Virtual Tag Reading System for Supply Chain Workflow Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tag management systems are inefficient or ineffective in certain situations for tracking tagged items through a supply chain.
Innovation Solution
A virtual tag reading system is created, allowing for the emulation of a tag reading environment with virtual antennas and tags, enabling the simulation of various environments and workflows, which can be linked to physical systems for more realistic testing and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a virtual tag reading system is implemented to test workflows, then the ability to customize and test different environments is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of physical tag reading systems, including virtual antennas, virtual tags, and virtual environments. These virtual components replicate the functionality of physical systems, enabling workflow testing without requiring actual physical infrastructure. The virtual tag reading system copies the essential behaviors and interactions of real tag reading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual environment serves as an intermediary layer between workflow designers and physical tag reading systems. It provides a sandbox environment where workflows can be developed, tested, and validated before deployment to physical systems, reducing the risk of errors in production environments.
2Reliability
If physical tag reading systems are used for testing workflows, then the realism of simulation is improved, but the flexibility to customize test environments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual environment creates accurate replicas of physical tag reading systems, maintaining the same operational characteristics and behaviors. This allows workflows to be tested in a realistic setting while still enjoying the flexibility of virtualization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic modification of environmental parameters, tag properties, and antenna configurations in the virtual environment. This enables customization of test scenarios without being constrained by physical hardware limitations, while maintaining realistic simulation through proper parameter configuration.
3Productivity
If traditional tag tracking methods are used, then the system simplicity is maintained, but the efficiency of item tracking deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary testing and validation of workflows in the virtual environment before actual deployment. This advance preparation identifies and corrects potential issues, improving the efficiency and reliability of the actual tag tracking operations when the workflows are executed in physical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual environment provides feedback mechanisms that allow workflow designers to observe and analyze tag reading operations, identify inefficiencies, and optimize workflows before implementation. This iterative improvement process enhances tracking efficiency while managing system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Emulating a tag reading environment includes accessing a virtual tag reading system of a virtual environment. The virtual tag reading system includes a virtual antenna operable to detect virtual tags. At least one virtual tag is inserted into the virtual environment. The virtual tag is subjected to a field of the virtual antenna. A response of the virtual tag reading system to the virtual tag is monitored.