RFID Tag Gas Detector Status Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing large numbers of gas detectors in industrial environments, such as refineries, is challenging due to the difficulty in reading and verifying the operational status of each detector, particularly during events like shutdowns, where thousands of rental detectors are required, and determining ownership and status without removing them from packaging is cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating RFID tag chips into gas detectors to store and transmit serial numbers, model numbers, sensor configurations, and operational status, allowing for easy asset tracking and status verification using RFID readers, even when detectors are in containers, and updating information through docking stations or handheld devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional manual methods are used to read and verify detector serial numbers and status, then ownership and operational status can be determined, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive when managing large numbers of detectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical reading methods with RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology. RFID tags are integrated into each gas detector, allowing wireless transmission of serial numbers, model numbers, sensor configurations, and operational status. RFID readers can quickly scan multiple detectors simultaneously, eliminating the need for manual reading and verification processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates digital copies of detector information by storing serial numbers, model numbers, sensor configurations, and operational status in RFID tags. These digital copies can be rapidly read and verified without physically handling or removing detectors from their packaging, significantly speeding up the management process.
2Ease of operation
If detectors are removed from packaging to read serial numbers and verify status, then information can be accessed, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses RFID technology to enable wireless reading of detector information without physical contact or removal from packaging. The RFID reader can scan detectors through packaging materials, eliminating the need to open containers or handle individual detectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag acts as an intermediary that stores and transmits detector information wirelessly. This intermediary allows information access without direct physical interaction with the detector or its packaging, streamlining the verification process.
3Quantity of substance
If large numbers of rental detectors are managed during refinery shutdowns, then adequate monitoring coverage is achieved, but tracking ownership and status of thousands of instruments becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates comprehensive digital records of each detector's ownership, serial number, model number, sensor configuration, and operational status stored in RFID tags. These digital copies enable rapid tracking and verification of thousands of detectors, preventing information loss even when managing large rental fleets during shutdowns.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID system provides real-time feedback on detector status, calibration requirements, and ownership information. This continuous information feedback loop enables effective management of large detector inventories by immediately identifying which detectors need attention, maintenance, or return to the rental company.
Data Source
AI summary
In large systems of ambient condition detectors the respective detectors can each include an RFID-type tag or integrated circuit. The tag can transmit detector identification information and status information wirelessly to a displaced receiver. Receivers can be installed in docking/test stations as well as in portable units which can be carried by an individual entering, or, moving through a region being monitored by the detectors.