Entity Tracking via Optical Recognition and Timestamped Records
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tracking methods, such as barcode scanning, require dedicated resources, are time-consuming, and need close proximity, making them inefficient for tracking entities through multiple transit points without modifying or adding devices to the entities.
Innovation Solution
A tracking device that interfaces with sources associated with the entity, receives signaling functions, evaluates time differences, generates timestamped records, and creates tracking files without the need for dedicated resources or device modifications, using a transmitter ID and entity ID to monitor entities across various locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If barcode scanning is used to track entities, then tracking accuracy is improved, but tracking time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical barcode scanning system with an optical recognition system using cameras and image processing algorithms. Instead of using a barcode scanner that requires physical proximity and manual operation, the system captures images of entities and automatically recognizes their identities through computer vision, thereby eliminating the need for dedicated scanning resources and significantly improving tracking speed while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy (image) of the entity and processes this copy to extract tracking information. Rather than requiring direct interaction with the entity through barcode scanning, the system captures an image copy and processes it to obtain entity identification and tracking data, enabling non-contact, automated tracking that improves both speed and efficiency
2Measurement precision
If barcode scanning is used to track entities, then tracking accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases due to dedicated scanning resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal tracking system where a single camera-based device can track multiple types of entities (vehicles, pedestrians, objects) without requiring dedicated barcode scanners for each entity type. The system processes images to extract information from various sources including license plates, QR codes, and other visual identifiers, eliminating the need for multiple specialized scanning devices and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts tracking information directly from visual images captured by the camera, removing the need for separate barcode scanning hardware and dedicated scanning resources. By extracting entity identification data from images through image processing and recognition algorithms, the system simplifies the device architecture while maintaining tracking accuracy
3Measurement precision
If barcode scanning is used to track entities, then entity identification is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to proximity requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual barcode scanning operation requiring close proximity with an automated optical recognition system. The camera captures images from a distance and the system automatically processes these images to identify entities, eliminating the need for operators to physically approach entities or manually operate scanners, thereby significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining identification accuracy
4Measurement precision
If additional tracking devices are deployed on entities, then tracking accuracy is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional tracking approach by placing the tracking device not on the entity being tracked, but at the tracking location. Instead of equipping entities with transponders or barcodes that require modification during manufacturing, the system uses fixed or mobile cameras at transit points to capture and recognize entity identifiers in the environment, eliminating the need to modify entities and simplifying deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary visual identifier (such as a QR code or license plate text) that serves as a mediator between the entity and the tracking system. This identifier can be applied to the entity without complex modifications and can be read by the camera-based tracking system, providing a simple bridge that enables accurate tracking without requiring complex device deployment on entities
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for monitoring and tracking entities in one or more transit points is provided. The present invention provides for receiving one or more types of signaling functions associated with an entity in response to a code generated by a transmitter device. The code comprises a unique transmitter ID associated with a unique entity ID. Further, the invention provides for ascertaining validity of at least one type of signaling function and generating a time stamped record of at least one type of signaling function. Further, the invention provides for processing the code with tracking data to generate an event message. The tracking data comprises at least location of the entity along with other parameters associated with the entity. Further, the invention provides for extracting the unique entity ID and tracking data associated with the entity from the event message, and generating a tracking file.