Wearable UWB Locating Device for Warehouse Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing warehouse locating systems, such as those using ultra-wideband (UWB) technology and RFID tags, face reliability issues due to illegible barcodes and high costs associated with tagging every package, and lack precision in tracking objects like trolleys or goods in real-time.
Innovation Solution
An ultra-wideband real-time locating system (RTLS) that integrates a wearable device, such as a glove, with a processing unit and a warehouse map in three-dimensional coordinates, allowing for precise location determination and error signaling through UWB signals exchanged between anchors and a wearable device, enabling accurate tracking of packages handled by operators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional bar code systems are used for package tracking, then the system is simple and low-cost, but the reliability is poor due to illegible barcodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical bar code reading system with an electromagnetic field-based RFID system. RFID tags use electromagnetic waves to transmit package identification information, eliminating the need for physical bar codes that can become illegible. This substitution dramatically improves tracking reliability while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an electromagnetic field copy of the package identification information through RFID tags. Instead of relying on physical bar codes that must be visually read, the system creates an invisible electromagnetic signature that can be reliably detected and read remotely, ensuring consistent and reliable package tracking without degradation over time.
2Measurement precision
If RFID tags are attached to every package for tracking, then the tracking precision and reliability improve, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the RFID system universal by enabling multiple packages to share the same tracking infrastructure. Instead of requiring unique expensive RFID tags on every package, the system uses a centralized RFID reader that can detect and identify multiple packages simultaneously, allowing one system to serve multiple tracking needs and reducing the total number of tags required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service tracking where packages with RFID tags automatically transmit their location and identification information to the RFID reader without requiring manual scanning or intervention. The packages essentially track themselves autonomously, eliminating the need for operators to manually scan each package and reducing the burden on the tracking system.
3Reliability
If UWB technology with multiple anchors is deployed for real-time locating, then the location precision and reliability improve, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the locating system into two distinct parts: stationary UWB anchors deployed throughout the warehouse and mobile locating devices worn by operators. This segmentation allows the complex UWB technology to be distributed rather than centralized, with each component performing a specific function and reducing the complexity burden on any single element of the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional floor-based tracking to three-dimensional spatial localization by incorporating vertical positioning capabilities through the UWB anchor network. This dimensional expansion enables precise real-time locating in the full warehouse space, improving reliability while managing complexity through structured spatial distribution of anchors.
4Productivity
If comprehensive package tracking is implemented, then the operational efficiency and error reduction improve, but the system complexity and initial cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the RFID reader continuously monitors package locations and transmits this information back to the system controller. This feedback loop enables real-time tracking, automatic identification of handled packages, and immediate detection of errors such as wrong packages being handled, thereby improving operational efficiency through continuous monitoring and automatic correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning RFID readers and anchors throughout the warehouse before operational activities begin. The system pre-establishes tracking zones and identification protocols, so that when packages enter these predetermined areas, automatic recognition and tracking can immediately commence without requiring complex real-time decision-making or additional system activation.
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 high-precision real-time tracking of packages, reduces errors by confirming correct package handling, and lowers costs by eliminating the need for extensive RFID tagging, enhancing operational efficiency and accuracy in warehouse management.
Implementation Method 1
the locating device is configured to transmit and receive ultra-wideband (UWB) signals... each anchor of the plurality of anchors is configured to exchange a position signal with the locating device
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
An ultra-wideband (UWB), real time locating system (RTLS) (1), comprises: a locating device (21), movable in a warehouse defining a workspace (20), where the locating device is configured to transmit and receive ultra-wideband (UWB) signals; a plurality of anchors (3), each configured to communicate with one or more of the other anchors (3) and to transmit and receive ultra-wideband (UWB) signals, where the anchors (3) are disposed at stationary positions in the workspace (20); each anchor (3) being configured to exchange a position signal (5) with the locating device (21), as a function of which it is possible to calculate a flight time of the position signal (6) to determine a distance of the locating device (21) from the anchor (3); an object (2) wearable on a hand of an operator (P), the locating device (21) being integrated in the wearable object (2).