WO1992009054A1 - Device for providing information about an article and information processing system using same - Google Patents

Device for providing information about an article and information processing system using same Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1992009054A1
WO1992009054A1 PCT/FR1991/000901 FR9100901W WO9209054A1 WO 1992009054 A1 WO1992009054 A1 WO 1992009054A1 FR 9100901 W FR9100901 W FR 9100901W WO 9209054 A1 WO9209054 A1 WO 9209054A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
article
transmitter
request
devices
receiver
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/FR1991/000901
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Patrick Nitschke
Boris Horowitz
Original Assignee
Patrick Nitschke
Boris Horowitz
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Patrick Nitschke, Boris Horowitz filed Critical Patrick Nitschke
Publication of WO1992009054A1 publication Critical patent/WO1992009054A1/en

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06K—GRAPHICAL DATA READING; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS
    • G06K17/00—Methods or arrangements for effecting co-operative working between equipments covered by two or more of main groups G06K1/00 - G06K15/00, e.g. automatic card files incorporating conveying and reading operations
    • G06K17/0022—Methods or arrangements for effecting co-operative working between equipments covered by two or more of main groups G06K1/00 - G06K15/00, e.g. automatic card files incorporating conveying and reading operations arrangements or provisious for transferring data to distant stations, e.g. from a sensing device
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06K—GRAPHICAL DATA READING; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS
    • G06K19/00—Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings
    • G06K19/06—Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
    • G06K19/067—Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards also with resonating or responding marks without active components
    • G06K19/07—Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards also with resonating or responding marks without active components with integrated circuit chips
    • G06K19/0723—Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards also with resonating or responding marks without active components with integrated circuit chips the record carrier comprising an arrangement for non-contact communication, e.g. wireless communication circuits on transponder cards, non-contact smart cards or RFIDs
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/20—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass
    • G07C9/27—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass with central registration
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/20—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass
    • G07C9/28—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass the pass enabling tracking or indicating presence

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an information device on an article as well as to a system intended to use at least one such device.
  • the main object of the invention is an information device on an article linked to said article, comprising:
  • an electric generator characterized in that it comprises a microprocessor, and that the storage means store:
  • the invention also relates to a system for remote management and / or location of articles, comprising at least one computer and at least one transmitter / receiver, characterized in that it comprises at least one device capable of communicating with said transmitter / receiver.
  • the device and the system according to the present invention not only allow the location of objects, but also make it possible to carry out complete management of a stock or fleet of articles, or even of living beings, in particular humans.
  • each device allows simultaneous processing of a request by all devices. This improves the speed of response, and simplifies the request processing software.
  • all the devices, or all the groups of devices include request processing software, advantageously identical. This software is much simpler than centralized processing software for all responses to requests.
  • each device responds only to specific requests. This avoids the emission of responses by all the devices present. The amount of information to be transmitted is therefore very much lower, which makes it possible to use a transmission channel. this bandwidth less wide and / or speed up the transmission ?.
  • Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the system according to the present invention
  • FIG. 2 is a diagram of a device according to the present invention
  • FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of organization of the memory of the device in FIG. 2.
  • FIGS. 1 to 3 the same references have been used to designate the same elements.
  • FIG. 1 we can see a system according to the present invention comprising a computer 1 connected to at least one transmitter / receiver 11, advantageously to a plurality of transmitters / receivers 11 to 1M.
  • Each transceiver 11 at 1M is capable of transmitting and / or receiving modulated waves, advantageously modulated electromagnetic waves, typically radio waves.
  • the use of radio waves is symbolized by the connection of a transmit / receive antenna 2 to each transmitter / receiver 11 to 1M.
  • Radio waves have the advantage of being able to be reflected and to propagate through non-metallic obstacles.
  • the use of other types of electromagnetic waves does not depart from the scope of the present invention.
  • modulated infrared waves allow the use of a very wide bandwidth.
  • the system of FIG. 1 also comprises a plurality of devices 3 for information on an article.
  • each device 3 for information on an article is fixed to the corresponding article, for example by a clamp or an adhesive.
  • the transmitters / receivers 11 to 1M are distributed, on the one hand so as to be able to enter into communication with all the devices 3 for information on an item, and, on the other hand, to be able to locate one of the devices 3.
  • the location is obtained for example by triangulation, several receivers being capable of receiving the response of each device 3, either by cutting up the space, for example by partitions preventing the propagation of the waves used.
  • the device 3 is located according to the transmitters / receivers which have received the signals transmitted by the device 3 to be located.
  • the computer 1 is for example a microcomputer.
  • the transmitters / receivers 11 to 1M comprise means of connection to the computer 1, for example by the electricity distribution network or of the computer network type.
  • Each transmitter / receiver comprises a device for modulating and coding the waves to be transmitted, and a device for demodulating and decoding the waves received.
  • all the transmitters / receivers 11 to 1M transmit substantially simultaneously a request intended for the devices 3.
  • the exchange of information between the computer 1 and the transmitters / receivers is managed by software constituting an additional layer of the operating system. .
  • terminal control software, computer network management software or management of controllers or interfaces is used.
  • each transmitter / receiver 11 to 1M specifies its number or address so that the computer 1 knows which of the transmitters / receivers 11 to 1M has received said response.
  • the device 3 of FIG. 2 comprises a transmit / receive antenna 31 connected to a transmitter / receiver 32.
  • the transmitter / receiver 32 is connected, advantageously by means of an analog-digital converter and a converter digital-analog 33 to a microprocessor 34.
  • the microprocessor 34 is connected to the storage means 35 typically an electronic memory.
  • a clock 36 for example quartz, ensures the synchronization of various elements of the device 3.
  • This device 3 also comprises an electric generator 39, advantageously a chemical generator, in particular a battery or an accumulator.
  • an electric generator 39 advantageously a chemical generator, in particular a battery or an accumulator.
  • a lithium battery or a screen-printed battery is used.
  • the device 3 includes means for testing 37, 38 of the amount of energy available in the generator 39.
  • the device 3 comprises signaling means 40, for example a light-emitting diode or an audible alarm device.
  • the operation of the device 3 according to the present invention comprises three stages:
  • a message is picked up by the antenna 31 and demodulated by the transmitter / receiver 32.
  • the analog-digital converter 33 digitizes the message.
  • the message in its digital form is stored in a buffer memory, not shown, in memory 35 or in a register of microprocessor 34.
  • a buffer memory for example, an address bus is used to transmit the message.
  • the message is stored under the supervision of the microprocessor 34 or of a direct memory access device (DMA in English terminology) not shown.
  • DMA direct memory access device
  • the mircoprocessor 34 processes the request. In most cases, the request includes a selective query. The microprocessor 34 determines whether the device 3 is concerned by the selection criteria contained in the request. If so, it selects the information that is requested by the request.
  • the microprocessor 34 selects in the memory 35 the information to be transmitted and elaborates a message.
  • the message is modulated by the converter 33 and by the transmitter / receiver 32.
  • the device simultaneously transmits a location signal for example, a sound or light signal facilitating its location to a human operator.
  • the response is picked up by at least one of the transceivers 11 to 1M in FIG. 1 and transmitted to the computer 1.
  • each device 3 monitors the transmission channel. If a transmission is in progress, no device 3 makes an attempt resignation. When the channel is free, and that a device 3 must transmit, it advantageously waits for a pseudo-random period of time, then, if during this period of time it has detected no transmission, it begins to transmit its response to the request . During transmission it continues to monitor the channel. So if two devices 3 have started to transmit simultaneously, they both interrupt the transmission. The device 3 with the shortest pseudo-random waiting period can start transmitting.
  • the reduction in the number of responses to the requests to be transmitted avoids saturating the channel and in particular the collisions by simultaneous transmissions of the beginnings of response.
  • a device 3 can transmit on the same transmission channel.
  • the reliability of the system according to the present invention is improved by monitoring the energy level available in each device. For example, a test of the available energy level is carried out.
  • the device 3 comprises a counter 37 accounting for the current consumptions. It measures either the flow rate or the operating times of various elements of the device 3.
  • the energy level is equal to the difference between the initial energy level and the energy already consumed.
  • the devices 3 whose energy level reaches 25% of the initial capacity of the generator 39 emits an alarm signal.
  • the computer 1 interrogates the devices 3 on their energy levels. For example, it issues a request requesting the response of all the devices 3 whose energy level is less than or equal to 25% of the maximum capacity of the generator 39. An operator will change or recharge the generators 39 of the devices 3 having responded to the request . It is of course possible to issue a request by selecting all of the devices 3, in particular to ensure that there are no devices 3 whose generator 39 is unable to provide the energy required to generate an alarm. The comparison of the list of devices 3 stored in the computer 1 with the request responses makes it possible to determine possible faulty devices 3, in particular as a result of the exhaustion of their generator 39.
  • FIG. 2 shows a single memory 35. It is understood that the memory 35 can comprise several electronic components and even several types of components. An example of the logical structure of the memory 35 is illustrated in FIG. 3.
  • the memory 35 stores an operating program 351 and at least one selection criterion 353. The example
  • N selection criteria referenced 353 to 35 (N + 2). It includes a memory 350 intended for the execution of the program 351. Advantageously, it also comprises a number 352 of the device 3 and a selection key 35 (N + 3) allowing for example to select a group of the device 3.
  • the references 351 to 35 (N + 3) correspond to, - correspond to permanent memories. One can use for example a read only memory (ROM in Anglo-Saxon terminology).
  • the program execution memory 350 is necessarily a random access memory (RAM in English terminology).
  • the memories 352 to 35 are preferably of the reprogrammable __ type, for example of the erasable programmable memory type (EPROM in English terminology) or electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM in Anglo-Saxon terminology). It is understood that the use of other information media such as, for example, optical reading media, in particular of the digital optical disc or digital optical card type, does not depart from the scope of the present invention.
  • EPROM erasable programmable memory type
  • EEPROM electrically erasable programmable read only memory
  • the 25 device 3 comprises the contacts necessary for programming data in the memory 35.
  • the memory 35 is of the backed-up random access memory type.
  • One uses for example a static memory (S RAM in English terminology) whose electrical consumption at rest is reduced. In such a case it is possible to use the antenna 31 to
  • the microprocessor 34 executing the program 351 checks whether the information stored in the memory 35
  • the requests can contain various boolean operators for example AND, OR, NOK, OR exclusive to combine the various selection criteria.
  • the criteria lower or equal, lower, higher or higher or equal can be used.
  • the criteria can vary according to their membership of a group, indicated by a key 35 (N + 3).
  • a group we have for example a criterion "authors”, a criterion “title”, a criterion “publisher”, and a criterion “price”.
  • a key "household appliance” we will have for example the criteria "nature of the product”, “brand of the product”, “product reference” and "price”.
  • the memory 35 is loaded with the relevant information allowing remote management of the stock.
  • the device 3 is removed therefrom and its emissions are blocked, for example by means of a switch not shown.
  • the invention mainly applies to the localization and / or the remote management of articles, with the possibility by issuing appropriate requests to carry out an inventory.

Abstract

The device (3) is connected to an article to provide information thereon and comprises a memory (35), a transceiver (32) for electromagnetic waves in particular, and an electrical generator (39). It further comprises a microprocessor (34) and said memory (35) stores a microprocessor operation programme and at least one criterion which characterizes the article. A remote management and/or article locating system comprising at least one computer, at least one transceiver and at least one device providing information about an article, is also described.

Description

DISPOSITIF D'INFORMATION SUR UN ARTICLE ET SYSTEME INFORMATIQUE!.'UTILISANT" INFORMATION DEVICE ON AN ARTICLE AND COMPUTER SYSTEM!. USING "
L'invention se rapporte à un dispositif d'information sur un article ainsi qu'à un système destiné à utiliser au moins un tel dispositif. L'invention a principalement pour objet un dispositif d'information sur un article lié audit article, comportant :The invention relates to an information device on an article as well as to a system intended to use at least one such device. The main object of the invention is an information device on an article linked to said article, comprising:
- des moyens de mémorisation,- storage means,
- un émetteur/récepteur d'ondes, notamment électromagnétiques,- a transmitter / receiver of waves, in particular electromagnetic,
- un générateur électrique, caractérisé par le fait qu'il comporte un microprocesseur, et que les moyens de mémorisation stockent:- an electric generator, characterized in that it comprises a microprocessor, and that the storage means store:
- un programme de fonctionnement du microprocesseur,- a microprocessor operating program,
- au moins un critère caractérisant l'article.- at least one criterion characterizing the article.
L'invention a également pour objet un système de gestion à distance et/ou de localisation d'articles, comportant au moins un ordinateur et au moins un émetteur/récepteur, caractérisé par le fait qu'il comporte au moins un dispositif susceptible de communiquer avec ledit émetteur/récepteur.The invention also relates to a system for remote management and / or location of articles, comprising at least one computer and at least one transmitter / receiver, characterized in that it comprises at least one device capable of communicating with said transmitter / receiver.
Le dispositif et le système selon la présente invention permettent non seulement la localisation des objets, mais permettent en plus d'effectuer une gestion complète d'un stock ou parc d'articles, ou même d'êtres vivants notamment des humains.The device and the system according to the present invention not only allow the location of objects, but also make it possible to carry out complete management of a stock or fleet of articles, or even of living beings, in particular humans.
L'incorporation d'une unité de traitement, avantageusement sous forme d'un microprocesseur, à chaque dispositif selon la présente inventior! permet des traitements simultanés d'une requête par tous les dispositifs. On améliore ainsi la rapidité de réponse, et l'on simplifie le logiciel de traitement de requêtes. En effet, tous les dispositifs, ou tous les groupes de dispositifs comportent un logiciel de traitement de requêtes, avantageusement identique. Ce logiciel est beaucoup plus simple qu'un logiciel de traitement centralisé de toutes les réponses aux requêtes. De plus, comme il sera expliqué plus loin, chaque dispositif ne répond qu'à des requêtes spécifiques. Ainsi, on évite l'émission des réponses par tous les dispositifs présents. La quantité d'informations à transmettre est donc très nettement inférieure, ce qui permet d'utiliser un canal de transmissior. ce bande passante moins large et/ou d'accélérer les transmission?. L'invention sera mieux comprise au moyen de la descript c-i. ci-après et des figures annexées données comme des exemples nor limitatifs parmi Desquels : - . la figure 1 est un schéma illustrant le système selon la présente invention;The incorporation of a processing unit, advantageously in the form of a microprocessor, into each device according to the present invention! allows simultaneous processing of a request by all devices. This improves the speed of response, and simplifies the request processing software. In fact, all the devices, or all the groups of devices, include request processing software, advantageously identical. This software is much simpler than centralized processing software for all responses to requests. In addition, as will be explained below, each device responds only to specific requests. This avoids the emission of responses by all the devices present. The amount of information to be transmitted is therefore very much lower, which makes it possible to use a transmission channel. this bandwidth less wide and / or speed up the transmission ?. The invention will be better understood by means of the description below. below and the appended figures given as nonlimiting examples among which: -. Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the system according to the present invention;
- la figure 2 est un schéma d'un dispositif selon la présente invention; - la figure 3 est un schéma illustrant un exemple d'organisation de la mémoire du dispositif de la figure 2.- Figure 2 is a diagram of a device according to the present invention; FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of organization of the memory of the device in FIG. 2.
Sur les figures 1 à 3 on a utilisé les mêmes références pour désigner les mêmes éléments.In FIGS. 1 to 3, the same references have been used to designate the same elements.
Sur la figure 1, on peut voir un système selon la présente invention comportant un ordinateur 1 relié à au moins un émetteur/récepteur 11, avantageusement à une pluralité d'émetteurs/récepteurs 11 à 1M. Chaque émetteur-récepteur 11 à 1M est susceptible d'émettre et/ou de recevoir des ondes modulées, avantageusement des ondes électromagnétiques modulées, typiquement des ondes radio. L'utilisation des ondes radio est symbolisée par la connexion d'une antenne d'émission/réception 2 à chaque émetteur/récepteur 11 à 1M.In Figure 1, we can see a system according to the present invention comprising a computer 1 connected to at least one transmitter / receiver 11, advantageously to a plurality of transmitters / receivers 11 to 1M. Each transceiver 11 at 1M is capable of transmitting and / or receiving modulated waves, advantageously modulated electromagnetic waves, typically radio waves. The use of radio waves is symbolized by the connection of a transmit / receive antenna 2 to each transmitter / receiver 11 to 1M.
Les ondes radio présentent l'avantage de pouvoir être réfléchies et de se propager à travers des obstacles non métalliques.Radio waves have the advantage of being able to be reflected and to propagate through non-metallic obstacles.
L'utilisation d'autres types d'ondes électromagnétiques ne sort pas du cadre de la présente invention. Par exemple des ondes infrarouges modulées permettent l'utilisation d'une très large bande passante. De plus, il est possible de limiter leur portée avec une grande précision. Par exemple, on peut choisir un angle d'émission et/ou de réception ou arrêter leur propagation avec une simple cloison. Le système de la figure 1 comporte d'autre part une pluralité de dispositifs 3 d'information sur un article.The use of other types of electromagnetic waves does not depart from the scope of the present invention. For example modulated infrared waves allow the use of a very wide bandwidth. In addition, it is possible to limit their range with great precision. For example, one can choose an angle of emission and / or reception or stop their propagation with a simple partition. The system of FIG. 1 also comprises a plurality of devices 3 for information on an article.
Avantageusement, chaque dispositif 3 d'information sur un article est fixé à l'article correspondant, par exemple par une pince ou un adhésif.Advantageously, each device 3 for information on an article is fixed to the corresponding article, for example by a clamp or an adhesive.
Les émetteurs/récepteurs 11 à 1M sont répartis, d'une part pour pouvoir entrer en communication avec tous les dispositifs 3 d'information sur un article, et, d'autre part, pour pouvoir localiser un des dispositifs 3. La localisation est obtenue par exemple par triangulation, plusieurs récepteurs étant susceptibles de recevoir la réponse de chaque dispositif 3, soit par découpage de l'espace, par exemple par des cloisons empêchant la propagation des ondes utilisées. Dans tous les cas, on localise le dispositif 3 d'après le eu les émetteurs/récepteurs qui ont reçu les signaux émis par le dispositif 3 à localiser. L'ordinateur 1 est par exemple un micro-ordinateur. Les émetteurs/récepteurs 11 à 1M comportent des moyens de connexion à l'ordinateur 1, par exemple par le réseau de distribution d'électricité ou de type réseau informatique. Chaque émetteur/récepteur comporte un dispositif de modulation et de codage des ondes â émettre, et un dispositif de démodulation et de décodage des ondes reçues. Avantageusement, tous les émetteurs/récepteurs 11 à 1M émettent sensiblement simultanément une requête destinée aux dispositifs 3. L'échange d'informations entre l'ordinateur 1 et les émetteurs/récepteurs est géré par un logiciel constituant une couche supplémentaire du système d'exploitation. On utilise par exemple un logiciel de pilotage de terminaux, un logiciel de gestion de réseau informatique ou de gestion de contrôleurs ou d'interfaces. En plus des réponses reçues, chaque émetteur/récepteur 11 à 1M précise son numéro ou son adresse de façon à ce que -l'ordinateur 1 sache lequel des émetteurs/récepteurs 11 à 1M a reçu ladite réponse.The transmitters / receivers 11 to 1M are distributed, on the one hand so as to be able to enter into communication with all the devices 3 for information on an item, and, on the other hand, to be able to locate one of the devices 3. The location is obtained for example by triangulation, several receivers being capable of receiving the response of each device 3, either by cutting up the space, for example by partitions preventing the propagation of the waves used. In all cases, the device 3 is located according to the transmitters / receivers which have received the signals transmitted by the device 3 to be located. The computer 1 is for example a microcomputer. The transmitters / receivers 11 to 1M comprise means of connection to the computer 1, for example by the electricity distribution network or of the computer network type. Each transmitter / receiver comprises a device for modulating and coding the waves to be transmitted, and a device for demodulating and decoding the waves received. Advantageously, all the transmitters / receivers 11 to 1M transmit substantially simultaneously a request intended for the devices 3. The exchange of information between the computer 1 and the transmitters / receivers is managed by software constituting an additional layer of the operating system. . For example, terminal control software, computer network management software or management of controllers or interfaces is used. In addition to the responses received, each transmitter / receiver 11 to 1M specifies its number or address so that the computer 1 knows which of the transmitters / receivers 11 to 1M has received said response.
Sur la figure 2, on peut voir un exemple de réalisation du dispositif 3 d'information sur un article selon la présente invention.In Figure 2, we can see an embodiment of the device 3 for information on an article according to the present invention.
Le dispositif 3 de la figure 2 comporte une antenne d'émission/réception 31 connectée à un émetteur/récepteur 32. L'émetteur/récepteur 32 est relié, avantageusement par l'intermédiaire d'un convertisseur analogique-numérique et d'un convertisseur numérique-analogique 33 à un microprocesseur 34. Le microprocesseur 34 est relié aux moyens de mémorisation 35 typiquement une mémoire électronique. Une horloge 36, par exemple à quartz, assure la synchro isation de divers éléments du dispositif 3.The device 3 of FIG. 2 comprises a transmit / receive antenna 31 connected to a transmitter / receiver 32. The transmitter / receiver 32 is connected, advantageously by means of an analog-digital converter and a converter digital-analog 33 to a microprocessor 34. The microprocessor 34 is connected to the storage means 35 typically an electronic memory. A clock 36, for example quartz, ensures the synchronization of various elements of the device 3.
Ce dispositif 3 comporte d'autre part un générateur électrique 39, avantageusement un générateur chimique, notamment une pile ou un accumulateur. On utilise par exemple une pile au lithium ou une pile sérigraphiée. Avantageusement, le dispositif 3 comporte des moyens de test 37, 38 de la quantité d'énergie disponible dans le générateur 39.This device 3 also comprises an electric generator 39, advantageously a chemical generator, in particular a battery or an accumulator. For example, a lithium battery or a screen-printed battery is used. Advantageously, the device 3 includes means for testing 37, 38 of the amount of energy available in the generator 39.
Avantageusement, le dispositif 3 comporte des moyens de signalisation 40, par exemple une diode électroluminescente ou un dispositif d'alarme sonore.Advantageously, the device 3 comprises signaling means 40, for example a light-emitting diode or an audible alarm device.
Le fonctionnement du dispositif 3 selon la présente invention comporte trois étapes :The operation of the device 3 according to the present invention comprises three stages:
-réception des messages de requêtes; -traitement de l'information; - h --receiving request messages; -data processing; - h -
—émission éventuelle d'une réponse.—Possible emission of a response.
Réception des messages :Receiving messages:
Un message est capté par l'antenne 31 et démodulé par l'émetteur/récepteur 32. Le convertisseur analogique-numérique 33 numérise le message.A message is picked up by the antenna 31 and demodulated by the transmitter / receiver 32. The analog-digital converter 33 digitizes the message.
Avantageusement, le message sous sa forme numérique est stocké dans une mémoire-tampon non représentée, dans la mémoire 35 ou dans un registre du microprocesseur 34. On utilise par exemple un bus d'adresse pour transmettre le message. Le stockage du message est effectué sous la supervision du microprocesseur 34 ou d'un dispositif d'accès direct mémoire (DMA en terminologie anglo-saxonne) non représenté.Advantageously, the message in its digital form is stored in a buffer memory, not shown, in memory 35 or in a register of microprocessor 34. For example, an address bus is used to transmit the message. The message is stored under the supervision of the microprocessor 34 or of a direct memory access device (DMA in English terminology) not shown.
Traitement de l'information :Data processing :
Le mircoprocesseur 34 traite la requête. La requête comporte dans la plupart des cas une interrogation sélective. Le microprocesseur 34 détermine si le dispositif 3 est concerné par les critères de sélection contenus dans la requête. Dans l'affirmative, il sélectionne les informations qui sont demandées par la requête.The mircoprocessor 34 processes the request. In most cases, the request includes a selective query. The microprocessor 34 determines whether the device 3 is concerned by the selection criteria contained in the request. If so, it selects the information that is requested by the request.
Emission de la réponse :Response response:
Dans le cas où le dispositif 3 est concerné par la requête, le microprocesseur 34 sélectionne dans la mémoire 35 les informations à émettre et élabore un message. Le message est modulé par le convertisseur 33 et par l'émetteur/récepteur 32. Eventuellement, le dispositif émet simultanément un signal de localisation par exemple, un signal sonore ou lumineux facilitant sa localisation à un opérateur humain. La réponse est captée par au moins un des émetteurs/récepteurs 11 à 1M de la figure 1 et transmis à l'ordinateur 1.In the case where the device 3 is concerned by the request, the microprocessor 34 selects in the memory 35 the information to be transmitted and elaborates a message. The message is modulated by the converter 33 and by the transmitter / receiver 32. Optionally, the device simultaneously transmits a location signal for example, a sound or light signal facilitating its location to a human operator. The response is picked up by at least one of the transceivers 11 to 1M in FIG. 1 and transmitted to the computer 1.
Il est à noter que seules les informations pertinentes ont été transmises aux émetteurs/récepteurs 11 à 1M et donc à l'ordinateur 1. Ceci présente de nombreux avantages. D'une part, le traitement des informations transmises par les divers dispositifs 3 se trouve allégé, et, d'autre part, la quantité d'informations à transmettre à été diminuée. Ainsi, il est possible de diminuer le temps nécessaire à la transmission des réponses et/ou la bande passante du canal alloué aux transmissions.It should be noted that only the relevant information has been transmitted to the transceivers 11 at 1M and therefore to the computer 1. This has numerous advantages. On the one hand, the processing of the information transmitted by the various devices 3 is reduced, and, on the other hand, the quantity of information to be transmitted has been reduced. Thus, it is possible to reduce the time necessary for the transmission of the responses and / or the bandwidth of the channel allocated to the transmissions.
L'avantage est particulièrement important dans le cas où l'on utilise un protocole de transmission avec détection de collisions. Dans un- tel protocole, chaque dispositif 3 surveille le canal de transmission. Si une transmission est en cours, aucun dispositif 3 n'effectue une tentative d'émission. Lorsque le canal est libre, et qu'un dispositif 3 doit transmettre, il attend avantageusement une période de temps pseudo alléatoire, puis, si pendant cette période de temps il n'a détecté aucune émission, il commence à transmettre sa réponse à la requête. Pendant la transmission il continue à effectuer la surveillance du canal. Ainsi si deux dispositifs 3 ont commencé à émettre simultanément ils interrompent tous les deux l'émission. Le dispositif 3 dont la période d'attente pseudo aléatoire est la plus courte peut commencer son émission.The advantage is particularly important in the case where a transmission protocol with collision detection is used. In such a protocol, each device 3 monitors the transmission channel. If a transmission is in progress, no device 3 makes an attempt resignation. When the channel is free, and that a device 3 must transmit, it advantageously waits for a pseudo-random period of time, then, if during this period of time it has detected no transmission, it begins to transmit its response to the request . During transmission it continues to monitor the channel. So if two devices 3 have started to transmit simultaneously, they both interrupt the transmission. The device 3 with the shortest pseudo-random waiting period can start transmitting.
La diminution du nombre de réponses aux requêtes à transmettre évite de saturer le canal et notamment les collisions par émissions simultanées des débuts de réponse.The reduction in the number of responses to the requests to be transmitted avoids saturating the channel and in particular the collisions by simultaneous transmissions of the beginnings of response.
Il est bien entendu que l'utilisation d'autres protocoles de transmission comme par exemple la transmission simultanée multi-canaux ou la transmission avec circulation d'un jeton ne sort pas du cadre de la présente invention.It is understood that the use of other transmission protocols such as, for example, multi-channel simultaneous transmission or transmission with circulation of a token does not depart from the scope of the present invention.
Il est bien entendu que simultanément dans chaque local isolé, notamment par des cloisons, un dispositif 3 peut émettre sur un même canal de transmission.It is understood that simultaneously in each isolated room, in particular by partitions, a device 3 can transmit on the same transmission channel.
La fiabilité du système selon la présente invention est améliorée par la surveillance du niveau énergétique disponible dans chaque dispositif. On effectue par exemple un test du niveau énergétique disponible. Avantageusement, le dispositif 3 comporte un compteur 37 comptabilisant les consommations de courant. Il mesure soit le débit soit les temps de fonctionnement de divers éléments du dispositif 3. Le niveau énergétique est égal à la différence entre le niveau énergétique initial et l'énergie déjà consommée.The reliability of the system according to the present invention is improved by monitoring the energy level available in each device. For example, a test of the available energy level is carried out. Advantageously, the device 3 comprises a counter 37 accounting for the current consumptions. It measures either the flow rate or the operating times of various elements of the device 3. The energy level is equal to the difference between the initial energy level and the energy already consumed.
Dans un premier exemple de réalisation, les dispositifs 3 dont le niveau énergétique atteint 25% de la capacité initiale du générateur 39 émet un signal d'alarme. Dans une variante avantageuse, périodiquement, l'ordinateur 1 interroge les dispositifs 3 sur leurs niveaux énergétiques. Par exemple il émet une requête demandant la réponse de tous les dispositifs 3 dont le niveau énergétique est inférieur ou égal à 25% de la capacité maximale du générateur 39. Un opérateur va changer ou recharger les générateurs 39 des dispositifs 3 ayant répondu à la requête. Il est bien entendu possible d'émettre une requête en sélectionnant tous les dispositifs 3, notamment pour s'assurer qu'il n'existe pas de dispositifs 3 dont le générateur 39 est incapable de fournir l'énergie nécessaire à l'émission d'une alarme. La comparaison de la liste des dispositifs 3 stockés dans l'ordinateur 1 avec les réponses de requête permet de déterminer d'éventuels dispositifs 3 défaillants, notamment par suite de l'épuisement de leur générateur 39.In a first embodiment, the devices 3 whose energy level reaches 25% of the initial capacity of the generator 39 emits an alarm signal. In an advantageous variant, periodically, the computer 1 interrogates the devices 3 on their energy levels. For example, it issues a request requesting the response of all the devices 3 whose energy level is less than or equal to 25% of the maximum capacity of the generator 39. An operator will change or recharge the generators 39 of the devices 3 having responded to the request . It is of course possible to issue a request by selecting all of the devices 3, in particular to ensure that there are no devices 3 whose generator 39 is unable to provide the energy required to generate an alarm. The comparison of the list of devices 3 stored in the computer 1 with the request responses makes it possible to determine possible faulty devices 3, in particular as a result of the exhaustion of their generator 39.
Sur la figure 2 on a représenté une unique mémoire 35. Il est bien entendu que la mémoire 35 peut comporter plusieurs composants électroniques et même plusieurs types de composants. Un exemple de structure logique de la mémoire 35 est illustré sur la figure 3. La mémoire 35 stocke un programme de fonctionnement 351 et au moins un critère de sélection 353. L'exempleFIG. 2 shows a single memory 35. It is understood that the memory 35 can comprise several electronic components and even several types of components. An example of the logical structure of the memory 35 is illustrated in FIG. 3. The memory 35 stores an operating program 351 and at least one selection criterion 353. The example
10 illustré sur la figure 3 comporte N critères de sélection référencés 353 à 35(N+2). Elle comporte une mémoire 350 destinée à l'exécution du programme 351. Avantageusement elle comporte d'autre part un numéro 352 du dispositif 3 et une clef de sélection 35(N+3) permettant par exemple de sélectionner un groupe du dispositif 3. Les références 351 à 35(N+3) corres- ,,- pondent à des mémoires permanentes. On peut utiliser par exemple une mémoire morte (ROM en terminologie anglo-saxonne). La mémoire d'exécution de programme 350 est nécessairement une mémoire vive (RAM en terminologie anglo-saxonne) .10 illustrated in FIG. 3 comprises N selection criteria referenced 353 to 35 (N + 2). It includes a memory 350 intended for the execution of the program 351. Advantageously, it also comprises a number 352 of the device 3 and a selection key 35 (N + 3) allowing for example to select a group of the device 3. The references 351 to 35 (N + 3) correspond to, - correspond to permanent memories. One can use for example a read only memory (ROM in Anglo-Saxon terminology). The program execution memory 350 is necessarily a random access memory (RAM in English terminology).
Les mémoires 352 à 35(N+3) sont de préférence de type __ reprogrammable, par exemple de type mémoire programmable effaçable (EPROM en terminologie anglo-saxonne) ou mémoire morte programmable effaçable électriquement (EEPROM en terminologie anglo-saxonne). Il est bien entendu que l'utilisation d'autres supports d'information comme par exemple des supports à lecture optique, notamment de type disque optique numérique ou carte optique numérique ne sortent pas du cadre de la présente invention. LeThe memories 352 to 35 (N + 3) are preferably of the reprogrammable __ type, for example of the erasable programmable memory type (EPROM in English terminology) or electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM in Anglo-Saxon terminology). It is understood that the use of other information media such as, for example, optical reading media, in particular of the digital optical disc or digital optical card type, does not depart from the scope of the present invention. The
25 dispositif 3 comporte les contacts nécessaires à la programmation de données dans la mémoire 35. Avantageusement, la mémoire 35 est du type mémoire vive sauvegardée. On utilise par exemple une mémoire statique (S RAM en terminologie anglo-saxonne) dont la consommation électrique au repos est réduite. Dans un tel cas il est possible d'utiliser l'antenne 31 pour25 device 3 comprises the contacts necessary for programming data in the memory 35. Advantageously, the memory 35 is of the backed-up random access memory type. One uses for example a static memory (S RAM in English terminology) whose electrical consumption at rest is reduced. In such a case it is possible to use the antenna 31 to
30 effectuer le chargement de la mémoire 35. Dans un tel cas il n'est pas nécessaire de disposer de contacts électriques sur le dispositif 3 pour le chargement de la mémoire 35.30 perform the loading of the memory 35. In such a case it is not necessary to have electrical contacts on the device 3 for loading the memory 35.
Lors du traitement d'une requête le microprocesseur 34 exécutant le programme 351 vérifie si l'information stockée dans la mémoire 35When processing a request, the microprocessor 34 executing the program 351 checks whether the information stored in the memory 35
35 correspond aux critères de sélection demandées. Avantageusement les requêtes peuvent contenir divers opérateurs booléens par exemple ET, OU, NOK, OU exclusif pour combiner les divers critères de sélection. De même on peut utiliser les critères inférieur ou égal, inférieur, supérieur ou supérieur ou égal.35 corresponds to the selection criteria requested. Advantageously, the requests can contain various boolean operators for example AND, OR, NOK, OR exclusive to combine the various selection criteria. Similarly, the criteria lower or equal, lower, higher or higher or equal can be used.
Les critères peuvent varier selon leur appartenance à un groupe, signalée par une clef 35(N+3). Par exemple pour un groupe "livre" on a par exemple un critère "auteurs", un critère "titre", un critère "éditeur", et un critère "prix". Pour une clef "appareil électro-ménager", on aura par exemple les critères "nature du produit", "marque du produit", "référence du produit" et "prix". Lors de sa fixation sur un article, la mémoire 35, est chargée avec les informations pertinentes permettant une gestion à distance du stock. Lorsque l'article quitte le magasin comportant le système selon l'invention on en retire le dispositif 3 et l'on bloque ses émissions, par exemple par l'intermédiaire d'un interrupteur non représenté. L'invention s'applique principalement à la localisation et/ou à la gestion à distance d'articles, avec possibilité par émission de requêtes appropriées de réaliser un inventaire. The criteria can vary according to their membership of a group, indicated by a key 35 (N + 3). For example for a group "book" we have for example a criterion "authors", a criterion "title", a criterion "publisher", and a criterion "price". For a key "household appliance", we will have for example the criteria "nature of the product", "brand of the product", "product reference" and "price". When it is attached to an article, the memory 35 is loaded with the relevant information allowing remote management of the stock. When the article leaves the store comprising the system according to the invention, the device 3 is removed therefrom and its emissions are blocked, for example by means of a switch not shown. The invention mainly applies to the localization and / or the remote management of articles, with the possibility by issuing appropriate requests to carry out an inventory.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Dispositif d'information sur un article lié audit article, comportant :1. Information system on an article linked to said article, comprising:
- des moyens de mémorisation,- storage means,
- un émetteur/récepteur d'ondes notamment électromagnétiques,- a transmitter / receiver of electromagnetic waves in particular,
- un générateur électrique, caractérisé par le fait qu'il comporte un microprocesseur (34), et que les moyens de mémorisation stockent :- an electric generator, characterized in that it comprises a microprocessor (34), and that the storage means store:
- un programme (351) de fonctionnement du microprocesseur (34),- a program (351) for operating the microprocessor (34),
- au moins un critère (353 -...35 N + 2)) caractérisant l'article.- at least one criterion (353 -... 35 N + 2)) characterizing the article.
2. Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé par le fait que le l'émetteur/récepteur est un émetteur/récepteur d'ondes radio.2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the transmitter / receiver is a transmitter / receiver of radio waves.
3. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé par le fait que le moyen de mémorisation (35) stocke une clef (35 (N + 3)) concernant l'appartenance de l'article à un groupe.3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the storage means (35) stores a key (35 (N + 3)) concerning the membership of the article in a group.
4. Dispositif selon la revendication 3, caractérisé par le fait que le moyen de mémorisation (35) stocke un numéro (352) du dispositif (3) .4. Device according to claim 3, characterized in that the storage means (35) stores a number (352) of the device (3).
5. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé par le fait qu'il comporte des moyens (37, 38) de mesure du niveau d'énergie disponible dans le générateur électrique (39).5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises means (37, 38) for measuring the level of energy available in the electric generator (39).
6. Système de gestion à distance et/ou de localisation d'articles, comportant au moins un ordinateur et au moins un émetteur/réce teur, caractérisé par le fait qu'il comporte au moins un dispositif (3) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes susceptible de communiquer avec ledit émetteur/récepteur (11).6. System for remote management and / or location of articles, comprising at least one computer and at least one transmitter / receiver, characterized in that it comprises at least one device (3) according to any one of the preceding claims capable of communicating with said transmitter / receiver (11).
7. Système selon la revendication 6, caractérisé par le fait que le bu les émetteurs (11 à 1M) sont susceptible d'émettre une requête portant sur au moins un critère de sélection (353 à 35(N+2)) et que seuls les dispositifs (3) concernés émettent une réponse à ladite requête.7. System according to claim 6, characterized in that the bu transmitters (11 to 1M) are capable of issuing a request relating to at least one selection criterion (353 to 35 (N + 2)) and that only the devices (3) concerned emit a response to said request.
8. Système selon la revendication 7, caractérisé par le fait qu'au moins deux dispositifs (3) transmettent simultanément leur réponse à une requête d'un émetteur (11 à 1M).8. System according to claim 7, characterized in that at least two devices (3) simultaneously transmit their response to a request from a transmitter (11 to 1M).
9. Système selon la revendication 6 ou 7, caractérisé par le fait que les dispositifs (3) émettent successivement leur réponse à une requête transmise par un émetteur (11 à 1M) .9. System according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the devices (3) successively transmit their response to a request transmitted by a transmitter (11 to 1M).
10. Système selon la revendication 9, caractérisé par le fait que les dispositifs (3) comportent des moyens de détection de collision des réponses à une requête. 10. System according to claim 9, characterized in that the devices (3) comprise means for detecting collision of responses to a request.
PCT/FR1991/000901 1990-11-16 1991-11-15 Device for providing information about an article and information processing system using same WO1992009054A1 (en)

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FR9014296A FR2669453A1 (en) 1990-11-16 1990-11-16 ARTICLE INFORMATION DEVICE AND COMPUTER SYSTEM USING SUCH A DEVICE.

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