Embedded Information Modules for Antitheft Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current antitheft devices and information management systems for mobile elements are inadequate as they can be easily bypassed by thieves and are time, labor, and cost intensive, often relying on visual inspection or scanning which is unreliable and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A discreet information system using embedded information modules with communications elements, sensors, receivers, processors, and data storage elements that transmit and process information without visual reading, allowing for real-time tracking and management of mobile elements, including antitheft mechanisms that are unnoticeable to thieves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional antitheft devices are attached to merchandise, then they can cause alarms to go off when merchandise is stolen, but thieves can easily find and remove the devices using the same removal devices used by stores
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by manufacturing information modules into specific, non-standard locations within the merchandise packaging structure (such as within walls, flaps, or nesting containers) rather than attaching them to external surfaces. This asymmetric placement makes the devices invisible to standard visual inspection and removes them from the reach of conventional removal devices, thereby resolving the contradiction between antitheft effectiveness and device location predictability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements the nesting principle by embedding information modules within the internal structure of packaging containers. The modules are nested inside walls, flaps, or nesting containers of the packaging, making them hidden from external view and inaccessible to thieves using standard removal methods. This nesting approach maintains antitheft reliability while eliminating the predictability of device locations.
2Productivity
If information is acquired visually by human laborers or scanners, then processing can be performed, but the process is time, labor, and cost intensive, as well as occasionally unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and mechanical scanning processes with automated optical scanning systems. The system uses optical scanners to rapidly read information from mobile elements without human intervention, significantly increasing processing speed and productivity while eliminating the time-consuming manual labor associated with traditional information acquisition methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by equipping mobile elements with embedded information modules that automatically transmit their information to processing systems. The mobile elements essentially service themselves by carrying and communicating their data, eliminating the need for manual processing and reducing both labor requirements and processing time.
3Reliability
If visual reading and processing is used for package information, then information can be acquired, but poor handwriting sometimes results in misrouting of the package by computers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the copying principle by using optical scanning to create digital copies of information on mobile elements. The optical scanner captures the information as a digital representation, which can then be processed electronically without the ambiguities of human visual interpretation. This digital copying approach eliminates errors caused by poor handwriting while maintaining processing simplicity through automated optical recognition.
4Loss of information
If return receipt post cards are used to inform senders of package delivery, then information can be transmitted, but the receipt takes several days to receive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous action by establishing ongoing communication between the mobile element's information module and the processing system. Rather than relying on periodic return receipt cards, the system maintains continuous data transmission and processing, enabling real-time or near-real-time notification of delivery status. This continuous communication approach eliminates the several-day delay inherent in traditional receipt systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A pioneering information system providing improved acquisition, communication, and management of mobile element-related information, preferably through embedded manufacturing. Information modules, utilizing communications elements and information operations elements, are positioned proximate to the mobile element. The communications elements utilize discreet sensors and receivers; as well as discreet transmitters for transmitting the mobile element-related information. The information operations elements utilize discreet processors and data storage elements to process and manage the mobile element-related information. Carriers may be used to more effectively position the information modules proximate to the mobile elements.