Funny but this is rawkin Sweet and brilliant!

You should do like men; buy 10 pair of the same socks, trousers, shirts, etc.
No prob.
Tommy

I think the price of a sock will be much higher...

Bruce Sterling coined to word "spime" for this type of object:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spime

Currently, passive RFID chips are small enough to be nearly undetectable, but have very limited range. Powered RFID which can initiate a broadcast rather than just responding to a detector are much larger and unsuitable. With current technology, you'd basically need to be within a meter or so of your sock to be able to find it via its passive RFID.

You would need to buy a lot of RFID tags to get them cheap enough to make it worth while to put them into each sock, as opposed to just buying new socks.

The annoyance of the missing sock problem is a big one though, I'd keep trying to find a solution to it!

I don't see having to be within a metre of a sock as a HUGE problem... it's likely to be somewhere between the basket, the machine and the back garden, after all!

I use these: http://la.apartmentt...-by-monopezzo-010120
(well, actually the cheap supermarket own-brand version, but who's counting). Not only do the socks stay together without any need to hunt, but they're easier to hang out too!

I think this is something that will evolve naturally, and perhaps the only way to propagate it is to write an RFID reading application that pings a database with an update when ever an RFID passes by the reader. Certainly hard to build a biz around, because what you're describing can't take off until RFID readers are everywhere and all updating a centralized database.

But wouldn't it be awesome to find that bastard who stole my white sock!?! Some son-of-a-bitch, broke in to my house, and stole one of my socks from my washing machine! And then he left the house without taking anything else, and without leaving a trace. Re-locking the door behind him.

Every time I see someone walk by wearing white socks I give them the old evil eye... hoping I finally spot the criminal who will crack under my WITHERING GLARE.

PhilipH: "I don't see having to be within a metre of a sock as a HUGE problem"

Generally if I can get within a meter of anything, I can find it with my eyes (needles in haystacks notwithstanding). I was mainly pointing out that the useful range of passive RFID is within the margin of error for GPS, more or less, so it's rather pointless to have a passive RFID that reports its GPS location even if you could run GPS on that small and unpowered platform.

The day will come with we have powered longer-range RFID chips at a size where you can embed them in socks, but it's not a coincidence that spimes were coined and championed by a sci-fi author.

Sorry... but this is a waste of technology..

GPS tracking my socks.... please.

A GPS can give you general location information with in some meters. It can't help you find the sock in the lint basket or the one your dog just shooed on. The transmitter would be worth more then the sock....

"But moogy this could be useful for fur coats and other luxury items." If you need a GPS to find a coat... what can I say...

Sorry for being so hard... I just find some ideas are just trying to hard to fix something that is not really broken with overkill tech.

]V[oogy

This is more of a cute idea than a commercially viable one. The cost of replacing socks is small enough that it wouldn't sell much after the initial hype or novelty.

RFID tags are cheap and getting cheaper, not to mention small and getting smaller.

I think you'd be most successful if you could add the tags to existing socks. I'd pay $50 for a "sock sorter" that pairs socks for me.

"..Now i can see the other benefits for (lost/missing) children and other properties..."

still sound practical to me!

6 pairs of socks that will wear out in a few months, only $1,295.99!!!

Just buy some velcro and stick your socks together before you throw them in the dryer or clothes hamper...or do what I do and buy like 25 pairs of identical socks from Wal-Mart so it doesn't matter which ones you put on.

wat about the spyin aspect of this?

I think you are all mad orI am failing to detect a note of irony here.

Really interesting idea. But, given that passive RFID only works within about a meter radius, and current GPS accuracy is somewhat less than that, I'm not sure this implementation really leverages the strength of either technology. Neat idea, though, and I have confidence you can come up with a more practical implementation.

i think a special socks say for climbers ..this one would be beneficial or if my kids would be on a camp out in the wilderness...

interesting...i guess if VOIP rivaled overseas l.distance calls to cheaper rate, RFID and GPS cost would be evolved in commercial application... and i believe Joyce also means a lot of practical application for security and other things missing.

Am voting on this!

hahaha..i think this IDEA simply circled on such funny pitch(and a need) about missing socks! But i agrees with CG_EOL. It has merits and technically is very doable!

Will the lovely author give her thoughts?

Sorry CHers if i will just commenting now,

My hand was full since last week on my PHd studies.
As much as i wanted to make a thesis on this Phenomena of missing socks i better make a great solution in solving it. =)

Yes i envision this too as a transforder for security system. Generally, what i have in mind is a wearable RFID system that comprises an RFID reader, a network controller coupled to the RFID reader and a network transceiver coupled to the network controller. The wearable RFID reader reads data stored on RFID tags, such as a product code. This data can then be sent to the network controller and then to the network transceiver via possibly on GPS. The network transceiver can send the information to an external network for processing or storage.

The socks was the perfect pitch to get everyone's attention..i believe i succeded on the first objective.

Thanks everyone for the wonderful reviews, a special note for Micco and the site he mentioned.

-joyce

Morethan the ballyhooed SOCK(s) of yester years of our sad collective experiences, there is a great desire on the part of both individuals and corporations to be able to track or locate packages, letters, and other movable objects placed in the stream of commerce, as well as household goods and valuables that become lost or stolen. In many cases, these items tend to have a high dollar and or a high sentimental value, or are extremely time-sensitive.
I believe this RAGS idea will provide solution in the incidences of lost or misplaced cargo. It can detract significantly from the bottom line of both transportation companies and the uninsured owners of the goods. Keeping track of where a particular package is located is a labor intensive task for the transportation company handling the goods, and the consumer must rely on the shipping company to actively inform him or her of the past whereabouts of the package, which tends to consist of posting the information on the shipper's web site.

If a a low cost, uncumbersome, and unobtrusive means will come in this form via a possible technology proposed to provide accurate tracking information of a package or other moveable object (mammals inlcuded)...

this idea is a true winner!

at this time it is too expensive to implement this into socks how about beeping socks that make noises when they are without a house set range?

the missing socks are being used by aliens for rocket fuel.

Sounds expensive, more expensive then just buying a new pair of sox!

I've got a spin off for you, perhaps this could be more useful for mom's who do their children's laundry. Program the rfid chips in each piece of clothing to match a specific kid's signature so she knows where to put the laundry after it is done. I often get my brother's clothes in my laundry pile when I visit home.

Price of readers ($500+): http://www.rfidjournal.com/faq/20/86
Price of rfid tags (<$1) : http://www.rfidjournal.com/faq/20/85

I foresee both of these items becoming much cheaper in a short time now that rfid has been implemented in the US passport and will supposedly be inserted into newborn's skin in the near future.

If you're looking for missing socks, I think they are in my dryer. However, I like the idea if it could be applied to more valuable items.

Hello there guys! Sorry Im truly busy with my PhD classes especially with my incoming exams and reports.

You may be right kairaspo and E115 that rfid is very expensive as of its recent price but let us consider its usage which is far more important. Dont worry this item will be cheaper soon especially if the demand is high.

I agree with you do3boy!

Yeah Wings... of course it can be applied to other items too! Though my Idea is for socks but eventually it can be applied to other items eso the valuable ones other than socks...let me study that one.

Its me Joyce... I thought I was using my own ID but found it too late already. Actually, Im using eZeitgeist's laptop here in this internet cafe.

Sorry for using your account eZeitgeist! (blush) Anyway, thanks for letting me use your laptop...Goodluck to your journey! Hope to see you again soon....I will be missing you! Anyway, please continue to support my ideas and CH as well. God bless!

umm....yeah....

RF ids cost more then just buying a new par of socks. GPS would cost even more and is not exactly light. Also, RFID only works in close range.

Next, why not buy in bulk all the same types of socks.

Tag would need to be small enough to not interfere with normal operation of the item being tagged. I personally would find anything attached to my socks as annoying.

I myself lose my shoes... It would be nice if I go to my computer and find them or push a button and have them beep or something :)

Aren't they already using something like this for pets? I think it was injectable microchips that are placed right under the animal's skin around the collar.

mcX: they have chips for pets (and kids!) that are injected under the skin and have info for the vet or returning when lost. However, they are not remotely scannable. The scanner has a very small range (a few inches) so the vet basically runs a wand over the pet's neck to see if there's a chip there and reads the data. Basically it doesn't help you find something that's lost, just return it to the rightful owner once it's found.

There are basically two types of these chips. The very small ones that are implanted in people, animals and clothing are very tiny but they're passive, which means they have no power source of their own. They are powered by induction when a scanner tries to read them and because of this have a very very short range. These chips are used in people and animals as described above. They're also used in clothing and other products for inventory control, etc. They are getting cheap enough to embed in anything (even socks) and will soon allow retail store checkout systems which just scan your basket and identify every item by it's RFID tag rather than running each one past the cashier individually.

The other kind of tag is self-powered so they have a much longer range. These can be the same type tag used for RFID or they can be devices that report their GPS location like LoJack and various kid-finder devices. However, these are not cheap, small, implantable devices because of the size of the batteries and transmitters.

I'm not going to say we'll *never* have indetectably-small active devices that can report their location over long ranges, but the technology isn't there yet.

hmmm... well in this case... this idea is solid afterall for opening the path where others are dreaming or wracking their brains in the lab at this moment.
The RAGS acronym is excellent.
Refined this further Joyce...and hope you could get this going... with or wtihout your pair of socks =)

You got my vote woman!

You should return this and makes some quick refinement JOyce... its a very good idea!

Well...RFID comes as small as a rice grain..and can be embedded in the skin lately...I cant see why a "vanity" items wont sell for the A-B market, besides frrm your description you intend to put the technology in other items as well for security and other purpose.

Go for this Joyce.

I'm back! Give your valuable comments pls...

I'd like to thank eZeitgeist (KIA) for his previous positive objective comment that exactly described what the original description lacks:

"More than the ballyhooed SOCK(s) of yesteryears of our sad collective experiences, there is a great desire on the part of both individuals and corporations to be able to track or locate packages, letters, and other movable objects placed in the stream of commerce, as well as household goods and valuables that become lost or stolen. In many cases, these items tend to have a high dollar and or a high sentimental value, or are extremely time-sensitive.
... this RAGS idea will provide solution in the incidences of lost or misplaced cargo. It can detract significantly from the bottom line of both transportation companies and the uninsured owners of the goods. Keeping track of where a particular package is located is a labor intensive task for the transportation company handling the goods, and the consumer must rely on the shipping company to actively inform him or her of the past whereabouts of the package, which tends to consist of posting the information on the shipper's web site.

If a a low cost, uncumbersome, and unobtrusive means will come in this form via a possible technology proposed to provide accurate tracking information of a package or other movable object (mammals included)...
this idea is a true winner!"

http://www.hipforums...ex.php/t-124160.html

Thats a good detour Larsbell!...

You need some RFID yourself to have a nice blip on my thanks radar =)

Thats funny knowing the world is actually divided on the question:

"To wear or not to wear.."

But the burning quesiton is:

"to find or not to find..."

-Joyce

Here's a little twist:

Use the passive rfid tages with very low range, BUT have a very small lightweight wearable scanner so that a person can be walking down the street with this scanner in his/her pocket. When the person passes by anything with the rfid tag, it records it. Then at his/her convenience, the person plugs the scanner into their PC and the recorded data is auto uploaded to a website/database for all to see. This would turn anyone into a walking scanner. Companies could then pay REWARDS to the person who finds a missing or stolen item. You don't even have to be trying to find it.

This way you can take advantage of the cheap passive tags. The scanner would have a GPS receiver of course and send the location and time when the scan happened. Each scanner would be registered to a certain person so the reward would go to the right place.

Socks....no. Cars, valuables, kids clothing/shoes, pets...yes.

Just a thought.

Welcome back Joyce!

I agree with Daviddubree's comment.

Personally I would prefer this application be done more in Cargoes and thereby helping the Custom authority on Smuggling problems.

The limitation of RFID will perhaps be answered by interface units, processors, transmitters and receivers (also designated as transceivers or TR), for example part of a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver or an interface to a GPS receiver or other location finder or tracking device or a sensor, signal detector and processor of acoustic (e.g. voice, sound, music) signals, video and/or visual and/or image signals (moving video, still photographs, X-Ray pictures, telemetry signals), temperature (e.g. human body temperature, animal's body temperature, temperature of an object), electrical signal, Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID) received or generated signal, infrared, X-ray and or of other signals, parameters generated by sensors or obtained from any other sources. Nano technology is here already and since this RAGS aim to served various carriers to get located all possibilities are not remote at all.

My bet is , under military application this is already being considered if not on the works.

Goodluck!

Thousands of travellers have their luggage either lost or stolen every day.

I understand that amongst the criminal classes in Europe a closed stolen suitcase with luggage sells for around £50 ($100). (sort of like a lottery scratch card)

http://www.tumi.com weld metal strips with barcodes into their luggage. (a) This makes it easier to identify and recover lost luggage. (b) It makes the stealing of Tumi luggage less attractive to the criminal classes, since the barcode strips are almost impossible to seperate from the luggage without doing the luggage major damage. This security device is a major factor in the success of the Tumi brand.

In order to read the Tumi Barcode it is necessary to open the luggage and scan it. Your product would appear to be more attractive since it can be read from a distance of a few feet, and could be attached to other valuables in the luggage.

a)Lost and stolen Luggage costs Airlines and insurance companies millions of dollars a day.
b) Lost luggage increases the security risk for Air Travellers in these dangerous times.

I think that this would be a great product , with applications to: a) Homeland Security. B) The Airline Industry c) The Insurance Industry d)
And last but not least, the hapless traveller who arrives in Hong Kong and his luggage is in Honolulu ?

Good Luck.

I think it's a great idea.

It seems as though there must be similar things in place, but obviously those other systems are not affordable to the general public or small business.

If you make it more affordable, then I think it has a good chance at success.

It would have to be:

1) Tamper proof
2) Weather Proof
3) Jammer proof
4) Affordable for the masses
5) A very easy to use tracking website

Of course the scanner system would have to be everywhere. That is the biggest issue. That's what gave me the thought of having wearable scanners for the masses. What would motivate a person to wear one of these geekomatic scanners? MONEY of course. People or companies would offer REWARDS to those who scanned the stolen item. The scan is passive and requires the wearer to do nothing. Just plug it into your USB port every so often, OR it could auto connect to open wifi hotspots and transmit it's data automatically.

These scanners could also be installed in any location such as parking lots, street light posts, parking garages, street light posts, etc...

I have to agree, this would only be cost effective if the cost of of something that could get it's GPS position from a satellite and transmit it while being very tiny went down a lot, and the cost of textiles didn't go down at all. The latter may happen due to government.

The other thing, most socks lost are lost in the laundry. Even if you knew your sock was behind a huge metal machine (that didn't interfere with your signal), it's still better to buy new socks than injure yourself!

As long as you don't sell these tracking devices to individuals and not companies, I think you will be okay. I have heard of companies already embedding RFID chips into their products to gather consumer data and lots of people consider it infringement of their privacy. Some companies have stopped doing so because there was so much opposition and public outcry.

See here: http://www.spychips.com

I meant sell them to individuals, not companies

I pretty like this... not because I cant afford to buy a new socks(sorry for reading the July comments) but I my experience receiving a package from the USA after 8 weeks was something I wish I had a site confirming my worried minds its still in the planet and not being snoop by Martian.

4 stars!

Personal I only see the advantage of the missing child and the luggage tracking with this product.

Do you have the technical background to make this happen?

What is your competitive advantage over other company's? (what are you going to do to make it harder for another company to make a similar product)

Great idea,

I was thinking of something close to the same thing last week(maybe your brain waves just hit me)

If you sell to individuals it means they have to take time and effort to attach them, rather than buying socks with them built in.

Luggage tracking is an interesting idea, but if the airline sends your luggage to the wrong continent it will be out of transmitter range. Will it automatically call your cell phone?

If a child is not in visual range there is a potential danger. If you need to use the chip to find your child it might be too late.

I tink it exist for expensive car so you could do the same for each object you want... I think socks is a bad example but the idea is good...
Just think about other objects you really want to keep/not loose and you are ready to pay for it...
Ok child! one point... ^^
Maybe your dog...

I think the application for this product is limitless though seems a huge product to pull through say "renting" GPS service and all those scanner to read fast enough... though I it cant be denied the possibilities of convergence of technology to work on.

I want my child to wear one on his shoe or underwear (perhaps?) if he will be on the outdoor than implanting something I might regret later.

Whatever, You got my vote anyway!

Good day to you Guys!

I am overwhelmed by the response and reviews I got for this idea.
Thank you everyone.

Let me informed you that am seriously considering the application as premium service for travelers, luggages including cargoes.

For air/sea traveler perhaps RAGS would be in a wrist band or something as identity protection and helpful tracking device in case of emergency say air crash,sinking and other similar scenario. I think pilots have this kind of thing when they eject themselves out of their aircraft. It would be cool and reassuring for individual to know they have similar safe guard. though the design seems very challenging, I see good reason for the ship passenger wearing this one in the middle of the sea, its the crash survivors/victims that usually afflicted by burn I am concern that my idea seems daunting. But hey thats why am here, trying to crowd source some answer and refined this idea.

-Joyce

Hi Joyce,

How about a RFID embedded in your teeth? Or something plug in the ear that can withstand some blast or accidental skin burn form the host? It might not be new to my recollection but with your proposed technology combination I think its doable and I will feel safer.

Even for my pets and the elderly members of my family.

Daviddubree: Noted...
socks is out for the moment
Cargoes, travelers,luggages are in!

CharonV,Abbys/Sole_Cross:
Thanks for the support and testimony

GL: I dont have the technical background. FYI

Favila: Thats a good suggestion, an earplug and a dental RFID!

Rom1: My family members my boyfriend, my friend and my self.

Hey check the IDEA description its evolving to a more potent viable idea, hat tiff to all!

I love how you were able to improved your IDEA into more enticing business product as compared the first time this was around. I wish i have some technical knowhow to give my opinion to improved this.

However I like to seconded and give my .6 cents from davidwei comment, I believe it would be wise to build this for certain industry and let them execute the proper hanlding and usage of this. Some sort of technology transfer say for an airline companies and just cash in from royalties, if you have a legal right and legal disposition you can still sell this later on into general public and probably would click knowing this being done and accepted in major industry like airline or shipping.

To davidwei,davidubree(again):

How about a tracking system coupled to the transceiver to generate a warning alarm, when the subject goes beyond the specified radius. I mean where the RFID give off its limit, an automation for GPS to come in, some sort of symbiotic and complimentary services?

To Vision quest;

Yes I read about the public outcry on RFID chips, and its Stalinistic fear. However, the only vital information I think this IDEA can provide is location and minimal identification. Unlike Verachips where even medical records is included in the data.

Hi Niemer,
This IDEA was penned last July 22 in the page of CH...perhaps more than my brainwaves, you were caught by the hype on the SOCKS bruhaha followed by my charm (just kidding). Seriously, brilliant spark doest pour in one place alone!

Hop in and join my team if you wanted to make a difference!

I think that this idea has potential, but there are several immediate warning signs that flashed in my head as I continued to read the exorbitant amount of replies here.

First of all, I strongly disagree, and urge all to do research into, the implementation of RFID as a worldwide integrated consumer product (especially into clothing, skin, or anything else in the immediate vicinity of the body). My reasons for this concern is completely health related (both mentally, and physical). All RFID chips require the use of microwave transmission. The use of microwaves on a small scale "seem" to have a negligible impact on the body, however, small amounts used in quantity, especially when concentrated (as in cities for instance), create problems. There have been countless studies done showing that exposure to High Frequency Electromagnetic Fields (including but not limited to: microwaves) have drastically negative health impacts. To quote Dr. Michael Kindi from the Institute of Environmental Health in Vienna:

"It is known for decades that exposure to high levels of HF EMFs leads to an increase in body temperature due to the fact that biological systems are lossy dielectrics. Electromagnetic waves propagating through tissues interact with the molecules of the medium and energy transfer occurs. This results
in an attenuation of the field and in an increase of the kinetic energy of the molecules, which is reflected in an increase of temperature."

This has been especially proven in cases of habitants located near cell phone transmission towers.

Until RFID acquires a new method of information transmission(i.e. non-microwave), I would suggest looking for an alternative solution to the transfer of information. We are reaching an age of technology directly integrated into organic structure. In these times we must be most weary and cognizant of any means to disrupt our current structure. Nanites are both a scary and exciting creation. I think most would have some fun looking into "Space Dust" that has been created and what is being done with them.

There are really alot of RFID and GPS implemntations in the real world. Cargo or asset tracking by GPS/RFID is widely practised, how do you want to differentiate from them?

Joyce

Its ok that you do not have the tech background, you just have to have a great time around you.

I still wonder about this
What is your competitive advantage over other company's? (what are you going to do to make it harder for another company to make a similar product)

err GL I myself is not a techno geek nor a wise merchant..but I would rather ask help to someone like you if I am the author of this idea.

Joyce have a simple idea, I think even if she has some impressive credentials to start a company(and resources) the question you thrown is double edge sword that would not surmise a good answer for some one who havent tried the real jungle in the Capitalist world: eat and be eaten.

If you were on Joyce shoe's, what do you think would be this idea's edge against a company? (gee sounds really wrong). If i were a teenager I would announce I am a VIRGIN (and perhaps need the RFID) that is an answer good enough to earn the judge nod for a Ms. Universe tilt.

Seriously, the answer still lies on the same shadow of internet exposure like this CH site protection on any idea submitted. No guarantee, except probably some copyright or early Patent application.

RFID tags and reader will cost you about $150+
Also, you need to buy socks.
OR
You can buy about 900 pares of socks at wal-mart or any other department store.
That will last you about 2.4 years of never even having to even wash socks. Because you can have a fresh pare every day!

Socks cost a lot less then the RFID tag system you are using. Even if you made the best system in the world.

And to think that I thought we'd moved beyond voting up unfeasible, uncrowdsourceable, hardware based ideas. That'll teach me to complain about the general quality of ideas over the past weeks.

There's no need to even go into the logistics of this, although for a laugh I'd like to hear abour your plans for establishing a network of receivers big enough to be able to track your devices. Maybe it's me but I can't see how you would track my bag / car / sock / CH hoodie, without having a networked series of RF receivers. Relying upon people scanning the unit with a device that is then connected to a network also requires you to have engaged them in some sort of massive global venture. This is already being done commercially by global transport logistics businesses. Surely you couldn't justify the expense or have the reach required to deliver something better than the DHL / UPS / WALMARTs of the world.

.....*sigh*....

OK, enough time wasted commenting......seriously 0 stars.

sigh! for the big boys club...

I read several times this idea and keep reading it this week but I dont see really the issue of SOCKS except on the early days this idea was certainly presented. I dont know if others have agenda of their own, but reading carefully this week's barrage of comments on this idea, it shows something that either previous voters dont intend to read back the resubmitted idea or new voters really do understand the idea better.

My understanding on this idea is:

An rfid tag (embedded or being worn by a host/carrier) + GPS(as back up or 'tracker')+ website (for monitoring) = RAGS!

Q: is this a hardware idea
A: NO,because its a system!
not an rfid alone nor , GPS service or even a cutie website...

Q: Is this crowdsourceable?
A: Yes! why not?
Check the weak points and see where your skills and gray matter can contribute. Based on the technical observation of some members the non proximity from a "receiver" is an issue. Would GPS wont work or is that a dead end? How about the website, how user friendly can this be is a simple as a google earth? any other feature? What about privacy issue the information content?

Q: Feasible?
A: Yes and No...
one had to complete the whole IDEA as a workable product before finally presenting this to market place(thats why this had to crowdsource) so the Target market(say an airline company) would get convince. It was stated this is either wearable or physically embedded(?) I can see the beauty if this is wearable, because the next passenger can used this device meaning less inventory(something like 3d mask). I would pay $150 for my cruise vacation or intercontinental travel for this if it means extra protection. Domestic plane route would likely need more rfid receivers than international. Wont the initial receivers be from entry and exit point alone?(say airports) While GPS would provide the in between trip location?(inlcluding crashes or emergency landing) But hell No I wont buy this if all this rfid craft and GPS is just a wishful thinking and my leg is being pulled regardless if the two gentlemen above here will give a free demo on the Website proposed! (thats the laugh) =)) The idea of Internet 50 years back is such a baloney and non feasible until universities took charge on the implementation.

For a product like this where technology is available and just need venture capitalist-where outsourcing can even be done- I believe this is feasible! I feel sad the product get insults more than the credit it deserves.

Gee I am glad for commenting my observations on such a good Idea.

Merry Christmas to all!

correction: would pay EXTRA $150 for this service*
instead of: I would pay 150 for my cruise...

also: I dont see really the issue of SOCKS except on the early days this idea was (certainly) presented..
Omit certainly* and all other grammatical error please, my apology for my son who saw the error!

....It is viable in the form of my last post....as a consumer product. Overcoming the already established big boys would be a serious problem. So don't. Start from the inside out. Go to the consumers, let is spread and become popular and build it bigger from there. You could even sell to small stores that have a lot of theft. Now they can be like Walmart and record everything going out the door.

Here is copy of my last post:

It seems as though there must be similar things in place, but obviously those other systems are not affordable to the general public or small business.

If you make it more affordable, then I think it has a good chance at success.

It would have to be:

1) Tamper proof
2) Weather Proof
3) Jammer proof
4) Affordable for the masses
5) A very easy to use tracking website

Of course the scanner system would have to be everywhere. That is the biggest issue. That's what gave me the thought of having wearable scanners for the masses. What would motivate a person to wear one of these geekomatic scanners? MONEY of course. People or companies would offer REWARDS to those who scanned the stolen item. The scan is passive and requires the wearer to do nothing. Just plug it into your USB port every so often, OR it could auto connect to open wifi hotspots and transmit it's data automatically.

These scanners could also be installed in any location such as parking lots, street light posts, parking garages, etc...

More R & D into the RFID range ..forget the sock..idea.. however their could certainly be commercially viable applications with garments for children, wallets, keys.

Okay I work with RFID tags on a daily basis and while their prices have come down drastically in recent years, they still run about $3-$5 a piece. Also, as I work with them in animals, the wear and tear issue is quite large. They do come off easier than they should and the technology itself needs to be much more developed. The tags that stand up to the most damage are bulky and unattractive looking.
Currently RFID can only be read with a device, (RFID reader) that is big and bulky and must be within 2 feet of the actual tag. The cheapest reader you can buy costs about $100, but on average they are $200 a piece.
On the plus side, RFID are already weather proof in the plastic casing form and fairly tamper proof.

Yet another idea with significant R&D requirements.... voting down.

Ok I dumped the word sock! ;-)

Good and negative comments are hard to ignore but I like how things are going favorably on RAGS for these constructive reviews.

Points taken:
-wearable (check)
-for air/ship travelers (double check)
-for valuable items(asterisk)

Critical points to reconsider:
-for the general public(?) vs. infrastracture & product life cycle
-for established company(?) vs. maintenance and competitiveness

How do this tracking solution different from similar "product"?
- commercialization
- effectiveness & timing
- the people behind the idea

Did I mentioned the nice feature of this product and why hardware components can be outsourced? If fake bills have scanner why not for possible counterfeit items? Why not to passengers for validation of identity upon entering new territory? Other components of this system have ready suppliers to tap on and can become co-integrators (scanner, GPS system, rfid) with only the website to maintain? Siemens, Texas Instrument,Domsat/GPS provider and numerous supplier would possibly not turn down a business that would mean projected profit without adding new cost to form separate department. Most businesses are of this set up now a days. One does not need to manufacture every nut and bolts when there is a ready supplier and would not add to huge capitalization outlay.

Eventually I will be actually selling only the idea supported by good "system support". Which likely means I have to gun down those industry that be needing RAGS Tracking Solution first before the general public get caught on the tremendous application for their specific needs.

Again, thank you for the continuing interest and feedback. I am really humbled of how great minds can contribute smart answer from my naivette in modern days things like this idea.

Insultomacs and Notharios have a hard time beating down a good idea. I am not too clear about the technical side of this, but could gps give the approximate location of the valuable item and the rfid reader find it within that small space?

Since the item is valuable the customer would happily pay the cost and provide profits for the implementer of the idea.

You have my vote on this Joyce.

Joyce - as with most of your ideas, this has been done and continues to be done by large players in the industry. As with most your ideas, you also choose to blindly ignore valid criticisms and continue to believe this is something original and innovative.

Nothing in your answers above shows me anything unique.

Nothing in your answers above gives me confidence that you have the capability to compete with the current players or have a strategy for doing so.

Even a 5 minute google search showed me that massive global players are operating in this space. As an example, Alanco technologies is an RFID player and has recently purchased Startrak, one of the largest GPS logistics companies.

http://www.alanco.com/index.asp

Although I'm sure you'll choose to ignore this information and continue on your path.

How's Teewrapz going by the way?

I am going to ignore IdeaPower's effort to try to change this into an emotionally fueled battle of "us vs. them"

I made my voice heard with my vote. (ultimately this is how we voice our opinion) I even extra and explained the reasoning behind my vote (which was 1 star by the way, which makes a total of 21/29 ideas that I have given a 1 star vote this round) here http://www.cambrianh...ing/2227/#post-17365

Whether anyone agrees with my reasoning, could care less. If my focus on "can you actually make this happen?" puts me in the "them" group, oh well on that too.

I am not here to participate in shouting matches. I've provided my opinion, which is the only way I can see to contribute here. If you value my opinion, great. If you don't value my opinion, that's great too.

The best way to deal with the criticism is to just make this idea happen. In the end actions speak louder than words.

Motorola are also big in this area. They just purchased the company that has been behind most of the international airport evaluations of RFID technology for ticketing, luggage etc.

http://www.motorola....CM1000008406b00aRCRD

So do you think you can outspend Motorola on product development to pull this one off?

If this is being done...half of the world still need this since most John Does have the need for this for their daily lives.

If a new player with alternative scheme of cost on this service-not necessarily the idea provider- comes in, well and good.

He/she has my vote.

Are you for real? The cost of doing is insane. Also, using RFIDs is so low range.

It's still an open market.

I am but a small wireless isp. Not Verizon, Not Comcast Cable, Not Dish TV, etc... Yet I am installing wireless internet service faster than I can keep up. I am playing with the big boys because I can do what they can't. I can setup an Access Point for a small area with a few customers and still make a good profit.

Never under estimate the power of small. Start small and grow.

I would still like to hear from Joyce..

If let's say you are focusing in passenger's safety, by letting them to wear some wearable GPS/RFID stuff..

can you describe again how are they going to work? battery powered? how big they are going to be?

Similarly, for items in house, active RFID or passive RFID? if active, each item bundled with batteries? if passive, you have to bring a 'gold mine" scanner around ur home to scan for the lost stuff?

"It's still an open market."
YA, RIGHT FOR CRAZY PEOPLE!

RFID IS SO LOW RANGE, JUST LOOKING WITH YOUR EYES WOULD FAR OUT RANGE THE HAND HELD SCANNER! IT MAKES NO SENSE FOR NON-COMMERCIAL USE.

Also, you can all ready buy GPS tracking systems and lowjacks.

http://atlantichomej...com/Mobilelock1.html

dont know if this will fit on a sock...

WOOG WORD BUT WON'T IT BE TOO EXPENCIVE

VOTE FOR ME NEXT WEEK

I am going to have to agree with Kevin_Cox. While this idea is noble its not even possible.

Not even possible? Sorry guys to burst your camp but:

"Digital Angel Corporation (http://www.DigitalAngelCorp.com) develops and deploys sensor and communications technologies that enable rapid and accurate identification, location tracking, and condition monitoring of high-value assets. Applications for the Company's products include identification and monitoring of humans, pets, fish, poultry and livestock through its patented implantable microchips; location tracking and message monitoring of vehicles and aircraft in remote locations through systems that integrate GPS and geosynchronous satellite communications; and monitoring of asset conditions such as temperature and movement, through advanced miniature sensors. "

I agree with the comments that this is already done or being develop than completely harsh or crossing out its value and reality.

I like the ear plug idea, its the non evasive form than the pill type (bat included) with bio sensor specifically the host temp. At least the reader or my family will know if am still "alive" somewhere if an emergency happens. I read something about this already for space and military application. Commercially I believe this havent used, perhaps due to FDA requirements or something, but I like to make this happen.

I think its a great idea,and one that I have thought about myself,since I have a very bad problem of losing things. I misplaced my wallet in a shopping mall last summer which had $430 in it. If I had this kind of thing available to me back then,I could have hidden an RFID tag in my wallet,then I would have probably been able to locate the person who walked off with it. I have also lost cell phones,phone/ address books with important contact info,and other very important things in the last few years. If there ever was an invention which I really need ,its something like this .

Ok so we all agree that this is a ok idea but not doable then I am sorry why is it at the top of the list?

err Who "WE" you mean Gods_light?

Browsing the links clearly shows its doable and being swamped by big player, while the critics questions the capacity of the author to make this happen which I think is not what crowd sourcing is all about.

At least I agree with GodsLight and KevinCox.

In order to compete with big existing players there must be some technical advantage you have in your proposed system?

"Sorry guys to burst your camp but"
Those are all for LARGE SCALE commercial systems, or systems that cost a LOT of money. Most of them also require a LOT of detectors. It is in no way cheap for personal use.

Like I said before for a commercial systems it is out and it makes sense. But, for personal systems the costs never are going to meet the benefits.

The only reason this idea is so high (beside the weakness of a lot of idea this week) is because of the Philippines voting block. Ya its not something nice to say but its true.

Gods_Light,

I'm a bit surprised myself of the running outcome of this week's competition, but you're right...it's not something nice to say :)

BTW, a couple of hours ago, your submission was at the top...

May the best idea win!

After 9/11attack, the incident remind the public of how transportation security establishments directly affect the national security.
Airports are the backbone of the worldwide commercial air transportation system. The rapid growth of this sector creates a continuing need to expand airports and provide high-quality services. At the same time, technological, regulatory, security, and economic trends are placing new demands on airports. (this explain why big companies are developing this)
Given this scenario, I believe idea like this have a real niche for common folks and not only as locator vanity for personal valuable items but precisely and it is now essential to ensure public safety on incoming cargoes and of course passenger safety when the need arises.
RFID has the potential to seamlessly invade our daily lives. And for my family safety or even other endeavors like outdoor activities(.e.camping, mountain climbing)I would really be happy to have this idea being applied.
I would pay the premium for a service/gadget like this.

I think some of the technical persons around here is not updating their info logistics.

-Electronic tags can be detected by latest digital passive radio receivers up to 40 meters, unlike traditional RFID products which only are effective up to approximately 2 metres.
-Various RFID and peripherals are available for different applications.
-electronic tagging systems can be linked into industry standard hardware such as access control, CCTV and door/barrier control systems.

I interested on Joyce's would Rags Tracking Solution(RTS) intend to customized and meet clients requirements Also, the dedicated WEBSITE needs some crowdsourcing elements for the security protocols the content need if she wants to make this concept a standout from traditional players which can be her own client too in the future.

I am interested to join your team Joyce!

correction on my post:

* I am concern on how Joyce's (RTS) intend to customized...client's requirements.

Btw, am not surprise if CH members supports this idea, many voters would really like to see some technically challenged regular idea submitter carries their idea and makes the crowd work for its completion. The experts own idea is quite a turn off in a given time of the day and the attitude mostly gives an atmosphere of future serious understanding.

I think one of the business secret ingredient is the hunch to trust someone, which is the HOly Grail on an online setting. Fortunately, Joyce's profile show more desirable trait than amusing and intimidating CV.

Cheers to everyone and Merry Christmas!

"The only reason this idea is so high (beside the weakness of a lot of idea this week) is because of the Philippines voting block. Ya its not something nice to say but its true."

What cheap theatrics from a revered member acting like a fuming berserker.
Sigh* I refused to upvote several ideas, but I guess I have to think twice now what kind of personality other contenders are strutting here and why I should not vote instead.

Can CH provide us the voting pattern after every week of Ideawarz from the previous contenders?

correction on my last comment post:

* I am concern on how Joyce's (RTS) intend to customized...client's requirements.

Btw, am not surprise if CH members supports this idea, many voters would really like to see some technically challenged regular idea submitter carries their idea and makes the crowd work for its completion. The experts own idea is quite a turn off in a given time of the day and the attitude mostly gives an atmosphere of future serious understanding.

I think one of the business secret ingredient is the hunch to trust someone, which is the HOly Grail on an online setting. Fortunately, Joyce's profile show more desirable trait than amusing and intimidating CV.

Peace to everyone and Merry Christmas!

oops sorry for the double post,, my PC hang a while back and I closes it and post the last one when i re-entered.

Gord can you delete my last post?

Ekkenomo / Catherine / xfrieres et. al,

CH is all about nurturing ideas through to reality with the help of the community. Nowhere on this page can I see anything that resembles a plan that enables Joyce to bring her RAGS idea into the real world.

The thing that surprises me most is that even without any substantial evidence that she can deliver upon this vision, you're all voting it up "in principle". CH is not about voting for ideas that make you feel warm and fuzzy. You should be voting for ideas that you believe can be delivered through crowdsourcing and ideally, with CH community help will become successful businesses.

Voting for RAGs is equivalent to thinking you can start your own nuclear power company from scratch.

If I submitted an idea that said I would deliver pocket sized solar cells capable of powering your car, would you vote for it simply because it sounded cool? From all of your comments above, I think you would. This is what makes a lot of us believe you're voting more based upon your beliefs, than what is feasible.

Joyce has about as much chance of delivering upon her vision as I have of winning the Nobel peace prize. Making her win ideawarz does not increase the odds.

I would, I just love pocket sized solar cells that could power my car. Otherwise I agree this idea is going nowhere fast.
And another thing, will people (no names) stop emailing me to vote for their ideas. It's just not cricket

Electronic tags can be detected by latest digital passive radio receivers.

There are all kinds of tagging systems. But, have any of you even seen them they are costly and the antennas on most of them are huge.

There are all ready products like GPS locater beacons and all of that stuff all ready available. For example: EPIRBs, ELTs, and PLBs.

This idea depending on the target audience has BEEN DONE or IS TOTALLY UNPRACTICAL!

Hi All,

As I understand this idea. The idea is to put "memory chips" either into luggage tags or directly into luggage in order to increase the possibility of recovery if lost. These chips can then be read from a distance of around two feet with an appropriate scanner ?

For your information http://www.tumi.com , which is incidentally a very reputable Luggage manufacturer is doing exactly that, with the exception that TUMI uses Barcodes together with a toll free number and a unit ID number unique to that particular piece of luggage. The owners details are on file at TUMI.

As I understand it, what this young Lady is suggesting, is adding a memory chip which can be read at a distance of two feet with an appropriate scanner. Should a scanner not be available, then like all other luggage including that of TUMI, the luggage can be read normally, i.e. with eyes or barcode reader. The Chip option merely icreases the reading speed if available.

In my opinion this not a black art nor nuclear science, and definately not worthy of nomination for a Nobel Prize, its simply a good idea which could easily be marketed to one of the thousands of luggage manufactures around the world ?

One thing about this idea is the people that are posting are passionate.

So is it better than the EXISTING systems. Nope

"CH is not about voting for ideas that make you feel warm and fuzzy"

Yes. maybe that's a cultural difference.

*sighs* All I can do is quote Blue and say how "friggin' dumb" this is getting.

If you had any idea the amount of money we're putting into RFID on a daily basis you would no that this is not even close to a good idea.

We've been working on RFID for 10 years now and we still have them being read at a maximum distance of 2 feet (if you're extremely lucky) and that involves a very powerful reader that costs between $400 and $700 also did I mention that the RFID itself is an inch in diameter by half an inch thick to give it enough antenna to be read from that distance?!

Blue sign me up for the next Idea Warz I'll bring in the RFID paddles and tags as a demo and then we can all say "friggin dumb" together.

Hi Darlinglired,

You may be interested in glancing at the following website:
http://www.rfid-101.com/rfid-tags.htm

Apparently there are in existance "passive"RFID tags of 0.3mm diameter,which can be read at distances of 20ft ?

And active RFID's (battery included) tags which can be read at 100ft ?

For example I have an RFID in my Identity Card, the Card is about the same size as a credit card, are we talking about the same thing ?

Active RFID tags can be read at larger distances, however there are health concerns with these as stated by other people in several other posts. Also these are about double, if not triple the size and price of a passive RFID.

Passive RFID tags, which would be what would be used in luggage, animals, socks whatever only get a range of 20ft if they have alot of antenna included with them.

Either way both of these RFID techniques are quite expensive. The systems to read them even more so. The smaller the more expensive and also the more fragile. Your Identity card could not go through the wash and still have it's RFID work properly.

Every one's opinion is valuable. My opinion is that if Themus does not like an idea or Themus feels that an idea is not practical then Themus should just give the idea a low vote and move on.

Talking down an idea does not serve much purpose. Pointing out problems with the idea and inquiring about solutions or suggesting & creating solutions is more like crowdsourcing.

Having said that, most great ideas generate passionate ridicule.

What you think about me is none of my business. What positive thoughts you have about my idea could propel us to billions.

Themus.

Themus... that's clever. Especially coming from one of Joyce's lackeys http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lackey

I feel the need to share my thinking because I have a real problem with ideas that can't be achieved winning the weekly tournament. These weekly winners are what represents Cambrian House to the world. Our winners are what people will use to praise or ridicule Cambrian House. The larger business and investing community will flat out laugh at us if we present some lame idea that does feasible to implement and does not meet their objective (which is to make money by the way)

You think you are a champion of the cause, that you are coming to the rescue of your poor victimized friend Joyce. But what you are really just shooting your self in the foot.

http://www.usingengl...elf+in+the+foot.html

So you win the battle, but you lose the war. You lose by proclaiming to the world that this is the best thing the people at Cambrian House can come up with. You might not have a problem with that because you'll just find another site to occupy your time.

However, I DO have a problem with Cambrian House not putting its best foot forward. I am a part of Cambrian House and I want to be a part of something that is wonderful. If that means praising good ideas and doing everything in my power to make them a success, so be it. If that also means pointing out flawed ideas and arguing against those flawed ideas, and even arguing with lackeys, so be it.

A *wise* man during the Los Angeles riots in the early 90's, once said, "Why can't we just get along?"

What a mess that was...nobody won.

Joyce, I wish I had something to add or subtract for you, but I am afraid all is said, and *more importantly* DONE...Sorry, you can try it, but I don't think this idea will fly in the real world.

Good luck, nonetheless.

Ccozad is spot on about this idea being a very poor example to the web community of what CH can achieve. Voting this up as part of a popularity contest will turn many people off joining CH.

It's just so far from reality and what crowdsourcing is about. If this was the first thing I'd seen on CH I wouldn't have bothered exploring any further.

Charonv - you seem focused on trying to justify someone else's idea. Why is that? I still cannot see how this idea is achievable through CH or by Joyce.

Your comments seem to be more focused on supporting the congregation of the blind than refining crowdsourceable business ideas.

Gods_light,Siddey,Darlinglil_red et al,

Be careful on the comments you're throwing, some might if not one already crossed the boundary of decency and appropriateness. This is an IDEA page and not the Forum.

I saw some ideas, and were simply labeled as "done" or otherwise, submitter justifies his/her creation as the reviewer either make intelligent rebuttal or simply leave after casting their votes. What makes this idea or the the author so special to create mob among you?

This idea might not on the standard on regular members, but based on the posts, the crowd is divided which explain the average vote for this idea is a tug of war among this two camps.

I wish I'm knowledgeable enough to see the viability to execute this idea. Nevertheless the idea hold water as very useful with great need on contemporary society.

Thus, I can only utter a warm good luck and may you find the right team members and investor to make this idea a reality. It is only then that you can make the howling wolves refrain exhibiting their frustration.

I the other commentor experience on his luggage and how other items might be needing this i.e. wallet, kids garment.

How about the cellphone? I prefer my phone be retrieved than my wallet. Is it possible, that once reported and public scanner trace this(even if its off) an will tell the police where this was last located. Considering some major cities have surveillance camera I wish this could be part of that service zooming in to the alerted location of the reported lost item.

3 stars!

but but!.... I give up.

Hi Siddey,
First, may I apologise for any mental stress that my comments may have caused you.

You are in all probability 100% correct. If you honestly believe that something can't be done, Then there is a good chance that you will never be able to do it.

I however fail to understand how a negative attitude has anything to do with CH ?

It is my opinion that CH is mostly comprised of budding entrepreneurs whose sole desire is to become the next "Bill Gates, Steve Jobs etc" ?

I really don't care if it displeases people or not, but I shall continue to support any budding entrepreneur who I think has potential. For example I have expressed strong positive comments with regards to three or four other ideas this round.

Now if we may, lets try and turn this argument around, by my explaining
one reason why this idea interested me personally.

a) I was not aware of the potential of RFID tags until I did some research after reading this idea.

b) I saw that companies such as Wallmart are using them for inventory control, and 3M are selling kits to law firms for file tracking etc.

c) I saw the potential of having an adapted version of this technology used in my business.

d) One of our companies, manufactures and ships power plants all over the world. The minimum cost of the computer control package for the
the smallest of these plants costs around US$2million. The computer control package is comprised mostly of boards and electronic chips.
These valuable chips have one similarity to socks, they tend to dissapear without trace if not watched closely.

e) After further research I discovered that RFID used "EPC" codes ( see explanation below).

Was I naieve in thinking that I could find and hire a few smart kids who could
think a way of using this technology to help me loose less of my computer bits?

Do you have another solution ?

While we are at it, our containers also go astray occasionally, any ideas ?

Quote:"A number for every item on the planet

RFID employs a numbering scheme called EPC (for "electronic product code") which can provide a unique ID for any physical object in the world. 6 The EPC is intended to replace the UPC bar code used on products today. 7

Unlike the bar code, however, the EPC goes beyond identifying product categories--it actually assigns a unique number to every single item that rolls off a manufacturing line. 8 For example, each pack of cigarettes, individual can of soda, light bulb or package of razor blades produced would be uniquely identifiable through its own EPC number. "9

For your information I have attached two links which demonstrate that

Multinationals such as Walmart, and 3M are already either using or marketing this technology?
http://www.nocards.o...utoID/overview.shtml

http://solutions.3m....king_solutions/home/

That is the point, it is being done now. By people. being done

Can't believe you have done it I bet you will be the winner

It is being done now by multinational companies.

This is a major capital intensive endeavour with a large chance of failure due to competition.

I vote this down.

http://www.nocards.o...utoID/overview.shtml

I had a look at the site CharonV referred to, but I can't focus on all the gobbledy gook when they start rambling about tracking every physical item on the planet.

I got home from the bookstore a few months back and found an rfid tag in a new paperback book, it was about 3/4"x3/8"x1/8"; nothing close to the size of a grain of sand, as mentioned in the web article. I am sure it will become that small, if not already, but the many applications of this technology will be very different from one another.

I read a lot of the comments here but not all of them. This idea needs focus. How about the airline terminal and baggage system. You can sell the tags to the passengers and the readers to the airline industry. Passengers won't be allowed to walk around the terminal scanning others' personal belongings to recover their own lost items. Also, they won't be allowed into the areas where baggage is handled, and where bags might be misdirected by mistake. I think you need to develop some niche markets long before trying to sell it to the public to track any and all objects they own.

One alternative idea that comes to mind is to sell it as a toy for kids (ages 12 and up for safety with small labels). They can play at family inventory and teach the adults what the technology is good for. It sounds silly, but it is no more so than individuals trying to track every physical item they own or are responsible for.

Wallmart must have focused their application of this technology. Consider the technology that triggers an alarm when someone trys to leave a store with a tagged item that has not been deactivated. Does every single item need a unique ID?

What a stupid idea

I wish to avoid another T-Wrapz disaster in the community. But at this point it seems to be unavoidable.

We seem to have fundamentally different ideas of what makes a good idea and what this site should be about.

Perhaps we can all get along. Or maybe it would be better if some of us went our separate ways.

I been traveling frequently at least half of the globe for the last 5 years, so really I have a hunch this would do good for passengers. Though I already read this RFID tech since its quite the buzz for asset monitoring I have not recall any news an airline already step in to implement this for additional security/protective measures. If I were Joyce I will try the local/domestic carrier first and yes I think she is right the system component can be outsource.

This is a decent idea I just cant understand whats the fuss around.

Doesn't LoJack do precisely this? Help you locate your car when it's stolen? How do you propose to beat them on cost? Or beat any of the other industry players on cost and logistics?

http://www.engadget....integrated-rfid-tag/ $169

http://www.brickhous...s-child-locator.html
$389

http://www.kinderguard.co.uk/

Woo woooo! Here comes the clue train, last stop is you.

* Can be Crowd-sourced: NO!
* RFID Tags: Are HIGH COST and LOW RANGE. Also, they can be VERY BIG.
* RFID receivers: Are very HIGH COST and need a LARGE antenna.
* Used for personal use: Yes, but it is IS TOTALLY UNPRACTICAL!
* Used for commercial use: Yes, but it has BEEN DONE ALL READY!

My ranking for this idea: Slightly above theoretically impossible. In other words it is just completely f**k-ing retarded. If I could give this idea even more negative points I would.

This entire IdeaWarz week was just a dumbass marathon. Looks like you are in the lead. Congratulations!

PS: Sorry for being a potty mouth but, for this post I felt it was needed to make my point. Because all of this stuff was all ready said many-many times. But it was ignored for some reason.

Charonv - I think your support of and passion for entrepreneurship is great, however, I don't think your current comments add any value to argument for RAGS.

I can equally search, research and regurgitate a lot about the construction of nuclear power plants. I may even find some areas that are perceived as current weaknesses and could be improved upon. That doesn't mean I am ever going to be able to do something about it. I'm sure whatever I think could be bad about nuclear power plant design is already on Toshiba or GE's to-do list for the next 20 years. Sometimes we just need to deal with reality and agree that David cannot possibly beat Goliath.

I wish your apparent passion for researching and discussing practicalities was something shared by the rest of the blind mob. I think if Joyce had done similar amounts of homework she wouldn't have bothered submitting such rubbish in the first place. Unfortunately her fan club has now taken it beyond common sense.

Hi All,

After reviewing the success of Walmarts use of RFID technology, and discussions with various manufacturers of RFID passive chips; regarding
costings . One of my clients, a Publically traded multinational company would like to look into this technology for enhancement of current inventory control and security purposes.

In conjunction with other methods; this group use "System Patents" in order to protect their intellectual property rights. Basically they patent their complete unique proprietary system.

They have concluded that adding RFID technology and an EPC numbering system to their inventory control and security module could add many advantages to their overall "system /system patent" in a cost effective manner. The designers of the module will share in all royalties.

Is this the sort of project which could be brought to CH to crowdsource?

Winner or no winner I like this IDEA... but it bothers me that bravery mean my head will roll after this.

I heard Joyce's account was killed too even before she can defend herself.

sigh*

"Is this the sort of project which could be brought to CH to crowdsource?"
CH for the most part is all about software and website projects. Also, there are all ready products you can buy as far as tracking devices.

RFID is low range and not the same as gps tracking.

You can buy a GPS tracker for about $300 and for $500-$600 you can get one that will track in real time and keep track of all kinds of other info you can watch on the internet in real time or call automatically when it leaves a set area . You can also use services for about $40-$60 per month to rent systems. There are many to pick from.

Why am I even taking the time to talk. Seriously people voting for this idea don't care about reality.

Hi Kevin,

This is mostly a software project, so by accident I may have tumbled upon the correct site ?

Perhaps you would be kind enough to familiarize yourself with:

http://www.schneider...ness/automation.page

I fully understand that RFID is different to GPS Tracking, we use GPS tracking in in all of our trucks and heavy machinery.

We also monitor all of our power plants real time using either the net(when available) or alternitavely GSM or satellite uplinks.

We use software packages provided by Schnieder-Electric in all of our plants.

This software package allows us to constantly run our power plants in compliance with current enviromental requirements, additionally it:
a) allows us to monitor emissions remotely.
b) Close down any plant remotely.
c) Monitor any area of the plant via cameras remotely, this includes the insides of the Gasifiers (our high temperature cameras are rated for 2,200c temperatures)
d) advise us remotely of any breaks of security.

My project managers and security personnel advise me that the introduction of Passive RFID chips would allow us to enhance our current system in certain areas.

The keyword here is "system" As I have explained earlier, our technology is protected by "System Patents" Software must always be written in order to assimilate all data and information into the main schnieder control system, this enhances the value of our "system patent"

Therefore, in order to incorporate RFID into our package, it shall be necessary to "write/create" another software module into the Schneider package.

As you may imagine, as project such as this requires many technical skills.

how far it gonna be untamperable and what about the size

Hi Vjcool'

Please glance at the attached site and click on "Power Stations"

http://www.norinco.c...vices/projects.html#

These are some of the larger Hydro-Electric projects, our Waste to energy plants go down to 6MW per hour and cover around 5 acres. As you can see the plants vary in size.

The project is a) to attach passive RFID chips on to valuables and files which can be stolen. b) To valuables and files for inventory and audit control purposes'.

Companies such as 3M can meet our supply requirements from their current product range. Basically a bell will ring if any valuable tries to evade security checks at departure doors. Scanners can bee used to quickly check inventory and locate miss places files.

From my earlier post you will note that we reguire the ability to control all aspects of the plant remotely. We shall therefore need to create a design and write the necessary software, so that a module is created which blends into our overall Schneider Control package.

I hope this helps, with your understanding.

Ok Personally, the whole thing is being done but not implemented in general in the propose usage say for airline/cruise passenger. The bio sensor with battery is not original but would work and need a lot of resources to implement.

Its past voting week so I guess my comment would not hurt my membership.

Goodluck and enjoy the new year!

WOw its been awhile since i've been here and I'm just getting other things started again and now...

GPS is cheap and good and it works!!!

Great idea!!!

My thought when I read your idea was to make it like a pack of gum you by at a news stand. You know the kind you punch out from behind on foil tabbed compartments. But the GPS's would be little disposable waffers that are perfoprated andyou could easily tear them off. Retail the thing for about 10 bucks. Are ya still making money? dunno...somebody out their do the cost analyis on this one and make a post of it will ya please:)

Oh, and they also stick like those little circular bandaids you use for corns on your feet. I think I saw something similar that the NSA used in the movie "SNEAKERS" for tracking .

Definately doable...
It would be just a matter of marketing it as a very convienient and disposable gimik that actually helps.

However on the downside of the whole issue...you might have everybody tracking everybody all over the place. that may be good in some cases but bad in others. Suppose all this new extremely idiot proof and readily accecible tracking tech got into the wrong hands. (can you identify the wrong hands and the right hands) write that up in a seperate brief, before we proceed with anything on this.

more later...

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WORST IDEA EVER!