System and method for providing worldwide seamless location coverage

Abstract

A system and method is provided for transmitting location data to a wireless reception device that cannot otherwise access a satellite navigation system, such as the Global Positioning System (GPS). In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a wireless location device is adapted to transmit fixed location data. The wireless location device includes a location transceiver, an antenna, and either a battery or a pair of conductive leads adapted to mate with a standard electrical outlet. The wireless location device is fixed to a structure, either by plugging the device into an electrical outlet or with the aid of mounting fixtures, and programmed with fixed location data. Upon receiving a request for location data, the location transceiver encodes the fixed location data within a short-range wireless communication signal, preferably formatted to the Bluetooth protocol. The short-range wireless communication signal is then transmitted through the antenna. In another embodiment of the present invention, a wireless GPS/location device is adapted to transmit location data. The wireless GPS/location device includes a location transceiver, a GPS receiver, two antennas (i.e., first and second), and a power supply. Upon receiving a request for location data through the first antenna, the GPS receiver uses satellite signals received through the second antenna to generate location data, which is then encoded within a short-range wireless communication signal, preferably formatted to the Bluetooth protocol. The short-range wireless communication signal is then transmitted through the first antenna.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.