Asset Tracking via Service Processor Wireless Reporting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Managing and tracking assets in large data centers is inefficient due to manual processes and existing systems' reliance on costly RF tags and physical connections, which can lead to inaccurate location records and high implementation costs.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a service processor interfaced with a wireless module to report identification information to a gateway device, which is then communicated to a data center infrastructure management system, enabling real-time tracking and location updates of assets via wireless signals, even when assets are moved or powered down.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual inventorying is performed by data center workers, then asset location records can be updated, but the process is time consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The asset tracking system performs automatic location tracking without requiring manual intervention. The service processor continuously reports asset locations to the management system, enabling the system to self-update inventory records without worker involvement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical processes (workers physically moving through racks to inventory assets) with an automated electronic reporting system where service processors wirelessly transmit location data to the management system
2Productivity
If RF ID tags are used to track assets, then location tracking can be automated, but the system becomes costly when implemented in large scale data centers
Solution Approach 1:
The service processor is a multi-functional component that already exists in the asset for management purposes. By adding wireless reporting capability to this existing service processor, the system achieves tracking automation without requiring separate dedicated tracking devices for each asset
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the service processor functions with asset tracking functions into a single integrated system. The same service processor that manages the asset also reports its location, eliminating the need for separate RF ID tags and reducing overall system complexity and cost
3Reliability
If physical connections are used between encoded ID tags and bus-like strips, then information can be transmitted to the management system, but connection failures can lead to inaccurate reporting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical mechanical connections (plugs and connectors between ID tags and bus strips) with wireless communication. The service processor transmits location information wirelessly to the management system, eliminating connection failures and improving reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The service processor acts as an intermediary that combines the asset identification information with wireless communication capability, serving as a bridge between the asset and the management system without requiring physical connection infrastructure
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
This solution provides accurate, real-time tracking of assets, reduces the need for costly cabling, and allows for efficient management of assets across multiple rooms, enhancing the ability to detect unauthorized changes in asset locations.
Implementation Method 1
a radio frequency (RF) module for reporting the identification information to the gateway device via wireless signals
Data Source
AI summary
A system is disclosed for tracking assets in a facility. The system may have at least one asset having a service processor containing identification information which uniquely identifies the at least one asset among a group of assets. The at least one asset may further have a module for reporting the identification information to a gateway device. A data center infrastructure management system may be used which is in communication with the gateway device for receiving the identification information. The identification information may subsequently be used with an asset tracking system.