Asset Tracking System Using RFID Mesh Network
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for ensuring service vehicles are properly outfitted with required assets are time-consuming and prone to human error, often resulting in missed assets at response or job sites.
Innovation Solution
An asset tracking system comprising a master notification unit, reader relay units, and tags that communicate via radio frequency signals to quickly identify the presence and location of assets, utilizing a mesh network and power-saving features to reduce errors and improve efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual physical checking of compartments is used to ensure assets are properly positioned, then the service vehicle can be outfitted with required assets, but the process is very time consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of physically checking compartments with an automated electronic system using RFID tags and readers. The tags are attached to assets and compartments, and readers automatically detect their presence, eliminating the need for manual physical verification while providing accurate real-time tracking information.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service tracking where the RFID tags and readers automatically monitor asset locations without human intervention. The master control unit receives signals from readers and determines asset presence automatically, allowing the system to self-monitor and report status without requiring users to manually check each compartment.
2Measurement precision
If multiple reader relay units are deployed throughout the service vehicle to improve asset detection coverage, then asset tracking accuracy is improved, but the system complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the service vehicle into multiple zones, each equipped with reader relay units. This segmentation allows comprehensive coverage of the vehicle interior by placing readers at strategic locations such as above compartments or in overhead positions, enabling accurate determination of asset locations within each zone while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular deployment.
3Speed
If reader relay units continuously monitor for tags to provide real-time asset location information, then asset tracking responsiveness is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reader relay units operate in periodic cycles, alternating between active monitoring and sleep modes. During active periods, they scan for RFID tags and report their locations. During sleep periods, they consume minimal power. This periodic operation maintains real-time tracking capability while significantly reducing overall power consumption compared to continuous monitoring.
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 effectively and efficiently tracks assets, reducing the likelihood of missed items at service sites by providing real-time location information and notifications, thus enhancing operational readiness and reducing human error.
Implementation Method 1
a tag configured to transmit a tag identifier to the reader relay unit via a radio frequency signal
Implementation Method 2
the master notification unit determines which reader relay unit the tag is closest to by comparing the strength of a tag signal from each of the reader relay units
Data Source
AI summary
An asset tracking system that has a master notification unit, a reader relay unit in communication with the master notification unit, and a tag configured to be coupled to an asset. When the reader relay unit identifies a tag, the reader relay unit sends a signal to the master notification unit providing both a tag identifier and a reader relay unit identifier.