RFID Installed Base Tracking via Portable Readers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current inventory tracking systems fail to accurately maintain records of equipment over long periods, especially when equipment is moved or changes ownership, due to inadequate reporting and limited geographic coverage of existing RFID systems.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where field personnel equipped with wireless readers passively collect identification data from devices equipped with passive, semi-passive, or active identification devices, which transmit data to a database without user intervention, allowing for continuous tracking and updating of equipment locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If current RFID asset location systems are used to track equipment, then location tracking is possible within facilities, but geographic coverage is insufficient to determine location of devices moved to other buildings or facilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by implementing a common inventory database that serves multiple hospitals and facilities, allowing the same device to be identified across different locations. The RFID system is enhanced to work universally across multiple facilities through shared database access, enabling continuous tracking regardless of which facility the equipment moves to.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary common inventory database that mediates between multiple facility-specific RFID systems. This database acts as a central repository that receives and shares device identification data across facilities, enabling location tracking to continue seamlessly when equipment moves between different buildings or hospitals.
2Adaptability or versatility
If equipment is moved or sold before decommissioning, then equipment changes location or ownership, but accurate records become difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where field personnel use portable readers to scan RFID tags on equipment during service visits, and the system automatically updates the central database with current location and ownership information. This continuous feedback loop ensures the installed base database remains accurate even as equipment moves or changes hands.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a central inventory database and RFID tagging system before equipment moves or is sold. The baseline information is captured in advance, and subsequent movements are tracked by updating this pre-established database, making it easier to maintain accurate records throughout the equipment's lifecycle.
3Productivity
If field personnel manually report equipment movement, then records may be updated, but reporting does not always occur and data may be incomplete
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling field personnel to automatically collect equipment identification data using portable RFID readers during routine service visits. The system automatically captures and transmits location and ownership information to the central database without requiring manual reporting or data entry, ensuring complete and accurate data collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual reporting mechanisms with automated RFID reading and data transmission technology. Portable readers automatically detect RFID tags on equipment and wirelessly transmit information to the central database, eliminating the need for manual paperwork or electronic form filling by field personnel.
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 an accurate and scalable means to maintain an installed base database, reducing the need for extensive infrastructure and enabling effective decision-making for regulatory and business purposes, such as equipment recalls and end-of-life decisions.
Implementation Method 1
carrying a reading device to passively receive identification data from a transmitter without action on the part of the user
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for tracking devices. The method for tracking devices comprises carrying a reading device to passively receive identification data from a transmitter without action on the part of the user. Additionally, the method comprises providing the identification data to a database.