Transport Unit Position Tracking Without RFID Marking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing logistics operations, particularly in airports, lack efficient computer-aided tracking of manually moved transport units such as ULDs and luggage, leading to potential loss and inefficiencies due to manual error and lack of digital mapping of positions.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using position capture means like lidar and cameras to track transport units within a control area without separate marking, transmitting data to a background system for continuous assignment and mapping, enabling real-time position tracking and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual conveyance elements and manual operation are used to move transport units, then flexibility and ease of operation are improved, but position tracking accuracy and information reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tracking methods with an optical measurement system (lidar, cameras) that automatically captures position data. This substitution eliminates the information loss inherent in manual tracking while preserving the flexibility of manual conveyance elements, as the automated tracking system operates independently of the physical movement method.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces position capture means (lidar, cameras) as an intermediary between the transport units and the control system. This intermediary continuously records position data without interfering with manual operation, thereby maintaining operational flexibility while ensuring reliable information transfer to the control system.
2Reliability
If RFID tags and sensors are fitted to transport units for tracking, then position tracking capability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates optical copies (images) of transport units using lidar and cameras instead of attaching physical RFID tags or sensors to each unit. This copying approach maintains reliable tracking capability while significantly reducing device complexity, as the measurement system remains centralized rather than distributed across multiple transport units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs universal position capture means (lidar, cameras) that can track multiple different types of transport units simultaneously without requiring unit-specific tracking devices. This multi-functional approach improves tracking reliability across diverse units while minimizing the addition of specialized components.
3Ease of operation
If hand-held scanners and control keyboards are used for selective capture at node points, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision and automation level worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from discrete, point-based capture operations to continuous position monitoring. The position capture means continuously record transport unit positions throughout the control area, eliminating the gaps between manual capture events and providing uninterrupted tracking data to the control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual scanning operations with automated optical measurement systems. This substitution maintains operational simplicity from the user perspective while dramatically improving measurement precision, as the automated systems eliminate human error in data entry and provide more accurate position coordinates.
4Device complexity
If transport units are tracked only at capture moments, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time for locating transport units worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary continuous position recording throughout the control area, so that when a transport unit needs to be located, its position information is already available in the database. This preliminary action eliminates the need for active searching and reduces location time to a simple data retrieval operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous feedback from the position capture means to the control system, creating an updated record of transport unit positions. This feedback mechanism ensures that location information is always current, reducing the time needed to locate units while maintaining a relatively simple system architecture.
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 accurate, real-time mapping and control of transport unit movements, reducing loss and improving operational efficiency by minimizing manual errors and enabling automated management of manual processes.
Implementation Method 1
The position capture means can comprise a lidar unit (Light Detection And Ranging)
Implementation Method 2
optical and/or TOF cameras) and/or a light grid and/or an optical sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a system for controlling a movement of transport units inside a control area of an installation includes initially capturing and identifying a transport unit at a known position. The transport unit is subsequently moved and the positions of the transport units within the control area are continuously captured over time using a position capture device and are transmitted to a background system. On the basis of the initial position, the background system assigns the captured positions of the transport units to the captured identity of the relevant transport unit and maps the positions of the transport units, in particular of the identified transport unit, in the control area. This allows the movement to be controlled without the need for a separate marking of the transport unit for the position capture device.