Modular Tracking Device Segmentation for Pairing Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Non-modular tracking devices face challenges with tracker-subject mismatches, especially when multiple trackers are detached for battery replacement or recharging, leading to pairing mistakes and difficulties in ensuring correct reattachment to the intended subjects.
Innovation Solution
A modular tracking device comprising a generic communication component and a subject identifier component, where the communication component is separable from the subject identifier component, allowing for arbitrary pairing and minimizing the risk of tracker-subject mismatches by ensuring the subject identifier remains attached and the communication component is periodically detached for recharging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If multiple trackers are detached for battery replacement or recharging, then battery maintenance is enabled, but tracker-subject mismatches occur leading to pairing mistakes
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device is divided into two separable components: a subject identifier component that remains attached to the subject, and a communication component that can be detached for battery recharging. This segmentation allows the identifier to stay with the subject while the communication component is maintained separately, preventing pairing mistakes.
Solution Approach 2:
The subject identifier component acts as an intermediary between the subject and the communication component. It maintains the subject's identification information locally and communicates it to the communication component when paired, ensuring that the subject's identity is preserved even when components are separated for maintenance.
2Ease of operation
If trackers are physically attached to subjects, then tracking functionality is enabled, but difficulties arise in ensuring correct reattachment to intended subjects
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the subject identifier from the communication component, the system eliminates the risk of incorrect reattachment. The identifier remains with the subject while the communication component can be freely attached to any subject by pairing, with the subject's identity automatically communicated through the identifier.
Solution Approach 2:
The subject identifier component creates a local copy of the subject's identification information, which is then communicated to the communication component when paired. This copying mechanism ensures that the correct subject identity is transmitted without requiring physical reattachment verification.
3Device complexity
If non-modular tracking devices are used, then device structure is simplified, but flexibility for customization based on subject requirements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The modular architecture separates the subject identifier component from the communication component, allowing different combinations and configurations. This enables customization for different tracking scenarios while maintaining simple individual component structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The subject identifier component serves multiple functions: it stores subject identification information, communicates it to the communication component, and remains attached to the subject. This universal component can work with different communication components to meet various tracking requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques and examples pertaining to a tracking method using a two-component tracking device are described. The tracking device includes two components paired with one another: a first component that is specific to a subject the tracking device is intended to track, and a second component that is generic. The second component is capable of establishing a wireless connection with a cellular network, as well as collecting location information of the second component itself. The tracking method involves receiving from the cellular network a set of requirements associated with the subject, and triggering an action based on the set of requirements and the location information collected. The tracking method enables tracking of multiple subjects without a pairing mistake. Namely, a mismatch between multiple subjects to be tracked and multiple tracking devices intended to track the subjects can be avoided.