RFID Adapter for Inventory Tool Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID tags attached to objects can impede their functionality and are costly to replace, especially in large inventories like those in mechanic shops, as they increase the size of tools and are visually unattractive when retrofitted.
Innovation Solution
A permanently attachable adapter equipped with an RFID tag is designed to integrate with existing inventory items, such as socket tools, allowing for tracking without altering their functionality, using a configuration that includes an adapter body, cover, and retaining elements to secure the RFID tag and adapter to the item.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an RFID tag is mounted to the exterior of an object using adhesives or shrink wrap, then the object can be tracked, but the RFID tag impedes the intended functionality of the object and increases its size
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag is nested within a cavity in the adapter body, allowing the tag to be contained inside the adapter rather than mounted on the exterior. This nesting approach eliminates the space and visual issues of external mounting while maintaining tracking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
An adapter serves as an intermediary component between the RFID tag and the inventory item. The adapter provides a mounting structure with a cavity for the tag while presenting a clean exterior that does not impede the functionality of the underlying tool or device.
2Reliability
If existing objects are replaced with new RFID-enabled objects, then tracking functionality is achieved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tracking system is segmented into a separate adapter component rather than being integrated into the original tool. This allows the adapter with RFID tag to be manufactured independently and attached to existing tools, avoiding the need to replace entire inventory items.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tagging functionality is extracted from the original tool and placed into a separate adapter. This extraction allows existing tools to retain their original design and manufacturing cost while gaining RFID capability through the attached adapter.
3Reliability
If an RFID tag is mounted to the exterior of an object, then the object can be tracked, but the visual appearance becomes unattractive
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag is nested within a cavity in the adapter body, concealing it from external view. The adapter provides a clean, professional appearance while housing the tracking technology internally.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is designed with different properties in different locations: the exterior surface is smooth and visually appealing, while the internal cavity provides functional space for the RFID tag. This local differentiation allows both aesthetic and functional requirements to be met.
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 RFID-enabled tracking of inventory items while maintaining their intended functionality, reducing costs and visual impact, and allowing for universal attachment to multiple sizes and styles of sockets, facilitating efficient monitoring and theft prevention.
Implementation Method 1
A Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag is a type of electronic identification device that may be used to identify and track various objects. In practice, an RFID tag is attached to an object, and an RFID reader senses the presence and identifying information associated with the RFID tag.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
Disclosed are various embodiments and a corresponding method for an adapter configured to attach an electronic identification device to an inventory item having a universal attachment fitting. A first end of the adapter body is configured to permanently attach to the universal attachment fitting. A second end of the adapter body is configured to attach to a tool configured to attach to the universal attachment fitting. An electronic identification device is attached to the adapter body.