RFID Tag Localization via Hierarchical Threshold and Dynamic Reconfiguration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing RFID-based object localization systems are limited in dynamic sensing reconfiguration and access control, failing to adapt to varying application demands and providing inadequate security measures.

Innovation Solution

A networked RFID system with software modules that utilize hierarchical threshold and probabilistic calculations, adjustable configuration settings, and semantic attribute determination to localize RFID tags, enforce access control, and adjust RF settings based on time intervals and security levels, integrating with locking devices and mobile communications for enhanced security.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If RFID systems use simple location determination methods, then the system complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to varying application demands deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem complexityVSAvoidadaptability to varying application demands
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic sensing reconfiguration by allowing the RFID system to adjust its operational parameters (such as reading intervals, signal thresholds, and active sensor subsets) based on current application demands. This enables the system to adapt between different modes (e.g., high-precision tracking vs. energy-saving standby) without requiring complete system redesign, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining low complexity and achieving high adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal RFID localization framework that can serve multiple applications through configurable parameters and modular architecture. The same hardware infrastructure supports diverse use cases (access control, inventory tracking, personnel monitoring) by adjusting software configurations and sensing parameters, eliminating the need for separate specialized systems for each application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If RFID systems implement basic access control, then the ease of operation is improved, but the security level deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidsecurity level
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary authentication by requiring RFID tags to present valid credentials and undergo verification against access control policies before granting entry. Time-based access windows and hierarchical authorization rules are pre-configured, allowing the system to automatically enforce security policies without requiring complex real-time decision-making, thus maintaining ease of operation while enhancing security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors RFID tag presentations, access attempts, and localization data to dynamically adjust access control decisions. Invalid attempts trigger alerts or lockdown procedures, while authorized users experience seamless access, thus maintaining operational simplicity for legitimate users while implementing robust security measures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10564278B2Systems and methods for object localization and path identification based on RFID sensing
Publication Date: 2020.02.18 LUCOMM TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • US10564278B2 patent drawing
  • US10564278B2 patent drawing
  • US10564278B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A networked radio frequency identification system includes a plurality of radio frequency identification (RFID) tag readers, a computer in signal communication with the RFID tag readers over a network, and a software module for storage on and operable by the computer that localizes RFID tags based on information received from the RFID tag readers using a network model having endpoints and oriented links. In an additional example, at least one of the RFID tag readers includes an adjustable configuration setting selected from RF signal strength, antenna gain, antenna polarization, and antenna orientation. In a further aspect, the system localizes RFID tags based on hierarchical threshold limit calculations. In an additional aspect, the system controls a locking device associated with an access point based on localization of an authorized RFID tag at the access point and reception of additional authorizing information from an input device.