Wireless Tag System for Real-Time Object Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for tracking and monitoring objects lack efficient bidirectional communication and real-time positioning, especially in scenarios requiring proximity monitoring and alert systems, such as anti-loss and anti-theft applications.
Innovation Solution
A wireless tag system that includes a radio transmitter and receiver, a power source, and user interface, enabling communication with electronic devices like smartphones or tablets for real-time tracking and alerting, with features like encrypted data transmission and sensor integration for various applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If wireless tag systems are implemented for real-time tracking, then object position and status monitoring capability is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides tracking functionality into two segments: a simple wireless tag attached to the object that only transmits basic identification and status data, and a separate electronic device (smartphone, tablet, or computer) that performs complex position calculation, data processing, and user interface functions. This segmentation allows the tag to remain simple and low-power while achieving accurate real-time tracking through the electronic device's computational capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic device acts as an intermediary between the wireless tag and the user/external systems. It receives raw data from the tag, processes position information using algorithms, manages power consumption by controlling transmission intervals, and presents processed information through user interfaces. This intermediary role resolves the contradiction by offloading complexity from the tag to the electronic device.
2Reliability
If real-time bidirectional communication is implemented between tag and electronic device, then monitoring reliability is improved, but energy consumption of the wireless tag increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous bidirectional communication, the system uses periodic unidirectional transmissions from the tag to the electronic device. The tag transmits data at predetermined intervals or upon detection of specific events (such as position changes or status updates), rather than maintaining constant two-way communication. This periodic action maintains tracking reliability by providing regular updates while dramatically reducing the tag's power consumption compared to continuous communication.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensors and features are integrated into the wireless tag, then functionality and monitoring capability are improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves versatility through a universal electronic device platform (smartphone, tablet, or computer) that can run various applications for different tracking scenarios. The wireless tag itself remains simple but can be paired with different electronic devices and applications to serve multiple purposes: asset tracking, anti-theft monitoring, health care patient monitoring, inventory management, and more. This multi-functionality at the software/application level avoids the complexity of manufacturing different hardware tags for each application.
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 reliable real-time tracking and alerting of object positions and statuses, enhancing security and monitoring capabilities across diverse applications, including anti-loss, anti-theft, and health care scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
a radio transmitter and receiver system for wirelessly exchanging data and command with an electronic device
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of connecting or linking real objects to machines or the virtual world in real time utilizing a device are disclosed. In one embodiment, a wireless tag attached to an object in communication with an electronic device, such as a cellular phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, or watch, monitors and updates the position of a wireless tag locally and on a machine/network/cloud. Methods of using a wireless tag in safety, loss/theft prevention, healthcare, tracking, advertising and marketing, education, games, finance, payment, and athletic are disclosed. In another embodiment, methods of providing an application programming interface and/or a software development kit based on the devices are provided, allowing software developers the ability to create their own programs or applications on top of the disclosed system is disclosed. Methods of allowing developers to distribute and/or monetize applications developed through the application programming interface and/or a software development kit are also disclosed.