Tag Detection Mesh Network for Accurate Asset Location Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems struggle to accurately determine the location of assets in dynamic environments, such as construction sites, due to the movement of tag detection devices and the lack of reliable location information.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a wireless mesh network of tag detection devices, including anchor nodes and gateways, to determine asset location by scanning beacons, monitoring device movement, and adjusting location calculations based on valid location information and signal strength, with an asset management system hosted in the cloud.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If tag detection devices are deployed in dynamic environments to track assets, then location coverage and tracking capability are improved, but location accuracy deteriorates due to device movement and outdated location information
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously monitoring movement of tag detection devices and pre-validating location information before using it for asset location determination. When a device moves, the system detects this movement and invalidates the location information in advance, preventing inaccurate location calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring tag detection device movements and using this information to validate or invalidate location data. The asset management system receives feedback about device mobility status and adjusts location determination accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that maintains accuracy despite device movement.
2Area of stationary object
If a network of tag detection devices is established to expand tracking area, then coverage area is improved, but system complexity increases due to network configuration and management
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies universality by implementing a standardized network protocol that allows tag detection devices to function both as trackers and as relay nodes. Each device can scan for tags, communicate with other devices, and forward location information, making the network self-configuring and reducing management complexity while expanding coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The network is segmented into multiple independent tag detection devices that can operate autonomously. Each device maintains its own location information and detection capabilities, allowing the system to scale coverage area by simply adding more independent nodes rather than configuring a complex centralized system.
3Quantity of substance
If location information from all tag detection devices is used for determination, then data completeness is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to outdated information from moved devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by treating location information differently based on the mobility status of each tag detection device. Location data from stationary devices is fully trusted and used for determination, while data from moved devices is invalidated or given lower weight. This selective validation maintains reliability while preserving data completeness from reliable sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically discards location information from tag detection devices that have moved, and recovers or revalidates location data when devices return to stationary positions. This dynamic validation process ensures that only reliable, current location information is used for asset location determination.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method to determine a location of a tag (110) is proposed. The method comprises the steps of: setting up a network comprising tag detection devices (220) and at least one connection of the network with an asset management system (150) via a first gateway (120-1); defining in the asset management system a location information for the tag detection devices; scanning with the tag detection devices for the tag; sending scan information from the tag detection devices to the asset management system via the network, comprising detection information from the one or more tag detection devices, which detect the tag; determining by the asset management system the location of the tag, comprising the steps of: using the scan information; and using the location information.