Electronic Tag Asset Tracking Apparatus for Real-Time Misplacement Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current asset tracking systems, such as those using paper or electronic tags, fail to provide real-time information and are prone to errors, leading to misplacement and inefficient routing in environments like airports and warehouses, resulting in operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A tracking apparatus with an electronic tag coupled to a securing component, featuring a display and actuating element, which generates and stores a secure machine-readable code, allowing for secure locking and unlocking via an electronic reader, enabling real-time asset information management and reducing errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If paper-based tracking methods are used, then implementation is simple and low-cost, but real-time information tracking is not provided and errors occur leading to misplacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces paper-based mechanical tracking systems with electronic RFID tagging and automated reader systems. The electronic tag contains an integrated circuit that stores asset information and can be remotely read by electronic readers, eliminating the need for manual paper handling and providing automated real-time tracking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electronic tag as an intermediary carrier between the asset and the tracking system. The tag acts as a mediator that stores and transmits asset information to electronic readers, enabling automated identification and tracking without direct human intervention in the information exchange process.
2Productivity
If manual tracking processes are used, then system complexity is low, but operational efficiency decreases and routing errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service tracking where the electronic tag automatically provides asset information to electronic readers without requiring manual data entry or human intervention. The system serves itself by having the tag continuously store and transmit identification data, enabling automated tracking and routing decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous tracking by having the electronic tag continuously available for reading and the electronic readers continuously scanning for tags. This continuous action provides real-time information about asset location and status, eliminating gaps in tracking that occur with periodic manual checks.
3Reliability
If secure locking mechanism is added to tracking apparatus, then asset security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the tracking function and security locking function into a single integrated apparatus. The electronic tag not only stores asset information for tracking but also controls the securing component that locks and unlocks the asset, combining multiple functions into one device to minimize overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic tag serves multiple functions: it stores asset identification information for tracking, provides real-time location data, and controls the securing component for locking and unlocking. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate devices and simplifies the overall system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, methods and systems for unlocking a tracking apparatus that is affixed to an asset are disclosed herein. In one example, a method of unlocking a tracking apparatus that is affixed to an asset is provided. The tracking apparatus may comprise an electronic tag electronically coupled to a securing component comprising an actuating element. The method may comprise: receiving asset information associated with the tracking apparatus; generating and storing a secure machine-readable code in conjunction with the asset information; in response to receiving a request to unlock the tracking apparatus, determining whether a received input corresponds with the stored secure machine-readable code; and providing an indication to cause an electronic reader in electronic communication with the tracking apparatus to trigger deactivating the actuating element.