Microprocessor Security Tag With Phased Antenna
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security systems for monitoring patients are limited by dead zones in antenna fields, skin DC resistivity issues, and lack of processing power in tags, which can lead to detection limitations and difficulties in updating features.
Innovation Solution
A microprocessor-controlled security tag system with a capacitive band that forms an impedance circuit with the patient's limb, using a phased multiple element antenna for detection and a microprocessor for processing, allowing for inductive communication with a programmer to update features and parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior security systems use traditional antennas to monitor tags in prohibited zones, then the system can detect tag presence, but dead zones are created where certain tag orientations are not detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional single-axis antenna detection to a three-dimensional detection system using multiple antennas arranged in different spatial orientations. This allows the system to detect tags regardless of their orientation in space, eliminating dead zones by providing coverage from multiple dimensional perspectives simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is designed to handle multiple tag orientations and positions universally through the use of multiple antennas. Each antenna contributes to the overall detection capability, ensuring that the system can detect tags in any orientation without requiring specific alignment, thus achieving universal detection coverage.
2Power
If prior tags use discrete circuitry for processing detection information, then the system can perform basic detection functions, but processing power is insufficient for determining specific conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces discrete mechanical/circuit-based processing with a microprocessor-based system. This substitution provides significantly enhanced processing power while reducing circuit complexity through integration. The microprocessor can execute complex algorithms for determining specific conditions such as tag removal, zone violations, and alarm states without requiring complex discrete circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a microprocessor that can dynamically change processing parameters and algorithms based on detection requirements. This allows the same hardware to adapt to different detection scenarios and complexity levels, providing high processing power when needed while maintaining simplicity for basic functions.
3Reliability
If prior tags sense skin direct current resistivity for detection, then the system can detect tag presence, but detection is limited by skin resistance variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an impedance sensing circuit as an intermediary between the tag and the detection system. This circuit measures impedance changes caused by skin contact, providing a more reliable detection mechanism that is less affected by skin resistance variations. The impedance circuit acts as a mediator that converts physiological contact into a detectable electrical signal with better reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the detection parameter from direct current resistivity to impedance measurement. Impedance sensing is less sensitive to skin resistance variations and provides more consistent detection across different patients and conditions, thereby reducing the harmful effects of skin resistance interference.
4Adaptability or versatility
If prior security systems lack processing power in tags, then the system is simpler to manufacture, but it is difficult to update features and parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a microprocessor and programmable memory in the tag during manufacturing, preparing the system for future updates. This preliminary action enables the tag to receive and execute updated features and parameters through wireless communication later, without requiring physical access or complex reconfiguration procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a dynamic, programmable architecture in the tag that allows features and parameters to be updated remotely. The microprocessor can be reprogrammed wirelessly to change detection thresholds, alarm behaviors, and operational parameters, making the system adaptable to new requirements without hardware changes.
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
The system provides reliable detection of tag removal and compromise, efficient battery management, and full 360-degree rotation detection, enabling effective monitoring and feature updates without the need for direct contact with the skin.
Implementation Method 1
a phased multiple element antenna that sends signals to the tag
Implementation Method 2
The tag is adapted to communicate inductively with an activator/deactivator unit as well as a tag programmer
Implementation Method 3
The band forms an impedance capacitive circuit with a patient's limb that allows detection features such as removal and band compromised
Data Source
AI summary
A microprocessor controlled security tag and accompanying security system is described. The tag generally includes a housing having external contacts to interface with elongated contacts on a connecting band. The band forms a complex impedance circuit with a patient's limb that allows detection features such as removal and band compromise. A microprocessor and related circuitry as well as a transmitter and receivers are enclosed in the housing. The tag is adapted to communicate inductively with an activator/deactivator unit as well as a tag programmer that updates and changes tag features in the tag firmware. The overall system further includes a hub to receive the data from a plurality of tags in the system. The tag can also communicate with a phased multiple antenna that sends signals to the tag.