RFID Antenna Array for Asset Location in Logistics Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing location-sensing technologies, such as GPS and infrared-based systems, are inadequate for accurately detecting assets within logistics vehicles due to limitations in functionality, accuracy, and interference from structural obstacles, leading to inefficient asset location processes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multiple Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) antennas and reference tags within logistics vehicles, which receive data from RFID tags on assets and use signal strength comparisons to triangulate the location of these assets, providing more precise and granular location detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS triangulation is used for location detection, then location awareness is provided, but accuracy is insufficient for assets inside logistics vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the logistics vehicle interior into multiple zones with RFID antennas strategically positioned throughout. Instead of using a single GPS point, multiple RFID antennas detect signals from different locations within the vehicle, segmenting the detection space to achieve precise asset localization within the confined vehicle environment.
Solution Approach 2:
RFID tags attached to assets serve as intermediaries between the asset and the detection system. These tags enable wireless communication with RFID antennas, allowing location detection without direct line-of-sight requirements and overcoming the limitations of GPS in enclosed vehicle spaces.
2Measurement precision
If static location-sensing components are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but location prediction accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static GPS coordinates to dynamic RFID signal detection. RFID antennas continuously scan for tags, and the system processes real-time signal strength data to dynamically update asset locations, enabling accurate tracking of moving assets within the vehicle rather than relying on predetermined static zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/GPS-based location systems with electromagnetic RFID technology. This substitution enables detection within the vehicle's interior spaces where GPS signals are blocked, using radio frequency waves instead of satellite-based positioning to achieve accurate location prediction.
3Measurement precision
If multiple RFID antennas are deployed for improved accuracy, then location precision increases to within a foot, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
RFID antennas are positioned at specific locations within the vehicle interior where they can effectively cover particular zones. Each antenna is optimized for its local area, and the system integrates data from multiple antennas to achieve comprehensive coverage and precise location determination throughout the entire vehicle space.
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
This solution enhances the accuracy of asset location within logistics vehicles, reducing manual search efforts and improving the precision of location detection to within a foot or less, while minimizing interference from structural obstacles.
Implementation Method 1
multiple Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) antennas coupled to an interior housing within the logistics vehicle. The RFID antennas are at least partially configured to receive data from one or more RFID tags coupled to one or more assets
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, a first indication that a first antenna, of multiple antennas, has received data from a first tag coupled to an asset is received. The antennas are coupled to an interior housing within a logistics vehicle. A second indication that a second antenna, of the antennas, has received the data from the first tag is also received. Based at least in part on the receiving of the first indication and the receiving of the second indication, a location within the logistics vehicle that asset is located in is detected. In response to the detecting of the location, a control signal is transmitted that causes a user device or apparatus to indicate that the asset is located within an area associated with the location.