RFID Boundary Tags for Through-Barrier Object Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Beacon-based location systems face challenges with low location accuracy and the need for beacons on detected objects, as well as limited signal coverage, especially in enclosed areas and corners.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using RFID tags and a mobile device to transmit and detect signals across a boundary, employing a first inquiry signal and a second signal at different frequency ranges to identify and track objects behind a physical barrier, with the mobile device processing backscatter signals to determine the presence and position of unknown objects within a predetermined grid coordinate system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If beacon-based location systems are used, then the system cost is low and maintenance is minimal, but the location accuracy is only one to two meters
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the detection task into two parts: RFID tags are placed on boundaries to detect objects, while beacons are placed on objects for identification. This segmentation allows the system to achieve better location accuracy through RFID's precise boundary detection while maintaining the low-cost beacon technology for object identification.
Solution Approach 2:
RFID tags serve as intermediary detection devices placed on boundaries. These tags detect objects without requiring the objects to carry detection equipment, acting as a mediator between the boundary and the object-bearing beacons, thereby improving location accuracy to within inches of the boundary.
2Area of stationary object
If beacon signals are transmitted for detection, then object detection is possible, but the signal strength is not strong enough to cover all areas including corners
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having beacons transmit signals from objects to be detected, the system inverts the approach by placing RFID tags on boundaries that actively detect objects. The detection source moves from the object (beacon) to the boundary (RFID tag), enabling coverage of all areas including corners where boundaries meet.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a spatial dimension to detection by placing RFID tags at multiple boundary locations throughout the enclosed area. This distributed boundary-based detection network covers the entire space, including corners, rather than relying on limited beacon signal propagation from individual objects.
3Ease of operation
If beacons are placed on objects for detection, then object identification is possible, but the system requires objects to be equipped with beacon devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system inverts the traditional approach by placing detection devices (RFID tags) on boundaries rather than on objects. Objects only need to carry simple beacons for identification, while the complex detection functionality resides in the boundary-mounted RFID tags, making object detection easier without requiring complex equipment on objects.
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 approach enhances location accuracy and allows for the detection and tracking of objects without the need for beacons on the objects, providing more specific position data and overcoming signal coverage limitations.
Implementation Method 1
each RFID tag being capable to produce a backscatter signal
Data Source
AI summary
A method and data processing device for detecting and tracking objects in a space. The method includes transmitting an inquiry signal that traverses into the space, which is behind a physical barrier and is pre-configured with a plurality of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. The method includes transmitting, via a RFID module, a second signal at a second frequency range. The method includes monitoring for a RFID response signal, which is a backscatter signal generated in response to the second signal impinging on the RFID tag and one or more objects in the space. The method includes identifying and extracting an interference reflection signal from the response signal to determine a presence of an unknown object. The method includes tracking the unknown object within the space and providing more specific position data of the unknown object within the space, to a display of an electronic device.