Handheld Terminal Barcode RFID Association System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for associating barcode labels and RFID tags with physical objects, such as cryotubes, require manual relocation and are prone to errors due to the sequential scanning and reading processes, which are time-consuming and risky.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a handheld terminal with a barcode scanner and an external RFID reader module, coupled via a docking station, allows simultaneous reading and association of barcode and RFID tag information without manual handling, using predefined reading areas and adjustable antenna power for efficient and accurate data capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual relocation is used to position objects for sequential scanning and reading, then barcode and RFID tag information can be associated, but the process is time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the barcode scanner and RFID reader into a single integrated system with a common reading area. This merging allows both barcode and RFID tag information to be captured simultaneously from the same physical location, eliminating the need for manual relocation and sequential processing, thereby reducing association time while maintaining high accuracy through automated data pairing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-defines a reading area that is positioned to simultaneously accommodate both the barcode and RFID tag on the object. By preparing the reading area in advance to cover both identifier types, the system eliminates the need for repositioning during the association process, enabling rapid and accurate simultaneous capture of both data types.
2Productivity
If sequential scanning and reading is used for barcode and RFID tag, then equipment complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases due to manual handling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the barcode scanner and RFID reader into an integrated system with shared control and a common reading area. This combination enables simultaneous capture of both barcode and RFID tag information without manual intervention, significantly improving productivity. The integrated design manages complexity through unified control logic while delivering the benefit of parallel data acquisition.
3Reliability
If manual object relocation is required during scanning, then simple separate devices can be used, but the risk of association errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines barcode scanning and RFID reading capabilities into a single operational step within a shared reading area. This merging eliminates manual relocation operations entirely, as both identifier types are captured simultaneously from one position. The result is automated association with high reliability and simplified operation, as the system handles all positioning and data pairing without user intervention.
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
This system enables real-time, accurate, and efficient association of multiple identifiers on physical objects, reducing the risk of errors and saving time by allowing simultaneous data capture and eliminating the need for manual object relocation during the scanning process.
Implementation Method 1
a barcode scanner for reading barcode information from a barcode in a barcode reading area
Implementation Method 2
a RFID module for reading RFID tag information from a RFID tag in a RFID tag reading area
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for managing a physical object is provided. The system includes a RFID module for reading RFID tag information from a RFID tag in a RFID tag reading area, a handheld terminal being operable as a stand-alone device, a docking station for operably coupling the handheld terminal to the RFID module, and a storage for holding a physical object having the barcode and the RFID tag to locate the physical object in the barcode reading area and the RFID tag reading area. The method uses a system having a RFID module, a handheld terminal having a barcode scanner and being operable as a stand-alone device, a docking station for operably coupling the handheld device to the RFID module, and a storage for holding the physical object having a barcode and a RFID tag, the handheld device driving the RFID module via the docking station.