Cargo Tracking System Using RFID for Last Known Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cargo that is inadvertently ejected from vehicles, particularly from open truck beds, is difficult to locate and retrieve due to the lack of effective tracking systems, as traditional tracking devices are costly and require constant monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A cargo tracking system utilizing RFID tags and readers, where RFID readers generate an output when an RFID tag is no longer within range, allowing an electronic control unit to determine the last location of the vehicle and trigger alerts or navigation systems to record a waypoint for retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional tracking devices are used to monitor cargo, then cargo location can be tracked, but the cost increases and constant monitoring is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the tracking function from complex traditional systems and implements it using simple RFID tags on cargo combined with RFID readers at vehicle exits. This separation allows cargo to be passively tracked without requiring complex active monitoring devices on each cargo item.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive RFID tags that can be easily attached to cargo instead of costly traditional tracking devices. These tags are simple, low-cost objects that provide sufficient tracking functionality without requiring the complexity and expense of traditional systems.
2Reliability
If RFID readers continuously monitor cargo, then cargo can be tracked, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic scanning by RFID readers at vehicle exits rather than continuous monitoring. The readers are activated at specific moments when vehicles enter or leave the facility, creating a periodic checking mechanism that reduces energy consumption while maintaining effective tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tags on cargo passively respond to reader queries without requiring active power consumption from the cargo side. The tracking system serves itself by using the existing RFID infrastructure where tags only activate in response to reader signals, eliminating the need for continuous energy consumption.
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
Enables efficient recovery of inadvertently ejected cargo by determining the last known location and generating a route for return, thereby increasing the chances of quick recovery and reducing costs associated with traditional tracking methods.
Implementation Method 1
Radio frequency identification (RFID) tags broadcast an electromagnetic signal that may be read or otherwise received by an RFID reader or receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A cargo tracking system for a vehicle includes an RFID reader configured to generate an output in response to a signal received from an RFID tag and an electronic control unit communicatively coupled to the RFID reader. The electronic control unit is configured to determine that the RFID tag is no longer within a range of the RFID reader based on the output of the RFID reader and determine a last location of the vehicle in response to determining that the RFID tag is no longer within the range of the RFID reader based on the output of the RFID reader.