RFID Asset Tracking via GPS-Enabled Location Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing real-time location systems (RTLS) using RFID technology face limitations in accurately tracking and monitoring mobile assets in environments with high noise levels and require manual updates for location marker positions, which can lead to inefficiencies and inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
The system employs ultrahigh frequency (UHF) and low frequency (LF) RFID tags and markers with GPS receivers, signal strength evaluation circuits, and sensors to transmit and receive digital information, enabling accurate location calculation through triangulation and automatic marker position updates without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If RFID tags are used to track mobile assets in real-time, then location information can be obtained, but noise levels interfere with accurate determination of tag status and location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces location markers and signposts as intermediary elements in the environment. These markers serve as reference points that the RFID tag can detect to determine its own location through triangulation or trilateration, rather than relying solely on direct RFID communication which is susceptible to noise interference. The markers act as mediators that provide stable reference signals for accurate location calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual updating mechanisms with automatic GPS-based location determination. Instead of mechanically updating location marker positions by hand, the system uses GPS receivers in signposts to automatically detect and report their locations, eliminating manual intervention and reducing errors associated with manual updates.
2Reliability
If manual updates of location markers and signposts are performed, then position information can be maintained, but time and labor are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automatic location determination. Signposts equipped with GPS receivers automatically detect their own positions and report them to the central system without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by using the inherent GPS capability to maintain accurate position information, eliminating the need for human operators to physically update marker locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical manual updating with electronic automatic detection. GPS receivers and wireless communication systems replace the mechanical process of manually recording and updating location marker positions, significantly reducing the time and labor required while maintaining or improving accuracy.
3Productivity
If real-time location tracking is implemented, then asset status can be monitored, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by using RFID tags that serve multiple purposes: they not only store asset identification information but also actively participate in location determination by detecting nearby location markers and reporting their status. This universal approach reduces the need for separate dedicated location detection devices, simplifying the overall system while maintaining real-time tracking capability.
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 provides precise and efficient real-time location tracking of mobile assets, improving accuracy and reducing operational overhead by using signal strength and GPS data for triangulation and automating marker location updates.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the location markers 13-15 includes a GPS receiver 28 that can receive standard wireless GPS signals 30 transmitted by several conventional GPS satellites
Implementation Method 2
Each of the location markers 13-15 includes a signal strength evaluation circuit 24
Implementation Method 3
RFID tags are attached to containers or other assets, and can exchange wireless communications with other system components, including interrogators and/or readers
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus involve a plurality of first devices, and a second device movable relative thereto. According to one aspect, the first and second devices respectively transmit first information and second information containing unique identification codes, the first information also containing position information. The devices collectively include circuitry that estimates distances therebetween, one of the first and second information including the estimate. According to a different aspect, one of the second device and each first device transmits its identification code, and the devices collectively include circuitry that determines two successive sets of estimates representing respective distances between the second device and each first device. One of the second device and each first device transmits information that includes both estimates for that first device, and identification codes for the second device and that first device.