Mobile RFID Asset Tracker with Adjustable Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional RFID systems require extensive technical expertise and infrastructure for setup and deployment, limiting their flexibility and accessibility for tracking assets in various environments, as they often need to be permanently installed and require dedicated infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained, mobile RFID asset tracker with an adjustable frame, an electronics control box housing an RFID reader, a custom PCB control module, and a communications device, allowing for easy movement and setup without technical expertise, enabling tracking of RFID-tagged items without the need for dedicated infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional RFID systems are permanently installed with dedicated infrastructure, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the RFID reader, antenna, power supply, and control electronics into a single integrated mobile tracking device. This merging of previously separate infrastructure components into one portable unit reduces system complexity while maintaining tracking functionality through integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile RFID tracking device is designed to perform multiple functions: reading RFID tags, navigating to target locations using GPS, communicating results via cellular network, and powering all subsystems internally. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate fixed infrastructure components, reducing overall system complexity
2Reliability
If traditional RFID systems require extensive technical expertise for setup, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile RFID device incorporates self-contained power supply, automatic system initialization, and autonomous operation capabilities. The device requires no external infrastructure setup or technical configuration by users, as it independently manages power, communication, and tracking functions, making it easy to operate while maintaining reliability through integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
All system components are pre-configured and tested during manufacturing, including power supply connections, antenna positioning, and software initialization. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for on-site technical configuration, allowing users to simply deploy the device without requiring expert knowledge while ensuring reliable operation
3Measurement precision
If RFID readers are fixed in permanent installations, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tracking system transitions from static fixed installations to a dynamic mobile platform. The device can be relocated to different positions and orientations while maintaining reading accuracy through active antenna positioning and signal strength adjustment, providing both measurement precision and location adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical constraint of fixed installations with electronic and software-based solutions. GPS navigation, cellular communication, and digital signal processing enable the system to adapt to different locations and maintain accurate RFID reading without requiring physical reinstallation of infrastructure
4Reliability
If dedicated RFID infrastructure is deployed, then reliability is improved, but loss of time and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile RFID device arrives pre-configured with all necessary components (power supply, electronics, antenna) integrated and tested. This preliminary preparation eliminates time-consuming on-site installation and configuration, allowing immediate deployment while maintaining reliable tracking through the pre-validated integrated system
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
Enables flexible and efficient tracking of RFID-tagged assets across different locations without the need for specialized setup or infrastructure, reducing costs and time, and allowing a single operator to move and operate the system.
Implementation Method 1
an RFID antenna mounted on the frame outside of the electronics control box, the RFID antenna being coupled with the RFID reader
Data Source
AI summary
A self-contained, mobile Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) asset tracker and hardware assembly and method of use thereof. The mobile RFID asset tracker includes a frame mounted on locking swivel casters which provide a mobile base for mounting of an RFID antenna, RFID reader and other electrical equipment thereon. An electronics control box, which is adjustably mounted on the frame, houses the RFID reader, a custom Printed Circuit Board (PCB) control module, cellular and WIFI modems, and a power source. The electronics control box is operatively engaged via Input/Output (IO) ports and cabling to an external indicator assembly and to the external adjustably mounted RFID antenna.