U.S. patent application number 15/803354 was filed with the patent office on 2018-03-08 for system and method for mobile monitoring of non-associated tags.
The applicant listed for this patent is AEROSCOUT, Ltd.. Invention is credited to Daniel ALJADEFF, Joel Powell COOK.
Application Number | 20180067200 15/803354 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44354107 |
Filed Date | 2018-03-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180067200 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
COOK; Joel Powell ; et
al. |
March 8, 2018 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOBILE MONITORING OF NON-ASSOCIATED TAGS
Abstract
A system for monitoring at least one tag device has at least one
mobile cellular telephone. The mobile cellular telephone is capable
of communicating on a WiFi network, wherein the at least one tag
device transmits wireless data messages in a non-associating
mode.
Inventors: |
COOK; Joel Powell; (Redwood
City, CA) ; ALJADEFF; Daniel; (Kiriat Ono,
IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
AEROSCOUT, Ltd. |
Rehovot |
|
IL |
|
|
Family ID: |
44354107 |
Appl. No.: |
15/803354 |
Filed: |
November 3, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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13018662 |
Feb 1, 2011 |
9823342 |
|
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15803354 |
|
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61302623 |
Feb 9, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04Q 2209/43 20130101;
H04Q 2209/86 20130101; G01S 11/06 20130101; Y02D 70/164 20180101;
Y02D 30/70 20200801; G08B 21/0275 20130101; G01S 5/0018 20130101;
Y02D 70/144 20180101; H04W 4/80 20180201; G08B 21/0247 20130101;
Y02D 70/22 20180101; H04W 88/04 20130101; G01S 5/0289 20130101;
G08B 25/08 20130101; H04W 4/029 20180201; H04W 88/06 20130101; H04M
1/72572 20130101; H04Q 2209/826 20130101; H04Q 9/00 20130101; G01S
19/48 20130101; H04M 2250/06 20130101; H04Q 2209/47 20130101; G08B
21/22 20130101; H04M 1/7253 20130101; Y02D 70/166 20180101; H04W
52/0245 20130101; G08B 21/0227 20130101; Y02D 70/142 20180101 |
International
Class: |
G01S 11/06 20060101
G01S011/06; G01S 5/02 20060101 G01S005/02 |
Claims
1-7. (canceled)
8 A system comprising: at least one tag; and at least one portable
mobile device, the at least one portable mobile device able to
perform wireless data communication and voice communication, the at
least one portable mobile device able to receive and decode data
messages from said at least one tag, said tag transmitting said
data messages in a non-associating mode.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one tag device
comprises: a tag controller; and a Wi-Fi transceiver coupled to the
tag controller.
10. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one tag device
comprises: a low frequency receiver and antenna coupled to the tag
controller; and at least one monitoring sensor coupled to the tag
controller.
11. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one tag device
further comprises a push button coupled to the tag controller,
pressing the push button allowing the at least one tag device to
transmit the data messages in a non-associating mode.
12. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one tag device
transmits the data messages in a non-associating mode using Clear
Channel Assessment (CCA).
13. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one tag device
transmits the data messages with a format according to one of IEEE
802.11 standards.
14. The system of claim 8, wherein information transmitted in the
data messages by the at least one tag device is one of shown on a
display screen of the at least one portable mobile device or stored
in the at least one portable mobile device.
15. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one portable mobile
device measures signal strength of the data messages received,
wherein the signal strength is used to estimate at least one of a
location of the at least one tag device and the distance of the at
least one tag device to the portable mobile device.
16. The system of claim 15, wherein the at least one portable
mobile device may perform a search of at least one tag based on
said estimated at least one of a location of the at least one tag
device and the distance of the at least one tag device to the
portable mobile device.
17. The system of claim 8, wherein the data messages comprises at
least one of: tag identification data, status of the at least one
tag device, location, and transmission channel data.
18. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one mobile portable
mobile device functions as a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol
(DHCP) server for the at least one tag device and as a router for
forwarding the data messages.
19. The system of claim 8, further comprising a low frequency
transmitter, the low frequency transmitter transmitting data
messages to the at least one tag device.
20. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one tag device is a
bi-directional wireless communication tag device.
21. The system of claim 20, wherein the at least one portable
mobile device transmits data for programming the at least on tag
device.
22. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one mobile portable
device communicates the decoded data messages.
23. The system of claim 22, wherein the at least one mobile uses an
encrypted communications protocol (VPN) to communicate the decoded
data messages.
24. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one portable mobile
device uses a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) for positioning
information.
25. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one portable mobile
device can record barcode data of the at least one tag device.
26. The system of claim 22, wherein the at least one portable
mobile device receives the data messages from the at least one tag
device and communicates information in the data messages over a
cellular network in at least one of an email, Short Message Service
(SMS), pre-recorded voice message, and synthesized voice
message.
27. The system of claim 26, wherein the at least one portable
mobile device uses a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) for
positioning information and said positioning information is further
communicated over said cellular network.
28. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one portable mobile
device detects the at last one tag device when in a predetermined
range of the at least on tag device and the at least one tag device
is active.
29. The system of claim 28, wherein the at least one portable
mobile device detects the at last one tag device when in a
predetermined range of the at least on tag device and the at least
one tag device is active, wherein the at least one portable mobile
device one of vibrates or rings in response to the data messages
received.
30. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one portable mobile
device receives and decodes data messages defined by the Cisco CCX
specifications.
31. The system of claim 8, wherein the data messages are encrypted
data messages, wherein the at least one portable mobile device can
receive and decode encrypted.
32. The system of claim 8, wherein the data message triggers the at
least one portable mobile device to perform a designated
action.
33. The system of claim 30, wherein the designated action may be at
least one of: post a message on a designated website, send a
pre-recorded message, send a synthesized voice message, send a text
message, record a video, transmit a video, take a photograph,
record a sound, play a sound, initiate a short-range wireless
connection with another device, and start an Internet
application.
34. The system of claim 29, wherein the at least one portable
mobile device can one of accept or reject the designated
action.
35. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one tag transmits
the data messages on a plurality of channels.
36. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one tag device
transmits data messages when activated by at least one of: normal
blink, sensor alert, trigger signal from an infrared transmitter,
trigger signal from an ultrasound transmitter, trigger signal from
a LF transmitter or and pushbutton on the at least one tag
device.
37. The system of claim 8, wherein the decode data messages from
said at least one tag includes a telephone number, the at least one
portable mobile device performing one of: sending a text message or
calling the telephone number.
38. The system of claim 8, wherein the decode data messages from
said at least one tag is stored in the at least one portable mobile
device, the decoded data messages stored in a formatted document to
be transmitted by the at least one portable mobile device.
39. The system of claim 20, wherein the at least one portable
mobile device sends a message to at least one of: activate,
deactivate, trigger and program the at least one tag device.
40. The system of claim 39, wherein said sent message by the at
least one portable mobile device is triggered by a Short Message
Service (SMS) received at said at least one portable mobile
device.
41. The system of claim 15, further comprising a plurality of
portable mobile devices, the plurality of portable mobile devices
using RSSI triangulation to locate the at least one tag device.
42-63. (canceled)
Description
RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present provisional application is related to U.S.
Provisional Patent Application filed Feb. 9, 2010, having U.S. Ser.
No. 61/302,623, in the name of the same inventors, and which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The present
application further claims the benefit of the aforementioned.
[0002] The present application is further related to U.S. Pat. No.
7,295,115 entitled "RADIO-FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION (RFID) TAG
EMPLOYING UNIQUE RECEPTION WINDOW AND METHOD THEREFOR", filed on
Feb. 16, 2005 and issued on Nob. 13, 2007; U.S. Pat. No. 6,963,289,
entitled "WIRELESS LOCAL AREA NETWORK (WLAN) CHANNEL
RADIO-FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION (RFID) TAG SYSTEM AND METHOD
THEREFORE", filed on Oct. 18, 2002 and issued on Nov. 8, 2005; and
U.S. Pat. No. 7,522,049, entitled "Wireless Local Area Network
(WLAN) Method and System for Presence Detection and Location
Finding", filed on May 9, 2005 and issued on Apr. 21, 2009; the
specifications of which are herein incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention relates to data communication between
tags, mobile wireless units and location systems, and more
specifically, to the mobile monitoring, processing and data
relaying of non-associating tags by cell phones.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] A multitude of wireless communications systems are in common
use today. Mobile telephones, pagers and wireless-connected
computing devices such as personal digital assistants (PDAs) and
laptop computers provide portable communications at virtually any
locality. Wireless local area networks (WLANs) and wireless
personal area networks (WPANs) according to the institute of
Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) specifications 802.11
(WLAN) (including 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, etc.) which
are generally known as Wi-Fi networks, 802.15.1 (WPAN) and 802.15.4
(WPAN-LR) also provide wireless interconnection of computing
devices and personal communications devices, as well as other
devices such as home automation devices.
[0005] Within the above-listed networks and wireless networks in
general, in many personal, commercial and industrial applications
it is desirable to monitor wireless devices and RFID tags and also
know their location.
[0006] The usage of Wi-Fi tags has significantly increased during
the last five years and they are now being used in many
applications including healthcare, manufacturing, logistics,
retail, oil & gas, etc.
[0007] These tags may include non-associating (beaconing) tags such
as those manufactured and sold by AeroScout. The characteristics of
this type of tags include very low channel capacity utilization,
long battery life and compatibility both with Wi-Fi access points
and Time of Arrival (TOA) receivers. They can have the ability to
receive messages from various types of Exciters including Low
Frequency and Ultrasound, causing the tags to send immediate
messages to the Real Time Location System (RTLS) software and/or
providing further location resolution. The tags can include motion
detectors, call buttons, tamper evidence switches, temperature and
humidity sensors and they can include a serial data port that can
toe used to query other devices and transport information from them
as part of their telemetry message.
[0008] These applications are becoming very popular and one of the
main reasons for that is the ability of Wi-Fi access Points to
receive and report messages from non-associating tags. However the
support of non-associating tags is limited to infrastructure
devices (e.g. Access Points or Location Receivers) and therefore
the existing applications are all related and applicable to areas
with fixed Wi-Fi coverage.
[0009] Therefore it is desirable to provide a method and system for
monitoring of associating and non-associating Wi-Fi tags by a
mobile device. The system and method are also applicable for
extending the range of a Wi-Fi based real time location system
(RTLS) and telemetry monitoring system so that it can operate with
a high degree of location precision virtually anywhere in the
world.
[0010] Using commonly available mobile devices such as "Smartphone"
cell phones, a low cost method for monitoring, locating and/or
relaying to a central server the tag information including its
location of both associating and non-associating Wi-Fi RFID tags is
described. To the extent that these Wi-Fi tags have telemetry
capabilities such as temperature monitoring, call buttons, tamper
evidence or serial data ports, then this telemetry information can
be also passed to a centrally located event engine which can act on
the telemetry and location data and provide location based services
based on changes in the telemetry.
[0011] Alternatively, in a stand-alone system the tag telemetry can
be locally processed by the Smartphone and initiate one or more
actions, such as local alerting, Short Message Service (SMS)
messages, voice calls, etc.
[0012] There are many possible applications for this invention and
many potential expansions. Key applications include: [0013] 1.
Remote monitoring of temperature, humidity or other condition
monitoring data, for example on a truck or a (medical) laboratory
courier car. In this case the temperature is constantly monitored
and the location of the vehicle, refrigerator, cooler or thermos
bottle may be constantly updated. It is important that both the
condition monitoring data and the location of the host be known so
that appropriate actions can be taken and can be routed. The
vehicle could have a cradle for the Smartphone so that it is
constantly charged. The driver may carry the Smartphone with him
when he leaves the vehicle during rounds, during which time the
phone can still monitor the temperature of items/tags in range,
e.g. of tags in a cooler he is carrying. [0014] 2. Remote
monitoring can also use advanced features of the Smartphone. For
example, the reception of data messages from specific tags or the
reception of messages containing specific data can trigger a wide
variety of events in the Smartphone including sending SMS or
emails, send voice messages, record or play sounds, start web
applications, activate the video camera, etc. The data sent by the
Smartphone may include information relevant to the tag which
triggered the event. [0015] 3. Tracking assets and/or people at a
disaster site or battlefield. In this case emergency response
personnel can associate tags with victims using the device, leave
the tags with/attached to the assets or victims and constantly or
periodically monitor their location, status or condition. The tags
could all be in range 100% of the time or the person carrying the
wireless host could walk or drive by and "sample" the tags'
location and telemetry data across a large site. [0016] 4. Remote
monitoring of facilities which may not be constantly occupied, such
as vacation homes or storage facilities. In this case it may be
important to know the humidity, temperature, level of water in the
basement, presence of gas vapors, carbon monoxide, etc. even when
the facility is not occupied. The Smartphone can be plugged into a
local AC outlet and its internal battery would provide backup power
in case of a power outage. Advanced features of the Smartphone,
such as those listed in item 2 above may fee applied to this
scenario. [0017] 5. The system could be used for occasionally
gathering telemetry data, such as reading utility meters. In
particular a low frequency exciter could be used to cause the tag
to beacon its telemetry data only when the data is required to be
read, and then the data is received on the wireless host where it
might be stored and forwarded, or sent in real time. [0018] 6.
Remote monitoring of call buttons, such as for panic alerts or
assistance requests. This might be useful in outdoor areas or large
indoor or outdoor facilities such as stadiums where Wi-Fi coverage
isn't normally available (and therefore the Wi-Fi tags wouldn't
otherwise work). In effect the system can be used to create an ad
hoc location based services system. [0019] 7. Fleet management of
commercial vehicles, incorporating tags with OBD connectors to read
the telemetry off of the vehicle, send it to a wireless host on the
vehicle and then upload both the location of the vehicle and its
current condition. By using bi-directional tags this data could be
retrieved on demand. [0020] 8. In a more sophisticated environment,
such as a battlefield, land mine clearing operation or disaster
site multiple wireless host devices might be used and effectively
create a "mesh" network that provides more precise tag location
based on RSSI triangulation of the tags' messages combined with the
geolocation of a Ground Positioning System (GPS) 35 location of
each individual wireless host device. This information might be
processed locally or sent over the network to a more powerful
location engine for processing. [0021] 9. Bi-directional tags could
be queried directly from the host Wireless device. [0022] 10. In
house arrest applications, prisoners can wear tags which may be
constantly monitored. In case the prisoner is not in those areas he
should stay, an immediate alarm and message cam be sent to the
police. [0023] The Smartphones also can estimate the tag distance
from the phone to provide an estimate regarding the risk of contact
with the prisoner. By taking the host device with him the prisoner
could have some degree of mobility, e.g. to permit him to go to
work.
[0024] The present patent application describes a system and method
for mobile monitoring and data relaying of tags which provide
significant advantages over the existing art. Some of them were
described above in this section.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0025] The above objectives of using a method to provide monitoring
of associating and non-associating tags by a mobile device are
achieved in a method and in a system.
[0026] The basic elements of the system comprise an RFID tag able
to broadcast Wi-Fi data messages in a non-associating mode and a
Smartphone able to receive and decode the Wi-Fi messages
broadcasted by the RFID tag in a non-associating mode.
[0027] Each of those elements may also be enhanced to include many
other features thus providing a wide variety of system
configurations and features.
[0028] According to one embodiment of this invention, the RFID tags
operate in a non-associating (beaconing) mode such as those
manufactured by AeroScout. These tags have significant benefits,
including very low bandwidth utilization, long battery life and
compatibility both with standard Wi-Fi access points and Time
Difference of Arrival (TDOA) receivers. According to the present
embodiment, they can also have the ability to receive messages from
various types of Exciters including Low Frequency and Ultrasound,
causing them to send immediate messages to RTLS software and/or
providing further location resolution. The tags can include motion
detectors, call buttons, tamper evidence switches, temperature and
humidity sensors and they can include a serial data port that can
be used to query other devices and transport information from them
as part of their telemetry message.
[0029] Also in accordance with one embodiment of this invention,
the Smartphone consists of a commonly available wireless device
such as an Apple IPhone, Google Droid, Blackberry Storm 2, Garmin
nuvifone or other similar devices that comprise Wi-Fi, cellular
radio and an optional GPS receiver. This wireless device permits
the creation of a short-range local area Wi-Fi network which the
RFID tags can communicate with and whose location can optionally be
accurately determined. These host devices can be located
(geolocation) with a high degree of precision (down to a few
meters) by using either the embedded GPS receiver or by
triangulation through the cellular or other compatible radio
communications towers within range of the device (e.g. E-911).
Fundamentally, the Smartphone can "know" its location and if
required also report it via the network.
[0030] A key feature of the present invention consists of modifying
the capabilities of the wireless host device (Smartphone) to enable
both non-associating and associating Wi-Fi RFID tags to communicate
with the host device. In the case of non-associating tags the host
device may simply recognize that the Wi-Fi data packet was received
from an RFID tag. The tag packet includes tag identification and
optionally telemetry data which can be processed by the Smartphone.
In accordance with one embodiment, the tag telemetry is combined
with the geolocation of the host device and forwarded across the
cellular network to the appropriate Internet Protocol (IP) address
of an RTLS software system.
[0031] Yet another feature of the tags according to the present
invention is their ability to broadcast data messages without
interfering with other clients in the same Wi-Fi network. This is
achieved by a Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) mechanism in the tag
which avoids transmission if the wireless channel is busy.
[0032] In the case of associating tags the host device can also
serve as a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server for
one or more tags and as a router for appropriately forwarding the
tag's messages in both the uplink (to the RTLS software) and
downlink (to the tag) directions.
[0033] Since the wireless host device is typically designed to
conserve battery power the range of its Wi-Fi radio is or can be
limited. According to a further aspect of the present invention, it
is desirable that the tracked tag to be within a few (10 to 20
perhaps) meters of the device. In turn this means that the tag can
be geolocated within the combination of this range and the location
precision of the device itself. For example, if the wireless host
can be located within 3 meters using GPS 35 and its Wi-Fi range is
10 meters this means that the tag itself can be located within no
more than 13 meters of the reported geolocation.
[0034] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
phone's Wi-Fi radio might also be programmed to measure and forward
the received signal strength indication (RSSI) at which it receives
the tag's transmission and use this measurement (RSSI) for a
"ranging" function, particularly if the device's environment and
therefore propagation is consistent. This information can further
improve the location calculation for the tag relative to the host
device and relative to other tags tracked by the same host, so that
a tag received with a low RSSI is farther from the device than a
tag received with a higher RSSI value.
[0035] Therefore using commonly available mobile devices such as
Smartphones it is possible to implement a low cost system for
monitoring RFID tags. The tags will periodically transmit data
messages which will be received and decoded by the Smartphone, This
telemetry information can be locally stored in the Smartphone,
and/or used by the Smartphone to trigger special actions
(automatically or as instructed by the user) according to the
contents of the received tag messages.
[0036] Software or other programming on the Smartphone is required
to cause it to recognize different type of tags, optionally and
automatically determine its own location using the most accurate
method available (e.g. GPS 35 outdoors, E-911 triangulation
indoors), incorporate this location information with the tag data
and send that over the network to the RTLS software, or process it
locally. It may be desirable that the Smartphone device be capable
of using an encrypted communications protocol over a Virtual
Private Network (VPN) to communicate this information to the RTLS
software.
[0037] The Smartphone itself could be hand carried fay a person,
mounted in a cradle in a vehicle or on another host platform (for
longer battery life). It is assumed that the device is highly
portable/mobile and therefore it can perform these tasks anywhere
it may be required, in real time. It should be able to adapt
automatically as conditions vary, for example by switching from GPS
35 to E-911 location as it moves into areas where GPS 35 coverage
is not available, or by switching/roaming cellular networks as
coverage varies. It can also report its calculated location
accuracy, to be used by the RTLS software, providing a range
accuracy estimate for the tags.
[0038] A different form of the present invention involves a
Smartphone containing a Wi-Fi radio, a GPS receiver and under the
coverage of a cellular or other wide area communication network,
which can be used to create a system that can receive Wi-Fi
telemetry messages from RFID tags, calculate the location of the
host device and the associated/neighboring tags and then
communicate this information over the wireless communications
network. The information can be processed by RTLS software at a
central monitoring station(s) or at other mobile devices (e.g.
Smartphones, laptops, etc.). Based on the received information the
status and location of the Wi-Fi tags can be recorded, monitored,
acted and reported upon. Certain information may also be processed
locally, on the Smartphone, for immediate action in special cases
when the cellular network is temporarily not available and/or when
immediate local alerting is desired.
[0039] Other monitoring applications and according to another
exemplary embodiment of this invention, include communicating the
location of the tag to another wireless unit (e.g. another
Smartphone) and/or to a central server. The Smartphone may perform
this data communication through one or more of the communication
channels it has available (e.g. cellular network, Wi-Fi network,
Bluetooth, etc.).
[0040] This architecture basically extends the range of a Wi-Fi
based real time location system (RTLS) and telemetry monitoring
system so that it can operate with a high degree of location
precision virtually anywhere in the world.
[0041] Depending an the processing power of the wireless host
device some data processing can take place on the device itself.
For example, temperature or other telemetry data could be evaluated
against, predetermined criteria and the device can create a local
alert if the preset parameters are not met. The phone might call
and send pre-recorded voice messages or synthesized voice messages,
send an email, Short Message Service (SMS) or any combination
thereof as a result of tag telemetry that is processed locally.
[0042] Assuming the Smartphone can also receive or send email, SMS
or other messages, they can be used to alert a person local to the
device that some action needs to be taken when a rule is violated
and an alert is fired from the RTLS software system. For example a
truck driver could be notified that the temperature of an RTLS tag
in his truck is out of range, requesting he take immediate action
to avoid spoilage of the items in his truck. Those messages can be
transmitted via the cellular network or other type of wireless
networks as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, infrared, etc.
[0043] In other cases and also according to another embodiment of
this invention, those actions may include the activation of the
embedded still or video camera and then storing and/or sending the
video data to another unit, or performing a sound recording.
[0044] The Smart phone can also be used to associate and
de-associate tags with other assets or people, either locally or
via a web browser connection to the RTLS software system.
[0045] In other cases and according to an embodiment of this
invention, where the Smartphone doesn't have its own internal GPS
receiver or it is not possible to calculate its location by other
means, it is possible to use a GPS tag (e.g. AeroScout GPS tag)
which has its own GPS receiver and a Wi-Fi transmitter to provide
location data for the Smartphone and all its received tags, whether
they have GPS capabilities or not.
[0046] Other sophisticated applications and still within the scope
of this invention include a network comprising several Smartphones
all being able to receive and decode packets from non-associating
tags and all of them being in communication range with one or more
Wi-Fi tags.
[0047] Since the location of each of the Smartphones can be easily
determined, the phones can create a simple location network in
which a tag is precisely located using triangulation. The phones
can communicate between themselves directly or over the cellular
network. In another exemplary embodiment they will transfer the tag
and phone information to a central site equipped with RTLS software
to calculate the tag location.
[0048] The RTLS software, according to another embodiment of the
present invention, is composed of standard off-the-shelf RTLS
software applications such as AeroScout Location Engine and/or
MobileView, modified as/if necessary to process the additional
types of information resulting from this invention. In general
those software applications include a display layer, a location
engine, a rules/event engine, an associated database, a reporting
tool, an alerting mechanism(s) and an interface layer for
bidirectional communication with third party applications. The
location engine must be capable of receiving geolocated tag data
from the wireless host and appropriately interpreting it. This will
likely require an internet Gateway that receives and transmits
TCP/IP information from the cellular network and attached
Internetwork via this gateway. The software must either be able to
process and display information on a dynamic global map of a
Geographic Information System (GIS) or interface with a third party
application such as Google Earth/Maps which can display the
location of the wireless host and associated tags anywhere in the
world.
[0049] The foregoing and other objectives, features, and advantages
of the invention will be apparent from the following and more
particular, descriptions of the exemplary embodiments of the
invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF INSCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0050] FIG. 1a depicts a basic RFID tag monitoring system including
four tags and a Smartphone according to an embodiment of this
invention. The Smartphone can receive Wi-Fi data packets from
non-associating tags.
[0051] FIG. 1b depicts a basic RFID tag monitoring system as
depicted in FIG. 1a, including four tags and a Smartphone according
to another embodiment of this invention. The Smartphone can receive
Wi-Fi data packets from non-associating tags, measure the RSSI
level of the received packets and estimate the distance to each of
the monitored tags.
[0052] FIG. 2 a depicts another implementation of a basic RFID tag
monitoring system, including two tags (one with pushbutton) and a
Smartphone according to another embodiment of this invention. The
Smartphone has an embedded GPS receiver and can also receive Wi-Fi
data packets from non-associating tags, measure the RSSI level of
the received packets and estimate the distance to each of the
monitored tags. The Smartphone uses the GPS 35 to estimate the
tag's location.
[0053] FIG. 2b depicts another implementation of a basic RFID tag
monitoring system, including one tag with a temperature sensor and
a Smartphone according to another embodiment of this invention. The
Smartphone can also receive Wi-Fi data packets from non-associating
tags, and read the telemetry (e.g. temperature) sent by the
tag.
[0054] FIG. 2c depicts an enhanced implementation of a basic RFID
tag monitoring system, including a tag, an LF (low frequency)
transmitter (LF exciter) and a Smartphone according to another
embodiment of this invention. The LF transmitter broadcasts
low-frequency (e.g. 125 or 134 KHz) data messages which are
received and decoded by the tags. The tags respond by transmitting
Wi-Fi messages including the LF transmitter identification (ID).
The LF transmitter's location may be precisely known, for example
if it is mounted in a known, fixed location and this information
can be used to further refine the location of the tag. The
Smartphone may have an embedded GPS receiver and it is able to
receive Wi-Fi data packets from non-associating tags.
[0055] FIG. 2d depicts another implementation of a basic RFID tag
monitoring system including one bi-directional tag and a Smartphone
according to another embodiment of this invention. The Smartphone
can maintain direct two-way data communication with the tag using
Wi-Fi (ad hoc or Independent Basic Service Set--IBSS network) or
through an infrastructure-based (Basic Service Set--BSS or Extended
Service Set--ESS) network. It can also receive data packets when
the tag is not associated.
[0056] FIG. 3 is a pictorial diagram describing an extended
implementation of the RFID tag monitoring system according to
another embodiment of this invention. The system includes two tags
(one with pushbutton) and a Smartphone which is also connected to a
cellular network. The Smartphone has an embedded GPS receiver and
can also receive Wi-Fi data packets from non-associating tags,
measure the Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) level of the
received packets and estimate the distance to each of the monitored
tags. The Smartphone can send the tag information, its own location
and any other information to ether units (e.g. Internet clients,
cellular phones, wired phones, etc.) taking advantage of its
connection to the cellular network.
[0057] FIG. 4 is a pictorial diagram describing a different
implementation of the system in FIG. 3 according to an embodiment
of this invention. In this exemplary embodiment, the Smartphone is
embedded in the car and optionally connected to a GPS receiver. The
Smartphone in the car can also receive data messages from
non-associating tags embedded in the car (e.g. used to send
specific vehicle information through an OBDC connector).
[0058] FIG. 5 is a pictorial diagram describing a different
implementation of the monitoring system according to an embodiment
of this invention. The Smartphone relays the tag information, phone
position (optional) and any other required information to a
real-time location system (RTLS).
[0059] FIG. 6 is a pictorial diagram describing an enhanced
implementation of the monitoring system described in FIG. 5
according to an embodiment of this invention. Several Smartphones
in the proximity of a monitored tag receive and relay the tag
information together with additional information like phone
position, RSSI level of the tag message to a real-time location
system (RTLS). The information is used to locate the tag.
[0060] FIG. 7 is depicts a block diagram of an RFID tag according
to an embodiment of this invention
[0061] Common reference numerals are used throughout the drawings
and detailed description to indicate like elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0062] Therefore, it is the purpose of this patent to provide a
System and Method for mobile monitoring and data relaying of tags
which can be used in many configurations and embodiments in
accordance with the required application. The detailed description
of preferred embodiments of this invention is presented in this
section.
[0063] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and/or scientific
terms used herein have the same meaning, as commonly understood by
one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains.
Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those
described herein can be used in the practice or testing of
embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and/or materials
are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification,
including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials,
methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to
be necessarily limiting.
[0064] Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by
way of example only, with reference to the associated drawings.
With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is
stressed that the details shown are by way of example and for
purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the
invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings
makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the
invention may be practiced.
[0065] In respect to the present invention, the term "Wi-Fi tag",
"WLAN tag" or "tag" means a portable RFID wireless device,
including WLAN unidirectional (i.e. can only transmit messages) or
bidirectional (i.e. can both receive and transmit messages)
communication means based on frame formats in accordance with a
IEEE802.11x (e.g. 802.11a/b/g/n) standard, stand alone or
integrated into other devices, powered by an internal battery or
externally powered, semi-passive or active.
[0066] The term "Wi-Fi data" means any wireless message using frame
format in accordance with IEEE802,11x (e.g. 802.11a/b/g/n)
standard.
[0067] The tag may optionally include other communication means in
addition to the one used to communicate with the WLAN (e.g.
ultrasound, Ultrawideband, infrared, low frequency magnetic
interface, wired serial interface, etc.) as well as optional
sensors (e.g. temperature, humidity, motion, etc.).
[0068] The term "Smartphone" means a mobile cellular phone offering
advanced capabilities, often with PC-like functionality (PC-mobile
handset convergence) and other advanced features. In respect to
this patent, the Smartphone also includes Wi-Fi support making it
able to communicate in standard Wi-Fi networks. Other functionality
might include an additional interface such as a miniature QWERTY
keyboard, a touch screen or a D-pad, a built-in camera, contact
management, an accelerometer, built-in navigation hardware and
software, the ability to read business documents, media software
for playing music, browsing photos and viewing video clips,
internet browsers, barcode scanner, passive RFID reader etc.
[0069] The term "tag sensors" data means any information that an
RFID unit transmits from a sensor it is connected to and that the
unit transmits in addition to its identifier. Examples of tag
sensor data can be temperature, pressure, humidity, battery
indicator and motion indication.
[0070] The term "non-associating tag" or "non-associated tag" means
a tag which has no means to associate with a WLAN device (e.g. a
unidirectional tag), or was programmed to not associate with a WLAN
device or it is operating in a mode in which there is no
association between the tag and another WLAN device. The term
"non-associating mode" or "non-associated mode" refers to an
operation mode in which data messages are received by the tag
and/or transmitted by the tag in a WLAN without any prior
association of the tag to another WLAN device.
[0071] The term "associating tag" means a tag which has means to
associate with a WLAN device and is operating in a mode in which
there is association between the tag and another WLAN device.
Association refers to the service used to establish access
point-station AP/STA mapping and it requires two way communication
between both units. In standard Wi-Fi networks, normal data
transfer between an Access Point and a wireless station is enabled
only after there is an association between the station and the
AP.
[0072] Referring now to the figures and in particular to FIG. 1a, a
basic system according to an one embodiment of this invention is
depicted. A Smartphone 1 which may have the capability of receiving
and decoding Wi-Fi data packets from non-associating tags is in the
vicinity of four RFID tags 2-5 which may broadcast Wi-Fi data
messages 6-9 respectively. The tags may be battery powered and each
of them may have a unique identification as shown in FIG. 1a. While
four RFID tags 2-5 may be shown, this should not be seen in a
limiting manner.
[0073] The Smartphone Wi-Fi radio may be in an active mode and may
be configured to a default channel (e.g. channel #1). The tags 2-5
may broadcast their messages 6-9 without making any association
with any other network device, in one or more Wi-Fi channels (e.g.
channels 1, 6 and 11), one of them being the default channel to
which the Smartphone 1 radio may be configured. Since the tags 2-5
may be in communication range with the Smartphone 1, the broadcast
messages 6-9 may be received by the Smartphone 1 radio and then
decoded by the Smartphone 1 processor.
[0074] Tags 2-5 may be unidirectional or bidirectional.
Unidirectional tags may include a simple radio mainly comprising a
transmitter to transmit messages and a simple receiver to perform
CCA operations. Both types may broadcast Wi-Fi data messages which
can be received by one or more receivers located in communication
range with those tags 2-5. According to one embodiment, the
transmission of messages by the tags 2-5 may be periodic and at
programmed intervals or as a result of an event. For example tag 3
may have a pushbutton 10. Pressing this pushbutton 10 may initiate
a transmission of a Wi-Fi packet in a non-associating mode.
[0075] As previously explained, the tags 2-5 may broadcast the
messages 6-9 only when the channel is free. This may be
accomplished by a clear channel assessment (CCA) mechanism in the
tags 2-5. If the channel is busy, the tags 2-5 will wait and make
an additional transmission attempt after a random time.
[0076] The format of the messages 6-9 transmitted by the tags 2-5
may differ and also be adapted to the receiver type. According to
one embodiment, the format of the packets is IBSS according to the
IEEE802.11 standard. Another format suitable to some commercial
Wi-Fi radios is WDS (wireless distribution system), also in
accordance with IEEE802.11 standard.
[0077] In addition, and according to another embodiment, the
payload of the transmitted data messages may be defined by the
Cisco CCX specifications, while in other cases it may be according
to the AeroScout tag message format specifications.
[0078] Moreover, the tag message payload may also be encrypted in
accordance with the different encryption mechanisms available for
IEEE802.11 clients. Tags transmitting with the non-matching
encryption key will be filtered out by the receiving device.
[0079] Since Smartphone 1 is in the vicinity of tags 2-5, it can
receive messages 6-9 transmitted by the tags 2-5 and then
continuously receive those messages 6-9 and detect any new tag
which is in communication range. Once a message 6-9 is correctly
received and decoded, the ID, the status of the tag 2-5 and any
other transmitted information may be read. According to one
embodiment, the status of the tags 2-5 may be transmitted on each
packet and may include battery status, hardware and software
version, motion sensor status, etc.
[0080] The received information can be displayed by the Smartphone
1 on its display and/or stored in its internal memory. Smartphone 1
can make use of pop-windows as a result of special events triggered
by tag messages.
[0081] According to another embodiment, the Smartphone 1 can make
association between the tag ID and other information stored in the
phone (e.g., picture of a person carrying the tag). In that case,
the pop-up window can also include the picture of the person and
any other relevant information.
[0082] In addition, tags 2-5 can also be filtered out based on the
tag ID, message payload, estimated range, etc. The filter rules can
be very flexible and similar in concept to the rules used to filter
out emails. Since more than one phone can simultaneously receive
the same tag messages, some of them can accept them while others
can reject them and filter them out.
[0083] The monitoring capabilities of the Smartphone 1 can also be
used for many of hex applications. For example, the time of
reception (e.g. time stamp with resolution of a few msec) of the
tag messages 6-9 can be measured and used to know the response time
of different people to a specific event (e.g. training, contents,
voting, biofeedback, etc.).
[0084] Referring now to FIG. 1b, a further improvement of this
invention is presented. Smartphone 1 may be able to receive and
decode Wi-Fi messages from non-associated tags 2-5 and in addition
it is able to measure the signal level (RSSI) at which those
messages 6-9 are received. The measurement of the RSSI of a
received packet is a standard feature in all Wi-Fi receivers,
normally used as part of the automatic gain control (AGC)
mechanism.
[0085] Is well known that the RSSI information can be used to
estimate the distance between the transmitter and the receiver.
Although many other factors have influence on the measured RSSI,
the distance is a key parameter.
[0086] Given that the transmission power of the tags 2-5 is known
(e.g. +17 dBm) as well as other basic parameters (e.g. antennas
gain, center frequency, etc.), the distance between the tag 2-5 and
Smartphone 1 units can be easily estimated using well known
wireless propagation models.
[0087] Therefore, and according to an embodiment of the present
invention, Smartphone 1 can measure the RSSI of the received
messages 6-9 and estimate the distance of the respective tags 2-5
and in some cases their location.
[0088] In accordance with one embodiment of this invention, the tag
messages 6-9 include the channel number (this information is not
mandatory in standard IEEE802.11 data packets). The channel number
is particularly useful when measuring the RSSI of the received
packet. Since a Wi-Fi radio can receive messages transmitted in
adjacent channels, both the transmitter and the receiver need to
operate on the same channel in order to ensure a true RSSI
measurement.
[0089] Having the capability to estimate the tag distance may be
useful in many applications. Thus, according to one form of this
invention, the Smartphone 1 can list the received tags 2-5
according to their estimated distance or any other key 11. Tags 2-5
which are closer or farther than a programmed distance can trigger
an alarm in the Smartphone 1 or initiate an action (e.g. vibrating
or sound alert). In some cases, the shortest or longest permitted
distance can be directly transmitted by the tag itself thus
creating a very flexible monitoring system.
[0090] For monitoring purposes, the Smartphone 1 can also count or
compare the number of received tags 2-5 to given list, of tags and
alert if certain amount of tags is missing or is present.
[0091] In another embodiment, the estimated distance can also be
used to search for a specific tag.
[0092] The estimated distance can also be used to display the area
in which the tag 2-5 is probably located. This is particularly
useful when the location of the phone is also known. In one
particular embodiment, the Smartphone 1 is connected to a large
display monitor (e.g. using a VGA connector or wirelessly) on which
a map with the location of the monitored tags can be displayed.
[0093] FIGS. 2a-2d describe specific implementations in accordance
with embodiments of the present invention. Referring now to FIG.
2a, a small system comprising a Smartphone 20 with an embedded GPS
receiver and two tags 21 and 22 is depicted. While two tags 21 and
22 are shown, this should not be seen in a limiting manner.
[0094] The tags 21-22 broadcast messages 23-24 in a non-associating
mode which are received and decoded by the Smartphone 20. Since the
Smartphone 20 can precisely locate itself with the GPS receiver
(given GPS coverage 35 is available), then the approximate location
of the monitored tags 21-22 can also be estimated.
[0095] In accordance with one embodiment, this small system can
operate in a stand-alone manner, while in other embodiments the
Smartphone 20 can transfer the tag information and estimated
location to other units across the cellular network. For example,
if the pushbutton is pressed on the tag 22, a message 24 comprising
the tag ID and the pushbutton information will be transmitted. The
Smartphone 20 will locate itself and estimate the range to the tag
22 and all this information will be forwarded by the Smartphone 20
to a third monitoring party. It can also display the estimated tag
22 location or its display 34. The cellular channel can also be
used to command the Smartphone 20 in respect to the monitoring
operations.
[0096] Another embodiment which is not shown in this figure
comprises a tag 21 and or 22 with an embedded GPS receiver and
which transmits the location information in its broadcasted
message. In this case, the Smartphone 20 can accurately calculate
the distance to the tag.
[0097] FIG. 2b describes a different application still in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Tag 25 has
a temperature sensor 26 which can measure the ambient temperature
in a given range. This tag 25 can periodically send messages 27
comprising also the measured temperature and which are received and
decoded by the Smartphone 20. Upon reception of the tag messages
27, the Smartphone 20 can store them together with a time stamp and
any other relevant information. The measured temperature can
trigger different actions in the Smartphone 20. The Smartphone 20
can also store in its large memory a bulk of temperature
measurements and send them upon request to another application. The
Smartphone 20 can also process the received temperature values and
provide different alerts.
[0098] For example, "cold chain" applications can strongly benefit
from this invention since the availability of Smartphones 20 close
to the sensor tags 25 can provide a simple solution to store the
temperature values measured and transmitted by the tag 25. A cold
chain is a temperature-controlled supply chain. An unbroken cold
chain is an uninterrupted series of storage and distribution
activities which maintain a given temperature range. It is used to
help extend and ensure the shelf life of products such as fresh
agricultural produce, processed foods, photographic film, chemicals
and pharmaceutical drugs.
[0099] Other applications may comprise monitoring the temperature
in home, commercial or industrial environments. The type of sensor
can vary between tags and may comprise sensors for humidity, water
level, pressure, darkness, motion, electrical power (AC or DC)
etc.
[0100] As may be easily understood, a larger system may comprise
many tags including different sensors and monitored by one or more
Smartphones.
[0101] Referring now to FIG. 2c, another embodiment of a basic RFID
tag monitoring system, including a tag 30, an LF (low frequency)
transmitter (LF exciter) 28 and a Smartphone 20 is described. The
LF transmitter 28 broadcasts low-frequency (e.g. 125 KHz) data
messages 29 which are received and decoded by the tag 30. The Low
Frequency (LF) link is preferably of the type of near-field
magnetic link but other commercial RFID links can be used as well
(e.g. operating in one or more of the following bands: 125 KHz,
13.56 MHz, 8.68 MHz, 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz). Also ultrasound and/or
infrared links may be used for the same purpose. The broadcast LF
messages 29 include the transmitter ID, system information and
other data fields used to program or control the tag 30. According
to this embodiment, the tag 30 responds by transmitting Wi-Fi
messages 31 including the LF transmitter 28 ID. The Smartphone 20,
which may also have an embedded GPS receiver, is able to receive
the Wi-Fi data packets 31 from the non-associating tag 30. In those
cases where the placement of the LF transmitter 28 is known (e.g.
fixed deployments), then LF transmitter 28 ID can be used to
position the tag 30 on the map displayed in the Smartphone 20 or
other RTLS location application. Alternatively, if both the tag 30
and the LF transmitter 28 are moving, then the Smartphone 20 GPS
can be used to estimate the location of the tag 30. Using an LF
transmitter 28 to trigger the tag 30 is particularly useful, since
the tag 30 can be in sleep mode most of the time and wake-up when
triggered by the LF transmitter 28.
[0102] Referring now to FIG. 2d, another implementation of a basic
RFID tag monitoring system is described including one
bi-directional tag 32 and a Smartphone 20 according to another
embodiment of this invention. The Smartphone 20 can maintain direct
two-way data communication 33 with the tag 32 using Wi-Fi (ad hoc
or IBSS network) or through an infrastructure-based (BSS or EBSS)
network. It can also receive Wi-Fi data packets 33 when the tag 32
is not associated with any Access Point.
[0103] Also according to this embodiment the Smartphone 20 is used
to program the tag 32 using the 2-way communication 33. This may
include programming tag 32 parameters (e.g. blink rate, operating
channels, transmission power, pushbutton behavior, encryption keys,
etc.) or controlling the tag 32 (e.g. tag activation/deactivation,
receiver activation/deactivation, buzzer/vibrator activation,
etc.). In some cases, it will be desirable to save the tag 32
battery life by allowing the tag 32 to open its Wi-Fi receiver only
at short intervals and at predefined times. For example, the tag 32
can open a receive window of 1-2 seconds after each periodic
transmission. The Smartphone 20 receiving the periodic transmission
33 from the tag 32, can then answer to the tag 32 within this short
receive window and activate the tag 32 receiver for a longer
time.
[0104] Other embodiments including a tag 32 and a phone 20 with an
infrared transceiver can make use of this link to transfer
bidirectional messages between the units. Also a wired interface
between the phone 20 and the tag 32 for programming is a suitable
alternative.
[0105] In another embodiment, the two-way Wi-Fi communication 33
between the tag 32 and the Smartphone 20 can provide to the tag 32
sophisticated network functions. For example, the phone 20 can
allow Wi-Fi tags 32 to connect to it, provide to them DHCP
addresses and route them to the Internet via the phone's cellular
radio to a remote server.
[0106] In addition, Smartphones 20 with an IEEE802.15.4a or
IEEE802.15.4 radio can interface with a tag 32 further comprising a
compatible radio and perform similar functions as described for the
Wi-Fi channel.
[0107] When using radio channels like the UWB IEEE802.15.4a more
sophisticated functions can also be performed. In accordance with
one embodiment, a Smartphone 20 communicating with a tag 32 further
comprising both an IEEE802.15.4a radio and accurate time-of-arrival
(TOA) measurement capability, can also accurately measure the range
to the tag 32. When this is combined with the self location
capabilities of the phone 20 using GPS 35 or other methods, an
accurate estimate of the tag 32 position can be derived. This
capability also enables a reliable searching or distance monitoring
of tags 32 linked to that Smartphone 20. This additional
functionality can be fully integrated into the Smartphone 20 or
implemented in a pluggable module which can be optionally connected
(via the USB or SD card port) to the Smartphone 20 to perform those
functions.
[0108] Smartphones 20 equipped with a still photo or video camera
(not shown in FIG. 2d) can use it to read the tag 32 barcode and
then provide a very powerful method of verifying the tag ID
received through the Wi-Fi channel 33. In another embodiment, the
Smartphone 20 may include a different type of barcode scanner (e.g.
laser type) or even a passive RFID reader. These embedded scanners
and/or readers in the Smartphone 20 can be used to read information
from the tag 32, from other objects or from passive RFID tags
related to the tag 32 and for example associate that tag 32 to
other objects, persons, pictures, etc.
[0109] Now referring to FIG. 3, a pictorial diagram describing an
extended implementation of the RFID tag monitoring system according
to another embodiment of this invention is shown. The system
includes two tags 21-22 (one with pushbutton 22) and a Smartphone
43 which is also connected to a cellular network 40. The Smartphone
43 has an embedded GPS receiver and can also receive Wi-Fi data
packets 23-24 from non-associating tags 21-22, measure the RSSI
level of the received packets 23-24 and estimate the distance to
each of the monitored tags. The Smartphone 43 can send the tags'
21-22 information, its own location and any other information to
other units (e.g. Internet clients 55, cellular phones 46-47, wired
phones 48, etc.) taking advantage of its connection to the cellular
network 40.
[0110] The system as described in FIG. 3 can provide several
benefits according to different embodiments of this invention.
[0111] In accordance with one embodiment, the Smartphone 43 will
send an SMS 41 (e.g. alert) as a result of tag 22 telemetry (e.g.
pushbutton activation). That way, the Smartphone 43 can just serve
as a relay unit and basically provide to the tags 21-22 the
capability of sending "virtual" SMS messages. Many other Smartphone
43 actions can be implemented as part of other exemplary
embodiments.
[0112] As a result of specific tag telemetry 23-24, the phone 43
can call and send pre-recorded voice messages, synthesized voice
messages or a combination of both. Emergency messages 23-24 from
the tags 21-22 may include a phone 46 number, to which the
Smartphone 43 needs to send an SMS 41-42 or make a phone call, thus
simplifying the process since there is no need to program this
number in the Smartphone 43.
[0113] In more sophisticated embodiments of this invention, a
trigger from the tag 21-22 is used to post a message into a Web
application 49 (by the phone), for example in application like
Facebook, Twitter, etc. In special cases the Smartphone 43 can use
a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to send secured Messages. Tag 21-22
messages 23-24 can start different applications in the smartphone
43. For example: [0114] Take and send a picture [0115] Start the
recording of a video clip and send it [0116] Start a GPS or Aided
GPS (A-GPS) location [0117] Record a sound [0118] Play a sound or
file [0119] Initiate a Bluetooth or infrared connection with
another device [0120] Start a Web application
[0121] A trigger can be created by the tag 21-22 as a result of
(partial list): [0122] Normal blink [0123] Sensor alert [0124]
Reception of an LF message or Ultrasound (US) message or Infrared
(IR). [0125] Pushbutton
[0126] In other embodiments, tag messages 23-24 which are received
by the Smartphone 43, are stored in formatted documents which can
later be exported or sent as attachments. For example: [0127]
Microsoft Word documents, including tag 21-22 identification,
status and other telemetry information [0128] Microsoft Excel
documents, including tag 21-22 identification, sensor data, etc.
[0129] Voice message including tag 21-22 identification and
location
[0130] Referring now to FIG. 4, a pictorial diagram describing a
different implementation of the system in FIG. 3 according to an
embodiment of this invention is shown. In this embodiment, the
Smartphone 43 (not shown) is embedded in the car 47 and optionally
connected to a GPS receiver. The Smartphone 43 in the car 47 can
also receive data messages from non-associating tags 21-22
including tags embedded in the car, for example tags used to send
specific vehicle information and connected to the OBD-II (On board
diagnostic) connector.
[0131] Additional embodiments can provide tracking the location of
cars 47 as well as sensors (e.g. temperature of the items in the
car) embedded in Wi-Fi tags installed in the car 47. Fleet
management of commercial vehicles, incorporating tags with OBD-II
connectors to read the telemetry off of the vehicle, send it to a
wireless host on the vehicle and then upload to the cellular
network 40 both the location of the vehicle and its current
condition. By using bi-directional tags this data could be
retrieved on demand.
[0132] Assuming the Smartphone 43 can also receive or send e-mail,
SMS or other messages it can be used to alert other persons 46 that
some action needs to be taken when a rule is violated and an alert
is created (locally or from an RTLS software system). For example a
truck driver could be notified that the temperature of an RFID tag
in his truck is out of range, requesting he take immediate action
to avoid spoilage of the items in his truck.
[0133] Referring now to FIG. 5, a pictorial diagram describing a
different implementation of the monitoring system according to
another embodiment of this invention is depicted. The Smartphone 43
relays the tags 22-32 information, phone 43 position (optional) and
any other required information to a real-time location system
(RTLS) 52-53.
[0134] In another embodiment according to FIG. 5, the Smartphone
behaves as a mobile Wi-Fi router that uses cellular radio network
40 as a backhaul. The Smartphone 43 sends a packet 41 containing
tag 22 and 32 information through the cellular network 40 to an
RTLS (Real Time Location System) S/W 52-53 (e.g. AeroScout Location
Engine and MobileView) via an "Internet Gateway".
[0135] The Smartphone 43 can send both the tag telemetry 24, 33 and
its GPS 35 location to an RTLS application 52-53 through this new
"Internet Gateway" 50 and/or use a connection to Google Maps 53, or
Bing or similar, to locate the tag 22, 32 based oh the Smartphone
43 GPS coordinates.
[0136] For non-associating tags 22 the phone device must simply
recognize that the communications packet 24 received from the RFID
tag 22 is a location and/or telemetry message and forward it across
the cellular network 40 to the appropriate (IP) address of the RTLS
software system 52, tagged with the geolocation of the host device
43. In the case of associating tags 32 the Smartphone 43 also can
serve as a DHCP server for one or more tags and as a router for
appropriately directing the tag's messages 33 in both the uplink
(to RTLS software 52) and downlink (to tag 32) direction.
[0137] As can be easily understood, this geolocated message can be
forwarded over the best (fastest, lowest latency, lowest error
and/or lowest cost) available communications network to the RTLS
software. The RTLS is just one possible application. Many other
applications can be developed using the same principles.
[0138] Referring now to FIG. 6, a pictorial diagram describing an
enhanced implementation 60 of the monitoring system described in
FIG. 5 according to an embodiment of this invention is shown.
Several Smartphones 62-64 lit the proximity of a monitored tag 68
receive and relay the tag 66 information 61 together with
additional information like phone position, RSSI level of the tag
message to a real-time location system (RTLS) 52-53. The
information is used to locate the tag 68 by triangulation.
[0139] Also according to this embodiment, the Smartphones 62-64
(with GPS receiver) can perform a joint location of a tag 68 (e.g.
using RSSI triangulation) and by transferring information between
themselves through the cellular, Wi-Fi or other network 40. One or
more of the phones 62-64 can be used to display the map and the tag
68 location.
[0140] When some or all the Smartphones 62-64 used to locate the
tag 68 have no GPS receiver to locate themselves, the location of
those phones 62-64 can be performed by the cellular system 40. This
location is expected to be less precise than when using a GPS 35,
but it provides a high degree of flexibility and cost
effectiveness.
[0141] Other embodiments may include more accurate location methods
like using two-way ranging based on TOA (time of arrival)
measurement, triangulation using AOA (Angle of Arrival and using an
additional unit/front-end in the Smartphone) or the combination of
several location methods.
[0142] In other embodiments, the communication between the
Smartphones can be direct and without involving the cellular
network 40.
[0143] Referring now to FIG. 7, a simplified block diagram of an
RFID tag 80 according to an embodiment of this invention is
described.
[0144] The tag 80 may include a tag controller 81 which controls
the whole tag 80 operation. Wi-Fi messages are broadcasted through
the Wi-Fi transceiver 83 which typically includes a receiver and
transmitter operating in the appropriate band and according to one
of the IEEE802.11 standards. This function also includes a MAC and
baseband controller used to assemble and decode messages. Tags with
no Wi-Fi receiver (unidirectional tags) will include just part of
the mentioned functions (i.e. transmitter functions and CCA
functions). Wi-Fi messages are transmitted or received through an
embedded antenna.
[0145] In addition to the Wi-Fi transceiver 83, the tag 80 may also
include a low frequency (e.g. 125 KHz) (LF) receiver and LF antenna
82 used to receive messages from LF transmitters and based on a
near field communication. One main characteristic of this LF link
over other types of communication technologies is the very low
power consumption of the LF receiver 82 (around 1 uA). This makes
it possible for the tag 80 to activate this receiver 82
continuously without significantly impacting the tag battery (not
shown) life.
[0146] The tag 80 may also be connected to sensors 84 (e.g. motion,
temperature, humidity, pressure, ultrasound, IR, etc.) and to
pushbuttons 85. These input devices 84-85 provide to the tag 80 a
very rich functionality as already described in the above described
embodiments of this invention.
[0147] Other tag embodiments may also include a GPS receiver,
additional radios (e.g. UWB 802.15.4.a), indicators (e.g. Light
Emitting Diodes-LEDs, Liquid Crystal Display-LCD, etc.) and many
other peripherals as commonly found in off-the-shelf RFID tags
(e.g. AeroScout tags).
[0148] As can be easily understood by those skilled in the art,
Wi-Fi mobile units of many types (e.g. laptops, handheld devices,
etc.) can simulate and/or receive and process the non-associated
transmissions of the RFID tags and make use of many of the
advantages described.
[0149] While the invention has been particularly shown and
described with reference to the exemplary embodiments thereof, it
will be understood by those skilled in the art that many
alternatives, modifications and variations and other changes in
form, and details may be made therein without departing from the
spirit and scope of the invention.
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