Item identifier device and system

Abstract

In some embodiments, an item identifier system is disclosed. In some embodiments, the item identifier system includes an item identifier device that includes a housing, an RFID reader, an internal frame, a first antenna, and a second antenna. The housing may be provided with at least one coupler on a top surface for mounting the item identifier device. The RFID reader may be disposed within the housing. The internal frame may support the RFID reader, and the internal frame may include a horizontal member and a tilted member inclined to the horizontal member. The first antenna may be operatively coupled to the RFID reader and positioned below the horizontal member and the RFID reader. The second antenna may be operatively coupled to the RFID reader and positioned below the tilted member.

Description

ITEM IDENTIFIER DEVICE AND SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims benefit to India Patent Application No. 202311057330 filed August 26, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present subject matter, in general, relates to the field of parcel delivery systems and methods. In some embodiments, the present subject matter relates to an item delivery system comprising at least one item identifier arranged inside a three-dimensional space, configured to identify and locate at least one item inside the three-dimensional space such as a delivery vehicle.BACKGROUND

[0003] Traditionally, transportation of goods, items, parcels, and packages from one location to another is a labor-intensive and cost intensive process. Conventionally, delivery of goods, parcels, packages for shorter distances and "local" deliveries, have been handled by a delivery person traveling from one location and to another location. For example, the delivery person may drive a vehicle or a lorry or a truck to transport goods, items and parcels between an origin or a pickup location and a destination, a target location, or a drop location. The delivery person may ensure that the item is properly picked up and / or delivered according to delivery instructions.

[0004] In other instances, such as for longer-distance deliveries, transportation of goods, items and parcels may involve multiple delivery personnel, who may individually perform one or more steps for picking up an item, sorting the items one or more times, transporting the item from a final sort location to a final delivery destination, and / or delivering the item from the delivery vehicle to the final destination address. Due to the labor-intensive nature of this process, various attempts have been made to assist carrier personnel by sorting the items, parcels, or boxes required in the transportation and delivery process. However, prior attempts have faced substantial difficulties in ensuring that various aspects of the transportation and delivery process are properly performed in a cost and time efficient manner. For example, attempts have been made to utilize automated sorting systems, computer-basedmonitoring of items, intelligent delivery management systems, and the like to facilitate efficient and cost- effective deliveries.

[0005] Courier and parcel delivery companies face problems in organizing, arranging, and sorting the massive volume of items, goods, parcels, and packages that are now being delivered through ecommerce. At the same time, these companies must perform on time deliveries, error free transactions and cost-effective deliveries. In addition, current delivery systems may result in disorganized rearrangement of items that are difficult to sort through, move, reposition, locate, and then deliver at the point of delivery. For example, during movement of the vehicle, items may fall off shelves or slide around on a floor of the vehicle. In addition, sorting and searching for a first item to be delivered may result in further rearrangement, piling, concealment, and further disorganization of packages and items within a vehicle. This may also result in lost time, damage to inventory that is improperly handled during searching, resorting, and repositioning, returns due to damage, and / or increased cost of delivery from added time, wages, fuel costs, and sometimes required redelivery charges to make delivery successful.

[0006] Therefore, in light of foregoing discussions, there is a need to overcome the limitations and disadvantages related to conventional delivery systems and methods to improve and enhance the ongoing demand and supply in the global market.SUMMARY

[0007] Some embodiments of the present subject matter provide a system or a method that can identify and / or locate at least one item in a three-dimensional space. Some embodiments include at least one item identifier configured to identify and locate at least one item in a three-dimensional space. Some embodiments provide a controller operably coupled to the at least one item identifier to identify and locate at least one item in a three-dimensional space. Some embodiments provide a solution to the existing problem identifying and locating items and / or parcels in a three-dimensional space such as delivery truck or a cargo area. Some embodiments provide a solution that overcomes at least partially the problems encountered in prior art, and provides a reliable and cost-efficient system and method of identifying and locating at least one item in a three-dimensional space.

[0008] Some embodiments relate to an item identifier device that is magnetically mounted / coupled to an inside a delivery van or truck or a cargo area. The items or packages are equipped with wireless identification tags such as RFID tags, smart tags, and the like, and arranged in the three- dimensional space. The item identifier device identifies and locates the wireless identification tags and thereby associates a location to at least one item in the three-dimensional space.

[0009] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the item identifier device comprises a housing provided with at least one magnet on a top surface for mounting the item identifier device, an RFID reader, and an internal frame. The internal frame may comprise one or more of a horizontal member and a tilted member. The item identifier device may comprise one or more of a first antenna operatively coupled to the RFID reader, a second antenna operatively coupled to the RFID reader, and a base cover circumscribing or enclosing the first antenna and the second antenna.

[0010] Some embodiments also include a method for operating at least one item identifier. The method may include one or more of selecting at least one item identifier for a three-dimensional space, coupling the at least one item identifier magnetically to an overhead interior surface of the three- dimensional space, and activating the at least one item identifier to detect at least one item in the three- dimensional space, and identifying a location of the at least one item in the three-dimensional space.

[0011] Some embodiments incorporate rendering a virtual grid inside the three-dimensional space based on input from the at least one item identifier. Furthermore, at least one unit of the virtual grid is associated with the at least one item to specify an availability and a location of the at least one item in the virtual grid.

[0012] These and other features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the present subject matter will be better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed or disclosed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present subject matter, exemplary constructions of the subject matter are shown in the drawings. However, the present subject matter is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.

[0014] Embodiments of the present subject matter will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:

[0015] FIGs. 1A, IB and 1C are illustrations of schematic diagrams of an item identifier device, in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter;

[0016] FIG. 2 is an illustration of a schematic diagram of an item delivery system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter;

[0017] FIG. 3 is an illustration of a schematic diagram of the item delivery system (as shown in FIG. 1), in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter;

[0018] FIGs. 4A-4D are illustrations of schematic diagrams of an item identifier device communicably coupled to an interface, in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter;

[0019] FIG. 5 is an illustration of a schematic diagram of an item delivery system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter;

[0020] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a schematic diagram of an interface, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter;

[0021] FIGs. 7A-7B are illustrations of schematic diagrams of a virtual grid, in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter;

[0022] FIGs. 8A-8B are illustrations of schematic diagrams of the at least one unit of the virtual grid (as depicted in FIGs. 7A-7B), in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter;

[0023] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a schematic diagram of a real-world scenario with a plurality of delivery vehicles, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter; and

[0024] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a flow chart of a method for operating at least one item identifier, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0025] In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the under lined number is positioned or an item to which the under lined number is adjacent. A non - underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non - underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] In overview, some embodiments of the present subject matter relate to identifying association of an entity. Some embodiments include providing validated associations of the entity, and the associations may be determined based on at least one of: recency, frequency, proximity, and semantics thereof.

[0027] The following detailed description illustrates various embodiments of the present subject matter and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present subject matter have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practicing the present subject matter are also possible. Some disclosed embodiments include one or more of methods, devices, and / or systems for sorting, locating, identifying, and / or communicating about items, goods, articles, inventory items, and packages have been disclosed herein.

[0028] In some embodiments, the present subject matter provides at least an item delivery system that includes an item delivery device. The item identifier device may include one or more of a housing, an RFID reader, an internal frame, a first antenna, and a second antenna. For example, the item identifier device may include one or more of: a housing provided with at least one coupler on a top surface for mounting the item identifier device in a three-dimensional space; an RFID reader disposed horizontally or in other positions within the housing, such as on an underside of an interior surface of the housing; an internal frame supporting and / or enclosing the RFID reader, the internal frame including in some embodiments a horizontal member and a tilted member inclined to the horizontal member; a first antenna operatively coupled to the RFID reader, and positioned in some embodiments below the horizontal member and parallel to the RFID reader; a second antenna operatively coupled to the RFID reader, and positioned in some embodiments below the tilted member and away from the RFID reader; and a base cover that encloses the first antenna and the second antenna, and in some embodiments extends to extreme ends of the housing.

[0029] In another aspect, some embodiments of the present subject matter provide at least a part of an item delivery system. The item delivery system comprises: at least one item identifier configured to identify and locate at least one item in a three- dimensional space; and a controller operably coupled to the at least one item identifier.

[0030] Some embodiments of the present subject matter provide a method for operating at least one item identifier. The method may include one or more of: deploying the at least one item identifier to an interior roof surface of a three-dimensional space; identifying at least one item inside the three-dimensional space; andextracting coordinates of a location of the at least one item being identified inside the threedimensional space.

[0031] In some embodiments, the present subject matter includes an item identification device. The item identification device includes one or more of: a wireless identification reader configured to identify at least one item inside a three-dimensional space; an indicator configured to specify a location of the at least one item being identified inside the three-dimensional space; and an illuminator configured to illuminate the at least one inventory item to identify a location of the at least one item being identified inside the three-dimensional space.In some embodiments, the term "item delivery device" refers to an arrangement of one or more devices or components in various embodiments that enables or otherwise supports an efficient, cost effective, and organized delivery of items from a pickup or initial location to a desired, final, or drop location. Furthermore, an item delivery system in some embodiments as used herein enables determination of a location of an item inside a three-dimensional space either while loading the item inside the three-dimensional space or unloading the item to deliver to the drop location. Moreover, in some embodiments, the item delivery system provides information about availability or presence of the item inside the three-dimensional space. In an example embodiment, the item delivery system provides information about the location of a plurality of items inside the three-dimensional space, such as a specific location of a target item or a selected item inside the three-dimensional space.

[0032] The item delivery system or method as used herein can be very beneficial for different industries or environments such as delivery, transportation, ecommerce, and / or retail. The locations where the delivery system or method may be used may include inside a vehicle or container such as a van, truck, car, shipping container where there is a need to locate, identify, sort, store, and / or transport an item, product, and / or package. The delivery system or method may also be used in a retail environment or warehouse. In some embodiments, a wireless reader can be configured to automatically detect and / or identify a label present on the items or packages, such as through a continuous scanning procedure, a triggered scan, and / or a timed scan. By facilitating location of an item inside a three-dimensional space, human and / or mechanical package handlers may be enabled to quickly locate, sort, or route packages for delivery or other purposes. One or more of these benefits may help prevent a failure to deliver, loss of a package, mis delivery, or other issues.

[0033] The term "items" as used herein may include, but not limited to, inventory items, packages, boxes, couriers, gifts, goods, packets, packs, cartons, bundles, boxes, cases, and the like. As used herein, "items", "at least one item", "an item", or "plurality of items" is used interchangeably in the subject matter. In some embodiments, the items or packages are equipped with wireless identification tags such as RFID tags, smart tags, and the like. For example, the wireless identification tags may include one or more of QR codes, barcodes, high frequency RFID tags, and low frequency RFID tags.

[0034] In some embodiments, "three-dimensional space" refers to a confined area in a vehicle or container such as a delivery vehicle, a cargo area, the interior of a cargo container, a loading and / or storage area of a van, a trailer, or a truck, a container of an aircraft or a ship. For example, a loading area may be a three-dimensional space. Furthermore, the three-dimensional space may include the space inside the vehicle or container that is designed to accommodate or allow for loading and unloading of one or more articles, products, parcels, items, goods, or packages. In an example, the three-dimensional space may include a compartmental area, a floor area, or a chamber inside the vehicle or container.

[0035] Referring to FIGs. 1A, IB and 1C, there is shown illustrations of schematic diagrams of an item identifier device 100, in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter. FIG. 1A depicts a sectional side view of the item identifier device 100. FIGs. IB and 1C depict the perspective views of an exemplary embodiment of the item identifier device 100 being installed in a real-world environment. The item identifier device 100 comprises a housing 102 provided with at least one coupler 104 on a top surface 106 for mounting. The term "housing" as used herein refers to an enclosure provided to the item identifier device 100 to cover the components disposed therein. The at least one coupler 104 may be a magnetic coupler attached or coupled to the top surface 106 to enable a magnetic coupling with an underroof of a vehicle carriage or carrier or container and the like. Furthermore, the item identifier device 100 is in some embodiments mounted only using the magnetic coupling. However, the item identifier device 100 may be mounted using mechanical coupling such as rivets, screws and the like.

[0036] In some embodiments, the item identifier device 100 comprises an RFID reader 108 disposed horizontally or in other positions, such as on an interior underside of the housing 102. The RFID reader 108 placed herein may enable detection of wireless identification devices while being mounted inside a delivery truck or a cargo area. Furthermore, the at least one item identifier may be communicably coupled to a plurality of item identifiers and a base station. The plurality of item identifiers may be located in the proximity or in connection (wired or wireless communications such as internet) with the at least one item identifier device 100 and to the base station. In an example, the at least one item identifier 100is configured to transmit an information of an availability of items in the three-dimensional space to the plurality of item identifiers and the base station. Furthermore, the at least one item identifier 100 may be located inside a vehicle to facilitate transmission of the information of the availability of the items inside the vehicle. In an example, the at least one item identifier transmits the information of the availability of the items to the plurality of item identifiers located inside the plurality of vehicles and to the base station.

[0037] In some embodiments, the item identifier device 100 comprises an internal frame 110 enclosing the RFID reader 108 therein. The internal frame 110 comprises a horizontal member 112 and a tilted member 114 inclined to the horizontal member 112. In an example, the horizontal member 112 and tilted member 114 are integral to each other. In another example, the horizontal member 112 and tilted member 114 are separate apart from each other. In an embodiment, the tilted member 114 is inclined at an angle up to 15 degrees elevation to the horizontal member 112. In an embodiment, the tilted member 114 is inclined at an angle above 15 degrees elevation relative to the horizontal member 112. In some embodiments, the tilted member 114 is angled between 10 and 25 degrees away from a plane of the horizontal member 112. In other embodiments, the difference in degree is between 25 and 35, 35 and 45, 45 and 55, 55 and 65, 65 and 75, or between 75 and 85 degrees.

[0038] In some embodiments, the item identifier device 100 also comprises a first antenna 116 operatively coupled to the RFID reader 108, and arranged below the horizontal member 112 and parallel to the RFID reader 108. The item identifier device 100 also may comprise a second antenna 118 operatively coupled to the RFID reader 108, and arranged below the tilted member 114 and away from the RFID reader 108. Furthermore, the second antenna 118 may be inclined at an angle relative to the first antenna 116 with the same or similar relative angles as the horizontal member 112 and the tilted member 114 above. For example, the second antenna 118 may be inclined at an angle up to 15 degrees of elevation or over 15 degrees of elevation relative to the first antenna 116. The use of both a first antenna 116 and a second antenna 118 may provide improved or optimized reader performance for items located in a three dimensional space such as a vehicle. For example, by using both the first antenna 110 and the second antenna 118, better read performance may occur for items with vertically responding RFID tags based on the position of the first antenna 116, and additional improved read performance may occur for laterally or diagonally responding RFID tags based on the position of the second antenna 118 and / or the combined use of both the first antenna 116 and the second antenna 118, whose signals may be reflected off of internal surfaces of the three dimensional space, such as when the three dimensional space is enclosed within a delivery vehicle or storage container.

[0039] In various embodiments, the item identifier device 100 also comprises a base cover 120 circumscribing or enclosing the first antenna 116 and the second antenna 118, and the base cover may extend to extreme ends of the housing 102. In an example, the base cover 120 may include an insulator material and / or a nonconductor. In another example, the base cover 120 may include a metal alloy, a metal sheet and the like.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 2, there is shown an illustration of a schematic diagram of an item delivery system 200, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In some embodiments, the item delivery system 200 may include one or more of an item identification system, an item locating system, an item highlighting system, an item tracking system, or another system. In some embodiments the item delivery system 200 does not itself deliver items, which are instead being transported, such as within a van, truck, car or other vehicle. In some embodiments, the item delivery system 200 does deliver items, and includes a vehicle such as a van, truck, or car.

[0041] In various embodiments, the item delivery system 200 comprises at least one item identifier 202 (same as at least one item identifier device 100 shown in FIG. 1A) and a controller 204 operably coupled to the at least one item identifier 202. The term "at least one item identifier" refers to a wireless identification reader operable to perform one or more of detecting wireless identification tags and / or QR codes of the items, identifying the items, and specifying a location of the item. The at least one item identifier 202 may include one or more of QR code readers, RFID readers, barcode readers, smart readers and the like. The at least one item identifier 202 may be configured to identify and locate at least one item 206 inside a three-dimensional space 208 in a delivery vehicle 210.

[0042] In some embodiments, the at least one item identifier 202 detects, identifies, and / or locates the wireless identification tags of the items such as RFID tags of the at least one item 106 inside the three-dimensional space 208. According to an embodiment, the at least one item 206 is equipped with wireless identification devices 212. Furthermore, wireless identification devices 212 may include one or more RFID tags, smart tags, QR codes, barcodes, high frequency RFID tags, low frequency RFID tags, and QR codes. Moreover, the wireless identification devices 212 comprise RFID tags configured with high frequency HF antenna and / or ultra-high frequency UHF antenna. In an embodiment, the at least one item identifier 202 further comprises a wireless identification reader and at least one antenna, the wireless identification reader being adapted to identify each of the plurality of items equipped with the wireless identification devices.

[0043] In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 2, the controller 204 is operably coupled to the at least one item identifier 202 via an ethernet cable 214. The term "controller" may refer to a plug-and-play command module that enables communication to connected devices and also facilitates transmission of instructions and signals therefrom. In an example, the controller 204 may be connected over a connector device including, but are not limited to, plug-in socket, magnet coupling and the like. Furthermore, controller 204 may include, but not limited to one or more microprocessors or micro controllers, a raspberry pi, microcomputers, control circuits and the like.

[0044] In various embodiments, the controller 204 defines an order of arrangement of the plurality of items 206 inside the at least one three-dimensional space 208 based on the drop points and pick up points in a geographical location. In an example, the plurality of items may be designated with ten delivery points in a geographical location. In such an instance, the optimized route may assign the nearest delivery point as the first drop point and the second nearest delivery point as the second drop point. Sequentially, the last delivery point as the last drop point and thereby generating a path connecting to the plurality of drop points. In another example, the optimized route may include pick up and drop points interlaced therebetween in the geographical location. In such an instance, the optimized route may generate the path based on a shortest distance in between the drop points and pick up points. In an embodiment, the optimized route is defined based on a sequential order of distance from a first drop point or first pick up point to a last drop point or last pick up point in a geographical location, and adapted to reroute on changes in drop points, pick up points, skipped deliveries, unavailability of a target item and unavailability of recipients.

[0045] Furthermore, the three-dimensional space 108 as shown herein refers to a confined space in transport means that may include, but not limited to, a lorry, a truck, a four-wheeler, or a van. In an example, the at least one item identifier 202 and the controller 204 are arranged or disposed within the three-dimensional space 108. In an embodiment, the at least one item identifier 102 may be coupled to an underroof, a rear side of drivers' seat, and / or an under wall of the three-dimensional space 108. It may be appreciated that the item delivery system 200 as depicted in FIG. 2 is a mere representation of a real-world environment and therefore components or devices as shown in the figure may include a plurality of such components or devices in other arrangements, explanations, examples, and embodiments.

[0046] In some embodiments, the controller 204 is configured to generate an optimized route to deliver and / or pick up the plurality of items 206 based on drop points and pickup points in a geographical location. Herein, the plurality of items 206 are designated with a specific drop location or a pick-up location in a geographical area. For example, a geographical location may be a city or a geographical coordinate in a city, an area code, a pin code, or a postal address. In such an instance, thedrop location or pick-up location may be a specific site or landmark or postal address that is exclusively designated to a sender or a receiver of the at least one item or a plurality of items. In accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter, the plurality of items is designated with plurality of pick up and drop locations and therefore the plurality of pick up and drop locations are connected efficiently to generate the optimized route to deliver and / or pick up the plurality of items 106 based on drop points and pickup points. Furthermore, each of the three-dimensional space 108 is assigned to a plurality of drop points and pick up points in a geographical location to deliver and pick up the plurality of items.

[0047] In various embodiments, the at least one item identifier 202 further comprises an indicator configured to locate the at least one item inside the three-dimensional space 208. In one embodiment, the indicator comprises an illuminator to illuminate the at least one inventory item 206 to identify a location of the at least one item being 206 identified inside the three-dimensional space 208. The illuminator may be configured to project monochromatic light, polychromatic lights, and the like on the plurality of items 206 to specify and signify the location of the at least one item inside the three- dimensional space. For example, the indicator may include one or more of a light pointer, a laser pointer, a light beam, a projected image, a light, or other illumination device. For example, in some embodiments, the indicator may distinctively illuminate the item and / or objects covering or surrounding the item, such as within a heap of items on a floor or shelf inside a delivery vehicle or a truck. In some embodiments, the indicator may be used to highlight one or more prior locations where the item was found, such as an initial shelving location followed by one or more subsequent locations where the item was moved, up to and potentially including a last identified location and / or a current location. For example, if the item was initially located on a first shelf, and it was moved over the course of hours, days, or weeks to one or more subsequent locations, the indicator may highlight the various locations where the item had been moved and / or stored until the last known or current location has been identified.

[0048] In some embodiments, the indicator may simply be a light mounted on a housing of the one or more item identifiers 202 that indicates a general area where the item may be found relative to the one or more item identifiers 202. The light may not illuminate the actual area where the item is located, but instead may give the user information regarding what direction to start looking in relative to the indicator light. In other embodiments, the indicator may illuminate an area where the object of interest may be found, such as on a floor or on a shelf using a light that brightens a region within which the item may be found. In some embodiments, the indicator may brighten and / or project light onto a specific area behind which the item of interest is located, such as a 10-inch diameter circular lighted area, a 12-inch diameter circular lighted area, or a 14-inch diameter circular lighted area. The area that isbrightened may be smaller or larger, such as having a greatest length of under 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 15, 20, or30 inches.

[0049] In some embodiments, an indicator may include a laser pointer used to highlight a specific direction in which an item of interest is believed to be located relative to the indicator position.

[0050] In some embodiments, the indicator may be used to create a virtual image highlighting where the object of interest may be found, such as by presenting an augmented reality light that highlights an object of interest or a projected light that indicates a direction in which to search in order to find the object of interest. In some embodiments, the indicator may be used to create a virtual image showing a path where the object of interest traveled as it entered the truck, was stored, and possibly shifted over time within a vehicle during vehicle movements and / or while packages were being resorted or rearranged during delivery operations.

[0051] In some embodiments, one or more of the indicators includes the display of an AR device (e.g., a smartphone, one or more augmented reality goggles) that is used to present the visualization images used to highlight the position of the object of interest. In some cases, the AR device software may be programmed with augmented reality tools to generate augmented reality images using a phone processor. In other embodiments, the one or more of the indicators or the controller 204 may generate one or more images and / or videos to be presented on and / or by the one or more indicators.

[0052] In some embodiments, the indicator may be used to create a holographic image that appears in an augmented reality space showing where the object of interest is believed to lie based on sensor data.

[0053] In various embodiments, the item of interest may be highlighted directly, or it may be located behind one, two, three, or more intervening objects that need to be removed before the item of interest can be accessed.

[0054] In some embodiments, the indicator includes hardware and / or software used to provide auditory signals that help guide a person to the object of interest. For example, the auditory signals may include tones that increase in speed and frequency as the person gets closer looking for the object of interest. In some embodiments, the auditory signals may include spoken words in the language of interest to the user that help guide the user to the object of interest. For example, the user or the user's hand may be guided forward back, up, down, left, or right to move towards the item of interest from the user's perspective.

[0055] According to one aspect of the present subject matter, embodiments of the present embodiment provides or includes an item identification device. The item identification device comprisesa wireless identification reader configured to identify at least one item inside a three-dimensional space, an indicator configured to specify a location of the at least one item inside the three-dimensional space, and an illuminator configured to illuminate the at least one inventory item to identify a location of the at least one item inside the three-dimensional space.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 3, there is shown an illustration of a schematic diagram of the item delivery system 300, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter. The item delivery system 300 comprises the at least one item identifier 202 and the controller 204 operably installed to identify each of the plurality of items equipped with the wireless identification devices in the three-dimensional space 208. In various embodiments, additional identification devices may be configured to include and / or be connected in analogous ways to the item identifier 202. In some embodiments, the at least one item identifier 202 comprises a wireless identification reader 302 and a pair of antennas 304. In some embodiments, the wireless identification reader 302 may include an RFID reader, a barcode reader, and the like. Furthermore, the pair of antennas 304 may include high frequency HF antennas and / or ultra-high frequency UHF antennas. Furthermore, the controller 204 may include one or more of a GPS sensor 305 equipped with a GPS antenna 308, a transponder 310, and a power source 312. Furthermore, the controller 304 may be communicably coupled to the at least one item identifier 302 via an ethernet wire cable 314 or via wireless communication to transfer information. The at least one item identifier 302 is operable to identify items as described for various embodiments within this document. The transponder 310 may be configured to transmit and receive information to and from the at least one item identifier 302 and the controller 304. The power source 312 as used herein may include a battery pack electrically coupled to a battery charger 316 of a vehicle. In an embodiment, the controller 304 may be located within a cabin of the vehicle.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 4A-4D, there is shown illustrations of schematic diagrams of an item identifier device 400 communicably coupled to a graphical user interface 402, in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter. According to an embodiment, the item identifier device 400 may be at least one of the item identifiers 102 of FIG. 1. The graphical user interface 402 as used herein may include but is not limited to one or more of a computing device, a cellular device, and a display. Furthermore, in some embodiments the graphical user interface 402 is configured to render a virtual grid 404 in a three-dimensional space 406. The virtual grid 404 as used herein refers to virtual grid lines rendered based on input from the item identifier device 400. The virtual grid 404 may include horizontal, vertical and inclined virtual lines generated based on an area and / or a volume input received from the item identifier device 400. In an embodiment, the three-dimensional space 406 may be aconfined area, a compartment or a shelf in a delivery truck or a cargo area and the like. For instance, an item is placed in the three-dimensional space 406, the item identifier device 400 detects a location of the item and also assigns at least one grid unit 408 to the item is placed in the three-dimensional space 406. Moreover, the virtual grid 404 comprises at least one grid unit 408 associated with the at least one item. Furthermore, the at least one grid unit 408 specifies an availability and a location of the at least one item.

[0058] In an embodiment, the item identifier device 400 may enable the user to find an item of interest using the virtual grid 404 by sending a text message, email, or display a message on a screen indicating the grid unit 408 for the item. In some embodiments, the identifier device 400 may help a user find the item of interest by displaying a corresponding square or light on the virtual grid 404 that corresponds to the grid unit 408 for the item. In some embodiments, the item identifier device 400 may help the user find the item of interest by projecting light or an image at the item as described elsewhere in this document. In some embodiments, such as in Fig. 4D, the identifier device 400 may display the virtual grid 404 on a user's smartphone, tablet, or screen with a highlighted area that corresponds to the grid unit 408 for the item. Each of these features described within this document may be used independently or in any combination.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 5, there is shown an illustration of a schematic diagram of an item delivery system 500, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. The item delivery system 500 comprises an item identifier device 502 located inside a delivery vehicle 504. The item identifier device 502 renders a virtual grid 506 inside the delivery vehicle 504. The virtual grid 506 is an imaginary filed of lines generated by the item identifier device 502 inside the delivery vehicle 504.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 6, there is shown an illustration of a schematic diagram of an interface 600, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. The interface 600 is configured with a software application configured to render the virtual grid 506 (as depicted in FIG. 5) circumscribing coordinates of the identified items inside the delivery vehicle 504 (as depicted in FIG. 5) being extracted from the item identification device (as depicted in FIG. 5).

[0061] Referring to FIGs. 7A-7B, there is shown illustrations of schematic diagrams of a virtual grid 700, in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter. The virtual grid 700 comprises at least one unit of the virtual grid 702 associated with the coordinates of the at least one item in a three-dimensional space. As depicted the virtual grid 700 comprises a cube including an array of horizontal and vertical units of the virtual grid 700.

[0062] Referring to FIGs. 8A-8B, there is shown illustrations of schematic diagrams of the at least one unit 702 of the virtual grid 700 (as depicted in FIGs. 7A-7B), in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter. As depicted, the at least one unit 702 of the virtual grid 700 may render a virtual box 800 with a virtual item 802 being extracted from the item identification device (as depicted in FIG. 5). The at least one unit 702 specifies an availability and a location of the at least one item being identified in the three-dimensional space.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 9, there is shown an illustration of a schematic diagram of a real- world scenario 900 with a plurality of delivery vehicles 902, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. As depicted, the plurality of delivery vehicles 902 are connected with a base station 904. Furthermore, each of the plurality of delivery vehicles 902 are provided with at least one of the item identifier device located inside the delivery vehicle 902 to facilitate transmission of the information of the availability of the items inside the delivery vehicle 902. the at least one item identifier is communicably coupled to one or more of the plurality of item identifiers and the base station 904. In some embodiments, the at least one item identifier is configured to transmit an availability of one or more of the items in the delivery vehicle 902 to the plurality of item identifiers and the base station 904. Furthermore, each of the at least one item identifiers may be configured to transmit the availability of the one or more items to one or more of the plurality of item identifiers located inside the plurality of vehicles 902 and to the base station 904.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 10, there is shown an illustration of a flow chart of a method 1000 for operating at least one item identifier, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0065] At an operation 1002, the at least one item identifier is deployed to an underroof (e.g., an interior ceiling surface) of a three-dimensional space. For example, at least one item identifier is chosen from a plurality of item identifiers. In such an instance, the selection of the at least one item identifier is based on a proximal distance of the at least one item identifier from the plurality of items. In another instance, the at least one item identifier is selected assigned for the three-dimensional space. In such an instance the at least one item identifier may be assigned for a delivery vehicle, cargo area or a truck. The at least one item identifier may be magnetically coupled to an overhead section of the three- dimensional space, such as the metal roof of a delivery truck or van. Furthermore, the at least one item identifier may be coupled using mechanical couplings such as rivets, screws and the like.

[0066] At an operation 1002, the at least one item identifier is activated to identify at least one item in the three-dimensional space. The at least one item identifier may be remotely activated and / or manually activated to detect the plurality of items in the three-dimensional space.

[0067] At an operation 1006, coordinates of a location of the at least one item is extracted that is being identified inside the three-dimensional space. Furthermore, the at least one item identifier locates at least one item inside the three-dimensional space.

[0068] At an operation 1008, at least one item is identified in the three-dimensional space is illuminated to locate the at least one item being identified inside the three-dimensional space. Furthermore, the at least one item identifier locates at least one item inside the three-dimensional space.

[0069] The operations 1002 to 1008 are only illustrative and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claims herein.

[0070] In some embodiments, the method further comprises illuminating at least one item to locate the at least one item inside the three-dimensional space. The method also comprises specifying a location in the three-dimensional space based upon drop points and / or pick up points in the geographical location and arranging the plurality of items in the three-dimensional space. In an embodiment, the method further comprises defining an order of arrangement of the plurality of items in the three-dimensional space based on a sequence of drop points and / or pick up points in a geographical location.

[0071] In various embodiments, the method further comprises rendering a virtual grid circumscribing the coordinates of the identified items inside the three-dimensional space being extracted from the at least one item identifier. The method also comprises associating at least one unit of the virtual grid for the at least one item to specify an availability and a location of the at least one item being identified on the virtual grid.

[0072] In some embodiments, the method also includes transmitting an information of an availability of the items in the three-dimensional space to a plurality of item identifiers and a base station. Furthermore, the at least one item identifier located inside a vehicle to facilitate transmission of the information of the availability of the items inside the vehicle. Some embodiments may provide the at least one item identifier transmits the information of the availability of the items to the plurality of item identifiers located inside the plurality of vehicles and to the base station.

[0073] Modifications to embodiments of the present subject matter described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present subject matter as defined by theaccompanying claims. Expressions such as "including", "comprising", "incorporating", "have", "is" used to describe and claim the present subject matter are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An item identifier system comprising: an item identifier device comprising a housing, an RFID reader, an internal frame, a first antenna, and a second antenna, wherein the housing is provided with at least one coupler on a top surface for mounting the item identifier device; wherein the RFID reader is disposed within the housing; wherein the internal frame supports the RFID reader, the internal frame comprising a horizontal member and a tilted member inclined to the horizontal member; wherein the first antenna is operatively coupled to the RFID reader and positioned below the horizontal member and the RFID reader; and wherein the second antenna operatively coupled to the RFID reader and positioned below the tilted member.

2. The item identifier system according to claim 1, wherein the RFID reader is disposed horizontally within the housing, wherein the first antenna is positioned parallel to the RFID reader, wherein the second antenna is positioned away from the RFID reader; and wherein the housing further comprises a base cover to enclose the first antenna and the second antenna.

3. The item identifier system according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising: a base station; and a plurality of additional item identifiers, wherein the at least one item identifier is communicably coupled to the plurality of additional item identifiers and the base station.

4. The item identifier system according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the item identifier device is configured to transmit an availability of an item in a three-dimensional space corresponding to the item identifier device to at least one of the plurality of additional item identifiers and the base station.

5. The item identifier system according to any one of claims 1-4, further comprising a vehicle,wherein the item identifier device is mounted to an interior of the vehicle to facilitate transmission of the information of the availability of the items inside the vehicle.

6. The item identifier system according to any one of claims 1-5, further comprising a plurality of additional vehicles, each of the additional item identifiers being mounted within a corresponding one of the additional vehicles, wherein the at least one item identifier transmits the information of the availability of the items to the plurality of item identifiers located inside the plurality of vehicles connected to the at least one item identifier and to the base station.

7. The item identifier system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one coupler is a magnetic coupler.

8. An item delivery system comprising: at least one item identifier configured to identify and locate an item in a three-dimensional space; and a controller operably coupled to the at least one item identifier.

9. The item delivery system according to claim 8, further comprising: a GPS sensor to sense a geographical location; a transponder communicably coupled to the GPS sensor; and a power source to supply power to the at least one item identifier.

10. The item delivery system according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the item is tagged with an identification device.

11. The item delivery system according to any one of claims 8-10, wherein the identification device comprises an RFID tag.

12. The item delivery system according to any one of claims 8-11, wherein the at least one item identifier further comprises a wireless identification reader and at least one antenna, adapted to identify each of the plurality of items equipped with the identification devices.

13. The item delivery system according to any one of claims 8-12, wherein the at least one item identifier further comprises an indicator to show the location of the at least one item being identified inside the three-dimensional space.

14. The item delivery system according to any one of claims 8-13, wherein the indicator comprises an illumination module to project a light on the at least one item to show the location of the at least one item being identified inside the three-dimensional space.

15. The item delivery system according to any one of claims 8-14, wherein the at least one item identifier is configured to extract coordinates of the identified items inside the three-dimensional space.

16. The item delivery system according to any one of claims 8-15, further comprising an interface communicably coupled to the at least one item identifier.

17. The item delivery system according to any one of claims 8-16, wherein the interface is configured to render a virtual grid circumscribing the coordinates of the identified items inside the three- dimensional space being extracted from the at least one item identifier.

18. The item delivery system according to any one of claims 8-17, wherein the virtual grid comprises at least one unit of the virtual grid associated with the coordinates of the at least one item in the three-dimensional space.

19. The item delivery system according to any one of claims 8-18, wherein the at least one unit specifies an availability and a location of the at least one item.

20. The item delivery system according to any one of claims 8-19, wherein the at least one item identifier is communicably coupled to a plurality of additional item identifiers and a base station.

21. The item delivery system according to any one of claims 8-20, wherein the at least one item identifier is configured to transmit an information of an availability of the items in the three- dimensional space to the plurality of item identifiers and the base station.

22. The item delivery system according to any one of claims 8-21, wherein the at least one item identifier is located inside a vehicle to facilitate transmission of the information of the availability of the items inside the vehicle.

23. The item delivery system according to any one of claims 8-22, wherein the at least one item identifier transmits the information of the availability of the items to the plurality of item identifiers located inside the plurality of vehicles and to the base station.

24. A method for operating an item identifier, comprising: using the item identifier mounted to an underroof of a three-dimensional space within a vehicle, identifying at least one item inside the three-dimensional space; and extracting coordinates of a location of the at least one item being identified inside the three- dimensional space.

25. The method according to claim 24, further comprising, using the item identifier, illuminating at least one item to locate the at least one item being identified inside the three-dimensional space.

26. The method according to claim 24 or claim 25, further comprising: rendering a virtual grid circumscribing the coordinates of the identified items inside the threedimensional space being extracted from the at least one item identifier; and associating at least one unit of the virtual grid for the at least one item to specify an availability and a location of the at least one item being identified on the virtual grid.

27. The method according to any one of claims 24-26, further comprising transmitting an information of an availability of the items in the three-dimensional space to at least one of a plurality of additional item identifiers and a base station.

28. An item identification device comprising: a wireless identification reader configured to identify at least one item inside a three-dimensional space; an indicator configured to specify a location of the at least one item being identified inside the three-dimensional space; and an illuminator configured to illuminate the at least one inventory item to identify a location of the at least one item being identified inside the three-dimensional space.

29. The item identification device according to claim 28 further comprising an interface configured to render a virtual grid circumscribing coordinates of the identified items inside the three- dimensional space being extracted from the item identification device.

30. The item identification device according to claim 28 or claim 29, wherein the virtual grid comprises at least one unit of the virtual grid associated with the coordinates of the at least one item in the three-dimensional space.

31. The item identification device according to any one of claims 28-30, wherein the at least one unit specifies an availability and a location of the at least one item being identified in the three- dimensional space.

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