RFID Object Tracking System for Hospital Resource Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional object association systems are inaccurate and labor-intensive, relying on human input for tracking object interactions, which leads to errors and fraud, and fail to handle multiple tasks or provide real-time data, making it difficult to manage resources efficiently in complex environments like hospitals.
Innovation Solution
A location system that uses object identifiers and a location determining module to track objects and determine associations based on time and proximity, providing accurate and automated tracking of object interactions, enabling real-time data access and improving resource management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional object association systems use human input for tracking object interactions, then the system can track object associations, but the accuracy is poor and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables objects to automatically track and report their own locations and associations through embedded transponders and RFID readers, eliminating the need for manual human input. Objects self-report their positions and interactions, which dramatically improves both tracking accuracy and reduces labor requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual human tracking methods with an automated electronic system using RFID transponders, readers, and a computer system. This substitution of mechanical/manual processes with electronic automation resolves the contradiction by providing both high accuracy and improved productivity.
2Reliability
If conventional systems rely on human input, then object associations can be tracked, but errors and fraud occur
Solution Approach 1:
Objects automatically generate and transmit their own identification and location data through embedded transponders, eliminating human intervention that causes errors and fraud. This self-service approach ensures data reliability while the automated system manages the complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously receives feedback from transponders and readers about object locations and associations, automatically verifying and updating the database. This continuous feedback loop ensures data accuracy and reliability without requiring complex manual verification processes.
3Speed
If conventional systems are used, then basic tracking is possible, but real-time data and multiple task handling are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously and automatically tracks object locations and associations in real-time through persistent RFID communication between transponders and readers. The computer system continuously updates the database, providing real-time data access without interruption or manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system handles multiple tasks simultaneously including tracking object locations, determining associations, providing real-time data access, and generating reports. This multi-functionality is achieved through a unified computer system that manages all operations, reducing overall system complexity despite the multiple functions.
4Measurement precision
If automated location tracking is implemented, then tracking accuracy and real-time monitoring improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual tracking systems with a standardized automated electronic system using RFID technology. The standardized transponders, readers, and computer-based processing provide high location tracking accuracy while managing system complexity through automation and standardization.
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary embodiments provide systems and methods for detecting activities and determining information about the activities. Exemplary embodiments use one or more items of context information on one or more objects to detect an activity. Examples of context information include, but are not limited to, identities of objects, roles or activities associated with objects, locations/locales of objects, historical locations/locales of objects, associations between objects, duration of associations between objects, etc. Upon detecting an activity, exemplary embodiments also determine information about the detected activity.