Handheld Device Space Equipment Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional barcode systems are inadequate for identifying individuals and correlating their roles, tasks, permissions, and interactions with space equipment, and lack the capability to provide comprehensive training, instructional, and monitoring information for maintenance and other purposes in space exploration environments.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing handheld mobile wireless devices with cameras and wireless network connections to recognize space equipment and individuals through image scanning, biometric identification, and a centralized database that provides role-based instructions, monitoring, and tracking, including maintenance and use procedures, and observation protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional barcode systems are used for item identification, then basic item tracking is achieved, but the ability to identify individuals and correlate their roles, tasks, and interactions with space equipment is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The handheld mobile wireless device serves multiple functions: it acts as a barcode scanner for space equipment, a biometric authentication device for personnel identification, a communication interface with the database, and an information display device. This multi-functional approach resolves the contradiction by enabling both item and individual identification within a single system, eliminating the need for separate conventional barcode systems that could not capture personnel information.
2Productivity
If conventional barcode readers connected to computer systems are used, then inventory tracking is achieved, but the ability to provide real-time training, instructional and monitoring information for maintenance is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The handheld mobile wireless device provides self-service functionality by directly accessing the database through wireless communication to retrieve real-time training materials, maintenance instructions, and monitoring information. The device displays this information locally, eliminating the need for complex computer system connections and enabling maintenance personnel to access required information instantly at their location without relying on centralized computer systems.
3Reliability
If conventional tracking systems are used, then basic item monitoring is achieved, but the ability to confirm proper performance of maintenance procedures in real-time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements real-time feedback by having the handheld device communicate with the database during maintenance procedures. The device can receive updated instructions, monitor maintenance progress, and verify that procedures are performed correctly according to the database records. This continuous feedback loop between the handheld device and database enables real-time verification of maintenance performance, significantly improving reliability while maintaining high automation through wireless communication.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, handheld devices, and methods for space equipment tracking and control. The system tracks and controls items, people and their interactions. The handheld mobile wireless device provides item specific information, instruction, and supervision. A plurality of handheld devices is configured to be used by different people, and communicate with a central database. A handheld device comprises a camera for scanning an image of an item of space equipment, a display for displaying information, and a wireless network connection to the database for sending and receiving data. The system recognizes the item of space equipment and identifies a person. The database includes information regarding people and their roles, permissions, and authorized or assigned tasks; space equipment and tools; item specific instructions; and the handheld devices. An observer, or the system, can monitor the performance of the tasks, and provide corrective feedback.