Scheme for the UWB Positioning and Management System in the Segmental Beam Storage Area of the Beam Fabrication Plant

I. Project Background and Objectives

To address the positioning management needs of the segmental beam storage yard in a beam prefabrication plant, this solution utilizes UWB (Ultra-Wideband) ranging technology to build an intelligent management system integrating rapid tag binding/unbinding, real-time positioning of segmental beams, and precise, quick retrieval. Through the wireless deployment of long-endurance UWB tags and solar-powered 4G+ base stations, it solves the problems of difficult positioning and low retrieval efficiency for large prefabricated components during the storage phase, achieving a digital upgrade for the entire lifecycle storage management of segmental beams.

II. Advantages of Core Technology Selection

2.1 Advantages of UWB Ranging Technology

• Centimeter-level Positioning Accuracy: Ranging error ≤30cm, meeting the need for precise differentiation of beam rows, columns, and layers.
• Strong Anti-interference Capability: Highly adaptable to metal components and dusty environments, suitable for complex scenarios in beam prefabrication plants.
• Good Penetration: Can penetrate non-metallic obstacles, suitable for tag signal transmission through the hollow structure of segmental beams.
• High Ranging Stability: Utilizes Time Difference of Arrival (TDoA) technology to avoid environmental reflection interference.

2.2 Hardware Solution Features

• Long-endurance UWB Tags: Battery life ≥3 years (default reporting cycle 30 minutes), IP67 waterproof rating, suitable for outdoor storage environments.
• Solar-powered 4G+ Base Stations: 60W high-efficiency photovoltaic panel + 24Ah lithium battery, supports operation for ≥72 hours during continuous rainy weather.
• Wireless Deployment: 4G full-network transmission, no on-site cabling required, installation period shortened by 60%.

III. System Core Functions and Technical Implementation

3.1 Rapid Tag Binding and Unbinding Function

3.1.1 Binding Mechanism

• Convenient Binding Process: Associate a segmental beam's identity QR code with a tag ID via a mobile terminal (PDA / mobile app) with one-click completion.
• Information Entry: Key information such as beam model, production batch, and strength grade can be entered during binding.
• Batch Operations: Supports batch binding for newly arrived beams (via table import processing).

3.1.2 Unbinding Mechanism

• Single Beam Unbinding: When a beam is dispatched, the association between the tag and the beam is removed via the management platform or mobile terminal.
• Batch Unbinding: Supports batch unbinding operations for entire rows/columns of beams during centralized dispatch.
• Tag Recycling: Unbound tags automatically enter an available state for reuse.

3.2 Real-time Positioning Function

3.2.1 Hardware Deployment Plan

• Base Station Layout: For example, if the storage yard has 6 columns of beams, install 6 corresponding UWB ranging base stations, mounted on the end pillars of each column at a height of 3-4 meters.
• Tag Installation: After beam prefabrication, fix the UWB tag at the center of the hollow bottom section, ensuring the tag faces the base station direction.
• Power Supply & Transmission: Base stations are powered by solar panels + lithium batteries, with data transmitted wirelessly via 4G to the management platform.

3.2.2 Positioning Algorithm Implementation

1. Column Positioning:
   • Each tag periodically (default 30 minutes) sends ranging signals to all base stations.
   • The system collects distance data (D1-D6) from the tag to the 6 base stations.
   • The column corresponding to the base station with the minimum distance is identified as the beam's column (e.g., if D3 is minimum, it's in column 3).
2. Row Positioning:
   • Using the base station of the identified column as a reference, obtain the lateral distance (L) from the tag to that station.
   • Combine with preset parameters (single beam width + gap = 1.5 meters, customizable).
   • Row calculation formula: Row Number = INT(L/1.5) + 1 (e.g., L=4.2m results in Row 3: 4.2/1.5=2.8→INT(2.8)=2+1=3).
3. Layer Positioning:
   • Based on the tag installation height and the signal angle difference during base station ranging.
   • Combined with the preset height difference between double-layer beams (2.5 meters), automatically determines upper or lower layer.

3.3 Rapid Retrieval Function

3.3.1 Retrieval Process

1. User inputs the beam serial number or scans its QR code in the management platform.
2. The system immediately retrieves the current positioning data (row, column, layer) for that beam.
3. The platform's electronic map displays the precise location.

3.3.2 Technical Support

• Positioning data updates in real-time (delay ≤2 seconds).
• Supports simultaneous multi-target retrieval, displayed distinctly on the map.
• Retrieval results include additional information such as beam storage-in time and estimated dispatch time (reserved).

IV. System Architecture Design

4.1 Perception Layer

• UWB Asset Tags: Installed on the bottom of segmental beams, actively send ranging signals, battery life ≥3 years.
• UWB Ranging Base Stations: 6 units, one per column, responsible for receiving tag signals and calculating distances.

4.2 Network Layer

• Solar Power Supply System: MPPT intelligent charge management with overcharge/over-discharge protection.
• 4G Wireless Transmission: Supports China Mobile / Unicom / Telecom full-network access, with encrypted data transmission.

4.3 Application Layer

• Data Processing Server: Receives base station data, runs positioning algorithms, and resolves beam locations.
• Management Platform: Web-based visual interface, accessible via PC/mobile devices.
• Database: Stores beam information, positioning data, operation logs (data retention ≥3 years).

V. Core Functional Modules

1. Tag Management Module
   • Tag status monitoring (battery level, binding status)
   • Rapid binding/unbinding operation interface
2. Real-time Positioning Monitoring Module
   • Real-time display of storage yard electronic map
   • Dynamic update of beam positions (column, row, layer)
   • Statistics on beam quantity and distribution heatmap within the area
3. Rapid Retrieval Module
   • Multi-condition search (serial number, model, batch, etc.)
   • Visual display of positioning results
4. System Management Module
   • Base station equipment status monitoring
   • Positioning parameter calibration (beam width, gap, etc.)
   • Operation permission management and log query

VI. Key Points for Implementation and Deployment

6.1 Base Station Installation Specifications

• Install each row's base station on the end pillar, ensuring an unobstructed view towards the beam tags.
• Solar panel tilted 30° facing south (optimal angle for Dongtou area) to ensure sufficient sunlight.
• Base stations evenly distributed based on storage yard length, maximum spacing ≤50 meters.

6.2 Tag Installation Requirements

• Fix the tag at the center of the beam's hollow bottom using strong magnets or bolts.
• Ensure no metal obstruction on the tag surface, with signal emission direction facing the base station.
• Conduct signal test after installation; RSSI value ≥ -85dBm is considered qualified.

6.3 System Debugging Standards

• Positioning Accuracy: Row identification accuracy 100%, column identification error ≤1 column, layer identification accuracy 100%.
• Response Time: From retrieval request to result display ≤5 seconds.
• Data Update: Position information refresh cycle ≤30 minutes (configurable).

VII. Project Expected Benefits

1. Management Efficiency Improvement
   • Beam retrieval time reduced from an average of 30 minutes to within 5 minutes.
   • Tag binding/unbinding efficiency increased by 80%, reducing manual operations.
   • Achieves dynamic inventory management, lowering the risk of incorrect or missed dispatches.
2. Cost Savings
   • Solar-powered 4G base stations eliminate cabling, reducing construction costs by 60%.
   • Reusable tags reduce total lifecycle costs by 50%.
   • Reduces the need for 3-5 dedicated management personnel.
3. Management Level Enhancement
   • Achieves digital recording of the entire segmental beam storage process.
   • Provides accurate inventory data support for production scheduling.
   • Forms a traceable storage management archive.

This solution, tailored to the positioning and retrieval management characteristics of segmental beam storage yards in beam prefabrication plants, employs UWB precise ranging technology and a wireless base station design. It perfectly solves the positioning and retrieval challenges for large components. The system features easy deployment, simple maintenance, and high cost-effectiveness, providing strong support for the intelligent management of beam prefabrication plants.