Rugged Wireless Data Capture Device with Integrated RFID Reader
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID data capture devices lack durability and reliability in abusive industrial environments and struggle to seamlessly relay data to central database management systems in real-time, especially when exposed to physical impacts and reflective objects.
Innovation Solution
A wireless, rugged, mobile data capture device with an integrated RFID reader is designed to withstand industrial abuse, featuring a durable sealed enclosure, modular mounting for flexibility, and the ability to instantly relay captured data to database management systems, using a wireless microprocessor and multi-purpose communication antennas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If RFID readers are deployed in industrial environments, then data capture capability is improved, but durability and reliability deteriorate due to physical abuse and reflective objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by incorporating shock-absorbing mounting mechanisms that protect the RFID reader from physical impacts before they can cause damage. The device includes shock mounts and protective enclosures that cushion against drops, vibrations, and impacts from reflective objects in industrial environments, ensuring the reader maintains reliability while capturing data in harsh conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts harmful reflective objects in the environment into beneficial elements by using the reflective surfaces to enhance RFID signal propagation. The system leverages multipath reflections to improve tag readability in industrial settings, turning what was previously a source of interference into a signal enhancement mechanism that improves data capture capability while maintaining device reliability.
2Productivity
If real-time data relay to central database management systems is implemented, then productivity is improved, but loss of time in data transmission occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by establishing persistent wireless communication channels between the RFID reader and central database management systems. The system maintains continuous data streams rather than intermittent transmissions, eliminating idle time and ensuring real-time data relay. This continuous communication approach maximizes productivity by keeping the data pipeline constantly active while minimizing transmission delays through optimized connection management.
3Reliability
If ruggedized enclosure is used to protect against environmental abuse, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a sealed enclosure that simultaneously provides multiple functions: environmental protection against dust and moisture, shock absorption for physical impacts, and integrated mounting structures for various industrial equipment. This multi-functional design achieves high reliability in harsh environments while avoiding the complexity of separate protective components, as the single enclosure structure performs all protective roles.
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
The solution provides increased durability, flexibility, and reliable real-time data relay in abusive industrial environments, enabling efficient communication with RFID tags on mobile equipment like forklifts and conveyer belts, reducing the risk of data loss and ensuring seamless integration with database management systems.
Implementation Method 1
Readers typically have one or more antennas transmitting radio frequency signals to which tags respond
Implementation Method 2
The wireless data capture device is also able to instantaneously relay captured data, such as RFID tag data, to database management systems
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A rugged, mobile, wireless data capture device with an integrated radio frequency identification ("RFID") reader is described. The wireless data capture device includes a durable, sealed enclosure. A wireless microprocessor is mounted within the enclosure. An RFID reader is coupled to the wireless microprocessor and mounted within the enclosure. The enclosure also supports a mounted communications antenna that is communicatively coupled to the wireless microprocessor, as well as RFID reader antenna communicatively coupled to the RFID reader. A power supply system supplies power to the data capture device. Finally, the durable, sealed enclosure includes mounting means for securing the enclosure to industrial equipment in a manner that mitigates effects of physical shock and vibration.