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Title:
PERSONAL SAFETY AND TOOL LOSS PREVENTION SYSTEM
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2017/197409
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
Systems and methods for a wearable device that provides worker safety and tool-loss prevention for workers in the field and away from offices. The device worn by workers provides managers with GPS locations of their workers in the field, and safety features, such as an SOS button and automatic Man-Down and No-Movement alerts, to provide a continual link to management and emergency services which allows for rapid response in emergencies, and when workers themselves are unable to call for help. The wearable safety device also provides a communication link to a worker's tools and equipment, both with the worker and in their vehicle, simultaneously, which automatically alerts the worker when a tool or equipment has been lost or forgotten before the worker leaves the job site.

Inventors:
SMITH JAMES SIPPLE (US)
Application Number:
PCT/US2017/032752
Publication Date:
November 16, 2017
Filing Date:
May 15, 2017
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
NANA TECH LLC (US)
International Classes:
G08B21/00; G08B21/18; G08B21/24; H04L29/06
Foreign References:
US20100265061A12010-10-21
US20140062700A12014-03-06
US20060055552A12006-03-16
US20150123787A12015-05-07
US20150312531A12015-10-29
US20050136912A12005-06-23
US20100250309A12010-09-30
US20150070191A12015-03-12
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
CONE, John, M. (US)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS

1. A personal safety and tool loss prevention system for persons working at a location remote from a home location comprising

a server with the ability to store information relating to a vehicle, to a person associated with that vehicle and to tools and equipment associated with that vehicle, a portable tracking device adapted to be carried or worn by the person when leaving the vehicle;

at least one tracking tag adapted to be mounted on a tool or equipment used by the person at locations remote from the vehicle,

the portable tracking device including a communication device adapted to connect the tracking device to the server and a receiving device adapted to receive signals from the or each tracking tag;

the tracking tag including a transmitting device adapted to communicate with the tracking device while the tracking tag is within a limited distance of that tracking device, wherein said communication device is adapted to send a signal to the server indicative of whether or not the receiving device of that tracking device is in communication with the tracking tag;

the server being adapted to provide an indication when it detects that the tracking tag is not in communication with the first tracking device.

2. A system according to claim 1 including:

a second fixed tracking device adapted to be mounted in a vehicle or other fixed location;

the second tracking device including a communication device adapted to connect the second tracking device to the server; and

a receiver device adapted to receive signals from the or each tracking tag.

3. A system as claimed in claim 1 including a plurality of first tracking device, each associated with a different person.

4. A system as claimed in claim 1 including an output device wherein the server provides the said indication both to said output device and to the first tracking device.

5. A system for tracking the location of a person such as a service engineer and tools to be used by the engineer comprising:

a first tracking device adapted to be carried or worn by the engineer and comprising

a cellular module capable of connecting to and communicating through a telecom platform to answer, a GPS receiver, a Bluetooth radio receiver, a transmitter,

an audio speaker, antennas, programmable software, and a battery;

a second tracking device adapted to be installed on a vehicle used by the engineer or other fixed location to travel between locations at which service is performed, the second tracking device comprising: a battery charger and docking station for charging the first device, a cellular module, a Bluetooth receiver and transmitter for interconnecting the second and the first devices;

and a plurality of tracking tags for enabling the first device and the second device to track the location of a tool relative to the worker or the vehicle, each tracking tag comprising: a Bluetooth transmitter adapted to be fixed to a tool and movable with the tool; a battery, and a fastening device for securing the tracking tag to the tool;

application software operational to connect the first device and second device to a server providing an indication of the location of the engineer and whether the tracking tags are in communication with the first or second device.

6. A system as claimed in claim 5 wherein said indication is provided to the tracking device.

7. A system as claimed in claim 5 further including further tracking tags adapted to be mounted onto a storage container on the vehicle and operative to provide a signal indicative of the container being opened

8. A system as claimed in claim 5 wherein the first tracking device includes a man- down sensor comprising an accelerometer adapted automatically to provide a signal if the first device has fallen and/or remained stationary for a pre-selected amount of time.

9. A system as claimed in claim 5 wherein the first tracking device includes a manually operable SOS button.

10. A system for tracking the location of a service engineer and tools to be used by the engineer comprising:

a first tracking device adapted to be carried by the engineer and comprising

a cellular module capable of connecting to and communicating through cellular towers and communication systems, a GPS receiver, a Bluetooth radio receiver, a transmitter, an audio speaker, associated antennas, programmable software, and a battery;

a Bluetooth receiver and transmitter for interconnecting the second and the first devices; and a plurality of tracking tags for enabling the first device and the second device to track the location of a tool relative to the worker or the vehicle, each tracking tag comprising: a

Bluetooth transmitter or receiver adapted to be fixed to a tool and movable with the tool; a battery and a fastening device for securing the tracking tag to the tool;

application software for installation on a management dashboard, operational to connect the first device and second device to a server providing an indication of the location of the engineer and whether each of the tracking tags is still in communication with the first or second tracking device.

11. A system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the tracking devices each store information identifying which tracking tags are connected to that device and respond to changes in the number of connected tags by communicating the fact of a change to the server, the server in response to that communication, polling all tracking devices to inquire whether that tracking tag is associated with any other tracking device and, if the tracking tag is not located sending an alert to the first tracking device to alert the worker that a tracking tag is missing.

12. A method of providing personal safety and loss prevention for persons working at a location remote from a home location including:

providing a tracking device to be carried or worn by the person,

providing tracking tags carried by tools or equipment used by the person, generating Bluetooth signals from the tracking tags to the tracking device to tether the tracking tags to the tracking device,

comparing the number of tracking tags tethered to the tracking device with a stored number of tracking tags and sending a notification from the tracking device to a remote server if the number of tethered tracking tags is different from the stored number.

13. A method according to claim 12 including sending an alert from the server to the tracking device when the server is informed that the number of tethered tracking tags has changed.

14. A system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the tracking devices include data memory adapted to store a list of tracking tags tethered to that tracking device and to receive signals from a tracking tag while that tag is within range of the tracking device, the tracking device adapted to send a signal to the server when the number of tracking tags communicating with it changes.

15. A system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the tracking device includes an accelerometer to provide information to the server regarding movement or lack of movement of the tracking device.

16. A system as claimed in claim 8 wherein the server, in response to an emergency signal from the tracking device sends an alert to an emergency responder.

Description:
PERSONAL SAFETY AND TOOL LOSS PREVENTION SYSTEM

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[001] This application claims the benefit of priority from Provisional Application No. 62/336,354 filed on May 13, 2016, Provisional Application No. 62/376,018 filed on August 17, 2016, and Provisional Application No. 62/376,045 filed on August 17, 2016, which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[002] The present invention relates to protection and monitoring of workers and their equipment.

BACKGROUND

[003] For companies with workers on remote job sites and in the field, particularly workers who work alone, two of the largest concerns are ensuring worker safety and increasing productivity. Currently there are several wearable systems that provide worker safety features such as GPS tracking, SOS and Man-Down signaling, including smartphone applications. However, worker tracking with smartphone devices is difficult because workers may not want to be tracked after hours, and government regulations (e.g., privacy regulations and/or labor laws) may restrict tracking workers when they are not on duty. Although, some workers have radios, they are very bulky and are often left in their trucks and thus limit the ability to track workers away from vehicles. Thus, companies may rely on vehicle tracking systems to serve as a proxy for worker monitoring, but these may not be an effective proxy because workers leave vehicles while on duty.

[004] The tracking system may be utilized by companies as a way to track workers and/or provide the company with an extra layer of safety protection, without causing privacy issues that come with tracking cellphones, which could indicate a worker is injured and can't signal for help.

[005] In conjunction with worker tracking, there is a need for a safety device that is worn by workers in the field that allows a worker to call for help in those cases where a phone may not be accessible. Such a device needs to include an SOS button, and/or a device that can automatically call for help if the worker is incapacitated and unable to call for help.

[006] Tool loss is a major factor in lost productivity. Tool loss in the field requires backtracking for forgotten tools, finding a co-worker from whom to borrow a tool, returning to the office to get a replacement, or buying a replacement, all of which require time and result in costly lost productivity.

[007] Tools and equipment are expensive (e.g., a telecom worker may typically carry over $40,000 in tools and equipment), and the items are lost, forgotten or stolen all the time. Thus, in some implementations, the tracking system may be utilized to facilitate tracking anything and everything, and to avoid those things being forgotten, or stolen, etc.

[008] Currently, systems exist, such as RFID, for tool inventory control, but they do not prevent tool loss before it happens. RFID and similar systems are optimal for indoor applications as items must be scanned with specialized scanners that have an effective range of several inches from the item. Such devices have proven to be ineffective outdoors or in the field. There are several systems (Tile, SticknFind, TrackR) that track items such as tools, and tether those items via Bluetooth to a smartphone. However, those systems track only items that are tethered to one smartphone or Bluetooth Low Energy receiver or beacon, and cannot track items once they are beyond the limited range of that particular smartphone' s Bluetooth or Beacon. For example, if a user of one of these systems were to attach trackers to ten items, then leave five items in one location (such as a work-truck) and take the other five items with him, those systems can 'see' only those items close to the smartphone, and not the items left in the truck. Accordingly, systems using RFID devices attached to the tools are ineffective because once the tool is moved beyond the limited range of the RFID scanners, there is no way to monitor its position, because the RFID device responds only to an inquiry from a scanning device.

[009] A need exists to monitor and track items in multiple locations, indoors and out, without limitations of distance, with just one system, and to prevent tool loss before it happens, rather than reporting a lost tool days after the loss. If the tool is inadvertently left at a work location, this needs to be discovered quickly to maximize the chances of its retrieval. Furthermore, there needs to be a single system that allows loss-prevention of tools and equipment in multiple locations simultaneously, such as tools in a vehicle and tools with a worker who is away from the vehicle.

[010] Finally, there needs to be a single system that automatically provides worker tracking, worker safety, and tool loss-prevention in multiple locations simultaneously with one wearable device.

SUMMARY

[Oil] The invention, in one form, provides a system that includes GPS tracking of workers and safety features for workers. Such safety features may include an SOS button on a tracking device which allows a user to send a call for help, and may include a 'Man- Down' feature that detects a user-fall and/or no movement for an adjustable amount of time, and then sends a call for help.

[012] The tracking system may include at least two tracking devices, one of which remains on a vehicle and the other is carried by a worker to job sites remote from the truck, multiple tracking tags, and a server, to which the tracking devices are connected via a telecom platform and a tracking application. The server may be a cloud-based server. Each tracking device has cellular, GPS, and Bluetooth components among others. The tracking tags include Bluetooth transmitters and can be attached to tools and equipment. The server communicates with all tracking devices, and manages a list of tracking tags attached to tools and equipment. The list of tracking tags may be edited to reflect the tools and equipment associated with a particular group of tracking devices.

[013] The first tracking device remains in a vehicle or other place where tools and equipment are stored, and the second (or more) tracking device(s) remains with the worker(s) who use the tools on j obsites. The second tracking device may be adapted to be coupled to the worker (e.g., worn like a watch, clipped to belt, placed in pocket, etc.).

[014] While tools are in the vehicle or storage facility, the first tracking device electronically tethers all tools to itself. When a worker removes a tool from the vehicle and takes it to a jobsite, the second tracking device (the one carried by the worker) electronically tethers that specific tool to itself, essentially handing-off the tool from the first tracking device to the second tracking device automatically and without input or action by any worker. All tracking devices communicate via cellular or other wireless means to the server.

[015] The data communicated between the server and the tracking devices include a list of tools that are tethered to each tracking device. The server maintains a list of all tethered tools and equipment. If a tool becomes lost or forgotten, and untethered from any of the tracking devices (is beyond the range of communication with any of the tracking devices), the server polls all other tracking devices to see if that tool is now tethered to another tracking device within the system. If the tool is now tethered to the first tracking device, or any other tracking device, then all tools are accounted for. If not, and the server cannot 'see' the tool, then an alert is sent to all workers on that system and to a management dashboard, notifying all that a tool is missing from the system.

[016] The system does not provide information as to the location of a specific tool, but rather reduces the risk of loss of tools and equipment by immediately and automatically alerting users that a tool has been forgotten, lost, or stolen, at a time when the tool is still close enough to retrieve easily.

[017] The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the implementations will be apparent from the description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[018] For a more complete understanding of this disclosure and its features, reference is now made to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[019] Figure 1 illustrates an implementation of an exemplary tracking system.

[020] Figure 2 illustrates the components of the system illustrated in Figure 1.

[021] Figure 3 illustrates an implementation of a tracking system for one vehicle and one or more workers.

[022] Figure 4 illustrates the lost tool alert process.

[023] Figure 5 illustrates the emergency alert process.

[024] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating the operation of the tracking application of the system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[025] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements. In various implementations, a system may be utilized to monitor workers, equipment, and/or vehicles. The system may monitor locations and/or other information using tracking devices and tracking tags coupled to a server via a telecom platform. In some

implementations, the tracking system may generate notifications and/or reports based on the monitoring. The system may also provide worker safety features such as GPS location, SOS and automatic Man-Down features that call for help when a worker is unable to.

[026] Figure 1 illustrates an implementation of an exemplary tracking system 100. Although the system may include more than one user, Figure 1 illustrates a one user system. The system includes a server 110, located at a dispatch location, operating software 125 on the server 110, a mobile device 120, at least two tracking devices, namely a worker-carried tracking device 130 and a vehicle-mounted tracking device 140, and a plurality of tracking tags 150.

[027] (SERVER 110) The server 110 may be of any appropriate type, such as a web server. The server 110 may be a cloud-based server and/or include server(s) located at entity facilities or other designated facilities. The server 110 may include applications and/or portions thereof to facilitate operations of the tracking system (e.g., operating system and/or tracking applications). The server 110 may typically be located at a fixed location, such as a dispatch center from which workers are directed and monitored. The key function of the server 110 is to communicate with all the tracking devices 130, 140 simultaneously, to manage information, such as the tethered status of the tracking tags 150, and to send information and/or alerts notifying workers and management of lost or forgotten tools, worker and vehicle locations, and worker safety emergencies. The server 110 maintains a list of all tethered tracking tags 150 and regularly communicates with each tracking device 130, 140 to see that the inventories of tracking tags 150 are complete, regardless of which tracking tag 150 is tethered to which device 130, 140. In this way, a tracking tag 150 can be tethered to either tracking device 130 or 140, or any multiples of tracking devices 130 and 140. Once the server cannot account for all tracking tags 150, the server 110 sends alerts to all or some of the tracking devices 130,

140, and to the mobile device 120 and management dashboard.

[028] The server 110 is a data repository and performs the following:

• Maintains data that is unique to each specific user of the system, including:

o List and ID of all vehicles

o List of all workers who will be using the tracking devices 130 and tracking tags 150

o List and ID of all tracking devices 130 and 140, and tracking tags 150, both assigned and unassigned

o List of all tracking devices assigned to a specific worker and vehicle by the tracking application 125

Maintain and update this list as assignment of workers and tools changes

o GPS locations of all tracking devices 130, 140/maintain history o Google Mapping platform

o Geo-Fence software populated within Google Maps

o

• The server 110 will communicate directly with:

o Mobile and desktop apps via the telecom platform, or internet o Tracking devices 130, 140 via the telecom platform

o An emergency call center

o Tracking devices 130 carried by other workers

• Receive data from tracking devices 130, 140 via the telecom platform

o Determine which data is stored only

o In certain events, compare data received with data stored for and detect any change

For example, number of tracking tags 150 received vs. the number stored. A change would trigger an alert for a lost tool.

Current GPS location vs. previous GPS location indicating a

change in location.

o Determine which data is sent to User apps.

Send data to User apps.

o Prioritize data / SOS alerts

• Send data to tracking devices 130, 140

o Determine which data/alerts are sent to tracking devices 130, 140 o Determine which data to store and no further action

• Receive data from User apps

o Determine which data is stored only

o Determine which data is sent to tracking devices 130 and 140 via telecom platform

Send data to tracking devices 130, 140

• Send data to User Apps o Determine which data is stored only

o Determine which data is sent to User apps

■ Send data to User apps

[029] (MOBILE DEVICE 120) The tracking system may utilize a mobile device 120 carried by the worker. The mobile device 120 may include any appropriate mobile device, such as a smart phone, tablet, media viewer, laptop, etc. The mobile device 120 may be used to scan an identifying code on the tracking tag 150 and associate that tracking tag with a particular eco-system and communicate that information to the server when setting up the system and the desired allocation of tools between workers. The mobile device 120 may also scan, e.g. bar codes or other identifying codes on a piece of equipment or tool and load that information into the server 110.

[030] (TRACKING APPLICATION 125) A tracking application 125 or portions thereof may be stored on a memory of the tracking device 130, 140 and/or communicated to and stored on the server 110. If the system includes a mobile device 120, the application 125 may be installed on the mobile device 120. The tracking application 125 may monitor worker, equipment, and/or vehicles, independently of and/or in conjunction with the server 110. For example, the tracking application 125 on the tracking device 130 may transmit information such as the location of the mobile device 120 and/or the tracking devices 130, 140 and/or other appropriate data to the server 110. The tracking application 125 may send and/or receive notifications to or from the server 110 to generate one or more alarms at the server 110, on the mobile device 120 and/or tracking devices 130, 140 based on the notifications.

[031] As the flow chart in Fig. 6 illustrates, the tracking application 125 controls the communications between the components of the system. As shown, the tracking tags 150 communicate with the first and second tracking devices 130, 140. The tracking devices 130, 140 communicate via the telecom platform with the server 110. The server 110 communicates with an input/output device, such as a desktop or laptop computer 300 at the dispatch location. The computer 300 is used to inventory the vehicles, workers, tracking devices and tracking tags to be monitored. Each individual vehicle, with its associated tracking devices 130, 140 and tracking tags 150, is referred to as an eco- system. Any one server may control a plurality of eco-systems. The computer 300 using the tracking application 125 can assign particular tracking devices 130, 140 and tracking tags 150 to a discrete eco-system, so that the system is aware of what tracking devices 130, 140 and tracking tags 150 are associated with each vehicle. The tracking application 125 also provides a time clock, a geo-fence, and provides signals and reports to the computer 300, including vehicle location, worker location, and alerts sent associated with unconnected tracking tags 150.

[032] Fig. 6 also shows the operation of the tracking application 125 on the mobile device 120. The mobile device 120 is able to download the tracking application 125 from an app store. The portion of the tracking application 125 on the mobile device 120 is operable to enable tracking tags 150 to be scanned and associated with the eco-system, or to change the tracking tags 150 associated with that eco-system. It also provides worker and vehicle location information, an inventory of tracking tags 150, a time clock, a geo- fence and reports.

[033] A tracking system may be deployed for an entity. The tracking application software may be loaded on one or more mobile devices (e.g., personal mobile devices and/or entity mobile devices) and/or non-mobile systems such as desktop and laptop computers in management or other locations. For example, the tracking application software may be downloaded (e.g., from a cloud-based application store and/or from a computer communicably coupled to the mobile device) and saved on a memory of the device or computer. The tracking application software may be executed to perform monitoring operations by a processor of the mobile device or other computer. The tracking application software may include features that can be activated by the user. For example, the tracking application software may allow a user (e.g., worker associated with the mobile device or other computer) to designate days and/or times during which the tracking application will run (e.g., transmit information to the server 110); turn on the tracking application feature(s) (e.g., transmitting signals to the server 110, monitor tracking tags 150 and/or tracking devices 130, 140, etc.); and/or associate tracking devices and/or tracking tags with the mobile device or computer (e.g., confirm associated tracking device(s) and/or tracking tag(s) detected). [034] (WORKER TRACKING DEVICE 130) The tracking system may include one or more first portable tracking devices 130. The first tracking device 130 may be wearable (e.g., dimensioned such that a user may carry the tracking device with the user) and coupleable to the worker. For example, a first tracking device 130 may be disposed in a pocket of a worker's pants, shirt, purse, bag, and/or jacket. A first tracking device 130 may be coupled to a belt, pocket, lanyard, or other clothing and/or accessory associated with a worker. The first tracking device 130 may include a strap that couples to itself to allow the user to wear the tracking device (e.g., as a watch, a belt, a necklace, etc.). The tracking device 130 may include an adhesive that allows coupling of the tracking device 130 to a user (e.g., temporary adhesive), user's clothing (e.g., temporary or permanent coupling to a jacket), and/or user's accessories.

[035] The first tracking device 130 may include a cellular module to allow

communications with the server 110 either directly or via the mobile device 120. The first tracking device 130 may include a GPS (global positioning system) to identify the location of the first tracking device 130 and thus of a user.

[036] The tracking device 130 may include an accelerometer to detect motion, inactivity, and/or orientation. By including a GPS and/or accelerometer on the first tracking device 130, locations of workers, equipment, and/or vehicles may be determined and/or monitored without use of the GPS on a mobile device (e.g. a cell phone) associated with a user. Since monitoring a worker when not on duty may violate laws (e.g., labor laws and/or privacy laws) and/or since a worker may be hesitant to allow a company to utilize her personal mobile device for tracking, by equipping the first tracking device 130 with a GPS, the first device may be utilized to monitor locations while increasing user and/or company satisfaction (e.g., because user concerns about unauthorized tracking via a personal device are reduced). In addition, since a worker may leave the first tracking device 130 at an entity's facility and/or in an entity's vehicle when not on duty, the user's activities and/or movement when not on duty will not be monitored.

[037] The first tracking device 130 may include a wireless PAN device to allow communication with the mobile device 120 or the server 110 and/or the tracking tags 150. For example, the first tracking device 130 may include a Bluetooth transmitter and/or receiver. The first tracking device 130 may include one or more alarms that can transmit notifications (e.g., using visual, audio, and/or tactile alarms). For example, a vibration alarm, and/or auditory alarm.

[038] The first tracking device 130 may include an accelerometer adapted to respond to movement of the tracking device 130 as shown in Figure 5. If the worker is injured and immobilized and does not move for a pre-selected period of time, the tracking device 130 communicates that to the server 110 so that assistance can be sent to the worker. In this example, there is an "SOS" button on the tracking device 130 that the worker may push in emergencies, and a "Man-Down" feature that automatically sends alerts to the server 110 and/or the tracking devices 130 of nearby co-workers and/or the mobile devices 120 of nearby co-workers. The tracking device 130 may include one-way or two-way voice capabilities for communications with management or other persons.

[039] The first tracking device 130 may include batteries that provide power to subcomponents of the first tracking device 130, such as communication subcomponents (e.g., cellular modules, Bluetooth receiver), alarms, and/or other appropriate

subcomponents. The battery may be replaceable, disposable, and/or rechargeable.

[040] The first tracking device 130 may be a portable device worn by workers, predominately in the field and possibly working alone, or kept nearby the workers in a tool belt or box. A purpose of the tracking system is to provide GPS tracking of vehicles, and the workers and their equipment once the worker leaves the vehicle. Typical vehicle GPS tracking systems track only the vehicle or large equipment, and do nothing to address worker location and safety, and nothing to protect a worker's tools and equipment. The first tracking device 130 may be a tiny device that attaches to any belt, lanyard or tool box, and has a cellular module that connects to and communicates through cellular towers and systems. The first tracking device also has a GPS receiver, a

Bluetooth radio receiver and transmitter, an audio speaker, several associated antennas, programmable software to manage the tracking device system, and a rechargeable battery. It may also include an LED to provide a visual notification of an alert.

[041] (VEHICLE TRACKING DEVICE 140) The tracking system may include a second, fixed tracking device 140 as shown in Figure 2. The second tracking device 140 may be positioned in a vehicle associated with the first user; a vehicle associated with a group to which the first user is associated (e.g., company vehicle); and/or with a fixture that resides in a vehicle, such as a tool box disposed and/or coupled to the vehicle. The second tracking device 140 may be larger than the first tracking device 130, in some implementations, because the second tracking device 140 may include more

subcomponents and/or because the second tracking device 140 may not be coupled to a worker (e.g., first user). The tracking device 140 may be battery-powered, or kept in a docking station within the vehicle, or adapted to plug into the vehicle's OBD port. The second tracking device 140 may also transmit data from a vehicle's on-board computer to the server 110, or to devices 120, 130 and 140.

[042] The second tracking device 140 may include a cellular module to allow communications with the mobile device 120, and/or the server 110 and/or the first tracking device 130. The second tracking device 140 may include a wireless PAN device to allow communication with the mobile device 120, and/or the first tracking device 130, and/or the tracking tags 150. For example, the second tracking device 140 may include a Bluetooth transmitter and/or receiver. The second tracking device 140 may include one or more alarms that can transmit notifications (e.g., using visual, audio, and/or tactile alarms). The second tracking device 140 may include one-way or two-way voice communications with management or another person.

[043] The second tracking device 140 may include one or more batteries to provide power to one or more subcomponents of the second tracking device 140 and/or to recharge (e.g., wired and/or wireless charging) one or more of the batteries of the first tracking device 130. For example, the second tracking device 140 may include a dock to which the first tracking device 130 may be coupled to recharge the batteries of the first tracking device 130. The batteries of the second tracking device 140 may be disposable, rechargeable, and/or replaceable. In some implementations, a battery of the second tracking device 140 may draw power from the vehicle to which it is coupled (e.g., capable of drawing power from the vehicle battery) and/or other sources (e.g., solar panel coupled to the second tracking device 140 and/or vehicle).

[044] The second tracking device 140 may remain in a worker's vehicle and provides a connection to the first tracking device 130 and tracking tag(s) 150 either through a cellular connection or a Bluetooth or similar radio connection. The tracking device 140 may include a cellular module, a Bluetooth receiver and transmitter, and a battery charger and docking station. The second tracking device 140 may also connect to a vehicle security system and relay information to the worker and the server 110 in the event of vehicle break-in or theft, and may connect to the vehicle's on-board computer system to relay information to the server 110. Alternatively, the second, fixed tracking device could be located, e.g. in a storage building or other fixed location.

[045] The tracking device(s) 130, 140 may communicate with the server 110 and/or mobile device 120 via cellular networks, satellite or other wireless systems, and/or wireless PAN (e.g., Bluetooth). When a tracking device 130, 140 is proximate a set of equipment, a wireless PAN may be established. For example, if Bluetooth is utilized, a piconet may be established between one or more tracking devices 130, 140 and tracking tags 150 within a wireless PAN communication area (e.g., physical distance from which components may be separated and be capable of communicating, such as less than 10 m, less than 100m, etc.). The tracking devices 130, 140 may transmit one or more signals to the tracking application identifying tracking tags 150 coupled to the wireless PAN. In some implementations, the tracking tags 150 may be coupled to more than one wireless PAN. For example, if the first tracking device 130 is disposed proximate the second tracking device 140, then one or more tracking tags 150 may be coupled to the wireless PANs of both tracking devices 130, 140.

[046] Both tracking devices 130, 140 may include a one or more of the following features:

• To provide a wearable device that can be worn on a belt or in a pocket.

• To provide GPS locations of workers in the field. The server 110 can ping the tracking device for exact location any time. All tracking devices can mark and record locations at adjustable intervals.

• To provide emergency systems for workers in the field with an SOS button which a worker may activate to alert management and others that an emergency situation exists. • To provide emergency systems for workers in the field with an automatic Man- Down system which may detect a fall followed by no movement which may activate an alert sent to management and others that an emergency situation exists.

• To prevent tool loss in the field by alerting workers that they have left a tool behind at the jobsite before the worker leaves that jobsite.

• Increase dispatch efficiencies with GPS routing.

• Create virtual fences for employers to create approved boundaries.

• Can replace vehicles existing tracking devices.

• Rechargeable battery.

• Components include a cellular modem, GPS, Accelerometer and Bluetooth

enabled.

• Can track indoors as well, using triangulation of cell towers. No limits on range.

• Small base station 140 in a vehicle provides a battery charging dock, cellphone connectivity between vehicle and first tracking device 130 (with worker) and tethers tracking tags 150 that remain in the truck.

• Bundled with tracking tags 150.

(TRACKING TAGS 150) The tracking system includes tracking tags 150 that are coupleable to equipment as described in Figure 2 and Figure 4. For example, the tracking tag 150 may include an adhesive and/or an adhesive may be applied to the tracking tag 150 to allow the tracking tag 150 to be affixed to equipment, equipment housing, equipment inner surface, equipment storage container, etc. The tracking tag 150 may be small in size to inhibit interference with use of the equipment by the tracking tag 150 and/or to inhibit increased equipment weight due to the attachment of the tracking tag 150. The tracking tag 150 may include a communication module, such as a Bluetooth transmitter and/or receiver, that is capable of communicating with a tracking device 130 or 140. The tracking tag 150 may include one or more batteries. The battery may be replaceable, rechargeable, and/or disposable. Alternatively, the tracking tag 150 cost may be low such that the tracking tag 150 may be disposed of once the battery is depleted. The tracking tag 150 may include a communication device capable of communicating with a tracking device 130, 140 via a wireless PAN. For example, the tracking tag 150 may include a Bluetooth component (e.g., Bluetooth transmitter), Beacons, WiFi, low-band radio frequencies or other wireless communication methods that transmits signals (e.g., at regular or irregular interval) that are detected by a tracking device 130, 140 and/or receives signals.

Tracking tags 150 may include a Bluetooth transmitter that can be attached to tools and equipment. The Bluetooth module and a battery may be in a water-proof and/or shatterproof housing with an adhesive on one side.

As shown in Figure 4, the tracking tags 150 may include a variety of features, including: o Tracking tags are tiny stick-on, or otherwise attached, trackers that communicate with Tracking device(s) 130 and 140.

o Tracking tags 150 are designed to prevent lost, forgotten, or stolen tools and equipment.

o Attach Tracking tags 150 to tools and equipment and consumables such as rolls of wire and cable. If a tracking tag 150 loses its connection with its paired first tracking device(s) 130 or second tracking device 140 in vehicle, the tracking devices will alert you with an audible tone.

o When the first tracking device or second tracking device loses connection with a tracking tag, the first tracking device will mark the last known GPS location.

o Tracking tags are Bluetooth enabled and 50+ tracking tags can be paired to each tracking device 130 and/or 140. Tracking tags 150 may also communicate via other wireless means.

o In most cases, the range of the tracking tags 150 to the first tracking device 130 is about 75 feet. This distance may be more or less depending on user's needs. If a tool gets left behind, or is stolen, the first tracking device will alert you while you're still close enough to retrieve it.

o If tools or equipment are removed from the vehicle while the worker is away, the first tracking device 130 will alert the worker of potential theft.

o Tracking tag 150 may be waterproof and shock-resistant with an expected life of 18 months.

o Each tracking tag 150 is approximately 27mm in diameter and

approximately 5mm thick. [047] In various implementations, one or more of the tracking tags 150 may include one or more sensors, such as an accelerometer. The data from the accelerometer may be received by the first tracking device 130 and/or the second tracking device 140. At least a portion of the data from the accelerometer of the tracking tag may be transmitted to the server 110 and processed by the tracking application. The tracking application may determine if the equipment is moving (e.g., in use or not in use, so that others may utilize the equipment and/or so that an entity may know that a specific tool was not used in a site visit), and transmit one or more notifications based on the determination. In some implementations, the data from the accelerometer may be utilized to determine if the equipment is proximate a first tracking device (e.g., untethered from a network or area proximate a tracking device, worker, and/or vehicle).

[048] Other sensors may be included in the tracking tags 150, including sensors that measure temperature, humidity, pressure, sound and light.

One or more of the components of the tracking system may communicate with one or more other components via networks, such as cellular networks, satellite, WiFi, and wireless personal area networks (wireless PAN) to perform one or more operations of the tracking system. For example, the server 110 may communicate with the mobile device 120, and/or tracking devices 130 and 140, for example, via one or more cell towers, satellites, WiFi networks, etc. The mobile device 120 may communicate with tracking devices 130, 140 and/or tracking tags 150 via a generated wireless PAN. In some implementations, the mobile device 120 may communicate with tracking devices 130, 140 via a cellular network. The server 110 may directly communicate with tracking devices 130, 140 and/or tracking tags 150 (e.g., to reduce tracking tag size by using Bluetooth rather than a cellular module to communicate, for example; and/or to streamline communications and/or processing of data between components).

[049] Although Figure 1 illustrates a tracking system with capacity for one worker (e.g., first person), the tracking system may allow tracking of a plurality of people, equipment, and/or vehicles. The tracking system may or may not associate certain tracking tags 150 with specific individuals to allow use of equipment by more than one person while still monitoring the relative location of the equipment. In some implementations, a plurality of equipment may be monitored via the tracking system using a plurality of tracking tags 150. For example, each tracking tag 150 may be coupled to a piece of equipment and/or the housing of a piece of equipment. Equipment may include tools, appliances, monitors, meters, mobile devices (e.g., tablets), manuals, instructions, and/or any other appropriate item.

[050] In operation, each tracking tag 150 sends a signal every 4 seconds that is received by the tracking devices 130, 140. Each tracking device knows which tracking tags 150 are allocated to that tracking device. If a tracking device receives signals from a different tracking tag, it notifies the server. If a tracking device fails to receive a signal from one of its allocated tracking tags 150, it notifies the server. The tracking application 125 causes the server, in response to a signal from a tracking device indicating a change in the tracking tags signaling to that tracking device, to take appropriate action. For example, if the tracking device indicates that it is not receiving a signal from one or more of its allocated tracking tags, the server polls the other tracking devices to find out whether the tracking tag is tethered to a different tracking device. If it is, no action need be taken. If, however, none of the tracking devices is tethered to that tracking tag, the server will send an alert to the other tracking devices, including the worker tracking device 130, notifying the worker that a tool is unaccounted for. Because the tracking tags 150 signal substantially continuously, the absence of a tracking tag 150 can be discovered almost immediately, so that the worker can readily retrieve the missing tool.

[051] In use, a worker in the field alone has a vehicle and 20 tools or pieces of equipment. His job will take him several hundred feet away from his truck and he needs only 8 of his tools. Each of the 20 tools he has is tethered via Bluetooth to either the first tracking device 130 or the second tracking device 140. As he leaves the truck, those tools remaining in the truck remain tethered via Bluetooth to the second tracking device 140, and those tools with him are tethered via Bluetooth to the first tracking device 130. If, while he is working, someone takes a tool from his truck, the second tracking device 140 will call the server 110 which then sends an alert to the first tracking device 130 and lets the worker know that a tool in his truck has become untethered and is probably being stolen. [052] After his job is complete worker goes back to his vehicle and does not realize he left a tool onsite. Once that tool is untethered from the first tracking device 130, the worker will be alerted that he left a tool behind. The first tracking device 130 will also mark the last known GPS location.

[053] If the worker is injured while working, she can push the SOS button on the first tracking device 130 and her GPS location and an alert is sent to her office via the server 110.

If a worker is injured and unable to call for help, the first tracking device 130 will recognize that the worker has not moved for a pre-determined time and will send that information to the server 110, which, controlled by the tracking application 125, will call the office with an alert and GPS location. The server 110 can also cause an alert to be sent to an emergency call center, to other first and second tracking devices 130, 140.

[054] The GPS system of the first tracking device 130 may allow a company to always know a worker's location, and the tracking system software (e.g., on the server 110 and/or mobile device 120) will allow for dispatch to work more efficiently in scheduling next job.

• Tracking tags 150 are linked to a specific and individual system, regardless of the number of tracking devices 130, 140.

• The system is unique in that each system is managed by software, and a tool with an attached tracking tag 150 can link to any or all of the tracking devices 130 and 140 within that system.

• When a tool with an attached tracking tag 150 becomes untethered, or loses its Bluetooth connection to all the tracking devices 130, 140, the server software polls all tracking devices 130, 140 within the system to see if that tracking tag 150 is now tethered to a different tracking device 130, 140 within the system.

• If the software sees the tracking tag 150 is now tethered to another tracking device 130, 140 within the system, then no further action is taken.

• If the software cannot find any one or more tracking tag 150, then an alert is sent to the worker and manager.

[055] Figure 3 illustrates an example of the system shown in Figure 1 that includes only one tracking device 140 in one individual vehicle, plus one or more worker tracking devices 130 linked or associated with that vehicle. The system shown in Figure 3 constitutes an eco-system comprising one vehicle and one or more workers, and generally represents a work crew in the field. If a company has 50 vehicles, there would be 50 such eco-systems. On the mobile or desktop apps, management can view all eco-systems, individually or together. 50 vehicles would equal or represent 50 systems. The system described with respect to Fig. 3, enables an employee to tether and manage multiple tracking tags 150 to multiple tracking devices 130, 140 devices simultaneously. Software automatically polls all tracking devices in the system, regardless of their number or distance from one another, to maintain contact with all Bluetooth devices.

[056] Allowing worker to control the activation of the tracking application may facilitate compliance with labor laws and/or privacy laws (e.g., to inhibit unwanted tracking, to inhibit tracking during off duty times, etc.). First tracking device(s) may be distributed. The first tracking device 130 may be coupled to a user (e.g., each person and/or set of people may be associated with one first tracking device 130). The tracking tags 150 may be coupled to equipment (e.g., a tracking tag may be coupled to equipment, equipment housing, and/or equipment storage containers). In some implementations, tracking device(s) may be deployed on vehicles (e.g., coupled to vehicles; placed on vehicles; coupled to and/or placed in items on the vehicle such as racks, toolboxes, etc.) and provide information as to the condition or status of the item on which they are placed, e.g., whether a toolbox is opened or remains closed.

[057] When a first person leaves an entity's facility, is sent to a job, and/or reports for work, that first person may open and/or activate the tracking application 125 associated with the first person on the mobile device or computer. The first person may couple a first tracking device 130 to the first person's body, clothes, and/or accessories. In some implementations, the first person may uncouple the first tracking device 130 from the first person's body, clothes, and/or accessories when the first person ends a work shift, or goes off duty. The first person may enter a vehicle, with a second tracking device 140, to go to a job location. A set of equipment may be disposed on the vehicle and/or with the first person. One or more of the pieces of equipment in the set of equipment may be coupled to a tracking tag 150. The tracking application 125, when activated, may automatically and/or manually communicably couple with the first tracking device 130 and/or the second tracking device 140. In some implementations, a user may confirm that the tracking devices 130, 140 are authorized to communicate with the server 110 and/or tracking application 125.

[058] Figure 4 illustrates an implementation of an example process for monitoring using a tracking system, such as the tracking system illustrated in Figure 1. The tracking system determines whether equipment (e.g., one or more pieces of equipment) is disposed proximate one or more tracking devices 130, 140 (operation 210). For example, a wireless PAN may be established (e.g., by the mobile device 120, tracking devices 130 and 140) and/or a determination may be made whether one or more tracking tags 150 are coupled to the wireless PAN. Because each tracking tag 150 is associated with one or more pieces of equipment (e.g., a database on the server 110 may include a listing of tracking tags 150 and associated equipment), a determination may be made whether equipment is disposed proximate a tracking device 130, 140 by determining if a tracking tag 150 associated with the equipment is coupled to the wireless PAN associated with the tracking device 130, 140. Thus, a location of the equipment may be determined based on whether the tracking tag 150 associated with the equipment is coupleable to a wireless PAN of a tracking device 130, 140. In some implementations, the tracking tags 150 coupled to the wireless PAN may be monitored and the tracking application may identify when fewer or more tracking tags 150 are associated with the wireless PAN than an earlier determination (e.g., indicating left tools, lost tools, and/or getting more tools).

[059] If a determination is made that the equipment is disposed proximate at least one of the tracking devices 130, 140, then the tracking system may continue to monitor

(operation 220). For example, the tracking device 130 and/or 140 may transmit and/or receive signals (e.g., ping) from tracking tags 150 to determine if the tracking tag 150 is coupled (e.g., via Bluetooth) to the same wireless PAN as the tracking device 130, 140. The tracking device 130, 140 may transmit the signals to the server 110, transmit changes in the signals to the mobile device 120 and/or server 110, and/or transmit identifications and/or locations (e.g., determined via a processor in the tracking device) to the mobile device 120 and/or server 110. [060] If a determination is made that equipment is not disposed proximate at least one of the tracking devices 130, 140, then the tracking system may transmit a notification (operation 230). A determination may be made by the server 110 that equipment is not disposed proximate at least one of the tracking devices 130, 140 when a tracking tag 150 associated with the equipment is not identified as coupled to the wireless PAN associated with the tracking device 130, 140. A determination is made that equipment is not proximate a tracking device 130 and/or 140 (e.g., when expected, for example, based on earlier monitoring or previously confirmed by a user), may be associated with equipment left at a location (e.g., job site, facility, etc.). A determination that equipment is not proximate a second tracking device (e.g., on a vehicle) may indicate theft of equipment. A notification may be transmitted by the server 110 to the mobile device 120, the tracking device 130 and/or 140, and/or other worker (e.g., administrator, other worker close to the location, etc.) via the server 110. For example, an auditory alarm on one or more tracking devices 130, 140 (e.g., tracking device that was proximate and/or first tracking device) may be activated in response to the transmitted notification. In some implementations, an alarm (e.g., pop up message, banner, sound, light, etc.) may be activated on the mobile device and/or server 110. The alarm may alert the user to search for and/or retrieve equipment (e.g., left at a location), alert the user to a theft (e.g., to promote prompt notification of police), and/or deter theft (e.g., by activation of an alarm at a second tracking device 140).

[061]

[062] In some implementations, the tracking system may be utilized to provide location information for worker, equipment, and/or vehicles. For example, a tracking system may be deployed for an entity that includes one or more worker, a plurality of equipment, and one or more vehicles. One of more of the worker may be provided with at least one first tracking device to be coupled to the person. A plurality of tracking tags may be coupled to one or more of the pieces of equipment (e.g., a tracking tag may be coupled to a piece of equipment). One or more of the second vehicles may include second tracking devices. A user (e.g., worker at a job site and/or not at a job site) may access the tracking application via a mobile device and/or the TD server (e.g., via a website generated by the tracking application of the TD server). [063] The tracking application may determine location information for worker, equipment and/or vehicles. For example, the tracking system may determine a location for a first person by determining a location of a first tracking device 130.

[064] The tracking device 130 may determine a location for a vehicle by determining a location of a second tracking device 140. The second tracking device 140 may include GPS and/or may utilize cell phone triangulation to determine a location of the second tracking device 140. The tracking system may determine the location of equipment based on the location of tracking tags 150 associated with the equipment. For example, associations between equipment and tracking tags 150 may be stored in a memory of the server 110 and/or stored in a memory coupled to the server 110. In some

implementations, the tracking tag 150 and/or tracking devices 130, 140 may not provide absolute location information (e.g., via cellular triangulation and/or GPS) to the server 110 but otherwise may provide relative location information (e.g., location with respect to the mobile device 120 and/or tracking devices 130, 140). For example, a tracking device 130, 140 may determine that a tracking tag 150 is proximate that tracking device 130, 140 and transmit a signal to the mobile device 120 and/or server 110 that the tracking tag 150 is proximate that tracking device 130, 140.

[065] The tracking application 125 on the mobile device 120 and/or on the server 110 (e.g., the mobile device 120 may transmit at least a portion of the received signal to the server 110). The tracking application may identify the equipment associated with the tracking tag 150 (e.g., based on the stored associations between tracking tags 150 and equipment), determine a location of the tracking device 130, 140 that identified the tracking tag 150, and determine that the identified equipment is proximate the determined location of the tracking device 130, 140.

[066] The location information may then be presented by the tracking application (e.g., via a graphical user interface). For example, location information associated with worker, equipment, and/or vehicles may be presented on a map, list, and/or other appropriate presentation. In some implementations, a flag (e.g., color, size change, etc.) may be provided for worker, equipment, and/or vehicles for which a location cannot be determined and/or for equipment that is not proximate one of the tracking devices. In some implementations, the tracking system may allow manual and/or automatic determination of locations. A person, for example, at an entity's facility may request locations of one or more persons, equipment, and/or vehicles. In some implementations, the tracking system may automatically update locations (e.g., at predetermined intervals, upon request by users, etc.).

[067] As shown in Figure 5, in some implementations, a tracking system may be utilized to monitor workers. For example, the tracking system may be utilized to identify a worker that need assistance (e.g., injured, delayed, trouble completing tasks) and/or workers that are not at appropriate locations during business hours. A first tracking device 130 associated with a first person may include an accelerometer (e.g., detects motion and/or orientation). The first tracking device 130 and/or the tracking application on the mobile device 120 and/or server 110 may communicate with the accelerometer on the tracking device to determine if an event has occurred. For example, the first tracking device 130 and/or the tracking application may determine if the worker has not moved in a predetermined time period (e.g., using the data from the accelerometer). A lack of motion may indicate an injured first person and/or a first person not working. The accelerometer may also recognize a zero-gravity event which would indicate the user has fallen followed by a period of no movement. A notification may be transmitted from the tracking app to the server 110 based on the lack of motion. The server 110 may contact the first person (e.g., via an alarm on the mobile device and/or first tracking device), may notify worker proximate in location (e.g., based on locations determined via the tracking system), and/or may notify an administrator (e.g., so that the administrator may contact ambulances, etc.). In some implementations, the tracking application on the mobile device and/or the tracking device may include a button (e.g., physical and/or virtual button) that transmits a notification to the server 110 that assistance is needed by the first person. For example, if a first person is injured, the first person may press the button and signal is transmitted via the tracking application to the server 110. The server 110 may transmit a message to other worker (e.g., worker proximate in location, administrators, etc.) and/or emergency services (e.g., police, 911, etc.).

[068] In some implementations, the determined locations may be utilized to facilitate dispatch of workers. A location of a set of workers may be determined and utilized to facilitate dispatch for a job. For example, a person may be identified proximate the job and/or in transit proximate the job, etc.

[069] In various implementations, the tracking system may allow location determination in indoor and/or outdoor locations.

[070] In some implementations, when a tracking tag 150 is not in a wireless PAN of a tracking device 130, 140, the last known location of the tracking tag 150 (e.g., the location of the tracking device at a time, such as the last recorded time, that the tracking tag was associated with a tracking device) may be stored and/or transmitted to worker via the tracking system. A first person and/or other worker may then retrieve the equipment associated with the tracking tag 150 based on the last known location.

[071] In some implementations, the tracking system may operate in real time such that notification of tracking tags not associated with a wireless PAN may be while the tracking device and thus a first person associated with the tracking device is close in proximity to the last known location.

[072] In some implementations, a second tracking device may be similar to the first tracking device. For example, the second tracking device may be small and portable and/or the same device as the first device.

[073] In some implementations, the tracking device(s) (e.g., first tracking device and/or second tracking device) and/or the tracking tag(s) 150 may be waterproof, water resistant, and/or shock resistant. For example, a housing of the tracking device(s) and/or tracking tag(s) may be waterproof, water resistant, and/or shock resistant (e.g., such that operation may not be substantially damaged by drops, accidental impacts, etc.).

[074] EXAMPLE 1

[075] In some implementations, the tracking system may provide GPS solution specifically designed for workers in the field. The housing of the first tracking device 130 may be designed to easily and securely attach to a plurality of sizes of belts and/or toolkits, in some implementations. Although major employers now track their vehicles there exists a need to monitor situations such as when workers (e.g., worker), particularly workers who are alone in the field, leave their vehicle. [076] The tracking system may be a system comprised of several devices designed to provide GPS tracking of vehicles, GPS tracking of workers in the field, and tracking associated tools and equipment.

[077] EXAMPLE 2

[078] In some implementations, a system such as the system illustrated in Figure 1 may be utilized with one or more of the operations of the tracking system. The tracking tags 150 may be coupled to a tracking device 130 and/or 140. For example, tracking tags 150 may be coupled to the second tracking device 140 via a Bluetooth connection and tracking tags 150 may be coupled to the first tracking device 130. The first tracking device, second tracking device and/or mobile device may be communicably coupled via a cellular and/or satellite connection. The mobile device may be coupled to a corporate cloud platform (e.g., TD server). The tracking system may perform one or more of the described operations using this configuration.

[079] In various implementations, although cellular communications have been described as being utilized by various components of the tracking system (e.g., mobile device, tracking devices, and/or TD server), communication between various components may be via satellite based networks or any other wireless system.

[080] Various implementations of the systems and techniques described herein can be realized in digital electronic circuitry, integrated circuitry, specially designed ASICs (application specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware, software, and/or combinations thereof. These various implementations can include implementations in one or more computer programs that are executable and/or interpretable on a programmable system, including at least one programmable processor, which may be special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device.

[081] Although various implementations describe a first person, the tracking system may be utilized with a plurality of persons. For example, the locations of a plurality of persons, associated mobile devices, and/or associated tracking devices may be determined. The determined location information may be utilized to identify equipment not coupled to wireless PAN(s) associated with one or more of the tracking device, identify worker in need of assistance, and/or for other appropriate purposes. [082] Although users have been described as a human, a user may be a person, a group of people, a person or persons interacting with one or more computers (e.g., server and/or mobile device), and/or a computer system.

[083] It is to be understood the implementations are not limited to particular systems or processes described which may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only, and is not intended to be limiting. As used in this specification, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a tracking device" includes a combination of two or more tracking devices and reference to "a tracking tag" includes different types and/or combinations of tracking tags.

[084] Although the present disclosure has been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations may be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized according to the present disclosure. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.