Position Management System Using Reference Tags for Abnormality Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing position management systems that rely on RFID technology for estimating the positions of management targets face reliability issues due to undetected RFID tags, which can be caused by tag damage, removal, or reader malfunctions, leading to decreased position information accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A position management system that includes a first reading apparatus capable of reading identification information from wireless devices, a first wireless device installed within the reading range of the first reading apparatus, and a second wireless device attached to the management target. The system estimates the position of the management target based on the read identification information and detects abnormalities related to the first wireless device by attempting to read its identification information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RFID tags are used for position management, then position information can be obtained, but reliability decreases when tags are damaged or readers malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-installing reference RFID tags at known positions within the management area. These reference tags serve as predetermined checkpoints that allow the system to verify reader functionality and detect abnormalities before they affect position management reliability. The reference tags are positioned in advance to create a validation network throughout the monitoring area.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring whether reference RFID tags are detected by readers at their expected positions. When a reference tag is not detected, the system generates abnormality information indicating potential reader malfunction or tag damage. This feedback mechanism enables real-time detection and response to system failures, maintaining position information reliability.
2Reliability
If abnormality detection is added to distinguish between normal non-detection and system failures, then position information reliability is maintained, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies self-service by enabling automatic abnormality detection and notification without requiring manual intervention. The position management server automatically compares expected tag detections with actual readings, identifies discrepancies, and generates abnormality information when reference tags are not detected. This automated self-monitoring maintains reliability while minimizing the need for additional complex manual verification systems.
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 effectively prevents a decrease in the reliability of position information by accurately distinguishing between normal non-detection and system abnormalities, thereby ensuring precise position estimation and prompt detection of potential issues.
Implementation Method 1
Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a technology that allows information embedded in a small device which is also referred to as a tag to be read by an external reader through a short-range wireless communication.
Data Source
AI summary
A position management system for managing a position of a management target that is movable in a real space includes a reading apparatus capable of reading identification information from a wireless device, a first wireless device that stores first identification information, and a second wireless device attached to the management target which stores second identification information for identifying the management target. The first wireless device is installed within a reading range of the reading apparatus. When the second identification information is read from the second wireless device by the reading apparatus, the system estimates a position of the management target based on a result of reading the second identification information, and detects an abnormality related to the first wireless device based on a result of an attempt by the reading apparatus to read the first identification information from the first wireless device.