Wearable Tag Location Tracking With Virtual Zone Authorization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems lack an efficient method to track and manage the location of items and personnel within facilities, particularly in optimizing facility operations and dispatching maintenance or emergency services effectively.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising sensors at known locations within a facility, a processor, and tags with unique identifiers that broadcast their location, allowing the processor to determine and record the item's location on a virtual map, associate it with zones, and authorize access to equipment, while also enabling location-based dispatching of services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual tracking methods are used for items and personnel in facilities, then system complexity is reduced, but tracking accuracy and operational efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system serves multiple functions: detecting unique identifiers, determining locations, tracking movement, and triggering authorization decisions. By making the sensor system multi-functional, the patent avoids needing separate systems for each function, thereby improving tracking accuracy without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Tags with unique identifiers serve as intermediaries between items/personnel and the sensor system. These tags enable automatic detection and tracking without requiring complex manual intervention, improving measurement precision while keeping the system architecture manageable through standardized intermediary components
2Productivity
If automated sensor-based tracking is implemented, then operational efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-establishes virtual zones and authorization rules before tracking operations begin. Sensors continuously monitor locations and automatically compare them against pre-defined criteria, enabling automated authorization decisions without requiring complex real-time processing during operational moments
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where sensor data about tag locations is constantly monitored and compared against virtual zone boundaries. When tags enter or exit zones, the system automatically triggers appropriate authorization actions, creating an efficient automated response mechanism that improves productivity through real-time adaptive control
3Loss of time
If continuous location monitoring is performed, then response time for maintenance dispatch is reduced, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of truly continuous monitoring, the system uses periodic sensor detections as tags pass through zones or at scheduled intervals. Tags broadcast their locations periodically, and sensors detect them at regular intervals, providing sufficient data for maintenance dispatch decisions while reducing energy consumption compared to constant real-time monitoring
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
This system provides accurate tracking and management of items and personnel, optimizing facility operations and ensuring timely dispatch of services by determining the precise location of tags within the facility, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
the tag comprises a power supply and a radio frequency transmitter, wherein the radio frequency transmitter is configured to broadcast the unique identifier
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of identifying wearable tags or other items within a facility. The location of the identifiable item can be calculated by the system and used to improve the efficiency of the facility or to dispatch emergency help or maintenance to the location of the badge.