Combined multi-set inventory and employee tracking using location based tracking device system
US7543744B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 24, 2005 |
| Grant date | Jun 9, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 1, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07C9/28
- WIPO fieldIT methods for management
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An assembly job tracking system includes tracking devices for employees and inventory sets required for the job. As the inventory moves from assembly location to assembly location, in one embodiment, wireless stations receive data identifying the tracking device and information related to the job. Various techniques for determining the location of the tracking devices include radio frequency signal source triangulation, assembly location specific RFID tags, local wireless stations located in the assembly location, and barcode scanning stations. A system controller and an associated data storage device control the tracking process and record data associated with the assembly job, equipment utilization, and employee efficiency. Based on location determination of the tracking devices, assembly job tracking records start and end times of multiple process steps. A system controller provides data that is analyzed to provide reports, including, invoice related reports, employee wages, and equipment usage and efficiency.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.