RU2158444C2 - Electronic monitoring system/network - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: computer engineering. SUBSTANCE: network system of programmed node in fixed position and mobile labeling nodes provides direct communication between nodes. Specific nodes are programmed for recognition of extreme conditions in environment and logical actions using other parameters of conditions under recognition, as well communication to other nodes. Each node has integral circuit, which has three autonomous processors, which have shared memory and control circuit, but use separate registers. First processor provides monitoring of access to units, and has receiving- transmitting units for receiving and transmitting information. Second processor starts code, which is stored for specific usage layer, as well as complete operating system, which is equipped with direct communication to input-output devices for preliminary processing using conditions in environment. Third processor connects application processor to communication processor and controls various operations in the network: data processing, addressing, and so on. Node set is designed as global network, which has autonomous control. EFFECT: increased functional capabilities. 43 cl, 3 dwg, 5 ex

Description

 This invention relates to systems for recognizing and determining the location of an object or person, in particular to systems that are used to track personnel and material assets.

BACKGROUND
Although many systems have been developed and patented to recognize and determine the location of objects and people, these systems only allow you to read data from an identification tag (editor's note: tag - tag, identification tag, tag, marker) or program data in a tag (read mode -records) and did this only upon request. In addition, almost all of these systems require a centralized database or centralized processor. Examples of such systems include an electronic recognition system (4,937,581 and 5,132,687) and a portable identifying microprocessor programmed by the user (5,218,343). Other recognition methods with a description of the protocol have been developed, which means a tag recognition method, for example, an electronic method for requesting a recognition tag (5,266,925). All these tags essentially have memory devices with limited sensitivity. Due to external conditions, they cannot autonomously act or act in any way of logical perception. In addition, even in network antennas, there is no interactive distribution of information between tags or system decision-making, except through a central processor.

 The objective of this invention is to provide a network of programmable nodes, each of which has the ability to respond to pre-programmed specific external conditions and communicate with other elements in the network, sending messages without a request, requesting information or giving an alarm under certain conditions.

 The objective of the invention is also to equip each node in the network with a microprocessor and microprograms that provide the node with the ability to make decisions independently of the central processor.

 Another objective of this invention is to use the ability of each node to make decisions to determine the appropriate distance for each transmission in accordance with the context of the message.

 Another objective of the present invention is the use of a network to track objects and determine their location, including recognition in various applications.

 And another objective of this invention is the provision of a network for monitoring various parameters, including external conditions.

This and other objectives, features and advantages of this invention will become more clear from the following discussion and figures, in which:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Figure 1 is a block diagram representing the components of a node;
Figure 2 is a block diagram representing the components of a fixed position assembly;
figure 3 - layout of tags and nodes of a fixed position (FPN) for tracking objects and people, as well as recognition, location and other types of estimates of such information.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
In General, this invention includes a method for determining the location and recognition of objects and people, tracking them and the parameters related to the system in certain situations, as well as a method for monitoring such situations. This invention also includes an autonomous system for monitoring and evaluating parameters, as well as a control system for determining location and recognition, including at least two active operating nodes, a mobile node for a tag for recognition and data processing, or at least one programmable node for a fixed position (FPN). FPNs are in known fixed positions, and the tag nodes are movable relative to them. The relationship between the fixed and moving nodes (i.e., the proximity of the moving tag node relative to one or more fixed nodes) provides a positioning function. All nodes are initially equipped with a recognition code that determines where which node is installed and who or what is being monitored. The movable tag assembly is also programmed, if necessary, to control, save, modify and / or process external conditions by changing positions.

 Each of the nodes includes the means of direct inter-nodal communication and the means for making decisions without a central processor. Tag nodes also include means for quickly communicating with other tag nodes or FPNs via radio.

 Separate nodes (both mobile and fixed) include an integrated power source, such as a long-term battery for moving nodes, and a directly connected constant power source for fixed nodes. The nodes also include a microprocessor and memory elements, pre-programmed, if necessary, for recognizing external conditions and queries and for logical actions based on recognized parameters of the conditions (obtained through input-output means), as well as means for communicating with other nodes to drive the entire network or parts thereof, for example, through transceiver means (duplex communication means). The distance for communication via duplex radio communication is determined by microprocessor means and depends on the transmitted message. Information about external conditions comes through a request for radio communication from other nodes, as well as attached input-output devices.

 Each of the tag nodes and FPN has its own unique identification number, with which it is addressed and identified. Each node includes an integrated circuit functionally controlled by it, which optimally has at least three autonomous microprocessors that have a common memory and control circuit, but each has a separate set of registers.

 In an integrated circuit, the first microprocessor or central communication processor optimally controls access to funds and includes a connection to transceiver means for receiving and transmitting information between nodes (for example, between a tag and FPN, between tags (tags) or from FPN to FPN).

 The second microprocessor is an application central processor that runs code written for use by a particular node. This second microprocessor has a direct connection with the input / output device for initial processing based on external conditions, as pre-programmed, as well as for human intervention to enter and receive information. You can enter data, for example, using the keyboard, condition sensors, such as a thermometer, etc. Examples of output devices include a liquid crystal display, an audio signal, and the like.

 The third microprocessor, the network central processor, connects the application central processor with the central communication processor and controls the processing of network variables, addressing, dialog processing of requests, authentication, network coordination, etc.

 Microprocessors with an additional digital circuit, communication and input-output means, with a specific configuration and a power supply provide components of an autonomously controlled network in a certain area, capable of recognizing the location, tracking and logical control of the programmed external conditions and logical interaction with external requests for dialogue operations processing. One typical use case is to locate an employee in the workplace. Other application examples include locating doctors and equipment within a hospital, tracking a patient, locating products and equipment, as well as tracking products in warehouses or production facilities, automatic timing and studying labor movements, tracking cargo transportation, etc. item, and also - in the protection of educational buildings, residential and other buildings from unwanted visitors, as well as temperature control during storage of perishable goods.

 Separate nodes provide an intelligent processing function. For example, when determining the location of personnel with security control in the tag nodes, the parameters of the security level are programmed, which allows the system to properly determine the location of tags and their carriers. In addition, the tag nodes hold location information and process the program profile with data on the nature and schedule of the employee, on his characteristic work functions. Tags can be programmed to recognize normal use patterns and to give an alarm in case of deviations from these patterns. Thanks to the ability of tags and FPNs for processing and communication, there is access to functions that always require the use of a centralized processor.

 This invention also includes the use of a network system in hospitals, factories and warehouses, in educational buildings, as well as in tracking freight.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The system is configured to meet specific tracking or recognition needs using the appropriate microprogram to start the second microprocessor (application central processor) and I / O devices associated with the microprocessor and the corresponding network configuration to start the third microprocessor (network central processor).

Communication and mutual communication (radio or some other) between several FPNs and / or a tag node forms a network. There are three microprocessors, combined in an integrated circuit as described above, which includes an integrated circuit Neuron ^® 3150 manufactured by Motorola and Toshiba, which is preferred in each node tags and FPN. In these integrated circuits, the first microprocessor (the central communications processor described above) controls the media access algorithm (predictable permanent multiple access with carrier control). The second microprocessor controls the application code. The latter microprocessor controls the processing of variables in the network and the organization of the network.

 In these optimal integrated circuits with multiple microprocessors, each integrated circuit includes a 48-bit identifier (ID), which is stored in a read-only memory device that provides addressing and recognition on the network. According to the present invention, the tag node receives a message from the FPN or another tag node that contains the node identification number and thus returns an informational response only to the transmitting node. Messages between different tag nodes and FPNs can be sent using confirmation, request / response functions, without confirmation, and in other ways. Most applications use a confirmation function, which informs the sending node that its message has been received. In addition, certain messages, such as an alarm in case of intrusion or hacking, can be sent out of turn, and this priority, as soon as it becomes available, according to the above protocol gives them priority access to the network. The total amount of memory (RAM, ROM, EEPROM) in the best case is at least 64K, which is sufficient to store application code and data.

 To provide an additional level of security, some messages may be sent using an authentication key algorithm. This allows messages such as, for example, trying to change the security level of the tag, and therefore the employee, to receive confirmation before any changes are made. Another function of this system is the existence of a network of variables, which allows a variable from one node (tag or FPN) to bind to a specific variable of another node.

 In addition to microprocessors, each node (tag or FPN) contains a power source (for tag nodes, a mobile power source, such as a battery or a solar cell, is preferred), memory, a transceiver, and certain input / output devices. The transceiver provides communication between the host and the rest of the network. Tags communicate with the FPN or other tags using a radio transmitter to provide contactless communication. This allows objects and people to become part of the network without interference, but only being within the "capture zone", that is, within the area on which the communication operates. The size of the "capture zone" may vary depending on the power of the transceiver and the type or location of the antenna. The “capture zone” defines the FPN identity for the relative location of the tag node. Suitable radio transmitters are available from Motorola (R-net), Utilicom, and Telxon. FPNs are interconnected using a wiring diagram with two-core cords, power lines, radio communications, electrolytes, etc. I / O devices provide a person with a tag or FPN, such as a keyboard and display, or can communicate with other sensors or power mechanisms controlled by a tag or FPN.

During operation, communication between the individual nodes depends on the transmission of the message, as shown by the example of the following rotation:
At the sending node, the application central processor makes a decision (based on the data of timers, input / output devices, etc.) about the need to send certain information over the network to other nodes as a "network variable", which is adjusted by the application processor. After processing (which takes place in a memory common to network and application central processors, i.e., in the application buffer), the variable is transferred by the network central processor to the network buffer. Then, the network central processor modifies the memory so that it contains additional information, such as the address (incoming and outgoing), as well as any special sorting information, such as authentication. The addresses of the system nodes to which specific messages are sent are stored in memory, as during installation. The central communication processor monitors network messages until the communication channel is cleared; at this time, it transmits a message through the network through the transceiver using means such as stranded stranded wires, radio frequency, etc. The algorithm used to determine the transmission time of the message is predictable continuous multiple access with carrier control.

 A message travels through the network until it is weakened to the point where it becomes impossible to recognize it as a full-fledged message. Only those nodes that are within a certain reachable network segment (based on the characteristics of the transceiver) receive the correct message.

 At the receiving node, a message is received through its transceiver if the message is transmitted to a central communications processor. The communications central processor checks to see if the received message has the correct format. If correct, then it is stored in its network buffer. The network central processor, knowing that the message has been received, decodes it in order to check whether the message is intended for this node. If not, then it is reset. If so, then, if necessary, additional verification and processing is carried out, that is, authentication and confirmation. The new value of the network variable is allocated and passes through the application buffer back to the application program of the application central processor. After that, the program uses the new value in accordance with the parameters of a specific application.

 As for all nodes, there is a working range or capture zone in which the tag can communicate with other nodes. This range may vary depending on the specific application, as well as the type of message sent. For example, in an employee tracking application, the capture area for an FPN that monitors an employee’s security level is limited to the entrance or the limits of one room. In addition, if the FPN monitors an employee who wants to enter through the door, then he sends a search message that gives access only to the entrance. If the FPN tries to determine the names of all employees in the room, the message sent covers the distance covering the entire room. For optimal operation, the capture zones of various tags or FPNs, which are usually circle-shaped, may overlap slightly to ensure complete coverage of the area with at least one node. Receiving a position feedback signal from two or more FPNs automatically detects a tag in the overlapping area between the respective capture zones.

 In addition, in some applications, it is desirable to connect a human interface node to a network. In such cases, a personal computer or similar device can be connected to the network to view and change information on the network to which it has access, and can achieve network communication with it.

More specifically, in the application for tracking employees and access control, the system optimally performs the following operations:
Example 1 - Application of safety control and work discipline
Employees carry tags with them or on themselves that have information in the program’s memory that includes the employee’s identification data, in particular his name and identification number. To comply with the work schedule, individual tags provide the ability to track the employee at work, reporting the time of his arrival, departure and the time spent at the workplace, i.e. full time (presumably). This feature also serves to provide positioning of specific employees. In addition, for security control applications, the tags contain the employee’s security level, the employee’s thumbprint, his personal identification number, etc. are stored in electronic memory. The admission category in this context either specifically specifies or determines which doors (and therefore premises) the employee can open at what time and on what days.

 FPNs are located throughout the workplace, preferably at least one in a controlled room or room, as well as along corridors, at the entrance and at the exit, in fenced parking lots for office workers. The nodes at the input and output constantly send "tag search" messages. Tags receive these messages and are triggered to a security level to determine if an employee is authorized to enter. If such a right is recognized, and this is achieved either by matching the security level on the tag, or by using a personal identification number, the FPN output device causes the door to open. If at the same time you need to enter a group of employees with a single permission to open the door, then all the tags are checked. If any of the tags indicates that the employee does not have the right to enter, an alarm is triggered. Real control over the use can be carried out by employees who must ensure that no one enters the door without a tag, or by connecting the FPN to a motion sensor input device that responds to input without a corresponding tag message.

 When the tag (and therefore the employee) receives permission to enter the building, the tag receives and remembers messages from the FPN and, in turn, remembers the entry time and location. When an employee leaves the premises, the FPN located above the exit, which also constantly sends “tag search” messages, links the existing tag to the existing time and date information. The tag calculates the total time spent at work (i.e., defined as the total time spent at the workplace), and then transfers the calculated value to the FPN. This information is stored and then used for payroll or for the purpose of other employee labor assessments.

 The internal doors and areas of the room are kept safe in the same manner as the external corridors. Tags can be programmed to various levels of security based on time of day or nature of use. For applications that provide a high level of security, tags have pictures of employees in frames under the film for visual examination. In addition, the tag’s memory contains unique biometric information, such as an employee’s thumbprint. Upon request, at the entrance, the employee uses a fingerprint reader to scan the thumb. The image is processed and compared with the image stored in the tag memory. If the images match, the door opens. If not, an alarm is triggered. In addition, other biometric information can be stored in the tag’s memory, for example, the retina pattern, etc. As a backup option, the employee’s personal data is entered in the tag, the employee is randomly asked questions about this data, and the answers are entered using the keyboard. Correct answers open the door.

 To constantly monitor access to the building, tags are initially programmed with an expiration date. Once a month, the tags are checked with the verification node - a node that stores in memory the current levels of security checks to compare employees and their access categories. Expired tags are invalid. Subcontractors and business travelers are provided with tags of the appropriate tolerance category, valid for a short period. If the security level of the tag needs to be increased or lowered, messages are sent to all the FPNs to establish the location of the tag. If there are no tags for checking or double-checking within the premises, then new parameters are entered into the memory of each node at the entrance for a month or until the tag is assigned the appropriate category or invalidated. After this, changes are made to the verification node. After a month, the tags automatically become invalid and can be renewed in the security service with the simultaneous introduction of all changes. Due to the connection between the tags, the FPN and the verification node, changes to the tags are made automatically without the need to collect and return tags.

 The radio transceiver does not allow employees to remove identification badges, so it makes no sense to take cards with recorded data about the time of arrival and departure. This is not necessary for a group of employees with access (i.e., if a group of employees enters the building at the same time, it is not required that each individual provide his badge for active verification). Thanks to the registration of the movements of each employee, his location is known at any time to observe and transmit a two-way call signal.

 Since each tag is encoded with a unique recognition marker, which is the name of the employee or his identification number, the tag can be used to determine the location of the employee or group of employees within the workroom (or doctor within the hospital, etc.). Access to the FPN is opened through its input / output port with the employee identification data (last name or identification number), and he gives a message about the location. This message is transmitted to the FPN, which then makes a request for all tags in the capture zone of the controlled areas. A tag whose location is established confirms the receipt of a message indicating the transmitting FPN. A call to the tag carrier is notified by a sound signal and / or a personal message on the liquid crystal display. The nearest FPN gives a new message indicating that the requested tag is within its capture zone, and passes it back to the original FPN, notifying the requesting location of the employee or other personnel. Responses in this way can be sent to the main pager or to any other authorized person.

 A human-adapted interface (HI) node is capable of interrogating any node in the network available for this interface node and fetching any information stored in the node's memory. An example of such an ability is the following: a program running in such an interface node allows managers to monitor the location of employees. In addition, it allows managers to compile statistics on the nature of each employee’s work. A validation node, such as an HI interface node, contains all tolerance categories, and a manager or security representative can view and make changes to this node from such an interface node at any time. Thus, the manager, entering the network, has a list of his employees with access categories. In addition, the accounting program is contained in the accounting interface node, which receives information from the tag nodes to control working time (based on the time of arrival and departure), which can be accumulated every week or every month. This information can be used to compile the payroll.

The following are other specific examples of the use of this invention in hospitals, in manufacturing, during transportation of goods and in educational institutions:
Example 2 Hospital
The tag nodes are located at doctors, patients and other representatives of hospital personnel and can be attached to the main mobile equipment to perform various functions related to monitoring, recognition and location. By monitoring the location of each tag, the system provides security features that are only allowed to authorized personnel in a limited area and at a limited time, and also restricts the use and movement of tagged equipment.

 Although most patients are in a fixed position (hospital bed and surroundings), patients who can move around can also be observed. The system of sequential monitoring of the whereabouts of doctors and patients allows you to direct incoming phone calls to the device closest to the doctor or patient, which means it can also function as a two-way call signal system. In one embodiment, the tags are equipped with keys for entering information that allow you to transfer information to other tags at a distance, including the people or equipment to which they are attached, as well as specific patients of the doctor.

 In case of emergency, patients or sisters activate the tag by pressing a button to immediately call the nearest doctor. The system can determine this by polling the FPNs closest to the FPN, which receives a message about the need for help. In the same way, hospital staff can determine the location of nearby equipment, such as an ECG apparatus, by entering the code for such equipment. The screen informs the requestor about the nearest location of the device. The patient’s medical history, which is stored in the tag’s memory, is immediately available to the arriving doctor. Information about the doctor’s prescriptions and diet is also kept in memory to ensure greater accuracy and to notify staff if the patient has not received food or medicine on time (the sister’s tag sends confirmation messages to the patient’s tag about the receipt of the notice of medication or feeding). The absence of confirmation messages triggers an audible warning signal for the patient’s tag, which notifies the tag of the corresponding employee.

Example 3 - Production
While the system can be used as a timekeeping system (worksheet system), a two-way paging device, a tool for tracking employees, it can also be used as a tool for monitoring products and accounting funds along with employee tags that automatically monitor the time of their arrival and departure and the use of specific equipment and the performance of certain work, i.e. for performance. Tags on all the inventory used in the production process allow you to monitor its use, inform planners about its quantity and location, as well as monitor the work throughout the entire production process.

 An employee’s tag is used to assess the degree to which an employee uses equipment for production, as well as the time to evaluate employee productivity and labor costs (i.e., what is the sequence of technological operations performed by each employee, and for what period of time). In this mode, tags communicate with the FPN. A technique that recognizes the employee using it automatically adapts to the needs of the user, for example, for use by persons with physical disabilities or for a specific sequence of technological operations.

 Special-sized tags with an integrated keyboard are provided by the sequence of technological operations and are moved to the corresponding working positions to monitor the stages of the production process through input / output devices, the collected data is entered into the tag for comparison with formulas developed by engineers to optimize the internal and external properties stored in memory tags. This data can be used to determine the sequence of technological operations. Frequent refusals or significant deviations indicate that the process has gone out of control, and the observer is immediately notified by the tag via the above connection or through a direct request for the tag.

 Controlling the time spent on various working positions, as well as storing information regarding specific workers employed in the technological process, allows you to estimate costs and quickly and accurately link them with a specific technological process. This can be done if the tags of workers are communicated with tags associated with the process, and if both of them are communicated with FPNs related to technology. In addition, the state of the process can be evaluated in real time.

 The tag is also used when monitoring the location, quantity, age and environmental conditions of the inventory. The location of the inventory is carried out using methods similar to those described previously with respect to locating employees. Information about the product, source and other identification information is initially loaded into the tags, and the totality of all identification of tags serves to recognize specific units, and also provides information regarding the amount of inventory. The date was originally encoded in the tag, which is later used in determining the age of a specific unit of inventory and thus provides the possibility of using the FIFO method (principle of a simple queue). Appropriate sensors connected to the tag's I / O devices provide immediate environmental conditions, such as the temperature at which foods are stored or exposed to during storage. Upon receipt of the inventory data on all spare parts are entered directly into the appropriate tag. If the inventory no longer meets the predetermined set parameters, the system gives a signal to the tag of the purchasing agent about the need to replenish the stock of parts of the specified name.

 In the event of a production line shutdown or urgent procurement necessary, two-way paging of tags will significantly increase efficiency.

Example 4 - Supervision of the transport of goods
When used in transport, tags are attached to trains, trucks or containers and contain information related to the type and origin of the cargo, time of its delivery to the destination, current location, etc., thus creating an electronic bill of lading for the cargo. After this, the tags inform about the location and condition at set intervals or when approaching stationary location nodes located on the side of the road or on trucks. Tags can also be programmed to provide real-time fuel consumption information, to monitor refrigerated vehicles, etc.

 For communication with mass sensors in motion, allowing you to monitor the mass of cargo on the road, registration information is entered in the tags. Employees on roads, bridges, and tunnels equipped with FPNs can read the information they need from trucks without having to stop them. If necessary, the input lines of tags on trucks or other vehicles can be connected to speedometers, autolayers, brakes, fuel gauges, etc. to monitor the driver and the vehicle.

Example 5 - University Certificate and Pass
On campuses and other campuses, FPNs are deployed everywhere so that they can receive a danger signal from a tagged person. When you click a button on an FPN tag in the territory, a danger signal is received from the tag and the area is triangulated to determine the location of the tag. Triangulation is carried out by the FPN, which receives a distress signal, communicating with neighboring nodes to determine which of them have received messages. When an object in the territory is precisely indicated, the signal is transmitted to the site of a human-adapted interface (HI) in the nearest security service center. A confirmation signal, such as a beep in a tag, confirms that help is on its way.

 An additional function that can be achieved using the same FPN system is the “guard bypass” function, which guarantees the arrival of a guard at a designated place at a scheduled time.

 Among other examples of the use of tags is the storage in memory of the identification numbers of students and employees, as well as financial information for accounting. This financial information can be used for procurement, library management, etc. Students can use the tag to monitor and control their spending and budget. Illegal access is suppressed through the use of authentication algorithms.

 The triangulation function described above can be easily used with other applications to locate specific objects or people, as required by location input from two or more FPNs. In this aspect, it is possible to provide a wide range of communication for the FPN (depending on the output power) to extend the range and make more efficient use of triangulation positioning when only one FPN is in the “capture zone”.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES AND THE OPTIMAL EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION
The figure 1 shows a block diagram of the main components and parts associated with the tag 1, a control device located on the object, in accordance with this invention. Tag 1 includes an integrated circuit 2 with three (3) microprocessors 3, 4, and 5 and associated firmware 6. Firmware 6 includes a common communication protocol, a specific application code, and a specific network configuration for a specific application. The firmware 6 is stored both in the memory of the chip 7 and in the attached memory 8. The integrated circuit 2 is also connected to the radio transceiver 9. The radio transceiver receives a digital signal from the microprocessor and converts it into an electromagnetic signal, which is then transmitted through the antenna 10.

 In addition, the antenna 10 receives electromagnetic signals, which are transmitted to the radio transceiver 9, which then converts these electromagnetic signals into digital signals, which are then transmitted to the integrated circuit 2.

 Each tag is powered by a long-term battery 12. Depending on the particular application of the system, integrated circuit 2 has various I / O devices 11. It may include sensors and actuators, such as a keyboard or display.

 Figure 2 shows a diagram of the main hardware components associated with the FPN 20. The node 20, as defined in this invention, has two main components: a monitoring node 22 and a routing device 21. A power supply 32 supplies energy to both parts of the system. The remainder of the monitoring node 22 is identical to the tag node 2 described above except that messages that are sent through the twin-core transceiver 30 and the firmware 27 are modified in accordance with a particular application. This particular firmware 27 is stored in the attachment memory 28 and the attachment memory 29. Certain input / output devices 31 may be associated with the integrated circuit.

 Routing device 21 transmits messages between various types of means, in this case, between a tag radio transceiver and transceiver 30 with a two-wire pair of the monitoring unit 22. Messages leaving the monitoring node 22 move through the network 37 and are received by the transceiver 36 with a two-wire pair. This transceiver converts the signal in the network 37 into a digital signal received by the router 35. Then this signal takes the form recognized by the radio transceiver 34 and then propagates as air waves through the antenna 33. In the same way, messages received from the tag ultimately arrive on the network 37 after broadcasting through the routing device 21.

 An example of an application for determining location and ensuring security is the input device depicted in FIG. 3 and equipped with an FPN 101 having a specific request radius that can overlap with the radius of other system nodes. As you can see, passing through the entrance of an employee with a tag node 201 on himself causes a dialogue between the FPN and the tag with a survey regarding the level of access and identification of the employee. If the employee has the right to enter, the door lock 110 is set in motion by the node 101 and opens to let the employee into a specific area, and the time and date of arrival are entered in the tag. Upon leaving the zone, the nodes 101 communicate with the tag node 201, record the exit time and calculate the total time of presence at the workplace, taking into account previously recorded data on the arrival time. Then, the total time is transmitted via FPN to the accounting node to determine the amount of wages.

 The location of the employee within the workplace is determined by the communicating FPNs, which transmit information to each other about the tags that are within the scope of their requests, until the location of the requested tag is established. Information about the location of the tag (as well as the employee) is transmitted to the requestor through the network of request tags.

 The same principle of action is possible with respect to determining the location of doctors, patients and mobile medical equipment within the hospital territory; as well as determining the location of inventory and products within a warehouse or industrial premises or to determine the location of transported goods, for example, as described above. However, it is understood that the aforementioned examples of use are merely examples of the application of the present invention, and therefore, the possibility of changes in the system, request and response protocols, as well as changes in the system without deviating from the essence of the present invention, as defined in the claims described below, is allowed.

Claims (43)

 1. A network system for identifying and determining the location, including two or more nodes, with at least one programmable, marking and processing the location of the object tag node and at least one programmable node fixed position (FPN) for communication with the tag node to determine the location , identification and ongoing monitoring of the specified tag node relative to FPN, each of these nodes includes an integrated circuit with a programmable microprocessor, a unique identification number eryp, a transceiver for receiving and sending information, a storage device, each node additionally including a means of direct communication between nodes and means for independent decision-making without the participation of a central processor, each node additionally including an integrated power source and a means of communication with an FPN or other tag node with or without interrogation, the aforementioned FPN and tag nodes include interface means for establishing communication with an input and output device on a person’s tag or an object, the aforementioned integrated circuit comprising at least three independent microprocessors with a common memory and a control circuit, but with separate sets of registers, where the first microprocessor includes a central communication processor adapted to provide access control to the means and communication between nodes and has a communication device with transceiver for receiving and transmitting information.  2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that the second microprocessor includes an applied central processor capable of working with code recorded for at least one specific application for identifying and determining the location of the object, the second microprocessor equipped with a communication device with a pairing device for primary processing data based on environmental conditions according to the program and for interacting with a person to enter a command.  3. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that the third microprocessor includes a network central processor adapted to connect an application central processor to a communication central processor, said third microprocessor capable of processing network variables, addressing, message processing, authentication and network management.  4. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that the messages between the nodes are carried out in such a way that the transmitting node knows whether its message is received or not, and a response is required or expected.  5. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that each node contains these shared storage devices, which are RAM, ROM and EEPROM, and the memory size of these devices is at least 64 K.  6. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that the level of security parameters are entered into the tag node program for the system to correctly determine the location of the tags and their carriers.  7. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that said tag nodes store versions of biometric information about their carriers in electronic memory.  8. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that the tag nodes include personal information about their carriers, and these tag nodes represent random questions to the carrier, and to open access to protected areas where the tag nodes are programmed with the appropriate parameters of the security level, the correct the answers.  9. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that the nodes of the tags contains means that allow you to remotely change or disable the parameters of the security level through these transceivers.  10. The system according to claim 5, characterized in that the places with security levels have motion detectors for detecting the entrance of any person who does not have a tag node.  11. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that the nodes of the tags are adapted to store information about the location and process profiles of the characteristic parameters of the employee’s employment and the time spent working or performing specific work functions.  12. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that the tag node is adapted to receive messages from another node, and this message contains the identification number of the transmitting node, and the receiving node returns an informationally directed response only to the transmitting node.  13. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that said tag nodes contain paging tools that provide two-way remote communication with their carriers.  14. The system of claim 13, wherein said paging tool includes an alarm trigger that, when turned on, enables reception of at least one FPN within the area of the alarm message of a tag node having such a trigger.  15. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that the FPNs are located over the entire monitored area with the possibility of overlapping capture zones defined by the range of transceivers, as well as at the input and output, moreover, the FPN at the input and output constantly send "tag search" messages, and the tag nodes that enter the capture zone communicate with the FPN and receive and store messages from the FPN in memory and, in turn, save the arrival time and location in the memory of the tag node, and when the tag node passes through the output, the FPN constantly sends messages "search tags "And thus leaving said tag information of the date and the time and date of departure, the tag node calculates the total time, which is determined by the total time spent tag assembly within the controlled area.  16. The system of clause 15, wherein the area of the capture zone may be different depending on the power of the transceiver, and the capture zone determines the identity of the FPN for the relative location of the tag node.  17. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that the tag assembly has special dimensions that allow it to be used in the technological process on production equipment, said tag being adapted to monitor the stages of production processes on said production equipment through a pairing tool for comparing actual production stages processes with formulas developed by production engineers to optimize the internal and external quality of production processes that are x tags are wounded in the memory, and deviations of the actual stages of production processes from the formulas indicate a process that has gone out of control, and this tag also includes a means of alerting the observer about the exit of the specified process out of control.  18. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that it is adapted for observation in hospitals, wherein the tag assembly is attached to a particular patient, and the patient’s medical history is stored in the tag memory and is accessible to the doctor through a pairing device.  19. The system according to p. 18, characterized in that it includes a tag assembly attached to a particular patient, the prescription for the patient or information about his diet is stored in the tag’s memory and can be accessed by a doctor, said tag assembly containing means for Alerts staff about the patient not receiving a dose of the drug or food.  20. The system according to claim 19, characterized in that the tag node is attached to the nurse, wherein the nurse tag node is equipped with a device for transmitting confirmation messages to the patient tag node when the patient receives food or a dose of the drug, the patient tag node containing an audible alarm, triggered in the absence of confirmation from the nurse's tag node that the food or dose of the medicine was taken appropriately.  21. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that it is adapted for use in equipment in accordance with the requirements of the customer, said FPN being attached to said equipment, said tag assembly recognizing the carrier for FPN, and said equipment containing means for adapting its operation to the requirements of the specified medium, pre-programmed, using the specified recognition information from the FPN.  22. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that it is adapted for accounting of inventory, and the tag node is designed for each accounting object, and the tag nodes are attached to individual accounting objects, and the memory devices of these tag nodes are initially loaded with recognition information, related to the accounting object to which they are attached.  23. The system according to item 22, wherein said recognition information includes the initial date of the introduction of the object in the accounting sheet to determine the age of the specified accounting object.  24. The system of claim 22, wherein said tag nodes comprise interface means for measuring environmental conditions for a metering object.  25. The system according to paragraph 24, wherein the specified means of pairing contains a thermometer.  26. The system according to p. 22, characterized in that it includes an additional node that contains pre-programmed levels of metering objects, and when the reserves are exhausted and the tag nodes are removed, the alarm means of the indicated FPN is turned on, which notifies of a decrease in inventory.  27. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that it is adapted to monitor the transportation of goods by vehicles, and it is fixed on the indicated vehicle, and the cargo information is stored in the memory of the indicated tag node, sufficient for the bill of lading stored in the electronic memory .  28. The system of claim 27, wherein said tag nodes are programmed and adapted to monitor fuel consumption by said vehicle in real time through a pairing means.  29. The system of claim 27, wherein said tag nodes are programmed and adapted to monitor environmental conditions for said cargo through interface means.  30. The system of claim 27, wherein said vehicle is a truck, and said tag nodes are programmed and adapted to monitor the operation of the truck and its driver’s behavior through the interface.  31. The method of identifying and determining the location of an object or person within a designated area using the network system according to claim 1, comprising a) permanently placing one or more FPNs at predetermined locations within the designated area, each FPN having its own unique identification number ; b) providing the indicated object or person with one of the indicated tag nodes having the indicated unique identification number; c) setting the specified FPN to send search messages to the specified tag node with its identification using the specified unique identification number, and the tag node has the specified identification number corresponding to the FPN or the nodes closest to it, with confirmation and identification of the FPN or nodes receiving confirmation , due to their unique identification number or numbers, and the location of the tag node and the object or person having the specified tag node, relative to the identification FPN or nodes.  32. The method according to p, characterized in that the person is an employee, and the designated area is the workplace of an employee.  33. The method according to p. 31, characterized in that the zone is a workstation, and the FPN is placed at the exit and entrance of the specified workstation, while the departure and arrival of the tag node is noted and stored in the specified storage device of the specified tag node with commands from the associated it is an FPN, wherein said FPN further comprises a clock / calendar for determining a specific time of departure and arrival, and information stored in a memory about the specified time of departure and arrival is processed by the specified microprocessor to calculate the total time finding said tag assembly workplace.  34. The method according to p. 33, characterized in that the specified total time is transferred to the accounting department for the preparation of the payroll for the employee having the specified tag node.  35. The method according to p. 31, characterized in that the person is a doctor, and the indicated designated area is a hospital.  36. The method according to p, characterized in that the person is a patient, and the indicated designated area is a hospital.  37. The method according to p, characterized in that the object is mobile medical equipment, and the indicated designated area is a hospital.  38. The method according to p, characterized in that the object is an accounting object, and the indicated designated zone is a warehouse in which a plurality of accounting objects are stored.  39. The method according to p, characterized in that the object is a sequence of technological processes, and the indicated designated zone is a factory for the production of products using the specified sequence of technological processes.  40. The method according to p. 31, characterized in that the object is the goods transported by the vehicle, and the indicated designated area is the route of movement of the specified vehicle.  41. The method according to p, characterized in that the tag node communicates with one or more FPNs directly or with one FPN, which, in turn, communicates with one or more FPNs, moreover, two or more FPNs triangulate the position relative to the tag node to determine the location of the tag node and the person or object having the specified tag node.  42. The method of maintaining security control in the designated area using the network system according to claim 1, including a) programming the security level at the specified tag node; b) programming the security level tolerance category in the FPN, which is in a fixed position at the entrance to the specified zone; c) setting the specified FPN to a request from the specified tag node about the security level programmed in it; d) permission from the FPN to enter if only the specified security level meets or exceeds the security level tolerance category.  43. The method according to paragraph 41, characterized in that it is adapted to maintain security on the territory of universities and other educational institutions, and the FPN is placed throughout the university to receive alarms from persons who are carriers of the tag nodes, with each tag equipped with an inclusion element an alarm signal, which in the on state ensures reception of an alarm signal from the tag node with at least one FPN within the message area, moreover, area triangulations are used to determine a specific location, while said triangulation exercise FPN, which receives the alarm, communicating with other neighboring nodes to determine those who also received such a message.

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