RFID Asset Detection System Using Zone Segmentation and Server Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RFID systems face challenges in managing inventories of RFID-tagged articles due to complex integration requirements, lack of proprietary protocols for data communication, and inadequate handling of RF interference when multiple readers are present, limiting their ability to read assets accurately across large areas with multiple antennas and readers.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a bi-directional communication reader, a server, and an optional GPS unit, relay switch, camera, and communication units, configured to support multiple antennas and readers, using a proprietary protocol for data storage in open-source databases, and featuring modules for event detection, alert systems, and image recognition to prevent interference and ensure accurate asset tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple RFID readers and antennas are deployed to cover large areas, then the coverage area and reading capability are improved, but RF interference between readers increases and measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the large coverage area into multiple zones, each served by a dedicated RFID reader and antenna pair. Each reader-antenna combination operates independently within its designated zone, reducing RF interference between readers while maintaining comprehensive coverage. The segmentation allows precise asset identification within each zone without the interference problems that arise from having multiple readers operating simultaneously in the same space.
2Productivity
If RFID readers store and process data locally, then data processing speed is improved, but device complexity and integration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data storage and processing functions from the RFID readers themselves and relocates them to a centralized server. The readers are simplified to perform only data collection and transmission tasks, communicating with the server through standardized protocols. This extraction reduces the complexity of individual reader devices and simplifies system integration, while the centralized server handles all data processing, storage, and analysis, maintaining high productivity through efficient centralized management.
3Reliability
If proprietary communication protocols are implemented, then data communication reliability is improved, but ease of operation and system compatibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs universally accepted communication protocols and standardized data formats that enable different RFID readers, antennas, and software components from various manufacturers to work together seamlessly. The server is designed with universal interface capabilities that can communicate with multiple types of RFID devices using standard protocols, eliminating the need for proprietary communication methods while maintaining reliable data transmission through robust error handling and data validation mechanisms.
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
Enables efficient detection and communication of asset information across large areas using multiple antennas and readers, reducing RF interference and ensuring accurate asset identification, with features like alert systems and image recognition for enhanced reliability and scalability.
Implementation Method 1
RFID is a wireless, non-contact system that uses radio-frequency electromagnetic fields to transfer data from a tag attached to an object for identification and tracking.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a system for detecting information of assets stored in communication tags and communicating assets information over a communication network. The system includes a bi-directional communication reader, a server, a GPS unit, a camera, a communication module, a relay switch, a battery, and an IR Engine. The server stores asset information using a software application. The software application includes a front end application module for configuration, an event module, a jitter control module, a back end application module, a real time module, a communication module, a GPS communication module, a relay communication module, a motion detector communication module, a reader control module, a camera communication module, an IR communication module, and a remote configuration module. Further, an unlimited number of modules can be added for example extended storage, LCD, and flash. The event module reads the asset information from the database and alerts the user of an event. The communication module receives processed assets information from the communication tags via the bi-directional communication reader from the specific antenna. The remote configuration module reads configuration information from remote database to allow a reader to be configured remotely. Further, the communication module communicates the processed assets information over the communication network via a proprietary protocol.