RFID Tag Tracking Removable Data Storage Media
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for tracking removable data storage media are inadequate, as they often rely on manual logging and proximity-based techniques, failing to provide real-time location and status tracking, especially during transport and in uncontrolled spaces, leading to potential loss and non-compliance with business process rules.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing wireless RFID tags and GPS/GLONASS technology to automatically track the location and status of removable data storage media, integrating with existing data management systems to alert on deviations and environmental violations, and ensuring compliance with business process rules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual logging and bar code scanning are used to track removable data storage media, then the tracking process is simple and low-cost, but real-time location tracking is not achieved and media can be easily lost during transport and in uncontrolled spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tracking methods (logging, bar code scanning) with an automated wireless tracking system using RFID tags and readers. The RFID tags on media cartridges enable automatic detection and tracking without manual intervention, providing real-time location monitoring while reducing the complexity of manual tracking processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tags on the media cartridges enable the media to be tracked autonomously without requiring manual scanning or logging. The tags automatically transmit their location and status information to the tracking system, allowing the media to essentially track itself through the entire lifecycle from storage to transport to archive.
2Reliability
If proximity-based RFID tracking is used within the library, then media location can be determined, but tracking fails during transport in uncontrolled spaces and cannot provide real-time location outside the controlled environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal tracking system that functions across multiple domains and environments. The same RFID tags and readers used within the controlled library environment are extended to track media during transport in uncontrolled spaces and at offsite archive locations. The system adapts to different physical environments while maintaining consistent tracking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking system transitions from two-dimensional tracking within the library to three-dimensional tracking that includes transport routes and offsite locations. By adding the dimension of physical movement through uncontrolled spaces and multiple locations, the system achieves comprehensive coverage throughout the entire media lifecycle.
3Reliability
If only shipping container tracking is implemented, then container location is known, but individual media locations and status within the container cannot be verified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by tracking individual media cartridges separately within the shipping container. Each media cartridge has its own RFID tag, allowing the system to monitor the location and status of each individual media item rather than just the container as a whole. This segmented approach enables verification of specific media locations and conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking system provides localized information about individual media cartridges within the container. By assigning unique identifiers and tracking capabilities to each media item, the system can determine the specific location, status, and environmental conditions of each cartridge, providing quality tracking at the individual media level rather than just at the container level.
4Reliability
If no real-time tracking is implemented, then the system is simpler and lower-cost, but business process rules cannot be enforced and media loss risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the tracking system continuously monitors media location and status, comparing real-time data against business process rules. When media violate established rules (such as leaving controlled spaces without authorization or being in unauthorized locations), the system provides immediate feedback through alerts and notifications, enabling timely intervention to prevent media loss and ensure compliance.
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
Enables real-time, automatic tracking and management of removable data storage media across various domains, reducing the risk of loss and ensuring compliance with business rules, thereby enhancing security and efficiency in data storage operations.
Implementation Method 1
a wireless tag adapted to respond to an interrogatory signal by wirelessly transmitting a signal
Implementation Method 2
The locator further includes a communication module adapted to receive location data from a remote system associated with a physical location of the wireless tag
Data Source
AI summary
A system for tracking locations of portable data storage media. The system includes media with a wireless tag storing metadata pertaining to its stored data. The tag is adapted to respond to an interrogatory signal by wirelessly transmitting a signal comprising the metadata, e.g., is a high frequency radio frequency identification (RFID) tag powered inductively to transmit contents of its memory. The system includes a stationary and mobile locators that includes tag readers transmitting the interrogatory signals to the media and receiving the metadata signals from the wireless tags. Mobile ones of the locators include a communication module receiving location data (e.g., Global Positioning System (GPS) data) and sending wireless signals made up of the received location data and the received metadata signals. The system includes a media tracker that receives signals from the mobile locator and determines and stores locations of the media typically along with a time stamp.