Upward-Facing RFID Reader Console for Accurate Mobile Packing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Self-driving systems face inventory-related issues due to unintended reading of RFID tags on objects and shelves, leading to interference and delays in the packing and shipping process.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an RFID reader with a built-in printer and image sensing cameras in self-driving systems, where the RFID reader has a sensor surface facing upwardly to read tags only when items are placed directly over it, and a printer responsive to scanned tags for printing shipping labels, minimizing misreads and enabling efficient labeling and packing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If RFID reader is integrated into self-driving system, then identification capability is improved, but unintended reading of RFID tags on objects and shelves causes interference
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID reader's sensor surface is positioned facing upwardly at a specific location on the console, creating a localized reading zone. This spatial configuration ensures that only RFID tags placed directly on or over the sensor surface are read, while tags on surrounding objects or shelves remain outside the reading zone and are not inadvertently scanned.
2Loss of information
If RFID reader reads tags on all objects along route, then inventory tracking is improved, but packing and shipping process experiences delays
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs RFID tag reading as a preliminary action before the packing and shipping processes begin. By having the RFID reader integrated into the console and reading tags in advance when items are placed on it, the system prepares inventory information beforehand, preventing delays during subsequent packing and shipping operations.
3Measurement precision
If RFID reader has upwardly facing sensor surface, then reading accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The console serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the self-driving system, houses the RFID reader with its upwardly facing sensor surface, and integrates the printer system. By combining these functions into a single multi-functional console unit, the patent avoids the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby managing device complexity while maintaining reading accuracy.
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 reduces misreads of RFID tags, streamlines the packing process, and decreases overall shipping time by allowing for on-site labeling and packing, thereby reducing overhead costs and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a tag reader integrated with the console, the tag reader having a sensor surface facing upwardly
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a self-driving system having an RFID reader and a built-in printer. In one embodiment, a self-driving system includes a mobile base having one or more motorized wheels, the mobile base having a first end and a second end opposing the first end, a console coupled in an upright position to the first end of the mobile base, and a tag reader integrated with the console, the tag reader having a sensor surface facing upwardly.