Infrared-Identifiable Wearable Articles for Worker Tracking

The patent replaces the optical barcode scanning system with an infrared imaging system. Instead of using a scanning device that requires line-of-sight contact or close proximity, the system uses an infrared camera to capture thermal radiation patterns from workers' bodies. This substitution allows identification to work effectively at greater distances where barcode scanners fail, as infrared radiation can penetrate through air gaps and does not require direct line-of-sight to a physical code.

The patent changes the detection parameter from optical reflection (barcode scanning) to thermal radiation emission (infrared imaging). By detecting the natural infrared radiation emitted by the human body rather than reflected light from a barcode, the system achieves reliable identification at distances where optical scanning becomes ineffective. The unique thermal patterns and mask configurations provide distinguishable signatures that maintain accuracy regardless of distance.

The patent implements continuous infrared imaging to capture thermal radiation patterns of workers as they move through the field of view. Instead of requiring discrete, explicit read operations when workers approach reading zones, the system continuously acquires and processes infrared images, enabling automatic identification at any moment. This continuous monitoring eliminates the time delays associated with waiting for workers to trigger explicit read operations.

The system automatically detects and identifies workers based on their natural infrared radiation patterns without requiring active participation or triggering actions from the workers themselves. The infrared camera continuously captures thermal signatures, and the processing system automatically matches patterns against database records, eliminating the need for workers to present identification cards or activate reading devices.