Description
This invention addresses the problem of asset management. It is assumed that a computer file exists with the identification of the type of asset and a unique number such as, but not necessarily, a serial number. The asset is moveable such that it can be anywhere in the building or structure.It is assumed that the building or structure has wireless network coverage and the computer on which the asset is inventoried has access to the wireless network. The hardware for reducing the concept to practice is an active RFID tag and an interface between the wireless network.The operation of the asset management system is a simple inquiry such as, "Where are all the crash carts in the hospital?" Each crash cart is assumed to have an active RFID tag attached to it. The inventory knows each unique identification number. Thus, one at a time, the Wi-Fi broadcasts a message for unit unique-id to respond. The 2.45GHz to 433MHz interface picks up the message and broadcasts the 433MHz inquiry. The unique-id active RFID tag responds at 433MHz with a simple generic message. The interface has an identification number for which the asset tracking system has a location on file. The interface transmits the location/id message to the Wi-Fi port that lets the asset management system display the location. This entire scenario can play out in a second(s).
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/US8022826B2
