Time of Flight Interrogator Transponder Tracking System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial environments face challenges in accurately tracking the motion of personnel and equipment due to the limitations of traditional systems, which often result in inefficiencies and safety risks, as these systems are prone to malfunctions and errors.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing interrogators and transponders that transmit and receive electromagnetic signals to determine precise locations of objects, including human body movements, equipment, and items, with integrated feedback mechanisms for real-time feedback and control of industrial machinery, enabling precise tracking and collision avoidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional sensors and operating procedures are used to track objects and detect dangers, then the system can operate with simpler components, but the measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to malfunctions and errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical sensors and procedures with an electromagnetic field-based TOF system. Interrogators transmit electromagnetic signals to transponders, enabling non-contact, high-precision tracking of objects, personnel, and equipment without the mechanical limitations and error rates of traditional sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The TOF measurement system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it tracks positions of objects, personnel, and equipment; detects potential collisions; monitors operational parameters; and provides safety warnings. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems into one unified platform
2Measurement precision
If electromagnetic signal-based TOF measurement is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple interrogators and transponders
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into discrete functional units: interrogators for signal transmission and position calculation, and transponders for signal reception and reflection. Each unit is independently configured and can be selectively deployed based on the specific tracking requirements, making the overall complex system modular and manageable
Solution Approach 2:
Transponders act as intermediaries between the interrogators and the objects being tracked. Rather than requiring direct line-of-sight between all interrogators and targets, the transponders facilitate indirect measurement, enabling precise position determination through signal reflection and time-of-flight calculation
3Productivity
If real-time tracking of human body movement and equipment is implemented, then productivity and safety are improved, but the system complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The TOF measurement system operates in periodic cycles: interrogators transmit signals at scheduled intervals, transponders reflect these signals, and the system calculates positions based on the time-of-flight. This periodic operation enables real-time tracking while managing energy consumption through controlled signal transmission rather than continuous operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically performs tracking, collision detection, and safety monitoring without requiring manual intervention. The interrogators and transponders self-configured through the TOF measurement process, eliminating the need for operator involvement in data collection and analysis, thereby improving productivity while reducing energy consumption associated with manual operations
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 system provides accurate and efficient tracking of objects in industrial environments, enhancing safety and productivity by enabling real-time feedback and control of machinery, thus optimizing operations and reducing the risk of collisions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one interrogator which transmits a first electromagnetic signal
Implementation Method 2
at least one transponder which receives the first electromagnetic signal and provides a response signal
Data Source
AI summary
A system for tracking position of objects in an industrial environment includes an interrogator, a transponder, and a processor. The interrogator transmits a signal and provides a first reference signal corresponding to the transmitted signal. The transponder provides a response signal. The interrogator receives the response signal and provides a second reference signal corresponding to the response signal. The processor determines a location of either the interrogator or the transponder, relative to the other, based on the two reference signals.