Portable RFID Reader with Hybrid Location Subsystem
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional RFID systems face challenges in accurately determining the location of mobile RFID readers in complex industrial environments, such as warehouses and factories, especially when used on portable devices or mounted on vehicles, due to the need for precise location tracking and data processing.
Innovation Solution
A portable RFID reader equipped with a location determination subsystem that employs satellite-based GPS and terrestrial location technologies, combined with AI for probabilistic analysis, to accurately determine the reader's location and infer actions for material flow and tracking, and can filter RFID tag data based on location and interest areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mobile RFID reader is used for reading RFID tags on objects in a distribution center or factory, then the portability and flexibility of the reader is improved, but the accuracy of determining the reader location deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple location determination technologies (GPS for outdoor/satellite-based location and terrestrial location technologies for indoor/structure-based location) within a single mobile RFID reader system. This merging allows the reader to maintain portability while accurately determining its location by selecting or combining appropriate location methods based on the operating environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary location determination subsystem that acts as a mediator between the mobile RFID reader and the RFID tags. This subsystem processes location data from various sources (GPS satellites, terrestrial infrastructure) and provides accurate location information to the reader, enabling the reader to function portably while maintaining location determination accuracy through the intermediary's coordination.
2Adaptability or versatility
If GPS location technology is used for the mobile RFID reader, then the location can be determined outdoors, but the location determination fails indoors or within structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal location determination system that incorporates multiple location technologies (GPS and terrestrial location technologies) into a single mobile RFID reader. This multi-functional approach enables the reader to reliably determine its location in both outdoor and indoor environments by selecting or combining the appropriate location method based on the operating context, thus achieving versatility and reliability across different settings.
3Measurement precision
If the RFID reader is fixed at known locations, then the location determination is simple and accurate, but the mobility and flexibility of the system is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a static, fixed-location RFID reader system to a dynamic mobile system that can move freely while continuously determining its location. The mobile reader incorporates real-time location determination capabilities using GPS and terrestrial technologies, enabling it to adapt to changing positions and environments. This dynamic approach maintains location accuracy through active determination rather than relying on fixed, pre-known locations.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable RFID reader (or reader/writer) that also employs a location determination subsystem that facilitates determination of the reader (or reader/writer) location. The location subsystem can employ a satellite-based GPS (Global Positioning System) location technology where such signals are unimpeded by structures. Additionally, the location subsystem can employ other terrestrial location technologies that operate inside structures such as warehouses and the factory automation environment.