RFID Tag Position Estimation Using Multi-Position Readings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless tag communication devices take time for operators unfamiliar with the operation to find RFID tags due to the lack of accurate positioning information.
Innovation Solution
A wireless tag communication device equipped with a position detection sensor, memory, and processor that estimates the RFID tag's position based on reading results at multiple self-positions, using a self-position estimation method and angle determination tables to enhance accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the wireless tag communication device only displays directional guidance based on communication state estimation, then the device complexity is low, but the position estimation precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional directional guidance (angle only) to three-dimensional position estimation by incorporating distance information. The processor calculates both the angle of the RFID tag relative to the device and the distance based on signal strength, enabling precise position estimation on a 2D plane rather than just directional indication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual operator judgment and simple directional display with automated processor-based position estimation. The processor automatically calculates position coordinates by combining angle and distance data, substituting human decision-making with computational algorithms that continuously estimate tag position based on communication parameters.
2Productivity
If the device provides only directional information without position data, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the productivity is reduced due to extended search time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous feedback by displaying real-time position estimation results on the display unit. As the device moves and collects new communication data, the processor updates the estimated position coordinates, providing dynamic feedback that guides the operator directly toward the RFID tag location, reducing search time while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-positioning and automatic target location calculation without requiring manual intervention. The processor autonomously estimates the RFID tag position based on device position changes and communication state variations, eliminating the need for operators to manually calculate or interpret complex signal data.
3Measurement precision
If the device uses multiple reading positions for position estimation, then the measurement precision improves, but the time required for tag location increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary position estimation calculations continuously in the background as the device moves, rather than waiting to collect all necessary data before computing. The processor uses accumulated position and communication state data to progressively refine position estimates, providing preliminary results that improve accuracy without requiring the operator to wait for complete data collection.
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless tag communication device includes a communication device, a position detection sensor, a memory, and a processor. The communication device communicates with a wireless tag. The sensor detects information indicating a self position of the wireless tag communication device. The memory stores the self position, based on the information detected by the position detection sensor, in association with a reading result obtained by reading a wireless tag by the communication device. The processor estimates, using a processing method selected according to a distance between the self position, which is specified based on the information detected by the position detection sensor, and an estimated position of the wireless tag, a position of the wireless tag based on reading results obtained by reading the wireless tag at three different self positions each including the self position serving as an endpoint of the distance, the reading results being stored.