Animal container state data acquisition system and method based on RFID technology

Abstract

The invention discloses an animal container state data acquisition system and method based on an RFID technology. The acquisition system comprises a switch unit, a transponder unit, a reader-writer unit, a container and a support. The switch unit comprises a trigger part and an induction part, the trigger part and the transponder unit are arranged on the container, the induction part is arranged on the reader-writer unit, and the reader-writer unit is arranged on the support; the trigger part enables the reader-writer unit to enter a working state and send out a radio frequency signal by triggering the induction part, the transponder unit sends out identification code information after receiving the radio frequency signal, and the reader-writer unit sends container in-place information to the information management system after receiving the identification code information. And the reader-writer unit enters a dormant state after sending the container in-place information. According to the invention, automatic collection, accurate positioning and identification, flexible installation and layout, low-power-consumption and energy-saving design, durability and reliability of animal container state data can be realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of life science research, and in particular to an animal container status data acquisition system and method based on RFID technology. Background Art

[0002] Due to cleanroom requirements, laboratory animal facilities typically establish barriers between them and the general environment to control the entry and exit of personnel and materials, and strictly manage the cross-transmission of microorganisms. This creates a barrier between daily communication between those inside and outside the barrier, significantly inconveniently managing the collection, recording, and transmission of information within the barrier, and significantly reduces work efficiency. Even though many facilities have installed interactive terminals such as computers and tablets within the barrier, these systems do not fundamentally address these issues.

[0003] Existing RFID-based methods for tracking and managing laboratory animals are difficult to apply to the production of laboratory mice and rats. For example, affixing RFID tags to animal information cards often results in detachment and confusion in a production facility with tens of thousands of cages, requiring weekly updates. Handheld RFID readers also struggle to track, locate, and identify animals in facilities with an annual production capacity of millions of animals. Some methods, to reduce the frequency of disinfection, install RFID tags elsewhere than in the container itself, which also carries the risk of incorrect installation and confusion.

[0004] Chinese patent document CN106875282A discloses an animal husbandry management method based on RFID technology, including the following steps: associating the RFID code of the RFID tag with the basic animal information in the database, then wearing the RFID tag on the animal's body or affixing it to the animal's information card; using RFID reading and writing technology, collecting and recording various data and information related to animal husbandry; uploading the collected relevant data during the animal husbandry process to the database of the animal husbandry management platform; and managers querying and analyzing the conditions of animals currently being raised or previously raised based on different query requirements.

[0005] The technical solutions disclosed in the above patent documents and other related technologies have the following shortcomings when producing experimental mice: (1) There are certain difficulties in attaching RFID tags to experimental mice or rats. First, the animals are very small, making it very difficult to attach tags. The size of traditional ear tags is much smaller than that of RFID tags. Second, rodents will bite the tags, which can easily damage them. Third, experimental animals such as mice and rats are group-raised and often play and fight, which can cause the tags to fall off, making the tags lose their identification and tracking functions.

[0006] (2) If the label is affixed to the animal information tag, the cages need to be replaced periodically and the information on the tag needs to be updated during daily breeding operations. This process can easily cause the information tags to be confused, fall off, or be hung incorrectly, making it difficult to ensure 100% consistency between the information tags and the animals in the cages. In addition, the information content of the animal information tags in cage A and cage B may be almost the same (such as breed, date of birth, etc.), but the animals contained in the boxes are definitely different. It is easy to cause confusion when replacing and hanging the information tags.

[0007] (3) The use of handheld terminals to scan labels does not fundamentally solve the production management problems of laboratory animal barrier facilities, nor does it significantly improve work efficiency or significantly reduce the probability of errors and corresponding costs. For a medium-sized laboratory animal facility, there will be tens of thousands of cages and boxes, with an annual output of millions of animals. If staff use handheld devices to scan, identify, enter information, and associate it in the system, it is a huge project.

[0008] (4) When staff need to find a cage in which an animal of a certain breed that meets the requirements is kept, they can only scan and search one by one using a handheld terminal device, which is also very inefficient. It may even take several hours to locate a specific cage in which an animal is housed.

[0009] (5) Scanning, recording, associating, and searching in databases using handheld devices cannot update the production capacity of laboratory animal production facilities in real time. For example, at a certain moment, how many cages are occupied, how many cages are vacant, how many animals are in the cage replacement state, in the delivery state, in the lactation state, or waiting to be shipped to the customer laboratory, all of these cannot be updated in real time and dynamically, and still cannot be free from the problems caused by manual operation.

[0010] Therefore, in order to optimize the daily workflow of experimental animal facilities, reduce those links that consume costs and reduce efficiency, and shorten the operation time of daily workflow, there is an urgent need for an animal container system that can automatically identify and track, collect work status information, and feedback the internal operation process of the facility. Summary of the Invention

[0011] In order to solve one or more technical problems in the prior art, the present invention provides an animal container status data collection system based on RFID technology, comprising: Switch unit, transponder unit, reader / writer unit, container, bracket; The switch unit includes a trigger component and a sensing component. The trigger component and the transponder unit are arranged on the container. The sensing component is arranged on the reader / writer unit. The reader / writer unit is arranged on the bracket, so that the animal container status data collection system based on RFID technology can be in the following first collection state or second collection state: First collection state: when the container is placed in the designated position of the bracket, the trigger component triggers the sensing component to cause the reader-writer unit to enter the working state and send out a radio frequency signal. After receiving the radio frequency signal, the transponder unit sends out identification code information. After receiving the identification code information, the reader-writer unit sends container placement information to the information management system. After sending the container placement information, the reader-writer unit enters the dormant state. Second collection state: when the container is taken out from the designated position of the bracket, the trigger component triggers the sensing component to enable the reader / writer unit to enter the working state and send out a radio frequency signal. After receiving the radio frequency signal, the transponder unit sends out identification code information. The reader / writer unit continues to receive the identification code information until it can no longer receive the identification code signal within a set time, and then sends container out-of-position information to the information management system. After sending the container out-of-position information, the reader / writer unit enters the sleep state.

[0012] Preferably, the trigger component is a magnet, the induction component is a magnetic switch, the reader / writer unit includes a shell, a circuit board is provided in the shell, the circuit board integrates an MCU main control module, a radio frequency module, a baseband module, a network communication module and an antenna module, and the induction component is electrically connected to the MCU main control module.

[0013] Preferably, the network communication module has a POE power supply configuration to supply power to the reader / writer unit through the POE power supply configuration.

[0014] Preferably, the housing is provided with a screw hole, and a position-adjustable fixing module is provided on the support rod of the bracket, and the fixing module is connected to the screw hole by a screw.

[0015] Preferably, the chip, circuit and antenna of the transponder unit are encapsulated in the tag, and the tag is encapsulated in a fixed bracket. The fixed bracket includes a front portion of the fixed bracket and a rear portion of the fixed bracket connected by a snap, and a reserved hole is provided on the upper edge of the container. A protrusion is provided on the inner diameter of the reserved hole, and the front portion of the fixed bracket and the rear portion of the fixed bracket are respectively clamped on the front and rear sides of the protrusion, and the outer surface of the front portion of the fixed bracket is flush with the outer surface of the upper edge of the container.

[0016] Preferably, the trigger component is also encapsulated in the fixing bracket.

[0017] Preferably, the bracket is provided with a guide rail and a limiting mechanism, the guide rail is used to make the upper edge of the container slide in and out of the bracket, and the limiting mechanism is used to limit the container when it slides to a specified position of the bracket.

[0018] Preferably, the sensing component and the antenna module are jointly arranged in the antenna area of the reader unit, so that when the container slides to the designated position of the bracket, the tag, the trigger component, the sensing component and the antenna module are located on the same axis.

[0019] Preferably, the fixing bracket is provided on the upper left edge and the upper right edge of each container; Two groups of the sensing components and the antenna modules are provided inside each reader / writer unit, wherein one group of the sensing components and the antenna modules are provided at the antenna area on the right side of the reader / writer unit, and the other group of the sensing components and the antenna modules are provided at the antenna area on the left side of the reader / writer unit.

[0020] The present invention also provides a method for collecting data of an animal container status based on the RFID technology-based system, comprising: When the container is placed in the designated position of the bracket, the trigger component triggers the sensing component to send a first control signal. After receiving the first control signal, the MCU main control module controls the reader-writer unit to enter a first working state. The MCU main control module controls the radio frequency module to send a radio frequency signal through the antenna module. After receiving the radio frequency signal, the transponder unit sends identification code information. The baseband module decodes the identification code information received by the radio frequency module to obtain decoded data information. After receiving the decoded data information, the MCU main control module generates container placement information. After the MCU main control module sends the container placement information to the information management system through the network communication module, the MCU main control module controls the reader-writer unit to enter a dormant state. When the container is taken out from the designated position of the bracket, the trigger component triggers the sensing component to send a second control signal. After receiving the second control signal, the MCU main control module controls the reader-writer unit to enter the second working state. The MCU main control module controls the radio frequency module to send a radio frequency signal through the antenna module. After receiving the radio frequency signal, the transponder unit sends identification coding information. The baseband module decodes the identification coding information received by the radio frequency module to obtain decoded data information. The MCU main control module continues to receive the decoded data information until it can no longer receive the decoded data information within a set time, and then generates container out-of-position information. After the MCU main control module sends the container out-of-position information to the information management system through the network communication module, the MCU main control module controls the reader-writer unit to enter a sleep state.

[0021] Beneficial effects of the present invention: (1) Automated data collection and real-time transmission Through the coordinated operation of a switch unit, a transponder unit, and a reader / writer unit, this invention enables the automated collection and transmission of animal container status data without the need for human intervention. After collecting data, the reader / writer unit transmits this information to the management system in real time via a network communication module, ensuring immediate data updates and dynamic management. This automated and real-time data processing method enables managers to monitor the feeding and testing status of experimental animals at all times, eliminating the need for manual inspection and record-keeping. This significantly improves management efficiency and the scientific nature of decision-making. It also reduces errors caused by manual operation and enhances data accuracy and reliability.

[0022] (2) Accurate positioning and identification The system uses a trigger-type switch unit to ensure that the reader unit is activated only after the container is physically in place, avoiding false triggering and data collection uncertainty. The precise positioning of the transponder unit and reader unit (for example, coaxial cable design) further improves signal transmission stability and data collection accuracy, avoiding data errors caused by traditional methods due to label detachment and confusion. This high-precision data collection method can significantly improve management efficiency and reduce the duplication of work and resource waste caused by inaccurate data.

[0023] (3) Flexible installation and layout The mounting positions of the reader / writer and transponder units in this invention can be flexibly adjusted to meet specific needs, adapting to laboratory animal facilities of varying sizes and layouts. The bracket system incorporates guide rails and position-limiting mechanisms to ensure precise positioning of the containers every time. This further improves system stability and data acquisition accuracy, reduces the additional cost and time associated with facility adjustments, and ensures efficient and reliable management processes.

[0024] (4) Low power consumption and energy-saving design The reader / writer unit of this invention enters a dormant state after completing data acquisition, reducing the overall power consumption of the system. Furthermore, the system utilizes POE power, reducing the damage to the clean environment caused by traditional power supply methods and improving the stability and reliability of the power supply. This design makes the system more economical and environmentally friendly in long-term operation while also reducing interference with the laboratory animal facility environment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The accompanying drawings are used to provide further understanding of the present invention and constitute a part of the specification. They are used to explain the present invention together with the embodiments of the present invention and do not constitute a limitation of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of an animal container status data acquisition system according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1 ; Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a fixing bracket portion according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 The explosion of the fixed bracket part according to the embodiment of the present invention Figure 1 ; Figure 4 The explosion of the fixed bracket part according to the embodiment of the present invention Figure 2 ; Figure 5 is a perspective view of a reader / writer unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 is a top view of a reader / writer unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 is a long side elevation view of a reader / writer unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 is the short side elevation of the reader / writer unit according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1 ; Figure 9 is the short side elevation of the reader / writer unit according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 2 ; Figure 10 is an exploded view of a reader / writer unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 is a positional relationship diagram of an animal container according to an embodiment of the present invention when it is at a designated position on a bracket; Figure 12 yes Figure 11 The nodes in the dotted circle are detailed. Figure 1 ; Figure 13 yes Figure 11 The nodes in the dotted circle are detailed. Figure 2 ; Figure 14 Schematic diagram of an animal container status data acquisition system according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 2 ; Figure 15 Schematic diagram of an animal container status data acquisition system according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 3 ; Figure 16 Schematic diagram of an animal container status data acquisition system according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 4 ; Figure 17 Schematic diagram of an animal container status data acquisition system according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 5 ; Figure 18 Schematic diagram of an animal container status data acquisition system according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 6 ; Figure 19 Schematic diagram of an animal container status data acquisition system according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 7 ; Figure 20 Schematic diagram of an animal container status data acquisition system according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 8 ; In the picture: 1. Switch unit; 101. Trigger component; 102. Sensing component; 2. Transponder unit; 201. Tag; 202. Rear of the fixing bracket; 203. Front of the fixing bracket; 3. Reader / writer unit; 301. Antenna area; 302. Screw hole; 303. Working indicator light; 304. Network communication module; 305. Circuit board; 306. Antenna module; 307. Housing; 308. Fixing module; 4. Container; 401. Reserved hole; 4011. Protrusion; 5. Bracket; 6. Guide rail; 7. Ventilation duct. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The present invention can be used for state identification, tracking, data collection, transmission and recording during experimental animal breeding and experimental work processes.

[0028] The present application will be described in detail below in conjunction with the embodiments. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the present application and does not limit the present application. In fact, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made in the present application without departing from the scope or spirit of the present application. For example, a feature shown or described as part of one embodiment can be used in another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, it is expected that the present application includes such modifications and variations within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0029] Figure 1A brief overview of the acquisition system of the present invention can be made from the perspectives of above and front; Figures 2-4 It reflects the assembly relationship between the trigger component 101, the label 201, the rear portion 202 of the fixing bracket, the front portion 203 of the fixing bracket and the reserved hole 401; Figures 5 to 9 It reflects the external structure of the reader / writer unit 3; Figure 10 It reflects the main internal functional modules of the reader / writer unit 3; Figures 11-13 This shows the positional relationship of the relevant components when the reader / writer unit 3 collects status data of the container 4. Figures 12-13 This shows the coupled working relationship between the components inside the antenna area 301 of the transponder unit 2 and the reader / writer unit 3; Figures 14-16 It reflects the installation relationship between the container 4, the reader unit 3 and the bracket 5; Figures 17-20 It reflects the installation relationship between the container 4 and the bracket 5 of the assembled status data acquisition system.

[0030] like Figures 1 to 20 As shown, an animal container status data collection system based on RFID technology includes: Switch unit 1, transponder unit 2, reader / writer unit 3, container 4, bracket 5; The switch unit 1 includes a trigger component 101 and a sensing component 102. The trigger component 101 and the transponder unit 2 are arranged on the container 4. The sensing component 102 is arranged on the reader unit 3. The reader unit 3 is arranged on the bracket 5. This allows the animal container status data collection system based on RFID technology to be in the following first collection state or second collection state: First acquisition state: When the container 4 is placed in the designated position of the bracket 5, the trigger component 101 triggers the sensing component 102 to make the reader / writer unit 3 enter the working state and send out a radio frequency signal. After receiving the radio frequency signal, the transponder unit 2 sends out identification code information. After receiving the identification code information, the reader / writer unit 3 sends the container placement information to the information management system. After sending the container placement information, the reader / writer unit 3 enters the dormant state. Second collection state: When the container 4 is taken out from the designated position of the bracket 5, the trigger component 101 triggers the sensing component 102 to enable the reader / writer unit 3 to enter the working state and send out a radio frequency signal. After receiving the radio frequency signal, the transponder unit 2 sends out identification code information. The reader / writer unit 3 continues to receive the identification code information until it can no longer receive the identification code signal within the set time. Then it sends the container removal information to the information management system. After sending the container removal information, the reader / writer unit 3 enters the sleep state.

[0031] The switch unit 1 is mainly used for: when the container 4 (animal container) is in place on its corresponding bracket 5 (bracket system), the switch component 1 (trigger component 101) located on the container 4 triggers the switch component 1 (sensing component 102) located on the reader unit 3, so that the reader unit 3 is activated and enters the working state.

[0032] The transponder unit 2 is mainly used for: when the container 4 is in place on its corresponding bracket 5, the activated transponder unit 2 is coupled with the reader unit 3 located on the bracket 5. After receiving the energy signal (radio frequency signal) emitted by the reader unit 3, the chip of the transponder unit 2 is activated and sends a unique identification code information (identity identification code) to the reader unit 3 through the carrier.

[0033] The reader / writer unit 3 is mainly used to: provide energy signals to the transponder unit 2 within its radiation range by transmitting wireless radio frequency signals, capture the carrier signal returned by the transponder unit 2, and demodulate the corresponding identity recognition code information; the coupling method between the reader / writer unit 3 and the transponder unit 2 antenna can adopt different coupling methods according to the actual use of the animal barrier facilities and the animal container system, such as inductive coupling, electromagnetic coupling, etc.; the frequency band of the wireless radio frequency can adopt low frequency, high frequency, ultra-high frequency, microwave, etc. according to different usage scenarios.

[0034] When inductive coupling is employed, a high-frequency (HF) RFID communication module can be used. Data transmission between the transponder unit 2 and the reader unit 3 utilizes load modulation. This method is characterized by a short radiation distance, effectively controlling the reader signal's radiation range. When the transponder enters the alternating magnetic field generated by the reader, an induced voltage is generated in the transponder's antenna coil. When the transponder is sufficiently close, the energy intercepted by the transponder's antenna circuit can supply the transponder chip's operating needs. During operation, the transponder chip converts its internally stored unique code into binary form and alters its antenna inductive reactance by alternating the circuit on and off, thereby affecting the inductive reactance of the reader antenna. Upon receiving this inductive reactance change, the reader circuit chip decodes the information and recovers the binary coded information, thereby enabling data transmission.

[0035] When electromagnetic coupling is used, an ultra-high frequency (UHF) RFID communication module can be selected. Its characteristics include relatively long communication distance, high efficiency, and fast reading speed. After the reader emits radio frequency electromagnetic waves into space, the transponder absorbs the energy brought by the voltage generated by the alternating magnetic field. A portion of the remaining energy is reflected back to the reader by the transponder antenna. The reflected electromagnetic waves are modulated by the transponder's load and carry the corresponding modulated signal. This modulated signal contains the coded information stored in the transponder chip, thus realizing the transmission of data information.

[0036] The software embedded in the transponder unit 2 and the reader / writer unit 3 can be used to drive the various functional modules in the transponder unit 2 and the reader / writer unit 3, ensuring that the status information of the animal container (in-place information, out-of-place information) can be collected safely, stably and efficiently, and at the same time, the collected data information is processed and sent to the back-end application software and management information system.

[0037] After the induction component 102 is triggered by the switch module trigger component 101 installed in the animal container, the reader unit 3 is activated and enters the working state. At this time, no staff intervention is required. The reader unit 3 can couple with the transponder unit 2 of the animal container 306 through its antenna module, supply power to the transponder unit 2, receive the wireless radio frequency signal returned by the transponder unit 2, and automatically identify the identity identification code information of the transponder tag of the animal container; thereby realizing the identification and tracking of different animal containers, and realizing the automatic collection, recording and transmission of production process operation action data.

[0038] Existing experimental animal management technologies mostly rely on manual operations or simple tag recognition, making it difficult to achieve automated and systematic data collection and management. This embodiment constructs a complete animal container status data acquisition system based on RFID technology, covering a switch unit, a transponder unit, a reader / writer unit, and a software control unit. The various units work together to achieve the automatic collection, transmission, and processing of animal container status data, providing a new technical architecture and solution for experimental animal management, which is essentially different from existing technologies. In experimental animal facilities, traditional methods often face the problem of untimely and inaccurate data recording, resulting in low management efficiency. After this system realizes automated data collection, manual intervention is greatly reduced and human errors are reduced. At the same time, real-time acquisition of container status data allows managers to keep abreast of the feeding and testing conditions of experimental animals, thereby improving management efficiency.

[0039] In a specific embodiment of the present invention, the trigger component 101 is a magnet, the induction component 102 is a magnetic switch, the reader / writer unit 3 includes a shell 307, a circuit board 305 is provided in the shell 307, the circuit board 305 is integrated with an MCU main control module, a radio frequency module, a baseband module, a network communication module 304 and an antenna module 306, and the induction component 102 is electrically connected to the MCU main control module.

[0040] The sensing component 102 can be connected to the circuit board 305 via a signal cable to achieve electrical connection between the sensing component 102 and the MCU main control module.

[0041] The baseband module is responsible for demodulating the signal received by the RF module and converting it into digital information. After demodulating the signal received by the RF module, the baseband module obtains the corresponding digital information and transmits this information to the MCU main control unit for analysis and processing. Ultimately, the processed results are sent to the application or information management system through the network communication module 304.

[0042] When the reader / writer unit 3 is operating, the transponder unit 2 receives the RF signal and transmits an identification code. The RF module receives this signal, which is then demodulated by the baseband module to obtain the corresponding digital information for subsequent processing. The MCU main control module decodes, analyzes, and processes the data demodulated by the baseband module. After the baseband module demodulates the signal into digital information, the MCU main control module further processes this information, extracting valid data such as the container identification code from the digital information, thereby enabling the collection and analysis of animal container status data.

[0043] The MCU main control module can also be used to: receive the trigger signal of the switch unit 1, activate the reader unit 3 to enter the working state; trigger the radio frequency module to send a radio frequency signal to the transponder unit 2 through the antenna module 306 of the reader unit; control the network communication module 304 to send the processed data information to other applications or management information systems.

[0044] The reader / writer unit 3 can be installed on a support system or other working points where the status data of the animal container needs to be collected through a fixing device. The reader / writer unit 3 can be arranged corresponding to one or more animal containers.

[0045] When the container 4 is correctly positioned on its support 5, the trigger component 101 reaches a position where it can trigger the sensing component 102. The trigger component 101 triggers the sensing component 102 in a contact or non-contact manner. Contact triggering, for example, involves a mechanical switch. When the container 4 is properly positioned on the support 5, the trigger component 101 directly contacts the sensing component 102. Mechanical pressure causes the internal structure of the sensing component 102 to change, triggering its operation. For example, in a structure similar to a push button switch, the trigger component 101 acts like an object pressing a button. When it reaches the position of the sensing component 102, pressing the button completes the circuit and triggers the sensing component 102. Preferably, the sensing component 102 can be a microswitch. When the container 4 is properly positioned, the trigger component 101 compresses the microswitch's contacts, closing its internal normally open contacts and generating a trigger signal.

[0046] An example of a non-contact trigger is a magnetic switch. The trigger component 101 is a magnet, and the sensing component 102 is a magnetic switch. When the container 4 is in place, the magnet (trigger component 101) approaches the magnetic switch (sensing component 102). The magnetic switch senses the change in magnetic field, generating a trigger signal that activates the reader / writer unit 3. In addition, non-contact triggering can also be achieved using infrared sensing, capacitive sensing, or other methods. For example, an infrared transmitter is installed on the container 4 as the trigger component 101, and an infrared receiver is installed on the reader / writer unit 3 as the sensing component 102. When the container 4 is in place, the infrared light emitted by the infrared transmitter is detected by the receiver, triggering the reader / writer unit 3.

[0047] The activation of the reader / writer unit 3 by the switch unit 1 can be physical activation or logical activation: Taking a magnetic switch as an example of physical activation, the interaction between trigger component 101 (magnet) and induction component 102 (magnetic switch) directly changes the circuit state within reader / writer unit 3 through the action of the physical field, thereby activating reader / writer unit 3. This is one form of physical activation. Alternatively, through a mechanical connection, when trigger component 101 is in place, it directly pushes the mechanical structure within reader / writer unit 3, thereby completing the circuit and starting the reader / writer unit 3. This is another form of physical activation.

[0048] Logical activation, for example, occurs when trigger component 101 triggers sensing component 102. Sensing component 102 sends an electrical signal to the MCU main control module of reader / writer unit 3. The MCU main control module, based on a pre-set logic program, determines that the signal meets the activation conditions and then controls the various functional modules of reader / writer unit 3 to begin operation. This is a logical activation. Specifically, for example, the signal sent by sensing component 102 can be input into the MCU main control module as an interrupt request signal. Upon receiving this interrupt signal, the MCU main control module, in accordance with a pre-programmed internal program, sends an enable signal to the RF module, baseband module, and other modules, activating these modules and ultimately activating the reader / writer unit 3.

[0049] In a specific embodiment of the present invention, the network communication module 304 has a POE power supply configuration to supply power to the reader / writer unit 3 through the POE power supply configuration.

[0050] The POE power supply configuration of the network transmission module 304 can be used to supply power to the reader / writer unit 3 through a network switch.

[0051] Laboratory animal facilities are unique environments with strict cleanliness requirements. These facilities require controlled access for personnel and materials, and strict control over the cross-contamination of microorganisms. In such environments, traditional power supply wiring can easily compromise the facility's clean environment, increasing the risk of microbial contamination. POE power supply, on the other hand, requires only Ethernet cables, eliminating the need for additional power cables and minimizing the impact on the facility's clean environment. At the same time, traditional power supply methods are susceptible to interference and power supply stability in the complex electromagnetic environment within the facility. POE technology is better suited to this complex electromagnetic environment, ensuring stable power supply to the reader unit and unimpeded data collection. This power supply method was chosen to fully address the unique environmental requirements of laboratory animal facilities. Continuous data collection is crucial in laboratory animal management. Traditional power supply methods can cause unexpected power outages in the reader unit due to battery problems or power adapter failures, leading to data loss or interrupted data collection. POE power supply, delivered via Ethernet cables, provides continuous and stable power to the reader unit as long as the network connection is maintained, significantly reducing data collection interruptions caused by power supply issues. During long-term experimental animal breeding and observation, traditional power supply methods may cause the loss of hours or even days of data due to battery exhaustion. However, a system powered by POE can ensure uninterrupted data collection, provide researchers with complete and accurate data, and improve the reliability of experimental results.

[0052] In a specific embodiment of the present invention, the housing 307 is provided with a screw hole 302 , and the support rod of the bracket 5 is provided with a position-adjustable fixing module 308 , and the fixing module 308 is connected to the screw hole 302 via screws.

[0053] Four screw holes 302 are provided at each end of the reader / writer unit 3 for mounting. These holes, in conjunction with mounting and securing modules 308, allow the reader / writer unit 3 to be mounted on the bracket 5. The mounting position of the reader / writer unit 3 is correlated with the position of the container 4 (the designated position of the bracket 5) and the position of the transponder unit 2 mounted on the outer wall of the container 4, ensuring the proper and accurate operation of the container status data collection system.

[0054] The layout and placement of equipment within experimental animal facilities will be adjusted due to changes in experimental projects, animal species and numbers. In such an environment, traditional fixed installation methods cannot adapt to such dynamic changes. If the position of the equipment is to be changed, it is often necessary to reinstall or even replace the equipment, which is costly and complicated to operate. This embodiment fully takes this actual demand into account. By cooperating with the position-adjustable fixing module 308 and the screw hole 302, the position parameters such as the height and angle of the reader unit 3 can be easily adjusted. When the placement of the experimental animal cage changes, or other equipment is added that affects the signal reception of the reader, the position of the reader unit 3 can be easily adjusted to ensure that it maintains the best signal interaction state with the transponder unit 2 on the container.

[0055] In a specific embodiment of the present invention, the chip, circuit and antenna of the transponder unit 2 are encapsulated in the tag 201, and the tag 201 is encapsulated in the fixing bracket. The fixing bracket includes a fixing bracket front portion 203 and a fixing bracket rear portion 202 connected by a snap. A reserved hole 401 is provided on the upper edge of the container 4, and a protrusion 4011 is provided on the inner diameter of the reserved hole 401. The fixing bracket front portion 203 and the fixing bracket rear portion 202 are respectively clamped on the front and rear sides of the protrusion 4011, and the outer surface of the fixing bracket front portion 203 is flush with the outer surface of the upper edge of the container 4.

[0056] The transponder unit 2 can adopt a passive working mechanism, and its working energy is the alternating magnetic field generated by the radio frequency signal emitted by the reader unit 3 and the antenna circuit of the transponder unit 2, which cuts the instantaneous current to power the chip and circuit of the transponder unit 2. The chip of the transponder unit 2 can adopt a wireless radio frequency identification (RFID) chip with a passive working mechanism. The chip of the transponder unit 2 and its circuit and antenna module can be encapsulated together in a nylon tag 201, and installed at the reserved opening 401 on the upper edge of the bottom of the cage (container) through a fixed bracket. When the container 4 is correctly positioned on the bracket 5 through the track 6, the antenna area 301 of the reader unit 3 and the transponder unit 2 are located on the same axis, such as Figures 11-13 shown.

[0057] The chip, circuit, antenna and other modules of the transponder unit 2 are encapsulated in the tag 201, which can withstand various sterilization operations such as high-temperature sterilization, chemical reagent immersion, and wiping in experimental animal barrier facilities. The material for encapsulating the tag 201 can use materials that have no shielding effect on electromagnetic waves, such as engineering plastics, nylon, paper (polyester fiber paper, polypropylene fiber paper, polytetrafluoroethylene paper, engineering plastic paper) and other non-metallic materials.

[0058] Preferably, the chip, circuit, and antenna of the transponder unit 2 are encapsulated in a nylon label 201, which can withstand various sterilization operations such as high-temperature sterilization, chemical reagent immersion, and wiping in laboratory animal barrier facilities. The nylon packaging label will not shield electromagnetic waves. The fixing bracket can also be made of nylon.

[0059] The radio frequency chip of the transponder unit 2 stores a unique identification code in a fixed format. When the tag 201 is mounted on the upper edge of the bottom of the container 4 via a fixing bracket, a unique identification code is defined for the animal container, allowing the container and the animal contained therein to be identified, tracked, and located.

[0060] In addition to being mounted on the upper edge of the container 4, the tag 201 can also be mounted anywhere else on the container, such as on the sidewall, bottom, or top, using a mounting bracket. The mounting bracket can be made of any material that meets the routine maintenance requirements for laboratory animals, such as engineering plastics or stainless steel. The reserved hole 401 can be configured as an oblong hole. Using the above embodiment, after mounting the mounting bracket, the outer surface of the container 4, where the transponder unit 2 is mounted, remains smooth and flush.

[0061] Laboratory animal facilities require frequent cleaning, disinfection and other operations on containers, and at the same time, ensure that the labels work stably in complex environments and do not affect the normal use of the containers. Traditional adhesive labels are prone to falling off or being damaged during cleaning and disinfection, affecting data collection and animal management. The design of this embodiment enables the transponder unit to be firmly mounted on the container to avoid damage during operations such as cleaning and disinfection. The fixed bracket with a snap connection can tightly fix the label to prevent it from shaking or falling off during the use of the container; the installation method that cooperates with the reserved holes and protrusions not only ensures the stability of the installation, but also makes the front outer surface of the fixed bracket flush with the outer surface of the upper edge of the container, which will not hinder the placement, transportation and other operations of the container, and effectively solves the problems of traditional installation methods in the laboratory animal facility environment.

[0062] In a specific embodiment of the present invention, a trigger component 101 is further encapsulated in the fixing bracket.

[0063] The trigger component 101 and the transponder unit are integrated into the fixed bracket, which helps them work together more efficiently. When the system is running, when the container 4 is placed in the designated position of the bracket 5, the trigger component 101 triggers the sensing component 102, activating the reader unit 3. At the same time, the transponder unit 2 must also promptly exchange signals with the reader unit 3. Encapsulating the trigger component 101 in the fixed bracket can accurately control its relative position relationship with the transponder unit 2, ensuring that when the trigger component 101 triggers the reader unit 3, the transponder unit 2 can quickly respond to the radio frequency signal emitted by the reader unit 3, thereby improving the coordinated efficiency of system triggering and data acquisition.

[0064] In a specific embodiment of the present invention, the bracket 5 is provided with a guide rail 6 and a limiting mechanism, the guide rail 6 is used for the upper edge of the container 4 to slide in and out of the bracket 5, and the limiting mechanism is used to limit the container 4 when it slides to a specified position of the bracket 5.

[0065] like Figures 11-13 As shown, when the container 4 is inserted into the guide rail 6 and properly positioned on the bracket 5, the transponder unit 2 and the antenna area 301 of the reader / writer unit 3 are coaxially aligned. At this point, the switch trigger component 101 embedded in the fixed bracket interacts with the inductive component 102 located in the antenna area 301 of the reader / writer unit 3, triggering the magnetic switch to open, activating the relevant modules integrated into the circuit board 305 of the reader / writer unit 3 and entering the operating state. After being activated by the switch module 1, the reader / writer unit 3 transmits a wireless radio frequency signal via the antenna module 306 to the corresponding side of the animal container. Upon receiving the energy from the wireless radio frequency signal, the antenna circuit of the transponder unit 2 in the container 4 generates a current, activating the chip of the transponder unit 2 and transmitting the identity identification code information back to the reader / writer unit 3 via the carrier wave. Through this process, the reader / writer unit 3 can identify, track, and collect the status data of the animal container.

[0066] The limiting mechanism can be a protrusion, groove, baffle, buckle, spring, damper, etc. The limiting mechanism can be set in the middle or end of the guide rail 6. When the limiting mechanism is set at the end of the guide rail 6, the container 4 can be taken in and out from one side of the bracket 5; when the limiting mechanism is set in the middle of the guide rail 6, the container 4 can be taken in and out from both the front and back sides of the bracket 5, for example: Container 4 is equipped with an arc-shaped protrusion, and the guide rail 6 has an arc-shaped groove in the middle. When the operator inserts container 4 into bracket 5 from the front, the arc-shaped protrusion engages with the arc-shaped groove, and container 4 pauses in forward movement. When the operator continues to push container 4 from the front, or pulls container 4 from the back, the arc-shaped protrusion disengages from the arc-shaped groove, allowing container 4 to be removed from the back. The technical benefits of this design include improved space utilization flexibility, easier equipment maintenance, and improved data acquisition stability.

[0067] During the process of collecting data on the status of experimental animal containers, the accurate positioning of the containers is crucial to the accuracy of data collection. If the position deviation of the container is large, the reader unit may not be able to accurately read the information of the transponder unit, resulting in data collection errors or omissions. The guide rail and limit mechanism design of this embodiment effectively solves this problem. Through the guidance of the guide rail and the positioning of the limit mechanism, the container can be placed on the bracket in the same position and posture every time, ensuring the relative position between the transponder unit and the reader unit on the container is stable, thereby improving the accuracy and stability of data collection. The guide rail and limit mechanism not only play a role in positioning the container, but also enhance the stability and durability of the system to a certain extent.

[0068] In a specific embodiment of the present invention, the sensing component 102 and the antenna module 306 are jointly arranged in the antenna area 301 of the reader / writer unit 3, so that when the container 4 slides to the specified position of the bracket 5, the tag 201, the trigger component 101, the sensing component 102 and the antenna module 306 are located on the same axis.

[0069] In experimental animal facilities, there are numerous interference factors, such as electromagnetic interference from other electronic devices, which can easily lead to unstable signal transmission and system mis-triggering. This embodiment reduces interference during signal transmission through precise component layout. When all components are located on the same axis, signal transmission is more directional, reducing signal scattering and reflection, and minimizing the impact of other interference sources on the signal. Furthermore, this layout makes the process of triggering component 101 triggering sensing component 102 more stable and reliable, reducing the possibility of mis-triggering and effectively addressing the signal interference and mis-triggering challenges faced by traditional systems in complex environments. The coaxial arrangement of components also helps improve the system's response speed. When the container 4 is placed in the designated position on the bracket 5, the trigger component 101 can quickly trigger the sensing component 102, while the antenna module 306 can quickly exchange signals with the tag 201. In actual operation, this rapid response can improve work efficiency and reduce operator waiting time.

[0070] In a specific embodiment of the present invention, a fixing bracket is provided on the upper left edge and the upper right edge of each container 4; Two groups of sensing components 102 and antenna modules 306 are provided inside each reader / writer unit 3, wherein one group of sensing components 102 and antenna modules 306 is provided at the antenna area 301 on the right side of the reader / writer unit 3, and the other group of sensing components 102 and antenna modules 306 is provided at the antenna area 301 on the left side of the reader / writer unit 3.

[0071] The data acquisition system of the present invention can be installed in a variety of ways: like Figure 17 As shown, for a container support system consisting of m rows and n columns, n+1 columns of reader / writer units 3 can be deployed. Each animal container is equipped with two sets of transponder units 2, located on the two long sides of the container 4. Each reader / writer unit 3 is equipped with two sets of magnetic switches (sensing components 102) and two sets of antenna modules 306, located on either side of the reader / writer unit 3. This ensures that each container 4 has two collection points for status data collection, maximizing the accuracy of container status data collection. Specifically, for example, the container 4 in column D has two sets of magnetic switches (L and R) on its left side, and two sets of magnetic switches (L and R) on its right side. When programming, these can be defined: when the R magnetic switch on the left side of the container 4 and the L magnetic switch on the right side of the container 4 are both turned on, the container 4 in column D is accurately located at the specified position.

[0072] like Figure 18 As shown, for a container support system consisting of m rows and n columns, n columns of reader / writer units 3 may also be arranged, and each reader / writer unit only identifies the container 4 on one side thereof.

[0073] like Figure 19 As shown, for a container support system consisting of m rows and n columns, n-1 columns of reader units 3 can also be arranged. Each reader unit 3 uses the magnetic switches and antenna modules 306 on both sides to work correspondingly with the transponder unit 2 of a container 4. The two groups of antenna modules 4 and magnetic switches share other modules of each reader unit 3.

[0074] Regarding the control logic of the data acquisition system of the present invention, a variety of different control logics can be set according to different usage scenarios. The following is a control logic: The switch unit 1 is in the form of a magnetic switch and serves as a logic control switch of the reader / writer unit 3 .

[0075] When container 4 is inserted into guide rail 6 and correctly positioned in the designated position on bracket 5, trigger component 101 triggers sensing component 102. The magnetic switch (sensing component 102) opens and sends an activation signal. Upon receiving the activation signal, the MCU main control module of reader / writer unit 3 supplies power to the RF module and issues a command. The RF module then sends a single RF signal to transponder unit 2. Upon activation, the chip in transponder unit 2 returns the corresponding identification code information via a carrier wave. The MCU main control module processes the demodulated data and transmits it to the management information system via network communication module 304. If the RF module of reader / writer unit 3 does not receive any feedback from transponder unit 2 after sending a single RF signal, the MCU main control module sends another command to the RF module, continuing to send RF signals until it captures the identification information returned by the chip in transponder unit 2. After receiving the status information indicating container 4 is in place, reader / writer unit 3 enters a dormant state.

[0076] When the container is removed from the track and leaves the support system, the magnetic switch closes, the reader / writer unit is logically activated again, and the MCU control unit issues a command to the RF module, which sends an RFID signal to transponder unit 2. If no transponder unit 2 returns an RFID signal, reader / writer unit 3 collects information indicating the container 4 has left. After transmitting this information to the management information system via network communication module 304, reader / writer unit 3 enters a dormant state again.

[0077] Preferably, the reader unit 3 is further provided with a working indicator light 303, which can be used to prompt the operator whether the cage box is in place or which cage box is the object to be found through different colors.

[0078] A method for collecting data of an animal container status based on an RFID technology-based system, comprising: When the container 4 is placed in the designated position of the bracket 5, the trigger component 101 triggers the sensing component 102 to send a first control signal. After receiving the first control signal, the MCU main control module controls the reader-writer unit 3 to enter the first working state. The MCU main control module controls the radio frequency module to send a radio frequency signal through the antenna module 306. After receiving the radio frequency signal, the transponder unit 2 sends identification code information. The baseband module decodes the identification code information received by the radio frequency module to obtain decoded data information. After receiving the decoded data information, the MCU main control module generates container placement information. The MCU main control module sends the container placement information to the information management system through the network communication module 304. The MCU main control module then controls the reader-writer unit 3 to enter a dormant state. When the container 4 is taken out from the designated position of the bracket 5, the trigger component 101 triggers the sensing component 102 to send a second control signal. After receiving the second control signal, the MCU main control module controls the reader-writer unit 3 to enter the second working state. The MCU main control module controls the radio frequency module to send a radio frequency signal through the antenna module 306. After receiving the radio frequency signal, the transponder unit 2 sends identification coding information. The baseband module decodes the identification coding information received by the radio frequency module to obtain decoded data information. The MCU main control module continues to receive the decoded data information until it can no longer receive the decoded data information within the set time, and then generates container out-of-position information. After the MCU main control module sends the container out-of-position information to the information management system through the network communication module 304, the MCU main control module controls the reader-writer unit 3 to enter a sleep state.

[0079] The reader / writer unit 3 enters a sleep state, a low-power state, after transmitting information indicating the container is in place or out of place. The reader / writer unit 3 enters a sleep state when the container 4 is placed in the designated position of the holder 5, receives the identification code from the transponder unit 2, and transmits the container's position information to the information management system. It also enters a sleep state when the container 4 is removed from the designated position of the holder 5 and transmits the container's position information. The sleep state is controlled by the MCU main control module, which controls the reader / writer unit 3 to enter sleep mode after transmitting the corresponding information. In the sleep state, components that operate only during data collection, such as the radio frequency module, cease operation. However, components responsible for monitoring changes in the container's status, such as the magnetic switch (sensing component 102) used to detect whether the container has been triggered, remain operational, allowing the reader / writer unit 3 to be awakened promptly when the container's status changes.

[0080] The radio frequency module in the reader / writer unit 3 is responsible for transmitting radio frequency signals to communicate with the transponder unit 2 during data collection, but does not need to work in the dormant state. After receiving the container's position information or out-of-position information and completing the transmission to the information management system, the MCU main control module will cut off the power supply to the radio frequency module. For example, by controlling the switching elements in the circuit, the current is prevented from flowing to the radio frequency module, causing it to stop transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the module. The baseband module is mainly responsible for demodulating the signals received by the radio frequency module and is also in a non-operating state when in dormancy. The MCU main control module will control the baseband module to stop working and stop demodulating the signal, reducing unnecessary calculations and energy consumption.

[0081] After the network communication module 304 completes data transmission, the MCU main control module can adjust its operating mode to reduce its power consumption. For example, the network communication module can be set to a low-power listening mode, maintaining only basic network connection detection functions and waiting for the next data transmission request, avoiding continuous full-power operation.

[0082] When the reader / writer unit 3 enters sleep mode, the MCU main control module maintains the magnetic switch (sensing component 102) responsible for monitoring changes in the container's status in an active state. The magnetic switch is electrically connected to the MCU main control module and continuously monitors whether the container's status has changed. If the container's status changes, such as when the container is placed in or removed from a designated position in the holder 5, the magnetic switch immediately senses the magnetic field change and sends a signal to the MCU main control module, waking the reader / writer unit 3 and entering its proper operating state to resume data collection and transmission.

[0083] When the container 4 is placed in the designated position of the holder 5, the trigger component 101 triggers the sensing component 102 to generate a first control signal (e.g., a magnetic switch on signal). When the container 4 is removed from the designated position of the holder 5, the trigger component 101 triggers the sensing component 102 to generate a second control signal (e.g., a magnetic switch off signal). The MCU main control module controls the reader / writer unit 3 to enter the corresponding operating state based on whether it receives the first or second control signal, thereby distinguishing whether the container 4 is being removed or placed.

[0084] The set time can be freely adjusted based on the specific application scenario, component performance, and user operating habits. For example, if the reader / writer unit 3 detects and identifies the coded signal frequently and the container removal operation can be completed in a short time, the set time for detecting the disappearance of the signal can be relatively short, such as 0.5-1 second. If the detection frequency is low and the user's operating proficiency is not good, the set time can be extended to 3-5 seconds as needed to ensure accurate judgment of container removal.

[0085] During specific use, the reader / writer unit 3 can be installed at one or more specific positions of the animal container bracket; the transponder unit 2 is installed on the outer wall of the animal container, and the installation position of the transponder unit 2 is such that the transponder unit 2 and the reader / writer unit 3 are coupled after the container 4 is in place on the bracket 5; after the animal container is placed on the bracket system, the trigger component 101 of the switch unit 1 triggers the sensing component 102, activating the reader / writer 3 unit to enter the working state; the reader / writer unit 3 sends out a wireless radio frequency signal, collects the identification code information returned by the transponder unit 2, and thus obtains the status data of the container 4; the MCU main control module of the reader / writer unit 3 processes and analyzes the obtained status data and sends it to the application or information management system through the API interface.

[0086] More specifically, the RFID identification technology employed in the present invention is near-field recognition. Whether based on a high frequency of 13.56 MHz or an ultra-high frequency of 925 MHz, the identification range is controlled to within 1 cm. This ensures accuracy from a technical perspective within RFID itself. By providing a switch unit 1, the present invention ensures that the reader is activated and emits an RF signal only after the container 4 is physically positioned. If it is not positioned correctly, the reader will not be activated, thus further reducing uncertainty.

[0087] Traditional data collection methods present numerous challenges in terms of data accuracy, timeliness, and system energy consumption. Manual recording is prone to human error, simple scanning methods cannot monitor container status changes in real time, and leaving the device running for extended periods consumes significant energy. The data collection method of this embodiment, through component triggering and the automated coordination of various modules, enables real-time monitoring of container status and automatic data collection and transmission, significantly improving data accuracy and timeliness. Furthermore, the design of the reader / writer unit entering a sleep state after completing a data collection task effectively reduces system energy consumption.

[0088] Compared with the prior art, the present invention can at least solve the following technical problems: Solving the Difficulty of Tagging Animals: This invention eliminates the need to attach RFID tags directly to animals. Instead, the transponder unit 2's chip, circuitry, and antenna are encapsulated within the tag 201. This tag 201 is then enclosed in a mounting bracket and mounted on a container 4. This eliminates issues such as small animals having difficulty attaching tags, rodents biting tags, and group-housed animals causing tags to fall off due to playful play. This protects the tags while enabling indirect identification, tracking, and location of animals through the container's recognition.

[0089] Solving the problem of tag management: This invention eliminates the need to affix tags to animal tags. Instead, a transponder unit and trigger component are installed on the container, working in conjunction with a reader unit and sensor component on a bracket to automatically collect and transmit container status data. The system automatically records relevant information when the container is installed or removed, eliminating the need for frequent manual replacement and management of tags. This prevents issues such as tag confusion, detachment, and incorrect placement, ensuring accurate correspondence between information and animals.

[0090] Improved efficiency and reduced error rates: The system automates data collection and transmission. The reader / writer unit 3 is automatically triggered when the container's status changes, collecting the identification code information from the transponder unit 2 and transmitting it to the information management system. Compared to handheld terminal scanning, this eliminates the need for manual, one-by-one operation, significantly improving efficiency and reducing errors caused by manual operation, thereby lowering both error rates and costs.

[0091] Convenient animal search and positioning: When it is necessary to search for animals of a specific breed, the present invention can quickly query the location of the cage where the animal is located through the information management system because the system can collect and update the status information of the container in real time. There is no need to scan and search one by one like using a handheld terminal, which greatly improves the search efficiency and saves time and labor costs.

[0092] Real-time updates on production capacity: The system of the present invention collects real-time information on the placement and removal of containers and transmits this data to the information management system via the network communication module 304, enabling real-time, dynamic updates on the production capacity of experimental animal production facilities. Managers can monitor cage occupancy and availability, as well as the various conditions of the animals, enabling timely management decisions and reducing the delays and inaccuracies associated with manual operation.

[0093] Real-time monitoring of cage occupancy and availability: The system of the present invention monitors cage status through the coordinated operation of a switch unit, a transponder unit, and a reader / writer unit. When a cage (container 4) is placed in a designated position on a rack 5, the trigger component 101 triggers the sensing component 102, causing the reader / writer unit 3 to enter operation. The transponder unit 2 sends an identification code, which the reader / writer unit 3 receives and sends information indicating the container is in place to the information management system. When the cage is removed, the reader / writer unit 3 is also triggered. If no identification code signal is received within a set time, the reader / writer unit 3 sends information indicating the container is out of place. Based on the received in-place and out-of-place information, the information management system can calculate the number of occupied and available cages in real time. In an experimental animal facility with multiple cages and rack systems, the reader / writer unit 3 continuously collects data and transmits it to the information management system. The system background analyzes and compiles this data to present the exact number of occupied and available cages at any time.

[0094] Obtaining Animal Status Information: Information on whether an animal is in a cage change, awaiting delivery, nursing, or waiting to be shipped to a client laboratory can be dynamically updated by combining records in the information management system with manual initial entry. Before an animal enters a cage, the animal's initial status information is manually entered into the information management system and associated with the identification code of the corresponding cage's transponder unit 2. When a cage's status changes, such as when it moves to a different rack, the system records the time and trajectory of the cage's movement. Combined with the animal's initial status information, it can infer whether the animal is in a cage change. If specific areas are set up in the laboratory animal facility, such as a delivery area or nursing area, when a cage containing an animal enters a rack in one of these areas, the reader / writer unit 3 collects data and sends it to the information management system. Based on the cage's position and the animal's initial status information, the system can update the animal's status to awaiting delivery or nursing. For animals awaiting shipment to a client laboratory, when a cage is marked as ready for shipment, the system updates its status to awaiting shipment. When the cage leaves the facility, the reader / writer unit 3 collects departure information to further confirm that the animal has been shipped.

[0095] Reduced Human Intervention: Traditional methods rely on manual recording and statistics of this information, which is prone to errors and inefficient. However, the present invention significantly reduces manual intervention through automated data collection and transmission. The reader / writer unit 3 enters a dormant state after completing data collection, reducing system power consumption. It also automatically triggers operations when the container status changes, ensuring timely and accurate data collection. The information management system automatically analyzes and compiles collected data, updating animal and cage status information in real time. This system allows managers to access required data at any time, eliminating the need for frequent manual statistics and recording, effectively avoiding the problems associated with manual operation.

[0096] In summary, the present invention can achieve automatic collection of animal container status data, precise positioning and identification, flexible installation and layout, low power and energy-saving design, durability and reliability.

[0097] The above are only preferred embodiments of the present application and are not intended to limit the present application. For those skilled in the art, various modifications and variations of the present application are possible. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principles of the present application shall be included in the scope of protection of the present application.

Claims

1. An animal container status data acquisition system based on RFID technology, characterized in that: include: Switch unit (1), transponder unit (2), reader / writer unit (3), container (4), bracket (5); The switch unit (1) comprises a trigger component (101) and a sensing component (102); the trigger component (101) and the transponder unit (2) are arranged on the container (4); the sensing component (102) is arranged on the reader / writer unit (3); and the reader / writer unit (3) is arranged on the bracket (5), so that the animal container status data acquisition system based on RFID technology can be in the following first acquisition state or second acquisition state: First acquisition state: when the container (4) is placed in the designated position of the bracket (5), the trigger component (101) triggers the sensing component (102) to cause the reader / writer unit (3) to enter the working state and send out a radio frequency signal. After receiving the radio frequency signal, the transponder unit (2) sends out identification code information. After receiving the identification code information, the reader / writer unit (3) sends container position information to the information management system. After sending the container position information, the reader / writer unit (3) enters the dormant state. Second acquisition state: when the container (4) is taken out from the designated position of the bracket (5), the trigger component (101) triggers the sensing component (102) to make the reader / writer unit (3) enter the working state and send out a radio frequency signal. After receiving the radio frequency signal, the transponder unit (2) sends out identification code information. The reader / writer unit (3) continues to receive the identification code information until it can no longer receive the identification code signal within a set time. Then, it sends container out-of-position information to the information management system. After sending the container out-of-position information, the reader / writer unit (3) enters the dormant state.

2. The animal container status data acquisition system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The trigger component (101) is a magnet, the induction component (102) is a magnetic switch, the reader / writer unit (3) comprises a housing (307), a circuit board (305) is provided in the housing (307), an MCU main control module, a radio frequency module, a baseband module, a network communication module (304) and an antenna module (306) are integrated on the circuit board (305), and the induction component (102) is electrically connected to the MCU main control module.

3. The animal container status data acquisition system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The network communication module (304) has a POE power supply configuration to supply power to the reader / writer unit (3) through the POE power supply configuration.

4. The animal container status data acquisition system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The housing (307) is provided with a screw hole (302), and a position-adjustable fixing module (308) is provided on the support rod of the bracket (5), and the fixing module (308) is connected to the screw hole (302) via a screw.

5. The animal container status data acquisition system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The chip, circuit and antenna of the transponder unit (2) are encapsulated in a tag (201), and the tag (201) is encapsulated in a fixing bracket, wherein the fixing bracket comprises a fixing bracket front portion (203) and a fixing bracket rear portion (202) connected by a snap fastener, and a reserved hole (401) is provided on the upper edge of the container (4), and a protrusion (4011) is provided on the inner diameter of the reserved hole (401), and the fixing bracket front portion (203) and the fixing bracket rear portion (202) are respectively clamped on the front and rear sides of the protrusion (4011), and the outer surface of the fixing bracket front portion (203) is flush with the outer surface of the upper edge of the container (4).

6. The animal container status data acquisition system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The trigger component (101) is also encapsulated in the fixing bracket.

7. The animal container status data acquisition system according to claim 6, characterized in that: The bracket (5) is provided with a guide rail (6) and a limiting mechanism, wherein the guide rail (6) is used to enable the upper edge of the container (4) to slide in and out of the bracket (5), and the limiting mechanism is used to limit the container (4) when it slides to a specified position of the bracket (5).

8. The animal container status data acquisition system according to claim 7, characterized in that: The sensing component (102) and the antenna module (306) are jointly arranged in the antenna area (301) of the reader / writer unit (3), so that when the container (4) slides to a designated position of the bracket (5), the tag (201), the trigger component (101), the sensing component (102) and the antenna module (306) are located on the same axis.

9. The animal container status data acquisition system according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that: The fixing bracket is provided on the upper left edge and the upper right edge of each container (4); Two groups of the sensing components (102) and the antenna modules (306) are provided inside each reader / writer unit (3), wherein one group of the sensing components (102) and the antenna modules (306) are provided at the antenna area (301) on the right side of the reader / writer unit (3), and the other group of the sensing components (102) and the antenna modules (306) are provided at the antenna area (301) on the left side of the reader / writer unit (3).

10. A method for collecting data of an animal container status based on the RFID technology according to any one of claims 2 to 9, characterized in that: include: When the container (4) is placed in the designated position of the bracket (5), the trigger component (101) triggers the sensing component (102) to send a first control signal. After receiving the first control signal, the MCU main control module controls the reader / writer unit (3) to enter a first working state. The MCU main control module controls the radio frequency module to send a radio frequency signal through the antenna module (306). After receiving the radio frequency signal, the transponder unit (2) sends identification code information. The baseband module decodes the identification code information received by the radio frequency module to obtain decoded data information. After receiving the decoded data information, the MCU main control module generates container position information. After the MCU main control module sends the container position information to the information management system through the network communication module (304), the MCU main control module controls the reader / writer unit (3) to enter a dormant state. When the container (4) is taken out from the designated position of the bracket (5), the trigger component (101) triggers the sensing component (102) to send a second control signal. After receiving the second control signal, the MCU main control module controls the reader unit (3) to enter the second working state. The MCU main control module controls the radio frequency module to send a radio frequency signal through the antenna module (306). After receiving the radio frequency signal, the transponder unit (2) sends identification code information. The baseband module decodes the identification code information received by the radio frequency module to obtain decoded data information. The MCU main control module continues to receive the decoded data information until it can no longer receive the decoded data information within a set time, and then generates container out-of-position information. After the MCU main control module sends the container out-of-position information to the information management system through the network communication module (304), the MCU main control module controls the reader unit (3) to enter a dormant state.

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