RF Key Tracking System with Depth Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing asset control systems face challenges in accurately tracking and managing access to multiple keys due to issues with electromechanical identification, such as mechanical force affecting contact integrity, and the limitations of wireless identification technologies like RFID, which can result in incorrect key tracking data and high component costs.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an RF component with a unique identifier, an RF detection system with multiple coils and a processor to poll the coils and identify the RF component based on modulation, and an asset storage apparatus with a fob receptacle, location mechanism, sensor, and controller to determine the insertion depth and update asset register data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electromechanical identification (pin plug and receptacle) is used to track keys, then key identification can be achieved, but mechanical force applied to a single key can break contact for other key pins, resulting in incorrect tracking data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electromechanical identification system (pin plug and receptacle requiring physical contact) with an RFID-based wireless identification system. The RFID reader detects the presence and identity of keys through electromagnetic fields without requiring mechanical contact, thereby eliminating the problem where mechanical force on one key affects contacts of surrounding keys.
2Reliability
If wireless identification (RFID) is used to identify keys, then mechanical contact issues are avoided, but keys may be detected before physically locked into position, resulting in incorrect determination that the asset is secured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines RFID wireless detection with mechanical position sensing (using microswitches or Hall effect sensors) to create a hybrid identification system. The system requires both RFID detection and confirmed mechanical positioning to verify key presence, ensuring that keys are not falsely identified as secured before they are physically locked into the correct position.
3Adaptability or versatility
If RFID components are provided for reading multiple tags, then wireless identification capability is achieved, but the cost of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single RFID reader that can detect and identify multiple keys simultaneously through electromagnetic fields. This universal reader replaces the need for individual identification mechanisms for each key, reducing overall system complexity and cost while maintaining the ability to track multiple keys wirelessly.
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 provides accurate tracking and management of keys by determining the distance and position of the RF component, reducing incorrect tracking data, and offering a cost-effective solution for multiple key management.
Implementation Method 1
the RF component has a unique identifier and is configured to receive a carrier signal and emit a modulated carrier signal, wherein modulation of the carrier signal is based on the unique identifier
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of RF coils, wherein each coil is arranged to emit a carrier signal and receive the modulated carrier signal emitted by the RF component
Data Source
AI summary
A system for storing a plurality of tangible assets, the system having an RF component associable with a tangible asset, wherein the RF component has a unique identifier and is configured to receive a carrier signal and emit a modulated carrier signal, wherein modulation of the carrier signal is based on the unique identifier. The system also has an RF detection system having a plurality of RF coils, wherein each coil is arranged to emit a carrier signal and receive the modulated carrier signal emitted by the RF component, a processor in communication with each of the plurality of RF coils, wherein the processor is configured to poll the plurality of RF coils by selectively allowing current to flow through one or more of the plurality of RF coils at a time and identify the RF component based on modulation of the carrier signal.