Wireless Tracker Fastener for Evidence Chain of Custody
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current evidence tracking systems, such as those used in criminal investigations, face issues with degradation of paper bags and tamper-evident tape, leading to compromised chain of custody due to environmental or nefarious activities, and human error in identification methods like handwritten case numbers and bar code stickers.
Innovation Solution
A wireless tracking system that includes a machine-readable identification and an antenna configured to receive and transmit signals, coupled with a fastener and a container, using a blockchain hash for secure item management, ensuring a verifiable chain of custody through scanning and linking machine-readable identifications on fasteners and wireless trackers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If paper bags and tamper-evident tape are used for evidence storage, then evidence can be physically contained and sealed, but the materials degrade quickly leading to compromised chain of custody
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical evidence storage systems (paper bags, tamper-evident tape) with an electronic tracking system using RFID tags, wireless transmitters, and digital database recording. This substitution eliminates material degradation issues while maintaining evidence containment integrity through digital chain of custody documentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates digital copies of evidence identification and tracking information through RFID tags and database records. These digital copies serve as immutable records of chain of custody, replacing physical evidence bags and providing permanent, non-degradable tracking documentation.
2Measurement precision
If handwritten case numbers and bar code stickers are used for identification, then evidence can be labeled and tracked, but human error and sticker detachment occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual handwriting and adhesive sticker systems with electronic RFID tags and wireless communication. This eliminates human transcription errors and prevents identification detachment, as RFID tags are integrated into the evidence container and communicate wirelessly without physical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces RFID tags as an intermediary between the evidence container and the tracking system. These tags serve as reliable, non-contact identification mediators that eliminate direct human handling errors and prevent sticker-like attachment failures.
3Reliability
If a wireless tracking system with blockchain technology is implemented, then chain of custody integrity is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into unified components: RFID tags simultaneously provide identification, location tracking, and authentication; wireless transmitters combine communication and data transmission; blockchain databases serve as both record-keeping and verification systems. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed despite the advanced technology.
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 a secure, tamper-proof method for tracking items by ensuring the integrity of the chain of custody, reducing human error, and maintaining the value of evidence through the use of wireless signals and blockchain technology.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna configured to receive and transmit wireless signals
Data Source
AI summary
A tracking system is disclosed. The system includes a wireless tracker having a machine-readable identification and an antenna configured to receive and transmit wireless signals; a fastener that includes a machine-readable identification; and a container capable of receiving and containing physical items. The fastener is capable of coupling with the wireless tracker and container to secure the wireless tracker to the container and secure the container in a closed configuration. Also disclosed are method of remotely monitoring items, and management software for tracking items using blockchain technology.