Removable Anti-theft Device with Automated Inventory via RFID
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current antitheft devices are ineffective for automated inventory processes in large premises, requiring human intervention and manual scanning, which is time-consuming and prone to errors, especially when dealing with numerous articles stored for extended periods.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a detector at exit points and beacons with wireless communication, enabling automated inventory without human intervention, using removable antitheft devices with energy management and state sensors to optimize energy consumption and detect unauthorized removals, allowing for real-time stock monitoring and extended device lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual inventory scanning with human intervention is used, then inventory can be performed, but it is time-consuming and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The antitheft device automatically performs inventory functions by itself. The microcontroller reads the RFID tag data of the attached article and transmits it to the inventory system without requiring manual scanning, enabling the device to serve itself in the inventory process
Solution Approach 2:
The antitheft device is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides theft protection through alarm functions and simultaneously enables automated inventory through RFID communication and data transmission capabilities, eliminating the need for separate inventory equipment
2Reliability
If antitheft devices are continuously active to ensure security, then security is maintained, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microcontroller implements periodic operation by activating the alarm function only when motion is detected or during scheduled intervals, rather than maintaining continuous operation. This allows the device to conserve energy while maintaining security effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The device dynamically adjusts its operational state based on environmental conditions and detection events, transitioning between active and standby modes to optimize the balance between security reliability and energy consumption
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
Facilitates efficient, automated, and real-time inventory management, reducing human error and extending the operational life of antitheft devices, while enhancing security and inventory accuracy over long periods.
Implementation Method 1
a mobile RFID reader embedding a software solution capable of detecting an electromagnetic field produced by said RFID chip
Implementation Method 2
a beacon disposed in the business premises, each beacon being provided with a wireless communication means
Data Source
AI summary
A removable electronic anti-theft device (4) and associated inventory system, the device comprising a passive detection means (20), a removable attachment means (11) capable of occupying two states in which said attachment means is respectively locked on an article (A1) to be secured or detached from said article, a memory (23) capable of containing at least one item of information, an energy source (22), a state sensor (19) of the device, which is capable of indicating a charge level of the energy source and/or a state of the attachment means, and a wireless control and communication unit (21) capable of transmitting a signal comprising an item of state information provided by the state sensor and an item of information relating to the article, such that a control means of the energy source permits switching the energy source between 3 modes: off, standby or active, according to an item of state information received from the state sensor.