RFID Cartridge Tracking for Authenticated Agricultural Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current closed delivery container systems lack efficient tracking and authentication mechanisms for agricultural products, leading to potential contamination, misuse, and inaccurate product application, especially in agricultural settings where precise monitoring and authorization are crucial.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing RFID tags and computer processors to authenticate and track product use by users, including user identity, product identity, and cartridge identity, allowing authorized dispensing, monitoring product quantity, and generating data for refilling purposes, while ensuring only proper products are added to the cartridges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RFID tags and authentication mechanisms are implemented in closed container systems, then product security and tracking accuracy are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the tracking functionality into separate RFID tags attached to individual containers and a central processing system. Each container has its own RFID tag with unique identification, allowing individual tracking while keeping the overall system modular and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces RFID tags as intermediary devices between the containers and the tracking system. These tags serve as mediators that store and transmit container information wirelessly, simplifying the interface between physical containers and the digital tracking infrastructure.
2Measurement precision
If comprehensive tracking of product quantity and location is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs tracking measurements at periodic intervals rather than continuously. The RFID tags and reading devices operate in periodic cycles, scanning containers at predetermined time intervals or trigger events, which reduces energy consumption while maintaining adequate tracking precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tags are passive devices that do not require active power sources. They are energized temporarily by the reading device's electromagnetic field when needed, allowing the tags to provide tracking information without consuming their own energy, thus achieving self-service tracking with minimal energy expenditure.
3Productivity
If automated refilling based on usage data is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback loop where RFID reading devices continuously monitor container usage levels, transmit data to the central system, and trigger refilling operations when thresholds are reached. This automated feedback mechanism enables efficient refilling without manual intervention while keeping the control logic relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated refilling system allows the containers to essentially refill themselves through the coordinated action of the central system and refilling mechanisms. The system automatically identifies containers needing refilling, calculates required amounts based on usage data, and executes refilling operations without human intervention, achieving self-service refilling.
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 system enhances agricultural product management by preventing unauthorized use, ensuring accurate tracking and refilling, and maintaining product integrity, thereby improving agricultural practices and reducing waste.
Implementation Method 1
A system utilizing RFID tags and computer processors to authenticate and track product use by users
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method that automatically monitors product use, such as the type and amount of agricultural and/or horticultural product stored in and dispensed from a cartridge over time and/or by geographic location. Monitored data are stored in memory such as a tag on the cartridge and may be transmitted to a server for storage, aggregation, and analysis. The cartridge may be authenticated before being authorized for use for the benefit of a current user in dispensing the product. The cartridge may be refilled after confirmation of authorization codes on the cartridge and refilling equipment tags. The cartridge may be calibrated automatically based on the bulk density or other parameter of the product in the cartridge. Data may be aggregated from a plurality of cartridges automatically. As-applied data from individual cartridges may be used to verify, independent of operator input, treated area coverage and product application rate.