Radio frequency antenna and system for presence sensing and monitoring
A wireless device system employs short-range wireless communication to require the proximity of a user device to a defined area prior to communicating a request or notification to the wireless user device. The system authenticates a request and the proximity of the user to or within the defined area prior to transmitting a command, request, or notification to the user or a third party. Additionally, the system uses an access node configured to shape the radiation pattern of short-range wireless communications to better determine the position of a user proximate in or around a defined area.
1. A system allowing the monitoring of a user's presence and location within an area using a wireless user device, the system comprising:
a database storing information identifying at least one wireless user device within said area, wherein the at least one wireless user device includes a cellular radio for communicating with one or more cellular towers;
a pressure sensitive mat within said area;
at least one access node proximate to or within said area, wherein the at least one access node, comprises:
an antenna configured to emit a first short-range wireless radio signal for connecting to the wireless user device, and
a power source communicatively coupled to said antenna; and
a server operable to receive a request associated with the wireless user device and said access node and transmit a response action to said access node or a third party user device upon receiving said request using said database;
wherein the response action triggers a financial charge to a virtual wallet associated with the user and the request is triggered when the user reaches a pre-determined point as determined by the pressure sensitive mat.
2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising at least one enclosure comprising a backing plate have a peripheral edge and a cover plate, wherein said enclosure houses said antenna and said power source, wherein said cover plate is configured to couple to said backing plate and enclose said antenna and power source, wherein said enclosure is configured to shape an RF pattern emitted by said antenna.
3. The system of claim 2 , wherein said backing place is configured to shape said first short-range wireless radio signal.
4. The system of claim 1 , wherein said access node, comprises:
a first short-range wireless radio using a wireless networking standard for receiving a wireless request directly from a wireless user device; and a second short-range wireless radio using a wireless networking standard to transmit a request directly to the access node.
5. The system of claim 4 , wherein said first short-range wireless radio uses first wireless networking standard for receiving a wireless access request directly from a wireless user device; and
said second short-range wireless radio uses a second wireless networking standard which is different than said first wireless networking standard.
6. The system of claim 1 , wherein said enclosure is further comprised of a power source tray.