another embodiment, the region can be defined by other parameters, such as
service areas, etc. In addition, the geographical region considered foreign to
the portable computing device 110 can also be a city, county, state, province
or
country.
The portable computing device 110 can be configured to query the call
destination server 502 every time an emergency call is to be made. In one
configuration, the call destination server 502 can be used to provide the
telephone number, or contact information, of the public safety answering point
to the portable computing device 110. In another configuration, the call
destination server 502 queried for the public safety answering point contact
information in order to confirm that the public safety answering point
calculated
by the portable computing device 110 was correct. In another configuration,
the portable computing device 110 can continuously communicate with a call
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
destination server as the portable computing device 110 travels, thereby
updating the contact list of local public safety answering points. In this
configuration, the portable computing device can be constantly updated with a
current list of local public safety answering points and quickly look up the
appropriate public safety answering points if the user initiates an emergency
call. In yet another configuration, portable computing device 110 can store
the
contact information of all of the public safety answering points available
(e.g.,
all of the public safety answering points in a country).
Figure 5B illustrates a system for communication between a portable
computing device and a public safety answering point, wherein one or more
public safety answering points communicate with a centralized communication
data interface module. Thus, in one embodiment, the communication data
interface module is not present in each public safety answering point. Rather,
the communication data interface module 510 can be a centralized gateway
that receives data from the portable computing device 110, and communicates
with multiple public safety answering points
The data received from the portable computing device 110 can be
automatically transmitted to the emergency response console 312 if a voice
call
is active between portable computing device 110 and emergency response
console 312. On the other hand, the data received from the portable
computing device 110 can be automatically transmitted to the emergency
response console 514 if a voice call is active between portable computing
device 110 and emergency response console 514.
In addition, emergency response console 514 and emergency response
console 310 can communicate with the communication data interface module
510 to query position data of a portable computing device, or supplementary
data regarding a user in an emergency call. The communication data interface
module can then provide location data or other data by querying the device
location information database 512.
21
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
PSAP DETERMINATION UTILIZING BASE STATION IDENTIFIERS
Figure 6 illustrates cellular base stations pre-assigned to specific public
safety
answering points. In one embodiment, each of the areas illustrated is
proscribed by the service area of cellular base stations that, in turn, are
served
by public safety answering points. Other permutations and methods of
configuring the areas associated with groups of cellular base stations can
also
be utilized.
Each of the public safety answering points serves one or more cellular base
stations. For example, public safety answering point 628 serves emergency
calls incoming from cellular base station 614. Thus, a portable computing
device 110 traveling in area 602 is communicated with cellular base station
614. As discussed above, the portable computing device 110 determines that
public safety answering point 628 is responsible to handle an emergency call
from the portable computing device 110, and thus the portable computing
device 110 would directly dial to the public safety answering point 628.
As the portable computing device 110 travels through areas 604, 606, 608, 610
and 612, the communicating cellular base station is determined. Depending on
the cellular base station that the portable computing device 110 communicates
with, the portable computing device 110 can be configured to make the
appropriate emergency call to the public safety answering point responsible
for
the call. Therefore, public safety answering point 626 is responsible for
emergency calls that are connected through cellular base stations 618 and 616.
Public safety answering point 624 is responsible for emergency calls that are
connected through cellular base station 630. In addition, public safety
answering point 626 is responsible for emergency calls that are connected
through cellular base stations 632, 622 and 620. Even when public safety
answering point 626 may not be physically located closest to cellular base
stations 632, 622 and 620, or in area 612, public safety answering point 626
can be assigned to be responsible for cellular base stations 632, 622 and 620.
22
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
Figure 7 illustrates a table 700 of cellular base station identifiers and
corresponding public safety answering point identifiers. The table 700 can
include a tower column 702 that lists cellular base station identifiers. As
previously mentioned, if another type of communications network is utilized
instead of a cellular network, other communication points maybe utilized
instead of cellular base stations.
Each of the cellular base station identifiers listed under tower column 702
has a
corresponding public safety answering point that is responsible for handling
emergency calls from portable computing devices that are connected to the
cellular network through a cellular base station. For example, cellular base
station 614 has a corresponding responsible public safety answering point
number one. The public safety answering point identifier can be provided in a
public safety answering point identifier column 704 of the table 700. The
public
safety answering point identifier for the public safety answering point
responsible for calls associate with cellular base station 614 is public
safety
answering point one. Therefore, an emergency call from a portable computing
device that communicates with the cellular network through cellular base
station 614 should be handled by public safety answering point one. Thus,
once the portable computing device establishes that cellular base station 614
is
the cellular base station with which the portable computing device is
communicating, the portable computing device can execute a look-up operation
in table 700. The look-up operation in table 700 will yield that public safety
answering point one is responsible for handling the calls being routed thought
cellular base station 614. In addition, a direct telephone number for public
safety answering point one can be identified (e.g., 310-555-2636). The
portable computing device can the make a direct dialed emergency call to the
public safety answering point one.
In another embodiment, where the look-up table resides at a server, such as
call destination server 502, the lookup of the appropriate public safety
answering point can be performed at the server. The telephone number for the
public safety answering point responsible to handle the call can be provided
to
23
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
the portable computing device so that the portable computing device can make
the emergency call directly to the responsible public safety answering point.
The table 700 can be part of a relational database, a data file, etc. In one
embodiment, the table 700 resides in a database local to the portable
computing device 110, such as public safety answering point database 418. In
another embodiment, the table 700 resides in a database remote from the
portable computing device 110 at a server, such as the public safety answering
point database 506.
Figure 8 illustrates a data flow diagram for a process 800 of determining the
appropriate public safety answering point in an emergency call. At process
block 802, an emergency call input is received at the portable computing
device
110. The emergency call input can be for example the dialing of 911 at the
portable computing device 110. In another embodiment, the emergency call
input can be the input of an emergency button provided at the portable
computing device 110. Process 800 then continues to process block 804.
At process block 804, the cellular base station with which the portable
computing device 110 is determined. In another example, a communication
point with which the portable computing device 110 can also be determined.
As such, the portable computing device 110 can communicate through
communications such as WiFi nodes in HotSpots, Bluetooth connection points,
wireless USB, etc. Process 800 then continues to process block 806.
At process block 806, the public safety answering point voice call
number is determined. The public safety answering point voice call number
can be determined by executing a look-up of the public safety answering point
database (e.g., lookup table) and identifying the contact number of the public
safety answering point that serves emergency calls corresponding to the
cellular base station (or communication point) being utilized by the portable
computing device 110. The contact number can be any number that permits a
voice call connection to be established. The contact number can be, for
example, a telephone number. In another example, the contact number can be
24
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
an Internet address. In another example, the contact number can be a
computer network address. Process 800 then continues to process block 808.
At process block 808, the public safety answering point contact number is
dialed.
PSAP DETERMINATION UTILIZING ZONE IDENTIFIERS
Figure 9 illustrates geographical area assigned to specific public safety
answering points. As the portable computing device 110 travels through
multiple geographical areas, the appropriate public safety answering point
will
vary. In one embodiment, the area served by each public safety answering
points is defined by a geographical irregular boundary. In one example, the
geographical irregular boundary can be stored in the portable computing device
110 along with a correlation between the irregular boundary and the public
safety answering point identifier. In another example, the geographical
irregular boundary can be stored at a server along with a correlation of the
geographical irregular boundary and the public safety answering point.
Therefore, depending on the location of the portable computing device 110, the
portable computing device 110 can be configured to make the appropriate
emergency call to the public safety answering point responsible for the call.
The portable computing device 110 can utilize the position data obtained from
the positioning device included therein (e.g., ground positioning system
device).
Utilizing the position information, the portable computing device 110 can
determine the geographical zone in which the portable computing device 110 is
located. This determination can be performed by methods described below.
Furthermore, the local public safety answering point can be searched in the
public safety answering point database 418 or at the public safety answering
point database 506 discussed above, in order to identify the public safety
answering point that corresponds to the geographical zone in which the
portable computing device is located. The portable computing device 110 may
then use the public safety answering point contact information retrieved from
the public safety answering point database to initiate an emergency call.
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
For example, if the portable computing device 110 is located in geographical
zone 926, the portable computing device can determine that the portable
computing device's 110 position is within the boundaries of geographical zone
926. Then, by performing a search in the public safety answering point
database, public safety answering point 908 can be identified as the
responsible public safety answering point for geographical zone 926. Again,
the contact information for public safety answering point 908 can then be
identified and the portable computing device initiates an emergency voice call
to the public safety answering point 908.
Figure 1 OA illustrates a pixilated image 1000 representing a geographical
zone
assigned to the public safety answering point. Public safety answering points
can be defined by geofences that delineate the service area of each public
safety answering point. In one embodiment, the portable computing device 110
can store a plurality of geographical zones corresponding to the zones served
by each public safety answering point. The geographical zones can be stored
as a collection of location points, as pixilated image, etc. In another
embodiment, a remote server stores the plurality of geographical zones
corresponding to each geographical zone served by each public safety
answering point.
The pixilated image 1000 illustrates an image that can be stored as part of
representing the zone of service of a public safety answering point. The zones
of service can be configured in a client computer with a graphical user
interface. Deflection points can represent the boundaries of the geographical
zone.
In one embodiment, after all the deflection points for a given zone are
uploaded
to a portable computing device 110, or to a server, the pixilated image 1000
is
saved in a memory module of the portable computing device 110, such as
public safety answering point database 418. The pixilated image 1000 can be
stored as a pixel map. The pixilated image 1000 is created by first drawing a
square around the entire area of the zone. The square can be divided into an
26
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
80/80-pixel map, or any other combination. Each pixel 1002 is a geographical
square, meaning that each pixel 1002 can represent a geographical squared
zone of a pre-established area. The pixels can be used to draw the outline
shape 1112.
A position fix 1008 in the pixilated image 1000 is mapped from the current
geographical location of the portable computing device 110. A test can be
performed to for each public safety answering point zone for each position fix
1008 in order to determine if the location of the portable computing device
110
is in pixilated image 1000 or outside of the pixilated image 1000. If the
current
position fix 1008 falls inside the pixilated image 1000, a more extensive test
is
completed by plotting the position fix 1008 inside the pixilated image 1000
and
drawing four lines in four directions (north, south, east and west) from the
position fix 1008 to the borders of the delineated zone 1010. Subsequently,
the
number of zone boundary crossings 1004 is counted for each of the four lines
1022, 1024, 1026, and 1028.
Multiple boundary crossing tests are performed for accuracy. If any of the
four
lines 1022, 1024, 1026, and 1028 cross an odd number of zone boundaries
1112, the position fix 1008 is considered inside the zone 1010. If any of the
four lines 1022, 1024, 1026, and 1028 crosses an even number of zone
boundaries, the position fix 1008 is considered outside the zone 515. If at
least
three out of the four boundary crossing tests agree, the zone boundary
crossings 1004 are used to determine if the position fix 1008 is inside or
outside the zone 1010. If three out of the four boundary tests do not agree,
the
position fix 1008 is considered outside the zone 1010.
In one embodiment, the portable computing device 110 can be configured with
event logic that determines that a preconfigured event occurred when the
portable computing device 110 enters or leaves a defined geographical zone.
For example, upon entering a zone, the portable computing device 110 may be
configured to indicate the name of the new zone by either displaying on an
integrated screen or by emitting a sound or prerecording indicating that a new
27
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
public safety answering point is now in service. In another example, another
event may occur when the portable computing device 110 leaves a zone. For
example, the portable computing device 110 can be configured to compute
whether the entered zone is in a new time zone, and if so, indicate the new
time zone and the current time.
In another embodiment, an irregular zone or geographical zone may be defined
by one or more waypoints. Waypoints are defined by a location point and a
radius, therefore forming a circular region. The geographical zones
corresponding to service area of each public safety answering point can be
defined using one or more waypoints.
Figure 10B illustrates a pixilated image 1030 representing a geographical zone
assigned to the public safety answering point. The pixilated image 1030 may
be configured to include active or "on" pixels, and inactive or "off' pixels.
In one
embodiment, a pixel 1036 can be darker in color than a pixel 1032. In another
embodiment, pixel 1036 simply has an associated flag indicating that pixel
1036 has an active state. In addition, pixel 1032 can have an associated flag
indicating that pixel 1032 has an inactive state.
The pixilated image 1030 can be built such that active pixels correspond to
the
geographical area being covered, such as the public safety answering point
service area 1034. The inactive pixels can be utilized so that the area
represented by the inactive pixels is outside the boundaries of the public
safety
answering point service area 1034. Each pixel can correspond to a square
geographical area. Thus, when the portable computing device 110 receives
positioning data, the portable computing device 110 can quickly calculate the
pixel corresponding to the position of the portable computing device.
Subsequently, the portable computing device 110 can also calculate whether
the pixel corresponding to the position of the portable computing device 110
is
active or inactive, thereby determining whether the portable computing device
110 is inside or outside the public safety answering point service area 1034.
28
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
Figure 11 illustrates a data flow diagram for a process 1100 of determining,
based on pre-configured geographical areas, the appropriate public safety
answering point in an emergency call. At process block 1102, an emergency
call input is received at the portable computing device 110. In one example,
the emergency call input is the user dialing a 911 number. Process 1100 then
continues to process block 1104.
At process block 1104, the current location is determined. The location
of the portable computing device 110 is determined by receiving positioning
data from a positioning device. The geo-location of the portable computing
device 110 can also be determined. Process 1100 then continues to process
block 1106.
At process block 1106, the public safety answering point coverage area
corresponding to the current location is determined. As previously described,
the area of public safety answering point service in which the portable
computing device 110 is located is determined. The area of public safety
answering point service is determined utilizing the location of the portable
computing device 110 and determining the public safety answering point area
in which the portable computing device 110 is located. Process 1100 then
continues to process block 1108.
At process block 1108, the public safety answering point voice call
number is determined. The public safety answering point voice call number
can be determined by executing a look-up of the public safety answering point
database (e.g., lookup table) and identifying the telephone number or contact
number corresponding to the public safety answering point identified as
servicing the public safety answering point area in which the portable
computing device is located. Process 1100 then continues to process block
1110. At process block 1110, the public safety answering point voice call
number is dialed directly to the public safety answering point.
29
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
USER PROFILE CONFIGURATION
Figure 12 illustrates a screenshot of a user interface for dialing to a
public safety answering point. A user interface 1200 can be provided through
the portable computing device 110 (e.g., screen or display). A menu structure
can be provided as part of allowable operations by the user. The user
interface
may provide the means to initiate a voice call to the public safety answering
point. In one embodiment, an emergency button 1202 is provided to make a
one-touch call. The emergency button 1202 can be configured with a speed-
dial operation in order to call a 911 number. Initiation of the emergency call
may include dialing the appropriate phone number and signaling the operations
application to perform the voice call sequence. As previously discussed, the
voice call sequence may comprise identifying the appropriate public safety
answering point to call. Thus, upon identifying the correct public safety
answering point to contact, the portable computing device 110 can display the
telephone number 1204 of the public safety answering point for dialing. In
case
the user is disconnected from the emergency call, the user can quickly redial
the previously called public safety answering point number using a keypad
1206. Alternatively, the user may simply press the emergency button 1202
again.
In anther embodiment, the first time the use requests an emergency
call, the user can do so by entering a 9-1-1 combination on the keypad 1206.
In yet another embodiment, the user may dial any emergency number that
corresponds to emergency services in the specific jurisdiction (e.g., a
European
country).
Figure 13 illustrates a screenshot of a user interface for entering
communication data. A user interface 1300 can be provided through the
portable computing device 110 (e.g., screen or display). A menu structure can
be provided as part of allowable operations by the user. As part of
connectivity
configuration, a destination address field 1302 and a destination port field
1304
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
can be provided for a user to configure the data connection for transmitting
information data packets to the public safety answering point or call center.
In one embodiment, the destination address defaulted to the
communication data interface module 314 of the local public safety answering
point based on the user's home address. In another embodiment, the
destination address the communication data interface module 314 is
dynamically allocated as the portable computing device 110 connects to a data
network, such as the Internet. For example, the destination address can be
provided by a server in response to the portable computing device 110 sending
location data. Based on the location of the portable computing device 110, the
destination address can be populated. In another embodiment, the destination
address can be provided by requesting the correct address from a domain
name server.
Furthermore, if the communication data interface module 314 is a
centralized server, the address can be a public domain address that resolved
at
a process, such as a domain name service, in the communication data
interface module 314.
Figure 14 illustrates a screenshot of a user interface 1400 for
customizing user information to be reported to the public safety answering
point. A user interface 1400 can be provided through the portable computing
device 110 (e.g., screen or display). A menu structure can be provided as part
of allowable operations by the user. The user interface 1400 may provide
means to configure a personal profile of the user of the portable computing
device 110. In one example, the first name and the last name can be entered
through user interface 1400. A first name field 1402 and a last name field
1404
can be provided. In another example, a medical condition field 1406, and a
second medical condition field 1408 can further be provided. The medical
condition fields permit a user to enter existing medical conditions that an
emergency operator should know while handling the call. For example, the
emergency operator may dispatch necessary personnel to assist the user in
31
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
case of an emergency. In another embodiment, medical condition codes may
be established.
In yet another embodiment, a textbox field 1410 can be provided to
enter any information regarding the user that might be useful or necessary for
the operator to assist in an emergency. In another embodiment, the
information entered can be immediate family telephone numbers, personal
identifiers, blood type, DNA information, etc. In another embodiment, codes
utilized as medical condition can be the Health Insurance and Portability
Accountability Act (HIPAA) codes. Once the user enters the information
When the user depresses an action button (e.g., 911) in the portable
computing device 110, the portable computing device 110 may extract the user
profile and transmit the data over a data channel to the communication data
interface module 314. The data can be provided as "supplementary" to the
identifier of the portable computing device 110 (e.g., the telephone number).
A
supplementary data packet may include all of the information from the personal
profile stored in the portable computing device 110.
LOCATION TRANSMISSION AND UPDATING
Figure 15 illustrates a flow diagram for a process 1500 of performing
an emergency call to a public safety answering point. At process block 1502,
the position is received from the positioning device. The process 1500 then
continues to process block 1504. At process block 1504, determine public
safety answering point contact information. The public safety answering point
contact information can be determined utilizing any one of the methods
discussed above, or any other methods know. In one example, the public
safety answering point is determined based on the cellular base station in
communication with the portable computing device 110. In another example,
the public safety answering point is determined based on the zone of service
of
the public safety answering point. The process 1500 then continues to process
block 1506.
32
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
At process block 1506, the current position is transmitted to the
communication data interface module. The process 1500 then continues to
process block 1508.
At process block 1508, the emergency voice call is made to the
appropriate public safety answering point. The public safety answering point
number utilized to make the emergency voice call. The process 1500 then
continues to process block 1510.
At process block 1510, the position data are sent during the voice call.
The position data can be sent utilizing DTMF tones. One or more DTMF tones
can be sent in order to transmit latitude or longitude change or deltas of the
portable computing device 110. In one embodiment, the DTMF tones are
transmitted over the voice network. In another embodiment, the DTMF tones
are transmitted over a data network, such as the Internet. Furthermore, the
position data can be transmitted using a data link. The process 1500 then
continues to process block 1512.
At process block 1512, the emergency voice call is terminated. Once
the user has received the necessary information or emergency assistance, the
user may terminate the emergency call. The process 1500 then continues to
process block 1514. At process block 1514, the current position of the
portable
computing device 110 is sent to the communication data interface module in
order to update the last position of the portable computing device 110
immediately after termination of the emergency voice call.
Figure 16 illustrates a flow diagram for a process of updating location
data. At process block 1602, the position is received from the positioning
device. As mentioned previously, a position device utilized by the portable
computing device 110 that provides coordinates or other positioning
information
can be utilized. For example, a ground positioning system device can be
utilized. In another example, a device that receives position based any other
system of triangulation, guidance, or navigation is utilized. The process 1600
then continues to process block 1604.
33
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
At process block 1604, it is determined whether a predetermined
amount of time has elapsed. A predetermined amount of time can be, for
example, be an amount of time such as ten seconds. In one embodiment, the
user can configure the amount of time in the portable computing device 110. In
another embodiment, the manufacturer of the portable computing device 110
configures the portable computing device 110 with a "hard-coded" amount of
time. In yet another embodiment, the predetermined amount of time can be
dynamically updated when a message is received from an operator at a public
safety answering point. The predetermined amount of time can be made
shorter if the frequency of reporting should be increased. The predetermined
amount of time can be made longer if the frequency is to be decreased. In one
example, the predetermined amount of time can be configured to be zero. If a
predetermined amount of time has elapsed, then the process 1600 then
continues to process block 1608. If a predetermined amount of time has not
elapsed, the process 1600 then continues to process block 1606.
At process block 1606, it is determined whether a predetermined
distance has been traveled by the portable computing device 110. The
predetermined distance of travel can be configured such that only significant
changes of location are reported, such as for example, one-hundred meters. In
one embodiment, the user can configure the predetermined distance of travel in
the portable computing device 110. In another embodiment, the manufacturer
of the portable computing device 110 configures the portable computing device
110 with a "hard-coded" predetermined distance of travel. In yet another
embodiment, the predetermined distance of travel can be dynamically updated
when a message is received from an operator at a public safety answering
point. In one example, the predetermined distance of travel can be configured
to be zero. If a predetermined distance has been traveled by the portable
computing device 110, then the process 1600 then continues to process block
1608. If a predetermined distance has not been traveled by the portable
computing device 110, then process 1600 then continues to process block
1602.
34
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
At process block 1608, longitude position data is generated. For
example, DTMF tones indicative of a longitude delta can be generated. The
DTMF tones are generated based on a protocol indicated below. DTMF tones
are universally used in portable computing device such as cellular phones,
personal data assistants (PDAs), smart-phones, etc. Therefore, using DTMF
tones to convey information of location change is easily used. In addition,
DTMF tones can be submitted from the portable computing device 110 utilizing
the same voice link that is being utilized for the emergency voice call. It is
not
necessary to utilize a secondary voice channel or data channel. In another
embodiment, the DTMF tones can be sent through a separate voice channel.
In yet another embodiment, the DTMF tones can be sent though a data
channel. In another embodiment, DTMF tones can be transmitted to the public
safety answering point via the same data channel that the voice emergency call
is being transmitted (via a voice-over-IP methodology).
In another example, longitude position data can be incorporated in
data packets being transmitted over a communications network. Furthermore,
additional data such as altitude, temperature, etc., can also be generated and
transmitted in the same or additional data packets.
The process 1600 then continues to process block 1610. At process
block 1610, latitude position data is generated. For example, DTMF tones
indicative of a latitude delta are generated. The DTMF tones can be generated
utilizing the methodology described below, or any other methodology. The
change of latitude of the portable computing device 110 can be transmitted
utilizing DTMF tones.
Latitude position data can also be incorporated in data packets being
transmitted over the network. Furthermore, additional data such as altitude,
temperature, etc., can also be generated and transmitted in the same or
additional data packets.
Figure 17 illustrates a flow diagram for a process 1700 of receiving an
emergency call at a public safety answering point. At process block 1702, an
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
emergency incoming call is received by the public safety answering point. The
call can be received at the emergency response console. Process 1700 then
continues to process block 1704.
At process block 1704, the caller identifier is captured. In one
embodiment, the caller identifier comprises the automatic number
identification
(ANI). In another embodiment, the caller identifier comprises an Internet
address. Process 1700 then continues to process block 1706. At process
block 1706, the emergency call is answered. In one example, the emergency
operator has access to a user interface of the emergency response console,
and utilizes the emergency response console to handle the emergency call. In
another embodiment, the emergency response console can route the call to
one of the public safety answering point operators in for call handling. In
yet
another embodiment, a first emergency operator utilizes the emergency
response console to route the call to another emergency operator.
Upon receipt of the call by the emergency response console, the
emergency response console can transmit a message to the communication
data interface module indicating the network address of the emergency
response console during the emergency call. The communication data
interface module can then utilize the provided address to communicate with the
emergency response console. Process 1700 then continues to process block
1708.
At process block 1708, the communications data interface module is
queried for current position of the portable computing device. In one
embodiment, the emergency response console does not receive DTMF tones
unless the portable computing device 110 changes position. Therefore, the
location position can be provided to the communication data interface at the
beginning of the call. The communication data interface can then record the
initial position of the portable computing device 110 at the device location
information database. Upon request by the emergency response console, the
communication data interface module can query the device location information
36
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
database in order to provide the last known location of the portable computing
device 110. Process 1700 then continues to process block 1710.
At process block 1710, the position deltas are received during the
emergency voice call. In one embodiment, the position deltas are received in
the form of DTMF tomes at the emergency response center. In another
embodiment, position deltas or new positions are received at the
communication data interface module, which in turn, records that new position
at the device location information database. If an emergency call is active
between the portable computing device and the emergency response console,
the communication data interface can automatically forward the position data
to
the emergency response console. Moreover, the communication data interface
can automatically forward the position data to another emergency service
terminal such as a computer in a patrol vehicle, a fire station operations
center,
etc. In addition, the device location information can be stored in the form of
position deltas, or as a recalculated position. For example, each device can
have a history of position deltas. Every time the device location information
database is queried for the position of a portable computing device, a history
of
deltas is provided which not only provides the current location, but also the
path
of the portable computing device during the emergency call. In another
example, only the recalculated position is stored in the device location
information database is utilized. Process 1700 then continues to process block
1712.
At process block 1712, the new position of the portable computing
device is calculated. In one embodiment, after the emergency response
console has received the position deltas, or changes in position from the
portable computing device 110, the emergency response console can then
calculate the new position of the portable computing device based on the
deltas. Further, map the new position of the portable computing device on the
terminal of the emergency operator. In another embodiment, the emergency
response console sends the position deltas to the communication data
interface module for calculation of the new position. After the new position
is
37
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
recalculated, the communication data interface module transmits the new
position to the emergency response console. Process 1700 then continues to
process block 1714.
At process block 1714, the position update is transmitted to the
communications data interface module. If the emergency response console
recalculates the new position, then the emergency response console transmits
the new position to the communications data interface module so that the new
position can be recorded at the device location information database. Process
1700 then continues to process block 1716.
Figures 18A-18C illustrate data packet and voice transmissions during
an emergency call at a public safety answering point. In one embodiment, two
channels of communication can be employed. A general packet radio service
(GPRS) data link 1802 and a voice link 1810. Any data communication
configuration of transmitting data can be utilized, such as IP protocol, UDP
protocol, SMS protocol, HTTP, TCP/IP, or other common data carriers. Figure
18A illustrates exemplary data packets that can be sent by the portable
computing device 110 over the general packet radio service data link 1802 as
soon as a call is initiated. In one embodiment, a location data packet 1804
can
be transmitted. The location data packet 1804 can include complete position
information such as latitude and longitude. In addition, if the location data
packet 1804 being transmitted is sent to update the location data packet 1804,
the location data packet 1804 can include the position changes in latitude and
longitude. In another example, a supplementary data packet 1806 can be
transmitted. The supplementary data packet 1806 can include personal profile
data for the user of the portable computing device 110.
Figure 18B illustrates the voice link of communication between the
portable computing device 110 and the public safety answering point. Once
the portable computing device 110 establishes a voice link 1810 to the public
safety answering point, the user can convey his or her emergency needs. In
one embodiment, during the conversation, information may be sent over the
38
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
voice link 1810. In one embodiment, during the conversation, information may
be sent over the data link. The information sent may include any data that the
portable computing device 110 wants to transmit to the emergency response
console, and that the emergency response console knows how to interpret. In
one example, the information sent is a DTMF latitude longitude tone package.
The DTMF latitude longitude tone package may include a latitude tone 1812,
and a longitude tone 1814. In a further embodiment, the DTMF tones are
compressed so as to cause minimal interruption of the emergency call. In
another embodiment, the DTMF tones are included in data packets transmitted
over a data network.
Figure 18C illustrates further data packets being transmitted over a
data communications network at the end of the emergency call. In one
embodiment, a location data packet 1804 can be further submitted from the
portable computing device 110 to the public safety answering point as soon as
the emergency call is terminated. In one example, the location data packet can
be received at the communications data interface module.
Figure 19 illustrates illustrate an exemplary mapping of DTMF tones to
ranges of movement in latitude or longitude. A communication protocol can be
established for transmitting DTMF tones from a portable computing device to
the public safety answering point or call center, in order to report a
location
update. The DTMF tones can be utilized, for example, using a telephone
network. In another example, the DTMF tones can be transmitted through a
data network. In a standard environment, there are sixteen standard DTMF
tones. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the sixteen DTMF tones (i.e., 0-9,
#, *, A, B, C, D) can be mapped to different ranges of movement of the
portable
computing device. Other tones can also be established and customized so as
to represent further information (e.g., altitude, speed, etc.).
In one embodiment, a tone packet may consist of two tones. In
addition, tone packets may be transmitted only if some conditions occur. In
one example, tone packets may be transmitted only if the latitude or longitude
39
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
change is greater than twenty-five meters. In another example, tone packets
may be transmitted only if the mobile device has transitioned to stop. In yet
another example, tone packets may be transmitted at least every ten seconds.
Each tone packet may include two tones. Each of the tones in the
tone packet may be any one of tones 1902 to 1932. Each tone can be
assigned a degree of change as part of a pre-established protocol. In one
example, tone 1902, "0", would represent a zero degree change. In another
example, tone 1904, "'1", represents a 0.00045-degree change, or
approximately fifty meters.
In one embodiment, the new latitude is calculated according to the
following formula: new latitude = initial latitude + latitude change
corresponding
to tone received.
In another embodiment, the new longitude is calculated according to
the following formula: new longitude = initial longitude + (longitude change
corresponding to tone received / cos (initial longitude)). It should be
understood, that other formulas and ranges assigned to each DTMF tone could
be utilized.
Therefore, the DTMF tones are mapped to a specific range of
movement that is associated to each of the particular DTMF tones. However,
in one embodiment, the specific range or location information being mapped to
each tone is independent of the frequency or digit representation of each
tone.
In another embodiment, only eight DTMF tones are utilized. In yet another
embodiment, less than sixteen DTMF tones are utilized.
Although certain illustrative embodiments and methods have been
disclosed herein, it will be apparent from the foregoing disclosure to those
skilled in the art that variations and modifications of such embodiments and
methods may be made without departing from the true spirit and scope of the
art disclosed. Many other examples of the art disclosed exist, each differing
from others in matters of detail only. For instance, various combinations of
communication networks may be utilized. In addition, an emergency voice call,
CA 02648328 2008-10-03
WO 2007/115308 PCT/US2007/065973
as well as any voice communications, can be performed over a packet
switched network, or any data network in general (e.g. utilizing voice-over-IP
technology). Accordingly, it is intended that the art disclosed may be limited
only to the extent required by the appended claims and the rules and
principles
of applicable law.
41
