RFID Object Tracking via Integrated Transceiver and GPS
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing location tracking methods, such as those using signal strength and RFID systems, are inaccurate due to channel variations and require cumbersome and expensive networks, leading to 'blackout' areas and communication failures.
Innovation Solution
A wireless system with RFID devices and transceivers in objects that communicate directly with a controller or tracking application, allowing for accurate location tracking without a network of RFID read/write devices, ensuring continuous tracking and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If RFID read/write devices are used to track objects, then location information can be obtained, but the system becomes complex and expensive requiring a network of devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the tracking function from the complex network of RFID read/write devices and consolidates it into a single RFID device integrated with a GPS receiver. This eliminates the need for multiple synchronized devices while maintaining location tracking capability, directly reducing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device combines RFID functionality with GPS reception and processing capabilities in a single unit. This multi-functional approach allows one device to perform both object identification and precise location tracking, replacing what would traditionally require separate networks of specialized devices.
2Measurement precision
If RFID objects communicate with RW devices, then location data can be collected, but blackout areas occur when objects are outside RW device range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional RFID-based tracking (limited to line-of-sight ranges of fixed devices) to three-dimensional GPS-based spherical coverage. GPS satellites provide omnidirectional coverage throughout the sky hemisphere, eliminating the linear range limitations and creating a spherical coverage area that eliminates blackout zones.
3Ease of operation
If signal strength is used to determine object location, then tracking can be implemented, but accuracy is poor due to channel variations and physical obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the indirect signal-strength-based location method with a direct GPS-based positioning system. Instead of inferring location from signal characteristics that are affected by environmental factors, the system uses satellite-based geometric positioning that is inherently resistant to channel variations and physical obstacles.
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 solution provides accurate and continuous location tracking of objects without the need for extensive networks, reducing costs and eliminating 'blackout' areas, while ensuring privacy and efficient data transmission.
Implementation Method 1
an RFID device adapted to receive information from the RFID RW device
Implementation Method 2
a transceiver adapted to transmit information to and receive information from the controller
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless system (101) includes a plurality of objects (106). The wireless system includes a controller 102 and a radio frequency identification (RFID) read-write (RW) device (103, 104, 105). Each of the objects includes an RFED device (107) and a transceiver (108). An object and methods of tracking objects are also disclosed.