RFID Tag Reader for Bicycle Commuter Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems lack an efficient and automated method to track non-motorized vehicle commuting activity, making it difficult for organizations to verify participant compliance with incentive programs, which hinders the proliferation of bicycle commuting initiatives.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing RFID tags and tag readers to monitor and record non-motorized vehicle commuting, with data processed by a computing device and stored in a database, allowing for participant tracking and compliance verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual tracking methods are used for non-motorized vehicle commuting, then system complexity is reduced, but tracking efficiency and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tracking methods with an automated electronic system using RFID tags, tag readers, and database technology. This substitution enables automatic detection and recording of commuting activity, significantly improving tracking efficiency while the modular system design keeps complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service tracking where the RFID tags and readers automatically detect and record commuting activity without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by automatically comparing detected tags against registered tags and updating participant logs, eliminating the need for manual verification processes.
2Productivity
If automated tracking systems are implemented, then tracking efficiency is improved, but verification reliability may worsen due to system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where detection signals from tag readers are automatically compared against registered RFID tag information in the database. This feedback loop ensures that only valid, pre-registered tags are recognized, maintaining verification reliability while enabling automated high-volume processing of commuting data.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary registration of RFID tags before actual tracking begins. Participant information and RFID tag attributes are pre-input into the database and associated with specific participants. This preliminary action ensures that during tracking, the system only needs to verify against pre-established criteria, maintaining reliability while improving verification speed.
3Measurement precision
If detailed participant tracking is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but data processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments data processing into distinct modular components: RFID tag detection by tag readers, data transmission to computing devices, storage in database structures, and periodic tabulation by processors. This segmentation allows detailed tracking of multiple participant attributes while managing complexity through divided, specialized processing functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The database serves as an intermediary between the detection system and the processing system. It stores registered RFID tag information and participant logs, acting as a buffer that decouples the high-speed detection function from the more complex analysis and reporting functions, enabling precise tracking without overwhelming processing complexity.
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 and automated tracking of non-motorized vehicle commuting, facilitating participant grading and compliance verification, thereby encouraging participation in non-motorized transportation programs.
Implementation Method 1
a tag reader adapted to detect the presence of an RFID tag, and to generate and transmit a detection signal indicating a time of detection and one or more attributes of the detected RFID tag
Data Source
AI summary
A method for tracking non-motorized vehicle commuting activity includes providing a tracking system having a tag reader at a commute destination, wherein the tag reader is adapted to detect the presence of an RFID tag, and to generate and transmit a detection signal indicating a time of detection and one or more attributes of the detected RFID tag. The RFID tag is secured to a non-motorized vehicle used in commuting to the commute destination, and is secured in a manner to enable detection by the tag reader at the commute destination, and to prevent tampering therewith. Information obtained by the tracking system is accessible by one or more of a system administrator and a commuting participant.