System, apparatus, method and computer program product for activating or deactivating radio frequency identification reader

Abstract

A system apparatus, method, and computer program product for activating or deactivating a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader are provided herein. For example, a system provided herein may include a plurality of switches. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches includes an energy harvesting component and a switch controller. In some embodiments, each switch of the plurality of switches is configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered. In some embodiments, the system may include an RFID trigger circuit. In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to receive one or more signals from one or more switches of the plurality of switches. In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to activate or deactivate the RFID reader based at least in part on one or more signals received from one or more of the plurality of switches.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to systems, devices, methods, and computer program products for activating or deactivating a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader. Background Art

[0002] Applicants have recognized the many technical challenges and difficulties associated with systems, apparatus, methods, and computer program products for activating or deactivating radio frequency identification (RFID) readers. Through applied effort, ingenuity, and innovation, Applicants have overcome the problems associated with systems, apparatus, methods, and computer program products for activating or deactivating RFID readers by developing the solutions embodied in the present disclosure, which are described in detail below. Summary of the invention

[0003] Various embodiments described herein relate to systems, devices, methods, and computer program products for activating or deactivating a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader.

[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a system is provided. In some embodiments, the system may include a plurality of switches. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches includes an energy harvesting component and a switch controller. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches is configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered. In some embodiments, a first switch of the plurality of switches is fixed to an ignition switch of a vehicle, a second switch of the plurality of switches is fixed to a brake pedal of the vehicle, and a third switch of the plurality of switches is fixed to an accelerator pedal of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the system may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) trigger circuit. In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to receive one or more signals from one or more switches of the plurality of switches. In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to activate or deactivate an RFID reader based at least in part on one or more signals received from one or more switches of the plurality of switches.

[0005] In some embodiments, the vehicle is an electric vehicle.

[0006] In some embodiments, an RFID trigger circuit includes a receiving component and an RFID trigger circuit controller.

[0007] In some embodiments, the receiving component is configured to receive one or more signals from one or more switches of the plurality of switches. In some embodiments, in response to receiving one or more signals from the plurality of switches, the receiving component is configured to wake up the RFID trigger circuit controller from a power saving mode.

[0008] In some embodiments, in response to receiving the signal from the first switch and the second switch, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to activate the RFID reader by placing the RFID reader into an idle mode.

[0009] In some embodiments, in response to receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to activate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter an active mode.

[0010] In some embodiments, in response to receiving the signal from the first switch and the second switch, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to deactivate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter a power saving mode.

[0011] In some embodiments, in response to receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to deactivate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter a power saving mode.

[0012] In some embodiments, each switch of the plurality of switches is configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered for a first period of time.

[0013] In some embodiments, each energy harvesting component includes a piezoelectric sensor.

[0014] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method is provided. In some embodiments, the method may include receiving one or more signals from one or more switches of a plurality of switches. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches includes an energy harvesting component and a switch controller. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches is configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered. In some embodiments, a first switch of the plurality of switches is fixed to an ignition switch of a vehicle, a second switch of the plurality of switches is fixed to a brake pedal of the vehicle, and a third switch of the plurality of switches is fixed to an accelerator pedal of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the method may include activating or deactivating a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader based at least in part on one or more signals received from one or more switches of the plurality of switches.

[0015] In some embodiments, the vehicle is an electric vehicle.

[0016] In some embodiments, the method may include activating the RFID reader by placing the RFID reader into an idle mode in response to receiving the signals from the first switch and the second switch.

[0017] In some embodiments, the method may include activating the RFID reader by placing the RFID reader into an active mode in response to receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch.

[0018] In some embodiments, the method may include deactivating the RFID reader by placing the RFID reader into a power saving mode in response to receiving the signals from the first switch and the second switch.

[0019] In some embodiments, the method may include deactivating the RFID reader by placing the RFID reader into a power saving mode in response to receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch.

[0020] In some embodiments, each switch of the plurality of switches is configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered for a first period of time.

[0021] In some embodiments, each energy harvesting component includes a piezoelectric sensor.

[0022] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program product is provided. In some embodiments, the computer program product includes at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having a computer program code stored thereon.

[0023] In some embodiments, computer program code executed in conjunction with at least one processor configures a computer program product to receive one or more signals from one or more switches of a plurality of switches. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches includes an energy harvesting component and a switch controller. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches is configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered. In some embodiments, a first switch of the plurality of switches is fixed to an ignition switch of a vehicle, a second switch of the plurality of switches is fixed to a brake pedal of the vehicle, and a third switch of the plurality of switches is fixed to an accelerator pedal of the vehicle. In some embodiments, computer program code executed in conjunction with at least one processor configures a computer program product to cause a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader to be activated or deactivated based at least in part on one or more signals received from one or more switches of the plurality of switches.

[0024] In some embodiments, the vehicle is an electric vehicle.

[0025] In some embodiments, computer program code executed with at least one processor configures the computer program product to activate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter an idle mode in response to receiving signals from the first switch and the second switch.

[0026] In some embodiments, computer program code executed with at least one processor configures the computer program product to activate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter an active mode in response to receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch.

[0027] In some embodiments, computer program code executed with at least one processor configures the computer program product to deactivate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter a power saving mode in response to receiving signals from the first switch and the second switch.

[0028] In some embodiments, computer program code executed with at least one processor configures the computer program product to deactivate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter a power saving mode in response to receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch.

[0029] In some embodiments, each switch of the plurality of switches is configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered for a first period of time.

[0030] In some embodiments, each energy harvesting component includes a piezoelectric sensor.

[0031] The above-mentioned summary of the invention is provided only for the purpose of summarizing some exemplary embodiments, so as to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that the above-mentioned embodiments are only examples and should not be construed as narrowing the scope or essence of the present disclosure in any way. It should be understood that in addition to those summarized here, the scope of the present disclosure also covers many possible embodiments, some of which will be further described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Reference will now be made to the drawings. In certain embodiments described herein, components illustrated in the drawings may or may not be present. Some embodiments may include fewer (or more) components than those shown in the drawings according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 1 illustrates an environment in which one or more embodiments of the present disclosure may operate;

[0034] Figure 2 A system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0035] Figure 3 A table illustrating one or more embodiments according to the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 4 Another table illustrating one or more embodiments according to the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an exemplary method according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0038] Figure 6 A block diagram of an exemplary computer processing device is illustrated in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Exemplary embodiments will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some but not all embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Indeed, embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Throughout the text, like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0040] Overview

[0041] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein solve technical problems associated with systems, devices, methods, and computer program products for activating or deactivating a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains, there are many exemplary scenarios in which a user may use systems, devices, methods, and computer program products for activating or deactivating an RFID reader.

[0042] In many applications, it is often desirable to activate or deactivate an RFID reader. For example, it may be desirable to activate or deactivate an RFID reader configured to scan and / or read an RFID tag associated with a package in a vehicle (e.g., an electric delivery vehicle). In some examples, by scanning and / or reading an RFID tag associated with a package in a vehicle, it may be determined whether the correct package is on the vehicle (e.g., the package should be delivered by a specific vehicle). In some examples, it may be desirable to activate or deactivate an RFID reader to reduce battery consumption of the RFID reader. For example, it may be desirable to activate the RFID reader when the vehicle is turned on and operating (e.g., when the vehicle is delivering a package), and / or deactivate the RFID reader when the vehicle is turned off and not operating (e.g., when the vehicle is not delivering a package). In this way, in some examples, the RFID reader can be activated when it is desired to use the RFID reader, and the RFID reader can be deactivated when it is not desired to use the RFID reader.

[0043] An exemplary solution for activating or deactivating an RFID reader associated with a vehicle includes activating and / or deactivating the RFID reader by using the vehicle ignition as a trigger to identify when the vehicle is started and / or shut down. However, when the vehicle is an electric vehicle, this exemplary solution is not practical because identifying when the vehicle is started and / or shut down requires interfacing with the electric vehicle electronic control unit, which may be time consuming and needs to be customized for each different type of electric vehicle (e.g., different electric vehicles have different protocols and requirements for interacting with their electronic control units). Another exemplary solution for activating or deactivating an RFID reader associated with a vehicle includes activating and / or deactivating the RFID reader by using one or more accelerometers to identify when the vehicle is moving (e.g., when the vehicle is turned on and operating) and / or when it is stopped (e.g., when the vehicle is turned off and not operating). However, when the vehicle is an electric vehicle, this exemplary solution is not practical because electric vehicles are associated with minimal vibration. Therefore, when using an accelerometer to identify when the vehicle is moving and / or stopped, the sensitivity of the accelerometer must be set so that there will be many false positives (e.g., vibrations caused by passing vehicles may cause false positives).

[0044] Therefore, in order to solve these and / or other problems associated with activating or deactivating an RFID reader, an example system, device and / or method for activating or deactivating an RFID reader is disclosed herein. For example, an embodiment of the present disclosure described in more detail below includes a system, which includes a plurality of switches. In some embodiments, a first switch of the plurality of switches is fixed to an ignition switch of a vehicle, a second switch of the plurality of switches is fixed to a brake pedal of the vehicle, and a third switch of the plurality of switches is fixed to an accelerator pedal of the vehicle. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches includes an energy harvesting component and a switch controller. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches is configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered. In some embodiments, the system may include an RFID trigger circuit. In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to receive one or more signals from one or more of the plurality of switches. In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to activate or deactivate an RFID reader based at least in part on one or more signals received from one or more of the plurality of switches. Therefore, the systems, devices, methods and computer program products described herein enable efficient and accurate activation and / or deactivation of an RFID reader, such as an RFID reader associated with an electric vehicle.

[0045] Exemplary Systems and Apparatus

[0046] Embodiments of the present disclosure herein include systems, devices, methods, and computer program products for activating or deactivating a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader. It should be readily understood that embodiments of the apparatus, system, method, and computer program product described herein may be configured in various additional and alternative ways, in addition to those explicitly described herein.

[0047] refer to Figure 1 , illustrates an environment 100 in which embodiments of the present disclosure may operate. In some embodiments, environment 100 may include vehicle 112. In some embodiments, vehicle 112 may be an electric vehicle. For example, vehicle 112 may be an electric delivery vehicle configured to transport one or more packages 116. In some embodiments, vehicle 112 may include at least one battery 118. For example, if the vehicle is an electric vehicle, at least one battery 118 may at least partially provide power to vehicle 112.

[0048] In some embodiments, the vehicle 112 may include an RFID reader 114. In this regard, for example, the RFID reader 114 may be configured to scan and / or read RFID tags associated with at least some of the one or more packages 116. For example, the RFID reader 114 may be configured to scan and / or read an RFID tag associated with at least one of the one or more packages 116 to determine whether the at least one package should be on the vehicle 112 (e.g., to determine whether at least one of the one or more packages 116 should have been delivered, to determine whether at least one of the one or more packages 116 should be delivered by the vehicle 112, etc.).

[0049] In some embodiments, the vehicle 112 may include an ignition switch 104. For example, the ignition switch 104 may be configured to at least partially start the vehicle 112 and / or shut down the vehicle 112 when the ignition switch 104 is actuated. In some embodiments, the vehicle 112 may include a brake pedal 106. For example, the brake pedal 106 may be configured to at least partially decelerate the vehicle 112 when the brake pedal 106 is actuated. In some embodiments, the vehicle 112 may include an accelerator pedal 108. For example, the accelerator pedal 108 may be configured to at least partially accelerate the vehicle 112 when the accelerator pedal 108 is actuated.

[0050] In some embodiments, environment 100 may include system 130. In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2As illustrated, the system 130 may include a plurality of switches 102. For example, the plurality of switches 102 may include a first switch 102A, a second switch 102B, and / or a third switch 102C. In some embodiments, one or more switches in the plurality of switches 102 may be a BTPadSwitch.

[0051] In some embodiments, at least one switch of the plurality of switches 102 can be fixed to an ignition switch 104. For example, the first switch 102A can be fixed to the ignition switch 104 of the vehicle 112. In some embodiments, at least one switch of the plurality of switches 102 can be fixed to a brake pedal 106 of the vehicle 112. For example, the second switch 102B can be fixed to the brake pedal 106. In some embodiments, at least one switch of the plurality of switches 102 can be fixed to an accelerator pedal 108 of the vehicle 112. For example, the third switch 102C can be fixed to the accelerator pedal 108.

[0052] In some embodiments, the system 130 may include a plurality of energy harvesters 120 and / or a plurality of switch controllers 122. In this regard, each of the plurality of switches 102 may include at least one energy harvester from the plurality of energy harvesters 120 and / or at least one switch controller from the plurality of switch controllers 122. For example, the first switch 102A may include a first energy harvester 120A and / or a first switch controller 122A, the second switch 102B may include a second energy harvester 120B and / or a second switch controller 122B, and the third switch 102C may include a third energy harvester 120C and / or a third switch controller 122C.

[0053] In some embodiments, each energy harvester in the plurality of energy harvesters 120 may include one or more piezoelectric sensors. In this regard, for example, each energy harvester in the plurality of energy harvesters 120 may be configured to generate energy when mechanical stress is applied thereto. For example, the first energy harvester 120A may be configured to generate energy when mechanical stress is applied thereto. In this regard, at least in part because the first switch 102A may be fixed to the ignition switch 104, the first energy harvester 120A may be configured to generate energy when the ignition switch 104 is actuated (e.g., when starting and / or shutting down the vehicle 112). As another example, the second energy harvester 120B may be configured to generate energy when mechanical stress is applied thereto. In this regard, at least in part because the second switch 102B may be fixed to the brake pedal 106, the second energy harvester 120B may be configured to generate energy when the brake pedal 106 is actuated (e.g., when the brake pedal 106 is used to decelerate the vehicle 112). As another example, the third energy harvester 120C can be configured to generate energy when mechanical stress is applied thereto. In this regard, at least in part because the third switch 102C can be fixed to the accelerator pedal 108, the third energy harvester 120C can be configured to generate energy when the accelerator pedal 108 is actuated (e.g., when the vehicle 112 is accelerated using the brake pedal 106).

[0054] In some embodiments, each energy harvester in the plurality of energy harvesters 120 can communicate with an associated switch controller in the plurality of switch controllers 122. For example, the first energy harvester 120A can communicate with the first switch controller 122A. As another example, the second energy harvester 120B can communicate with the second switch controller 122B. As another example, the third energy harvester 120C can communicate with the third switch controller 122C. In this regard, for example, each energy harvester in the plurality of energy harvesters 120 can be configured to provide energy to an associated switch controller in the plurality of switch controllers 122 such that the associated switch controller can operate. For example, the first energy harvester 120A can be configured to provide energy to the first switch controller 122A such that the first switch controller 122A can operate (e.g., energy harvested by the first energy harvester 120A at least in part due to actuation of the ignition switch 104). As another example, the second energy harvester 120B can be configured to provide energy to the second switch controller 122B so that the second switch controller 122B can operate (e.g., energy harvested by the second energy harvester 120B at least in part due to actuation of the brake pedal 106). As another example, the third energy harvester 120C can be configured to provide energy to the third switch controller 122C so that the third switch controller 122C can operate (e.g., energy harvested by the third energy harvester 120C at least in part due to actuation of the accelerator pedal 108).

[0055] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches 102 may be configured to transmit a signal. For example, a switch controller of one of the plurality of switches 102 may be configured to transmit a signal. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches 102 may be configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered. In this regard, for example, the switch may be triggered when the associated energy harvester harvests energy due to an applied mechanical stress and the energy is provided to the associated controller. In other words, for example, the first switch 102A may transmit a first signal in response to being triggered when the ignition switch 104 is actuated. As another example, the second switch 102B may transmit a second signal in response to being triggered when the brake pedal 106 is actuated. As another example, the third switch 102C may transmit a third signal in response to being triggered when the accelerator pedal 108 is actuated.

[0056] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches 102 may be configured such that each of the plurality of switches 102 transmits a signal only when it is triggered for a first time period. In this regard, for example, each of the plurality of switches 102 may be configured such that each of the plurality of switches 102 transmits a signal only when the associated energy harvester has mechanical stress applied thereto for a first time period. For example, the first switch 102A may be configured such that it transmits a first signal only in response to being triggered when the ignition switch 104 is actuated for a first time period. As another example, the second switch 102B may be configured such that it transmits a second signal only in response to being triggered when the brake pedal 106 is actuated for a first time period. As another example, the third switch 102C may be configured such that it transmits a third signal only in response to being triggered when the accelerator pedal 108 is actuated for a first time period. In some embodiments, the length of the first time period may be based at least in part on the age of the vehicle 112. In some embodiments, the length of the first time period can be based at least on the type of vehicle associated with the vehicle 112 (e.g., whether the vehicle 112 is a car, truck, and / or van, a vehicle brand, etc.). In some embodiments, the length of the first time period can be between 250 milliseconds and 750 milliseconds. In some embodiments, by configuring each of the plurality of switches 102 such that each of the plurality of switches 102 transmits a signal only when triggered for the first time period, the system 130 can be configured such that no signal is transmitted when a switch in the plurality of switches 102 is erroneously and / or accidentally triggered (e.g., when the ignition switch 104, the brake pedal 106, and / or the accelerator pedal 108 are erroneously and / or accidentally actuated).

[0057] In some embodiments, in response to being triggered, one or more switches in the plurality of switches 102 may be configured to transmit a Bluetooth signal (e.g., one or more switches in the plurality of switches 102 may be Bluetooth-enabled switches). In some embodiments, in response to being triggered, one or more switches in the plurality of switches 102 may be configured to transmit a Wi-Fi signal (e.g., one or more switches in the plurality of switches 102 may be Wi-Fi-enabled switches). In some embodiments, in response to being triggered, one or more switches in the plurality of switches 102 may be configured to transmit a cellular signal (e.g., one or more switches in the plurality of switches 102 may be cellular-enabled switches).

[0058] In some embodiments, the system 130 may include an RFID trigger circuit 110. In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit 110 may be configured to receive one or more signals from one or more switches in the plurality of switches 102. For example, the RFID trigger circuit 110 may be configured to receive one or more signals from the first switch 102A, one or more signals from the second switch 102B, and / or one or more signals from the third switch 102C. In this regard, the RFID trigger circuit 110 may include a receiving component 124 (e.g., the receiving component 124 of the RFID trigger circuit 110 may be configured to receive one or more signals from the plurality of switches 102). In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit 110 may be configured to receive a Bluetooth signal (e.g., the RFID trigger circuit 110 may be Bluetooth enabled). In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit 110 may be configured to receive a Wi-Fi signal (e.g., the RFID trigger circuit 110 may be Wi-Fi enabled). In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit 110 may be configured to receive a cellular signal (e.g., the RFID trigger circuit 110 may be cellular enabled).

[0059] In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit 110 may include an RFID trigger circuit controller 126. In some embodiments, in response to receiving one or more signals from the plurality of switches 102, the receiving component 124 may be configured to wake up the RFID trigger circuit controller 126 from a power saving mode. In this regard, for example, the RFID trigger circuit controller 126 may be configured such that if the RFID trigger circuit 110 does not receive one or more signals from one or more switches in the plurality of switches 102 within a predetermined amount of time, the RFID trigger circuit controller 126 may enter the power saving mode. In some embodiments, in the power saving mode, the RFID trigger circuit controller 126 may be configured to consume less power than when it is not in the power saving mode (e.g., it may consume less power from the at least one battery 118 in the vehicle 112).

[0060] In some embodiments, in response to receiving signals from the first switch 102A and the second switch 102B, the RFID trigger circuit 110 (e.g., using the RFID trigger circuit controller 126) can be configured to activate the RFID reader 114 by placing the RFID reader 114 into an idle mode. In other words, the RFID trigger circuit 110 can be configured to activate the RFID reader 114 by placing the RFID reader 114 into an idle mode when the ignition switch 104 and the brake pedal 106 are actuated (e.g., as Figure 3In some embodiments, the vehicle 112 may have been turned off at least before receiving the signal from the first switch 102A and the second switch 102B. For example, the RFID trigger circuit controller 126 may have stored in memory that the vehicle has been turned off.

[0061] In some embodiments, in response to receiving signals from the first switch 102A, the second switch 102B, and the third switch 102C, the RFID trigger circuit 110 (e.g., using the RFID trigger circuit controller 126) can be configured to activate the RFID reader 114 by placing the RFID reader 114 into an active mode. In other words, the RFID trigger circuit 110 can be configured to activate the RFID reader 114 by placing the RFID reader 114 into an active mode when the ignition switch 104, the brake pedal 106, and the accelerator pedal 108 are actuated (e.g., as Figure 3 In some embodiments, the vehicle 112 may have been turned off at least before receiving signals from the first switch 102A, the second switch 102B, and the third switch 102C. For example, the RFID trigger circuit controller 126 may have stored in memory that the vehicle has been turned off.

[0062] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As illustrated, in response to receiving signals from other combinations of the plurality of switches 102 (e.g., other than from the first switch 102A and the second switch 102B, and / or the first switch 102A, the second switch 102B, and the third switch 102C), the RFID trigger circuit 110 (e.g., using the RFID trigger circuit controller 126) may not be configured to activate the RFID reader 114 (e.g., when the vehicle 112 is already turned on). For example, in response to receiving signals from the first switch 102A and the third switch 102C but not from the second switch 102B, the RFID trigger circuit 110 (e.g., using the RFID trigger circuit controller 126) may not be configured to activate the RFID reader 114. In other words, the RFID trigger circuit 110 may not be configured to activate the RFID reader 114 when the ignition switch 104 and the accelerator pedal 108 are actuated but the brake pedal 106 is not actuated (e.g., as Figure 3 (as exemplified by table 300).

[0063] In some embodiments, in response to receiving signals from the first switch 102A and the second switch 102B, the RFID trigger circuit 110 (e.g., using the RFID trigger circuit controller 126) can be configured to disable the RFID reader 114 by placing the RFID reader 114 into a power saving mode. In other words, the RFID trigger circuit 110 can be configured to disable the RFID reader 114 by placing the RFID reader 114 into a power saving mode when the ignition switch 104 and the brake pedal 106 are actuated (e.g., as Figure 4 In some embodiments, the vehicle 112 may have been turned on at least before receiving the signal from the first switch 102A and the second switch 102B. For example, the RFID trigger circuit controller 126 may have stored in memory that the vehicle has been turned on.

[0064] In some embodiments, in response to receiving signals from the first switch 102A, the second switch 102B, and the third switch 102C, the RFID trigger circuit 110 (e.g., using the RFID trigger circuit controller 126) can be configured to disable the RFID reader 114 by placing the RFID reader 114 into a power saving mode. In other words, the RFID trigger circuit 110 can be configured to disable the RFID reader 114 by placing the RFID reader 114 into a power saving mode when the ignition switch 104, the brake pedal 106, and the accelerator pedal 108 are actuated (e.g., as Figure 4 In some embodiments, the vehicle 112 may have been turned on at least before receiving signals from the first switch 102A, the second switch 102B, and the third switch 102C. For example, the RFID trigger circuit controller 126 may have stored in memory that the vehicle has been turned on.

[0065] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4As illustrated, in response to receiving signals from other combinations of the plurality of switches 102 (e.g., other than from the first switch 102A and the second switch 102B, and / or the first switch 102A, the second switch 102B, and the third switch 102C), the RFID trigger circuit 110 (e.g., using the RFID trigger circuit controller 126) may not be configured to deactivate the RFID reader 114 (e.g., when the vehicle 112 is already turned on). For example, in response to receiving signals from the first switch 102A and the third switch 102C but not from the second switch 102B, the RFID trigger circuit 110 (e.g., using the RFID trigger circuit controller 126) may not be configured to deactivate the RFID reader 114. In other words, the RFID trigger circuit 110 may not be configured to deactivate the RFID reader 114 when the ignition switch 104 and the accelerator pedal 108 are actuated but the brake pedal 106 is not actuated (e.g., as Figure 4 (as exemplified by table 400).

[0066] In some embodiments, when in idle mode, the RFID reader 114 can be associated with a first power consumption rate. For example, the first power rate consumption can be between 0.5 watts and 2.0 watts. In some embodiments, when in active mode, the RFID reader 114 can be associated with a second power consumption rate. For example, the second power rate consumption can be between 12 watts and 20 watts. In some embodiments, when in power saving mode, the RFID reader 114 can be associated with a third power consumption rate. For example, the third power consumption rate can be less than 0.25 watts.

[0067] Exemplary Methods

[0068] See now Figure 5 , illustrates a flow chart providing an exemplary method 500. In this regard, Figure 5 Operations that may be performed by the system 130 and / or components of the system 130 are illustrated.

[0069] As shown in block 502, method 500 may include receiving one or more signals from one or more switches in the plurality of switches. As described above, for example, the plurality of switches may include a first switch, a second switch, and / or a third switch. In some embodiments, one or more switches in the plurality of switches may be a BTPadSwitch.

[0070] As shown in block 504, method 500 may include causing a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader to be activated or deactivated based at least in part on one or more signals received from one or more switches of the plurality of switches. As described above, in some embodiments, the RFID reader may be configured to scan and / or read RFID tags associated with at least some of the one or more packages in a vehicle (e.g., an electric vehicle). For example, the RFID reader may be configured to scan and / or read an RFID tag associated with at least one of the one or more packages to determine whether the at least one package should be on the vehicle (e.g., to determine whether at least one of the one or more packages should have been delivered, to determine whether at least one of the one or more packages should be delivered by the vehicle, etc.).

[0071] In some embodiments, the vehicle may include an ignition switch. For example, the ignition switch may be configured to at least partially start the vehicle and / or shut down the vehicle when the ignition switch is actuated. In some embodiments, the vehicle may include a brake pedal. For example, the brake pedal may be configured to at least partially decelerate the vehicle when the brake pedal is actuated. In some embodiments, the vehicle may include an accelerator pedal. For example, the accelerator pedal may be configured to at least partially accelerate the vehicle when the accelerator pedal is actuated.

[0072] In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of switches may be fixed to an ignition switch. For example, the first switch may be fixed to an ignition switch of a vehicle. In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of switches may be fixed to a brake pedal of a vehicle. For example, the second switch may be fixed to a brake pedal. In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of switches may be fixed to an accelerator pedal of a vehicle. For example, the third switch may be fixed to an accelerator pedal.

[0073] In some embodiments, each switch of the plurality of switches may include at least one energy harvester of the plurality of energy harvesters and / or at least one switch controller of the plurality of switch controllers. For example, a first switch may include a first energy harvester and / or a first switch controller, a second switch may include a second energy harvester and / or a second switch controller, and a third switch may include a third energy harvester and / or a third switch controller.

[0074] In some embodiments, each energy harvester in the plurality of energy harvesters may include one or more piezoelectric sensors. In this regard, for example, each energy harvester in the plurality of energy harvesters may be configured to generate energy when mechanical stress is applied. For example, the first energy harvester may be configured to generate energy when mechanical stress is applied thereto. In this regard, at least in part because the first switch may be fixed to the ignition switch, the first energy harvester may be configured to generate energy when the ignition switch is actuated (e.g., when the vehicle is started and / or turned off). As another example, the second energy harvester may be configured to generate energy when mechanical stress is applied thereto. In this regard, at least in part because the second switch may be fixed to the brake pedal, the second energy harvester may be configured to generate energy when the brake pedal is actuated (e.g., when the brake pedal is used to decelerate the vehicle). As another example, the third energy harvester may be configured to generate energy when mechanical stress is applied thereto. In this regard, at least in part because the third switch may be secured to the accelerator pedal, the third energy harvester may be configured to generate energy when the accelerator pedal is actuated (eg, when the vehicle is accelerated using the brake pedal).

[0075] In some embodiments, each energy harvester in a plurality of energy harvesters may communicate with an associated switch controller in a plurality of switch controllers. For example, a first energy harvester may communicate with a first switch controller. As another example, a second energy harvester may communicate with a second switch controller. As another example, a third energy harvester may communicate with a third switch controller. In this regard, for example, each energy harvester in a plurality of energy harvesters may be configured to provide energy to an associated switch controller in a plurality of switch controllers such that the associated switch controller may operate. For example, a first energy harvester may be configured to provide energy to a first switch controller such that the first switch controller may operate (e.g., energy harvested by the first energy harvester at least in part due to actuation of an ignition switch). As another example, a second energy harvester may be configured to provide energy to a second switch controller such that the second switch controller may operate (e.g., energy harvested by the second energy harvester at least in part due to actuation of a brake pedal). As another example, a third energy harvester may be configured to provide energy to a third switch controller such that the third switch controller may operate (e.g., energy harvested by the third energy harvester at least in part due to actuation of an accelerator pedal).

[0076] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches may be configured to transmit a signal. For example, a switch controller of one of the plurality of switches may be configured to transmit a signal. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches may be configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered. In this regard, for example, the switch may be triggered when the associated energy harvester harvests energy due to an applied mechanical stress and the energy is provided to the associated controller. In other words, for example, the first switch may transmit a first signal in response to being triggered when the ignition switch is actuated. As another example, the second switch may transmit a second signal in response to being triggered when the brake pedal is actuated. As another example, the third switch may transmit a third signal in response to being triggered when the accelerator pedal is actuated.

[0077] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of switches may be configured such that each of the plurality of switches transmits a signal only when it is triggered for a first time period. In this regard, for example, each of the plurality of switches may be configured such that each of the plurality of switches transmits a signal only when the associated energy harvester has a mechanical stress applied thereto for a first time period. For example, the first switch may be configured such that it transmits a first signal only in response to being triggered when the ignition switch is actuated for a first time period. As another example, the second switch may be configured such that it transmits a second signal only in response to being triggered when the brake pedal is actuated for a first time period. As another example, the third switch may be configured such that it transmits a third signal only in response to being triggered when the accelerator pedal is actuated for a first time period. In some embodiments, the length of the first time period may be based at least in part on the age of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the length of the first time period may be based at least on the type of vehicle associated with the vehicle (e.g., whether the vehicle is a car, truck and / or van, vehicle brand, etc.). In some embodiments, the length of the first time period may be between 250 milliseconds and 750 milliseconds. In some embodiments, each of the multiple switches is configured such that each of the multiple switches transmits a signal only when triggered for a first time period, and does not transmit a signal when a switch of the multiple switches is mistakenly and / or accidentally triggered (for example, when an ignition switch, a brake pedal, and / or an accelerator pedal are mistakenly and / or accidentally actuated).

[0078] In some embodiments, in response to being triggered, one or more of the plurality of switches can be configured to transmit a Bluetooth signal (e.g., one or more of the plurality of switches can be Bluetooth-enabled switches). In some embodiments, in response to being triggered, one or more of the plurality of switches can be configured to transmit a Wi-Fi signal (e.g., one or more of the plurality of switches can be Wi-Fi-enabled switches). In some embodiments, in response to being triggered, one or more of the plurality of switches can be configured to transmit a cellular signal (e.g., one or more of the plurality of switches can be cellular-enabled switches).

[0079] In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit can be configured to receive one or more signals from one or more switches of the plurality of switches. For example, the RFID trigger circuit can be configured to receive one or more signals from a first switch, one or more signals from a second switch, and / or one or more signals from a third switch. In this regard, the RFID trigger circuit can include a receiving component (e.g., a receiving component of the RFID trigger circuit can be configured to receive one or more signals from a plurality of switches). In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit can be configured to receive a Bluetooth signal (e.g., the RFID trigger circuit can be Bluetooth-enabled). In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit can be configured to receive a Wi-Fi signal (e.g., the RFID trigger circuit can be Wi-Fi-enabled). In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit can be configured to receive a cellular signal (e.g., the RFID trigger circuit can be cellular-enabled).

[0080] In some embodiments, the RFID trigger circuit may include an RFID trigger circuit controller. In some embodiments, in response to receiving one or more signals from the plurality of switches, the receiving component may be configured to wake up the RFID trigger circuit controller from a power saving mode. In this regard, for example, the RFID trigger circuit controller may be configured such that if the RFID trigger circuit does not receive one or more signals from one or more of the plurality of switches for a predetermined amount of time, the RFID trigger circuit controller may enter a power saving mode. In some embodiments, in the power saving mode, the RFID trigger circuit controller may be configured to consume less power than when it is not in the power saving mode (e.g., it may consume less power from at least one battery in the vehicle).

[0081] As shown in box 506, method 500 may optionally include activating the RFID reader by placing the RFID reader into an idle mode in response to receiving a signal from the first switch and the second switch. As described above, in some embodiments, in response to receiving a signal from the first switch and the second switch, the RFID trigger circuit (e.g., using an RFID trigger circuit controller) may be configured to activate the RFID reader by placing the RFID reader into an idle mode. In other words, the RFID trigger circuit may be configured to activate the RFID reader by placing the RFID reader into an idle mode when the ignition switch and the brake pedal are actuated. In some embodiments, the vehicle may have been turned off at least before the signal is received from the first switch and the second switch. For example, the RFID trigger circuit controller may have stored in a memory that the vehicle has been turned off.

[0082] As shown in box 508, method 500 may optionally include activating the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter an active mode in response to receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch. As described above, in some embodiments, in response to receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch, the RFID trigger circuit (e.g., using an RFID trigger circuit controller) can be configured to activate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter an active mode. In other words, the RFID trigger circuit can be configured to activate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter an active mode when the ignition switch, the brake pedal, and the accelerator pedal are actuated. In some embodiments, the vehicle may have been turned off at least before receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch. For example, the RFID trigger circuit controller may have stored in a memory that the vehicle has been turned off.

[0083] In some embodiments, in response to receiving signals from other combinations of the plurality of switches (e.g., other than from the first switch and the second switch, and / or the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch), the RFID trigger circuit (e.g., using the RFID trigger circuit controller) may not be configured to activate the RFID reader (e.g., when the vehicle is already turned on). For example, in response to receiving signals from the first switch and the third switch but not from the second switch, the RFID trigger circuit (e.g., using the RFID trigger circuit controller) may not be configured to activate the RFID reader. In other words, the RFID trigger circuit may not be configured to activate the RFID reader when the ignition switch and the accelerator pedal are actuated but the brake pedal is not actuated.

[0084] As shown in box 510, method 500 may optionally include deactivating the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter a power saving mode in response to receiving a signal from the first switch and the second switch. As described above, in some embodiments, in response to receiving a signal from the first switch and the second switch, the RFID trigger circuit (e.g., using an RFID trigger circuit controller) may be configured to deactivate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter a power saving mode. In other words, the RFID trigger circuit may be configured to deactivate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter a power saving mode when the ignition switch and the brake pedal are actuated. In some embodiments, the vehicle may have been turned on at least before the signal is received from the first switch and the second switch. For example, the RFID trigger circuit controller may have stored in a memory that the vehicle has been turned on.

[0085] As shown in box 512, method 500 may optionally include deactivating the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter a power saving mode in response to receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch. As described above, in some embodiments, in response to receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch, the RFID trigger circuit (e.g., using an RFID trigger circuit controller) can be configured to deactivate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter a power saving mode. In other words, the RFID trigger circuit can be configured to deactivate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter a power saving mode when the ignition switch, the brake pedal, and the accelerator pedal are actuated. In some embodiments, the vehicle may have been turned on at least before receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch. For example, the RFID trigger circuit controller may have stored in a memory that the vehicle has been turned on.

[0086] In some embodiments, in response to receiving signals from other combinations of the plurality of switches (e.g., other than from the first switch and the second switch, and / or the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch), the RFID trigger circuit (e.g., using the RFID trigger circuit controller) may not be configured to deactivate the RFID reader (e.g., when the vehicle is already turned on). For example, in response to receiving signals from the first switch and the third switch but not from the second switch, the RFID trigger circuit (e.g., using the RFID trigger circuit controller) may not be configured to deactivate the RFID reader. In other words, the RFID trigger circuit may not be configured to deactivate the RFID reader when the ignition switch and the accelerator pedal are actuated but the brake pedal is not actuated.

[0087] In some embodiments, when in idle mode, the RFID reader can be associated with a first power consumption rate. For example, the first power rate consumption can be between 0.5 watts and 2.0 watts. In some embodiments, when in active mode, the RFID reader can be associated with a second power consumption rate. For example, the second power rate consumption can be between 12 watts and 20 watts. In some embodiments, when in power saving mode, the RFID reader can be associated with a third power consumption rate. For example, the third power consumption rate can be less than 0.25 watts.

[0088] Exemplary Computer Processing Device

[0089] refer to Figure 6 , illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary computer processing device 600 according to some exemplary embodiments. In some embodiments, the plurality of switch controllers 122, the RFID trigger circuit controller 126, the RFID reader 114, and / or other devices may be embodied as one or more computer processing devices, such as Figure 6 However, it should be noted that the following Figure 6 The components, devices or elements illustrated in and described with respect to the figure may not be mandatory, and thus one or more components, devices or elements may be omitted in certain embodiments. In addition, some embodiments may include, in addition to the Figure 6 Additional or different components, devices or elements than those illustrated and described.

[0090] The computer processing device 600 may include a processing circuit 602 or otherwise communicate with the processing circuit, which can be configured to perform actions according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. In this regard, the processing circuit 602 may be configured to perform and / or control one or more functions of the computer processing device 600 according to various embodiments, and thus may provide means for performing the functions of the computer processing device 600 according to various embodiments. According to one or more embodiments, the processing circuit 602 may be configured to perform data processing, application execution and / or other processing and management services. In some embodiments, the computer processing device 600 or one or more parts or one or more components thereof (such as the processing circuit 602) may be embodied as a chip or a chipset, or include a chip or a chipset. In other words, the computer processing device 600 or the processing circuit 602 may include one or more physical packages (e.g., chips), which include materials, components and / or wires on a structural assembly (e.g., a footboard). The structural assembly may provide physical strength, size conservation and / or electrical interaction restrictions for the component circuits included thereon. Thus, in some cases, the computer processing device 600 or processing circuit 602 may be configured to implement embodiments of the present disclosure on a single chip or as a single “system on a chip.” Thus, in some cases, a chip or chipset may constitute a means for performing one or more operations for providing the functionality described herein.

[0091] In some embodiments, the processing circuit 602 may include a processor 606, and in some embodiments, such as Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, a memory 604 may also be included. The processing circuit 602 may communicate with the user interface 608 and / or the communication interface 610, or otherwise control the user interface and / or the communication interface. Therefore, the processing circuit 602 may be embodied as a circuit chip (e.g., an integrated circuit chip) configured to perform the operations described herein (e.g., using hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software).

[0092] The processor 606 can be embodied in a variety of different ways. For example, the processor 606 can be embodied as various processing components, such as one or more of a microprocessor or another processing element, a coprocessor, a controller, or various other computing or processing devices, including integrated circuits, such as, for example, ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), etc. Although illustrated as a single processor, it should be understood that the processor 606 can include multiple processors. The multiple processors can communicate with each other and can be configured together to perform one or more functions of the computer processing device 600 as described herein. In some embodiments, the processor 606 can be configured to execute instructions stored in the memory 604 or otherwise accessible to the processor 606. Therefore, whether configured by hardware or by a combination of hardware and software, the processor 606 can represent an entity that can perform operations according to the embodiments of the present disclosure while being configured accordingly (e.g., physically embodied in a circuit (in the form of a processing circuit 602)). Therefore, for example, when the processor 606 is embodied as an ASIC, an FPGA, etc., the processor 606 can be hardware that is specially configured for performing the operations described herein. Alternatively, as another example, when the processor 606 is embodied as an executor of software instructions, the instructions may specifically configure the processor 606 to perform one or more operations described herein.

[0093] In some embodiments, the memory 604 may include one or more non-transient memory devices, such as fixed or removable volatile and / or non-volatile memory. In this regard, the memory 604 may include a non-transient computer-readable storage medium. It should be understood that although the memory 604 is illustrated as a single memory, the memory 604 may also include multiple memories. The memory 604 may be configured to store information, data, applications, instructions, etc. for enabling the computer processing device 600 to perform various functions according to one or more embodiments. For example, the memory 604 may be configured to buffer input data for the processor 606 to process. Additionally or alternatively, the memory 604 may be configured to store instructions for the processor 606 to execute. As another alternative, the memory 604 may include one or more databases that can store a variety of files, content, or data sets. In the content of the memory 604, applications may be stored for the processor 606 to execute so as to perform functions associated with each corresponding application. In some cases, memory 604 may be in communication with one or more of processor 606 , user interface 608 , and / or communication interface 610 via a bus to transfer information between components of computer processing device 600 .

[0094] The user interface 608 can communicate with the processing circuit 602 to receive instructions input by the user at the user interface 608 and / or provide an auditory output, a visual output, a mechanical output, or other output to the user. Therefore, the user interface 608 may include, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, a display, a touch screen display, a microphone, a speaker, and / or other input / output mechanisms. Thus, in some embodiments, the user interface 608 can provide a user with a means of accessing the system 130, a plurality of switch controllers 122, an RFID trigger circuit controller 126, an RFID reader 114, and / or other devices and interacting with them.

[0095] The communication interface 610 may include one or more interface mechanisms for implementing communication with other devices and / or networks. In some cases, the communication interface 610 may be any component, such as a device or circuit embodied in hardware or a combination of hardware and software, which is configured to receive data from a network and / or any other device or module that communicates with the processing circuit 602, and / or transmit data to the network and / or the other device or module. For example, the communication interface 610 may be configured to enable the RFID trigger circuit controller 126 to communicate with the RFID reader 114. Therefore, the communication interface 610 may, for example, include an antenna (or multiple antennas) and supporting hardware and / or software for implementing communication with a wireless communication network (e.g., a wireless local area network, a cellular network, a global positioning system network, etc.), and / or a communication modem or another hardware / software for supporting communication via a cable, a digital subscriber line (DSL), a universal serial bus (USB), Ethernet, or other methods.

[0096] Those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs will think of many modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forth herein, having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings. Although the drawings show only certain components of the apparatus and system described herein, it should be understood that various other components may be used in conjunction with the system. Therefore, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. In addition, the steps in the above-described method may not necessarily occur in the order depicted in the drawings, and in some cases, one or more of the depicted steps may occur substantially simultaneously, or may involve additional steps. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used only in a general and descriptive sense, and not for purposes of limitation.

[0097] Although various embodiments according to the principles disclosed herein have been shown and described above, those skilled in the art may make modifications thereto without departing from the essence and teachings of the present disclosure. The embodiments described herein are representative only and are not intended to be limiting. Many variations, combinations, and modifications are possible and within the scope of the present disclosure. Alternative embodiments resulting from merging, integrating, and / or omitting features of one or more embodiments are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection is not limited by the above description.

[0098] Additionally, section headings are used herein to provide organizational cues or to comply with the recommendations of 37 CFR 1.77. Such headings shall not limit or characterize the invention or inventions set forth in any claims that may issue from this disclosure.

[0099] The use of broad terms such as "comprising," "including," and "having" should be understood to provide support for narrower terms such as "consisting of," "consisting essentially of," and "composed essentially of." The use of the terms "optionally," "may," "might," "can," and the like with respect to any element of an embodiment means that the element is not required, or, alternatively, the element is required, both alternatives being within the scope of the embodiment. Additionally, reference to examples is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be exclusive.

Claims

1. A system, comprising: a plurality of switches, wherein each switch of the plurality of switches comprises an energy harvesting component and a switch controller, wherein each switch of the plurality of switches is configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered, wherein a first switch of the plurality of switches is secured to an ignition switch of a vehicle, a second switch of the plurality of switches is secured to a brake pedal of the vehicle, and a third switch of the plurality of switches is secured to an accelerator pedal of the vehicle; and a radio frequency identification (RFID) trigger circuit, wherein the RFID trigger circuit is configured to receive one or more signals from one or more switches of the plurality of switches, wherein the RFID trigger circuit is configured to activate or deactivate an RFID reader based at least in part on the one or more signals received from the one or more switches of the plurality of switches.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the RFID trigger circuit comprises a receiving component and an RFID trigger circuit controller.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the receiving component is configured to receive one or more signals from one or more switches of the plurality of switches, wherein: In response to receiving one or more signals from the plurality of switches, the receiving component is configured to wake up the RFID trigger circuit controller from a power saving mode.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein: In response to receiving signals from the first switch and the second switch, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to activate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter an idle mode.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein: In response to receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to activate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter an active mode.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein: In response to receiving signals from the first switch and the second switch, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to deactivate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter a power saving mode.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein: In response to receiving signals from the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch, the RFID trigger circuit is configured to deactivate the RFID reader by causing the RFID reader to enter a power saving mode. 8 . The system of claim 1 , wherein each switch of the plurality of switches is configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered for a first period of time.

9. A method comprising: receiving one or more signals from one or more switches of a plurality of switches, wherein each switch of the plurality of switches comprises an energy harvesting component and a switch controller, wherein each switch of the plurality of switches is configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered, wherein a first switch of the plurality of switches is secured to an ignition switch of a vehicle, a second switch of the plurality of switches is secured to a brake pedal of the vehicle, and a third switch of the plurality of switches is secured to an accelerator pedal of the vehicle; as well as A radio frequency identification (RFID) reader is activated or deactivated based at least in part on the one or more signals received from one or more switches of the plurality of switches.

10. A computer program product, the computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer program code stored thereon, the computer program code, when executed with at least one processor, configuring the computer program product to: receiving one or more signals from one or more switches of a plurality of switches, wherein each switch of the plurality of switches comprises an energy harvesting component and a switch controller, wherein each switch of the plurality of switches is configured to transmit a signal in response to being triggered, wherein a first switch of the plurality of switches is secured to an ignition switch of a vehicle, a second switch of the plurality of switches is secured to a brake pedal of the vehicle, and a third switch of the plurality of switches is secured to an accelerator pedal of the vehicle; and A radio frequency identification (RFID) reader is activated or deactivated based at least in part on the one or more signals received from one or more switches of the plurality of switches.

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