{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854436","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854436","title":"Location and proximity beacon technology to enhance privacy and security","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2014-09-25T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04W","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04W","H04W","H04W","H04W","G06F","H04W","H04W"],"num_claims":20,"abstract":"Systems and methods may provide for obtaining a seed value from a location on a beacon device, using the seed value to initiate generation of a pseudo random number (PRN) tree having time-dependent branches, and sending a beacon signal based on the PRN tree and a timing schedule that corresponds to the time-dependent branches. Additionally, a PRN may be received, via an out-of-band link, at an observation device, wherein the PRN is associated with a particular time period. In one example, the PRN may be used by the observation device to generate a subset of a PRN number tree that corresponds to the particular time period. The observation device may also conduct a proximity determination of whether a detected beacon signal corresponds to one or more time-dependent branches of the subset of the PRN tree."},"analysis":{"summary":"Location and Proximity Beacon Technology to Enhance Privacy and Security introduces a novel approach to beacon technology, addressing critical vulnerabilities in existing systems by prioritizing user privacy and security. Instead of transmitting static identifiers, this invention uses pseudo-random number (PRN) trees generated from seed values obtained directly from the beacon device. These PRN trees are time-dependent, adding an extra layer of security as the beacon signals change over time, making it significantly harder for unauthorized parties to track or intercept them. The technology leverages an out-of-band link to transmit a PRN to an observation device. This PRN is associated with a specific time period and allows the observation device to generate a subset of the PRN number tree, enabling it to determine proximity based on detected beacon signals corresponding to time-dependent branches of the tree. This dynamic approach dramatically reduces the risk of signal spoofing and unauthorized tracking. The business value lies in the ability to offer secure and privacy-preserving location services across various industries, including retail, healthcare, and smart cities. The market opportunity is significant, as consumers and businesses increasingly demand greater control over their location data. By providing both location accuracy and robust security, this technology is poised to transform the landscape of location-based services.","layman_explanation":"Location and Proximity Beacon Technology to Enhance Privacy and Security addresses the growing concern about privacy in location-based services. Many current systems rely on broadcasting static identifiers that can be easily tracked and exploited. This technology offers a solution by creating a more secure and privacy-focused approach. \n\n**What Problem Does This Solve?**\nExisting location-based services often compromise user privacy by using easily trackable signals. This poses a risk of unauthorized tracking and data breaches, diminishing user trust and potentially leading to regulatory issues. Location and Proximity Beacon Technology to Enhance Privacy and Security aims to overcome these shortcomings by providing a secure alternative that protects user data while enabling accurate location tracking.\n\n**How Does It Work?**\nInstead of sending out a constant, unchanging signal, this system uses a dynamic signal that changes over time. Imagine it like a radio station that keeps switching frequencies, making it difficult for someone to lock onto the signal. This is achieved through the use of pseudo-random number (PRN) trees, which generate unique signals at different time intervals. The receiving device knows the 'secret code' to decode these signals, allowing it to accurately determine the location without exposing it to unauthorized parties. An analogy would be a secure messaging app that encrypts messages, making them unreadable to anyone without the decryption key.\n\n**Why Does This Matter?**\nThis technology has the potential to transform industries that rely on location-based services, such as retail, healthcare, and smart cities. By offering a secure and privacy-preserving solution, it can increase user trust and drive adoption. The competitive advantages include enhanced security, improved privacy compliance, and a stronger brand reputation. Potential ROI includes increased customer loyalty, reduced risk of data breaches, and the ability to offer new and innovative services. The market impact and opportunities are substantial, as businesses seek to differentiate themselves by offering privacy-focused solutions.\n\n**What's Next?**\nFuture applications of this technology include integration with various IoT devices, expansion into new industries, and the development of advanced security features. The market adoption timeline is expected to accelerate as privacy concerns continue to grow. Investment implications include opportunities for venture capital, strategic partnerships, and acquisitions.","technical_analysis":"Location and Proximity Beacon Technology to Enhance Privacy and Security provides a significant advancement in secure location services. The system's architecture centers around generating time-dependent beacon signals using pseudo-random number (PRN) trees. A seed value is obtained from the beacon device and used to initiate the PRN tree generation. These trees are designed with time-dependent branches, ensuring signals change according to a timing schedule. An out-of-band link transmits a PRN to an observation device. This link can be Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular networks. The PRN, associated with a specific time, allows the observation device to generate a PRN tree subset. Proximity is determined by analyzing detected beacon signals and comparing them to the time-dependent branches of the PRN tree subset. Algorithmically, the PRN generation must be robust to prevent reverse engineering. The timing schedule for PRN tree branches balances security and efficiency. The proximity determination algorithm must be accurate and reliable. The implementation details involve careful selection of PRN generation algorithms, secure out-of-band communication protocols, and efficient proximity determination methods. Integration patterns include APIs for integrating with existing location-based applications and platforms. Performance characteristics depend on the computational complexity of the PRN generation and proximity determination algorithms. Code-level implications involve secure coding practices to protect against vulnerabilities and ensure data integrity.","business_analysis":"Location and Proximity Beacon Technology to Enhance Privacy and Security offers a substantial market opportunity within the growing location-based services sector. The increasing demand for privacy-preserving solutions presents a significant competitive advantage. Revenue potential can be realized through licensing the technology to various industries, including retail, healthcare, and smart cities. Potential business models include software-as-a-service (SaaS) offerings, licensing agreements, and strategic partnerships. The strategic positioning of this technology lies in its ability to balance location accuracy with robust privacy and security. This positions it as a compelling solution for businesses seeking to build trust with their customers. ROI projections indicate significant returns based on increased adoption of location-based services and reduced risk of data breaches. By addressing the inherent vulnerabilities of traditional beacon technologies, this innovation is poised to transform the landscape of location-based services. The market opportunity size is substantial, driven by the increasing reliance on location data across various sectors. The competitive advantages stem from the technology's unique approach to generating time-dependent beacon signals and using out-of-band communication to enhance security.","faqs":null,"topics":["location services","privacy","beacon technology","security","pseudo-random number"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Secure Location Beacon: Location and Proximity Beacon Technology to Enhance Privacy and Security - Patent US-9854436","description":"Discover Location and Proximity Beacon Technology to Enhance Privacy and Security: dynamic beacon signals for secure location tracking. Full patent analysis, claims, and technical details.","keywords":["location services","privacy","beacon technology","security","pseudo-random number","patent","patent US-9854436"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854436","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854436","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Location and proximity beacon technology to enhance privacy and security\" (US-9854436). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854436","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854436","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854436","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T04:07:09.605Z"}