3D Asset Tracking Using Beacon Signals and Altitude Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In large facilities like hospitals, accurately tracking assets that are frequently moved and accessible to a large number of staff and public is challenging due to the complexity of their movement and the need for precise location determination.
Innovation Solution
A tracking device equipped with a communication interface and an altitude sensor receives signals from beacons and altitude information to determine the location of assets, using signal strength and time of flight for triangulation, and triggers actions like deactivation or memory wipe if assets leave a predetermined range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional tracking systems are used in large facilities, then the system structure is simple, but the location determination precision is insufficient for three-dimensional tracking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces altitude as a third dimension to traditional two-dimensional beacon tracking systems. By integrating an altitude sensor with the existing beacon communication system, the device achieves three-dimensional location determination (horizontal position from beacons + vertical position from altitude sensor) without fundamentally redesigning the entire tracking infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking system is divided into independent functional modules: beacon communication module for horizontal positioning, altitude sensor module for vertical positioning, and processing module for integrating data. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system functionality.
2Measurement precision
If multiple beacons and sensors are integrated for precise tracking, then the location accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple positioning functions into a single integrated tracking device that simultaneously processes signals from multiple beacons and reads altitude data from an altitude sensor. This merging of functions into one device reduces the need for separate systems and simplifies the overall architecture while maintaining high location accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking device is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both a horizontal position detector (through beacon communication) and a vertical position detector (through altitude sensing). This universal device performs multiple tracking functions simultaneously, reducing the total number of separate components needed in the system.
3Reliability
If security measures are added to prevent theft and unauthorized access, then the security level is improved, but the device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device incorporates automated security monitoring that continuously tracks asset location and compares it against authorized zones without requiring manual intervention. The system automatically detects unauthorized movement, generates alerts, and can trigger deactivation sequences, eliminating the need for constant human surveillance and reducing operational complexity despite enhanced security capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where the tracking device monitors its own location status, compares it with security parameters, and automatically responds to anomalies. This automated feedback mechanism maintains high security levels while minimizing manual operational intervention, as the system self-regulates based on real-time location data.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides accurate three-dimensional location tracking with high precision, preventing asset theft and unauthorized access by deactivating or destroying assets when they are moved outside a secure area.
Implementation Method 1
a network of transmitters that broadcast positioning signals comprising ranging signals
Implementation Method 2
The altitude information may be based on barometric data - for example, the altitude sensor may comprise a barometric pressure sensor
Implementation Method 3
information indicative of a time of flight between the tracking device and the at least one beacon
Data Source
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AI summary
A tracking device (150) for tracking an asset (110) at a facility is described herein. The tracking device comprises a communication interface (120) configured to communicate with at least one beacon (101-1, 101-2, 101-n) in proximity to the tracking device and an altitude sensor (125). The tracking device is configured to receive, via the communication interface, at least one signal from the at least one beacon, receive, via the altitude sensor, altitude information. The tracking device is configured to transmit, for use in tracking the asset at the facility, information based on the at least one signal and the altitude information.