Project Proposal On:

Reimagining the Smart Airport Experience with Innovative Technology:

Project Members:

John Dulski, Mihir Patel, Harley Jiang

(Commercial Aviation, Undergraduate)

Academic Advisor:

Kim Kenville, Ph.D., C.M.

University of North Dakota

John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences

2020-2021 Academic Year

2

Acknowledgements

The team would like to thank many of the people who helped in the development of the

FlashTag: the UND Aerospace Team consisting of Kim Kenville, Ph.D., C.M. (advising,

editing,and helping the FlashTag group contact many experts in the field), Neil Nowatzki (for

doing an amazing job with the 3D-modelling), and Bob Cary (for help in video production).

Others included: Jon Scraper (for the initial review of the paper, giving us key insight into how

airports work, and providing a 3D-model of an airport), Jay Pitcher of Cisco® Systems (guiding

the team through understanding the BLE and NFC technologies as well as DNA Spaces), and

Jane Dulski (refining the concept and pushing us (especially John) to finish this paper). Most of

all, we would like to thank our editing extraordinaire: Kim Higgs. She was vital to making sure

the paper was crisp and concise in its message. The team is once again thankful for all their help

and are extremely grateful for their time spent on this project.

3

Tech

nica

l Pap

er Qu

ad

Ch

art

4

Executive Summary

Due to ever-increasing air travel (pre-COVID period), airports are facing significant

challenges in efficiency throughout the airport. Issues such as lost baggage has been a long-

standing problem for the airlines, as well as passengers, amounting to 5.69 bags misplaced per

1,000 travelers (SITA, 2020). As the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) desires to

recognize students with the ability to demonstrate innovative thinking, UND’s FlashTag team

reimagines the possibility of the baggage tag and conceptualized FlashTag. The team addressed

this challenge by creating a Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE) enabled digital luggage tag paired

with an application that can be used for baggage tracking, airport terminal navigation, and

wayfinding for accessibility services. This device, in tandem with its smartphone application,

will enable a state-of-the-art travel experience that will benefit travelers including those that are

differently-abled. Consequently, this project promotes increased efficiency, effectiveness, and

revenue for all enterprises at the airport.

5

Table of Contents

Problem Statement and Background ............................................................................................... 7

Project Description.......................................................................................................................... 8

Figure 1 ....................................................................................................................................... 8

Figure 2 ....................................................................................................................................... 9

Concept Lifecycle ..................................................................................................................... 10

Figure 3 ................................................................................................................................. 10

Design Assumptions ................................................................................................................. 10

Risk Mitigation ......................................................................................................................... 11

Figure 4 ................................................................................................................................. 11

Privacy Risk .......................................................................................................................... 11

Figure 5. ............................................................................................................................ 12

Battery Risk .......................................................................................................................... 12

Figure 6. ............................................................................................................................ 13

Screen Risk ........................................................................................................................... 13

Figure 7. ............................................................................................................................ 13

Passenger Impact ...................................................................................................................... 14

Economic/Environmental Impact ............................................................................................. 14

Cost-Benefit Analysis ............................................................................................................... 14

Table 1 .................................................................................................................................. 15

Table 2 .................................................................................................................................. 15

6

Technical Description ................................................................................................................... 16

Figure 8 ..................................................................................................................................... 16

Research ........................................................................................................................................ 17

Literature Review...................................................................................................................... 17

Patent Research ......................................................................................................................... 18

Testing........................................................................................................................................... 19

Design Changes ........................................................................................................................ 20

Figure 9 ................................................................................................................................. 21

Figure 10 ............................................................................................................................... 22

Figure 11 ............................................................................................................................... 23

Figure 12 ............................................................................................................................... 24

Conclusion .................................................................................................................................... 25

Technical Demonstration .............................................................................................................. 25

Project Timeline ............................................................................................................................ 25

Figure 13 ................................................................................................................................... 25

Budget ........................................................................................................................................... 26

References ..................................................................................................................................... 27

Appendices .................................................................................................................................... 31

Letter of Support ....................................................................................................................... 31

Figure 14 ............................................................................................................................... 31

7

Problem Statement and Background

Airports in the United States served almost one billion travelers in 2019, however, some

of the most substantial problems airlines and their airport partners face are not new (Bureau of

Transportation Statistics, 2020): baggage misplacements, security line delays, and missed flights.

The University of North Dakota’s (UND) FlashTag team researched various daily occurrences at

the airport, finding that human error is very likely one of the main factors causing delays for

passengers. Furthermore, there are many limitations and difficulties within airports and airline

capacity in the United States due to increased travel. This is because of inadequate infrastructure

upgrades, substantial increases in enplanements, and the amount of baggage the customer brings

to the airport. The US has not built a new airport since 1995, yet the total number of travelers

increased by about 30% since 2008 and continues to increase annually (Halaschak, 2019). The

type and way a passenger travels have changed in the last 50 years; yet the way checked luggage

is handled has not kept up with the demand.

Atkins notes that, “one of the biggest reasons many American airports don’t measure up

with those in other countries is that Congress has not adjusted the main funding mechanism for

airport infrastructure in almost 20 years” (Atkins, 2019). Therefore, there is a need for upgrades,

and new ideas. Right now, it is more prudent to solve these issues not with long planning and

construction projects, but instead with technological approaches. This is due to limited space

constrictions around many of US airports. Adding to that, infrastructure is costly and can cause

further delays to passengers and airlines. Upgrading existing infrastructure with new, state-of-

the-art technologies will help reduce and prolong the time before major infrastructure changes

are needed.

One of the most common types of delays is caused by baggage misplacements at the

airport. Although baggage misplacements have diminished, the average baggage misplacement

rate was 5.69 per 1,000 passengers in 2018 (SITA, 2020). Since almost 4.5 billion people

traveled the world’s airlines in 2018 (Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 2020), the team

calculated that more than 26 million bags were lost in 2018 alone. This must and can be

mitigated.

Passengers struggle to navigate the airport and efficiently make it through the security

checkpoints. In 2018, an article published by Stoller said that “[l]ong airport security lines have

caused one of every seven travelers to miss a flight in the past 12 months” (Stoller, 2018). Part of

this has been mitigated or exacerbated by using TSA Pre-Check as well as Clear (another check-

in service), but a solution for the whole population of travelers has not been proposed. For

travelers with disabilities, a few airports have added separate security lines, but getting access

and wayfinding are still challenges that they face. Due to varying layouts and procedures within

the airport, this may prove difficult for travelers who are differently-abled.

Given the recent COVID-19 outbreak, air travel in the United States decreased by as

much as 96% from the previous year, 2019 (Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 2020).

Therefore, it is important for this innovative technology to add the feature of contact tracing and

social distancing that assist in the mitigation of health risks. As the team was developing the

concept, it became necessary to mitigate virus spread as part of its mission. From check-in to

being loaded onto the aircraft, the bag is touched by as many as five pairs of hands (not counting

TSA). There is the person at the front desk weighing, labeling, and placing it onto the conveyor

belt. Then, once the bag makes its way through that system, another pair of hands places it onto

the baggage cart that drives out to the aircraft. Finally, it is scanned once again and then its final

set of hands moves the luggage onto the aircraft. If FlashTag can remove just one of the times

8

personnel touches the bag, it may reduce the risk to spread disease. This must happen to restore

faith in the public that air transportation is safe once again.

With outdated airport infrastructure, long security lines, and most of all, baggage

misplacements, airports have become inefficient. Air travel has lost its style and luxuriousness,

replaced with decaying infrastructure and ever-declining service for passengers. They deserve

better and they know it.

Project Description

Figure 1

The FlashTag Baggage Tag

FlashTag is a multi-functional device that synchronizes with a user’s smartphone to

deliver seamless baggage tracking and airport navigation. The upper housing of the device holds

a central processor, a Near-Field Communication (NFC) chip, a Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE)

beacon, a solid-state lithium-ion battery, and a flexible Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED)

screen.

Users can pair their device at home and be given the option to load the information onto

their FlashTag via Bluetooth pairing. Upon their arrival at the airport, users drop off their

checked baggage at the self-service kiosk. They can use a contactless scanner to confirm the

destination and drop the baggage on the conveyor belt. The system will automatically update and

indicate the real-time baggage information on the user's phone. If the customer has special items

9

such as a firearm, they can mark it using the app ensuring greater security within the airport. This

will allow TSA to keep special tabs upon the gun, making sure that it makes it safely with the

passenger. Users can monitor their real-time baggage information throughout their whole flight.

After dropping off the baggage, users can access many additional functions through the

application. The Bluetooth access points can sense congested areas in the building and indicate

that in the FlashTag application. The application would then recommend the fastest route to the

security lines. If the passenger is late for their flight (within 30 minutes of departure) or they

have disabilities, the FlashTag on their carry-on bag would indicate a red light and would allow

the passengers to go through a special express lane.

Once the passenger passes through security, they are able to utilize the Augmented

Reality (AR) navigation to guide them to concessions, shopping, and their gate. The smartphone

application will also send promotional messages to the user, encouraging them to shop at the

airport. Additional on-demand services on the FlashTag app will be available, such as language

translation services, food delivery, and access to medical assistance.

Figure 2

Diagram of AR Navigation Inside the Airport

The goal of the FlashTag system is to offer baggage tracking services, assist travelers,

and provide easy navigation in the airport. This eases anxiety, maximizes sales revenue,

increases efficiency, lowers baggage misplacements, and reduces human contact. This

technology could provide a pathway to the adoption of contactless travel for the future and could

continue to be adapted as necessary.

10

Concept Lifecycle

Figure 3

Diagram of the Concept Lifecycle

The FlashTag team anticipates the first year will be focused on developing and refining

the device and its software. During this stage, ideas and possible implementations will be

discussed and put through a rigorous decision matrix. Years 1 to 1.5, the device will be tested in

real environments with test users. Years 1.5 to 2.5 would consist of niche implementation into

the US market. The first wave of customers would be airlines, who would sell the device to their

passengers. During this time, the team would focus on upgrading the airports’ infrastructure to

facilitate for the use of FlashTag. The team would gather user feedback during this time, which

would be utilized to improve user-friendliness. In years 2.5 to 3, FlashTag will penetrate into the

mass-market and gain international support. Once the device is introduced into the global

market, the FlashTag and its software will be updated based on the learnings from customers and

system needs. This includes expanding the brand and creating accessories for the product to

enhance the passenger experience.

Design Assumptions

While researching the device and its technologies, the FlashTag team determined some

design assumptions that must be tested later in development. The first assumption is regarding

the technologies that the device uses. This includes a Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE) chip, a Near-

Field Communication (NFC) chip, a flexible Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) screen, as

well as the solid-state lithium-ion battery that it utilizes. The team will make certain that these

devices and its components will survive even more than what it might handle daily (as outlined

in the “Testing” section). The second group of assumptions are that airport infrastructure can

11

handle the upgrades that are needed to make this device work, primarily Bluetooth access points.

Finally, the third group of assumptions regarding the flexibility of the TSA in adopting this

technology. The group will work thoroughly with this governing body to ensure that this

technology can be implemented in a safe and efficient manner.

Risk Mitigation

To ensure that the FlashTag is a safe and a reliable platform for the customer, the team

used Safety Management System (SMS) Safety Risk Management Matrix (SRM). This matrix

identifies hazards, assesses, analyzes, and controls the risks of an organization. The FAA’s

Safety Risk Management policies, as described in Advisory Circular 150/5200-37, show the risk

analysis in the risk matrix (Figure 4). The matrix shows the level of risk by the probability of the

event. By using this chart, the team can better address the safety hazards that customers may

encounter with the product. For example, if it enters the yellow or the red zone, this chart will

tell the developers that design measures must be implemented to better mitigate the hazard. The

FlashTag has some inherent safety risks such as the privacy of the user, the battery, and the

screen. These are all within the minimal (green) risk level with mitigation when necessary.

Figure 4

FAA Risk Management Matrix

Privacy Risk

Any electronic device that has personal data stored on it could be compromised. On the

FlashTag, there are important data for airport personnel such as the name of the passenger, flight

number, and the departure and arrival airports. The identifier that the Bluetooth emits is a

randomized set of code that is untraceable. No one can manage this data except the passengers or

airport personnel. To display advertisements, the only data that is collected is whether or not the

device is near a store.

12

For the transfer of data onto the Near-Field Communication (NFC) device, there are

practically no risks. The NFC chip is password protected, ensuring that only users who have a

key can program passenger data onto it. After the baggage tag information is stored onto the

FlashTag, the data is locked and cannot be changed until the user alters it (e.g., for a different

trip). This assures that people with malicious purposes cannot change the baggage details on the

FlashTag. The team determined that the loss of privacy is both extremely improbable and is of

minor risk for the passenger (Figure 5).

Figure 5.

Risk Management Matrix for Privacy Risk

Battery Risk

Batteries are a necessity in any portable electronic device. The current Lithium-Ion (Li-

on) technology is safe but may short-circuit and cause fires if incorrectly manufactured. One of

the most notable occurrences of this was with Samsung’s Galaxy Note 7 when some of the

batteries short-circuited and caught fire (Peterson, 2019). This was due to incorrect

manufacturing of the device’s battery, causing TSA to prohibit passengers from carrying this

device on-board.

To prevent this occurrence, the FlashTag team proposes to use solid-state lithium-ion

batteries in the device. The technology allows for a stable battery that is less likely to short-

circuit. The second advantage of this battery is the wide range of temperatures that it can operate

in, “...as low as minus 30 degrees Celsius and up to one hundred” (Betters, 2015). Because of

this, the battery will be able to perform well from the gate to the cargo holds of the aircraft at

30,000 feet. The team rates the FlashTag’s batteries for severity as minor and extremely remote

due to the ruggedness of the solid-state battery that will be used in the FlashTag (Figure 6).

13

Figure 6.

Risk Management Matrix for Battery Risk

Screen Risk

The FlashTag consists of a flexible Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) screen. The

risk is that the screen could be broken and scratched during the baggage handling process.

Extreme bending could break the screen. Thus, the team researched equipment that may prevent

this event from occurring. The team proposes a transparent protector made of plastic and

fiberglass that could slide onto the outside of the screen. There may also be risks for the extreme

temperatures during the flight. However, the team found a mass-produced, flexible OLED screen

that can operate in the temperature range of -30 to 70 ºC (-22 to 158 ºF) (Alibaba, n.d.).

Therefore, the team determined that this would have no safety effect but have a probable

likelihood that the screen could break without proper mitigation (Figure 7).

Figure 7.

Risk Management Matrix for Screen Risk

14

Passenger Impact

The benefits of this technology for passengers are limitless. With this tracking

technology, the team hopes that the FlashTag device can create more accountability for the

airlines and baggage handlers, to effectively handle passengers’ baggage from point A to point

B. During this process, passengers can keep tabs on their baggage at all times.

The Bluetooth technology within the device allows the airport to send alerts to users,

promoting social distancing. In recent times, this feature has already been introduced in Apple

and Samsung smartphones (Albanesius & Muchmore, 2020). Using Augmented Reality (AR)

navigation, the passenger can easily move through the airport, especially for passengers with

disabilities, families travelling with children, as well as those in a rush. This can reduce flight

delays and airport congestion. With easier transitions through the airport, passengers can enjoy

being at the airport and spend more time relaxing.

Economic/Environmental Impact

The FlashTag will reap economic benefits for all three of the major beneficiaries (the

airlines, the airport, and the passengers). It all starts with the passenger, easily getting through

security and arriving at the airport terminal. The smooth transit ensures a higher customer

satisfaction rate and gives more time for the customer to spend money at the airport. The

Augmented Reality (AR) feature in the application will lead travelers to their gate, marking

stores along the way. The on-demand service allows passengers to order merchandise to be

delivered to the departure gate. Some of the on-demand services such as language translations

will collect fees to increase the overall revenue at the airport.

By reducing the baggage misplacement rate, customer retention rates will increase and

ensure greater loyalty to the airline. It is estimated that around 25 million bags were lost or stolen

in 2018 (SITA, 2020). Consequently, airlines can reduce paying lost baggage fees. For the

airlines, the margins are thin: a slightly smaller load factor- or better yet, a delay could be

disastrous for their profits. By reducing these time costs, it will ensure a larger bottom line.

Secondly, the passenger can get through security lines in a shorter amount of time, preventing

unnecessary delays due to a late passenger. Finally, the reduction of disposable plastic bag tags

will benefit the environment. This would further elevate the airlines’ brand image and increase

brand awareness as it is ethical for the airline to utilize modern technology and protect the Earth.

Furthermore, airports can utilize this device to collect data to build better business

models. This allows the airport to predict future customer behavior and increase airport

utilization. It also enables the airport to analyze these movement data to improve their business

approach. As the economic impacts benefit each party exponentially, the FlashTag will increase

revenue for airports and airlines while providing assistance for their passengers.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

The following tables are the estimated costs that are associated with the development of

the device. The first table showcases the academic research and development costs (a total of

$11,800). The second table shows the device and the application development costs (estimated at

$283,500). These costs include the airport’s infrastructure upgrades, color-coded lane

installations, and other equipment. Both of these combined will make a grand total of $295,300.

In the first year of the launch, the estimated revenue is $170,000. This number is

calculated from the sales of the FlashTag device itself, the sale of advertisements, and monthly

15

subscription fees. We assume major airlines will become customers in the first year and

FlashTag would break even by the second or third year once the customer base grows.

Table 1

Academic Research and Development Costs

Academic Research and Development Cost:

Item: Rate: Quantity/Hours: Total:

Student Effort: $13/hour 600 hours $7,800

Faculty Advisor

Efforts: $80/hour 50 hours $4,000

Subtotal: $11,800

Table 2

Development Labor, Equipment Costs, Marketing, and the Grand Total

Device & Application Development, Installation, and Marketing

Item: Rate: Quantity/Hours: Total:

App. Development: $90/hour 600 hours $54,000

Device Development: $100/hour 500 hours $50,000

Equipment: $500 200 sets $100,000

Technician: $45/hour 100 hours $4,500

Marketing: $75,000

Subtotal: $283,500

Grand Total: $295,300

16

Technical Description

Figure 8

FlashTag Design with Labels

The FlashTag communicates with users through Near Field-Communication (NFC) and

Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE). This enables the user to track their baggage as well as easily

transfer their baggage information onto the tag. NFC is the technology used to transfer data from

one device to another. For example, to transfer the baggage information on the phone application

to the FlashTag. This technology is useful because it does not rely on electricity from the

baggage tag, but rather the user’s smart device. Data will include the name of the passenger, the

airline, the tracking code, the arrival, and departure airport. These data are secure via a password

and can only be utilized by the passenger, baggage handler, and anyone with the proper authority

(e.g., TSA). The type of NFC chip that will be used is the NTAG21X chip. This allows for 130

characters of information to be stored on the device. This data is stored via NFC Data Exchange

Format (NDEF) (Girish, 2015). Once the passenger receives their luggage, they can verify if it is

17

theirs by simply tapping their smartphone to their FlashTag. Later on, the passenger can unlock it

and recode the FlashTag with new baggage information for their next flight.

Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE) is an energy-efficient and cost-effective way to accomplish

the primary goal of the FlashTag. Throughout the airport, there will be Bluetooth access points

that sense the FlashTag. This gives allows the user to track their luggage throughout the entirety

of the baggage check-in and loading process. Each section of the airport will be divided into

different zones, covering parts of the airport from the check-in desk to the ramp outside (Cisco,

2020). Airlines will be able to keep track of the device too, ensuring that the baggage makes it to

the passenger. In terms of security, TSA will also be able to see if the baggage is in any

unauthorized zone to keep the public safe.

The FlashTag team will partner with Cisco® Systems and utilize their DNA Spaces

technology. “Cisco® DNA Spaces is a cloud-based location services platform. Through Cisco®

wireless infrastructure, organizations can gain insights into how people and things move

throughout their physical spaces. With these insights, they can deliver contextual engagements

that are valuable and relevant. Besides looking at where people go, organizations can also drive

operational efficiencies by monitoring the location, movement, and utilization of assets” (Cisco,

2020). This database technology will be crucial; enabling the tracking and database services

required for the device. The FlashTag team will utilize the Meraki MR72 or the MR32 access

points to enable tracking to the cloud. These access points will be wired throughout the airport,

sensing the Bluetooth beacon inside the FlashTag and tracking the device throughout the airport.

Once the beacon moves past the marked access point area, it will record data listing the unique

identifier of the device; then, it will display the movement in the user’s application. For example,

if the FlashTag moves out from a set proximity of the marked area to another, the FlashTag’s

Bluetooth beacon connects to the next access point nearby. Or if the FlashTag is near the security

check-in lines, its beacon would be connected to the specific access point near the security line,

which is given a specific radius to cover. Then from that area, if the tag moves to the gate area,

the FlashTag would connect to the gate’s specific access point and alert its current location.

Using DNA Spaces, the movement behavior of the passenger can notify airport staff where they

can better utilize their resources to increase efficiency in the airport terminal.

Research

Literature Review

Keeping the design state-of-the-art, the team collected relevant materials that could be

used as guidance for product development. The team investigated technology-related topics such

as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Near-field Communication (NFC), flexible Organic Light-Emiting

Diode (OLED) screens, and airports of the future. The team also investigated technical and

statistical reports to conceptualize for the furtherance of the design process.

Delta’s first biometric airport terminal is in use at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta

International Airport. The technology is powered by AI to process the data. “Part of these forays

will be driven by technology; we’ll have increasingly smarter and capable tools for

independently managing enormous complexities and creating new efficiencies” (Liddell, 2019).

In the article, “Will Artificial Intelligence Improve Airport Security?” Hoggan (2019), describes

that TSA has placed Computed Tomography (CT) units at LAX, PHX, and JFK. These systems

can identify threats more accurately. AI technology not only includes self-check-in, but also

18

allows travelers to keep their shoes on, making travel less of a hassle (TSA, 2020). The most

interesting part of this technology is AI’s capability to “learn.” The more data fed into the

system, the easier it can identify future threats. AI technology plays an important role in shaping

the future of airports. With the implementation of AI technology, less workforce will be needed

to take care of simple tasks so they can prioritize customer services. The team considered this

important global trend and believe this must be incorporated into the final design.

The information that can be stored in the FlashTag is limited. To transfer data such as the

baggage tag information from the application on the smartphone, it must be done in a safe and

fast manner. The team consulted with the Electrical Engineering Department at the University of

North Dakota, and the recommended technology is Near-Field Communication (NFC). This

technology allows the customer to use a smartphone to detect the device wirelessly. It can be

done in seconds without using any internet. Unlike Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) that

cannot communicate with distance, NFC works within a 4 inches range. NFC will be the primary

way to communicate with the FlashTag using a smartphone. Because NFC requires password

authentication, facial recognition or a fingerprint sensor can also be used. These ways of

authentication are already part of the User Interface (UI) on most smartphones. Consequently, it

is a secure and convenient way to transfer data to the device.

Another key component of the device is a flexible screen. A flexible Organic Light-

Emitting Diode (OLED) screen is made of plastic, metal, and flexible glass. The plastic and

metal panels are light, thin, and virtually shatter-proof (OLED-Info, 2019). This technology is

commercialized in several industries. For instance, LG released a 77-inch ultra-thin TV,

Samsung introduced a foldable smartphone, and Louis Vuitton put two flexible screens in a

carry-on bag. The OLED screen would be a perfect alternative to standard bag tags, as the team

envisioned that the device must be capable of high-performance, lightweight, and have a durable

display. Thus, implementing a flexible OLED display is the ideal option.

A fully digitalized airport also relies on an Internet of Things (IoT). “Increasingly cost-

effective IoT solutions and platforms provide predictive maintenance capabilities and analytics

that can help assist owners and operators to gain better insight into the performance of airport

infrastructure” (Atkins, 2019). The most critical considerations for all the changes that would be

made in the airport is sustainability. The team agrees any design of advanced technology must

consider the carbon dioxide footprint and reduce the possibility of contaminating the

environment at large. Discussing with airport managers from Grand Forks, North Dakota, to

Seattle, Washington, sustainability of the airport and the environment has been pushed by local

governments.

Patent Research

The team firmly believes having extensive, conceptualized, deliberate research, and that

the utilization of broad knowledge is essential for any creative and practical products.

Consequently, it is critical for the team to research pre-existing patents and acquire knowledge

about the current technologies that have been developed. The patent search gives the team an

opportunity to gather relevant information and support the team members throughout the

development process.

FlashTag was conceptualized during a brainstorming conversation between the team

members. The original idea was to utilize an every-day object and increase the efficiency at the

airport. The fundamental part being the FlashTag, designed as a digital luggage tag with a

flexible screen and pairing with an application. The team’s conceptualization process is based on

19

seeking multiple design or utility patents in a similar design. In the proposed product, this digital

luggage tag is capable of NFC (Near-Field Communication) technology. Searching various

programmable digital luggage tags was a crucial component of the project. Patent

US20160183653A1 entitled “Smart Device Programmable Electronic Luggage Tag and Bag

Mountings.” Invented by Richard O. Warther, it elaborated an electronic luggage tag which can

be programmable (2009). The patent further demonstrates a detailed background of this device

which contained a radio receiver inside the plastic frame, a display screen, a battery power

supply in the body. This patent helped inform the team’s existing ideas and process to create a

digital luggage tag that can be practical for airlines and consumers, combined with innovative

technologies simultaneously.

Keeping the prior patent in mind, the team is dedicated to research additional materials

regarding a defined flow control in a smart airport process. As a paradigm of the flow-

monitoring process, “Method and hand luggage trolley for facilitating a flow of passengers in an

airport terminal” (Patent US10021531B2) illustrated a unique method of monitoring foot traffic

(Lars, 2013). The server comprises a data storage units and processes data through a computer

network in the airport terminal. Each trolley displays real-time airport information while

identifying the passenger’s location within the airport. This approach inspired the team to

consider a variety of data storage perspectives. The FlashTag team was convinced a computer

server system and indoor Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE) system must be installed at the airport to

process the data collected from the FlashTag. Such a method matches the design approach that

the team envisioned and aided the team to effectuate a streamline method that FlashTag adopts.

Testing

Testing the design is necessary for further iterations of this product. While the team does

not have a functioning product, the FlashTag team proposes two main types of testing: the

rigidity of the device and human interaction (with the device and application interface). By

testing both of these, the team will learn what changes must be made such as software upgrades

as well as the ergonomics of the product (both on the device as well as the smartphone

application).

The team will perform four main tests to understand the ruggedness of the product in its

entirety. The development of the FlashTag contains many simple and effective tests: a pressure

test, temperature test, water-resistance test, and an impact test:

A) Pressure test: the team will use a pressure chamber to test how the object handles in

pressures equivalent from sea level to 50,000 ft. Because most passenger airplanes are

limited to the altitude of 45,000 ft, these tests will ensure the device can handle day-

to-day use.

B) Temperature test: the team will place the device in a freezer to test the colder limits of

the device between –20 ℃ and then put it in a heating device raising the temperature

to +60 ℃. This will be vital to check the sturdiness of the battery and screen.

C) Waterproofness test: the team will determine that it can survive the minimums of the

waterproofing Ingress Protection (IP) ratings. The device will be able to survive 30

minutes of water at a depth of one meter. This will ensure that the customer does not

have to worry about the FlashTag being left out in the rain on the ramp. This also

makes certain that dust does not have the capability to hamper any of the electronic

chips within the device.

20

D) Impact test: the team will have the tag connected to the top handle of a variety of bags

weighing from 15-50lbs. Then the team will have these thrown into a baggage cart

that is the same as one that is filled by baggage handlers. This will test the common

stresses that occur during the baggage handling process, making sure that the

FlashTag can handle the stress from baggage handling. The team will also test the bag

on the baggage carousel making sure it survives there. This will ensure a quality

product for the passengers and airlines alike.

Because passengers are most important to the FlashTag product, there will be a variety of

tests to better understand how well it works for both the passengers as well as the employees.

The passengers will be given FlashTag devices, so the FlashTag team can gather user feedback.

This way, the team will discover where there is a failure in the device as well as in the

application itself. Some key points that the team will be testing are in relation to: checking-in for

the passenger and baggage (whether it be at home or inside the airport); the ease of moving

around the airport and how the various services included within the FlashTag help the customer;

and finally, how easy it is for the passenger to figure out where their baggage is at all times.

After the passenger has performed these activities, they will be given a short survey about their

experiences. They will describe the best and worst parts of the new service. Adding to that, the

FlashTag team will also benchmark the average time it takes for the passenger using the current

system to get to their various gates versus using the FlashTag application.

For the airlines’ employees who will be using this system (e.g., gate agents, baggage

handlers, airport security) the team will apply similar metrics. Although they will not be using

the physical device or the smartphone application as much, they will still be using the various

software enhancements that are products of the device. As discussed earlier in the paper, they

will be able to locate the passenger and their baggage. For the gate agents, this will enable them

to possibly remind the passengers if the airplane is to depart soon. The baggage handlers will be

included in this if the passengers happen to miss their flight, as the checked baggage must then

be located and pulled from the cargo bays of the airliner. The second part of the tests will be

conducted to understand the time savings that would incur due to the FlashTag device in this

situation.

Security will be the last, but one of the most important parts that are tested. Due to threats

inside the airport associated with unattended baggage, the team will collect data noting how fast

security is able to find unattended baggage. Once again, the FlashTag team will time-test security

by recording the amount of time it takes for them to find a piece of luggage. The first test will be

without the FlashTag and the second test will be with the device. Another test might include

stolen baggage and how quickly they find it. Through these tests, the FlashTag team will have a

better understanding of how well the tag works in the various parts of travel for both the

customers and the employees at the airports.

The only way for anything to become better is to put it in stressful environments. The

goal of these various tests is to do just that and by doing so, make a better product for the

passengers, the airports, as well as the airlines.

Design Changes

Between earlier iterations of the FlashTag, a few design changes have been made. The

first is in regards to the Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking. The team determined that

GPS tracking would not suffice due to cost, energy utilization, signal congestion, and privacy.

21

GPS is costlier ($50 and upwards) due to incorporating antennae and an advanced chipset

onboard the device (Chipolo, 2020). GPS also requires more energy than a comparable Bluetooth

Low-Energy (BLE) chipset. While GPS does allow for greater accuracy and range than BLE, the

team determined that this is unnecessary, as the device is only needed within the confines of the

airport (Moroney, 2020). Finally, when many GPS devices are close together, signals can

interfere with each other. Bluetooth does not share this disadvantage. However, the most

important benefit for using BLE is due to privacy. Once the FlashTag leaves the airport and the

signal range of the access points, there is no ability for the baggage to be tracked. In comparison,

GPS can track the device anywhere in the world, as long as it acquires signals via satellite. Due

to these concerns, BLE was determined to be the most capable technology in this application.

Below (Figures 9-13) explains the process and design iterations of the FlashTag device.

Figure 9

Sketch of the Original FlashTag Device

22

Figure 10

Initial 3D-Model Mockup of the FlashTag Device

23

Figure 11

FlashTag’s original 3D printing of the device.

24

Figure 12

The design was updated to the current version, reflecting on the team’s desire for a more modern

and innovative look.

25

Conclusion

The problem that the team approached was decreased efficiency at airports and with the

airlines. This specifically includes baggage misplacements, airport terminal navigation, and

accessibility services. Our research shows that technological upgrade would alleviate human

error related issues. FlashTag, as a new technology, can deliver many benefits for the aviation

industry. Passengers will enjoy a better airport experience, airlines will enjoy increased

efficiency, and airports will enjoy increased revenue streams. The FlashTag will be the future of

air transportation: for the airlines, for the airport, and most of all, for the passengers. With the

implementation of the FlashTag technology, airports within the next decade will be more

efficient in the ever-crowded airport system.

Technical Demonstration

The FlashTag team will demonstrate the process of using the FlashTag by giving a

simulation of the passenger’s experience. Materials used are a 3D-printed model, PowerPoint

presentation, and video demonstration. Due to the presentation’s online format, the team’s

original plan to utilize Virtual Reality (VR) and an airport 3D model was scrapped. This would

have demonstrated the passengers’ experience from start to finish. The team intends to do this

through video instead.

Project Timeline

Figure 13

Diagram of the FlashTag Project Timeline

26

Budget

Currently, the UND FlashTag team has not accrued any costs with the building, testing,

or transportation of the technical demonstration materials. Due to the conversion of the

presentation to an online forum, the team will not incur any travel expenses. The team does not

have any sponsors or partners that helped in the development of the FlashTag.

27

References

Albanesius, C., & Muchmore, M. (2020, May 7). Here's How Contact Tracing Will Work on

iPhones and Android Phones. Retrieved from PCMag: https://www.pcmag.com/how-

to/heres-how-contact-tracing-will-work-on-iphones-and-android-phones

Alibaba. (n.d.). Highlight 120 * 240 ultra-thin flexible screen wear WJ015ZE-01A 1.5 inch color

OLED flexible display . Retrieved from Alibaba: https://www.alibaba.com/product-

detail/Highlight-120-240-ultra-thin-

flexible_62543774609.html?spm=a2700.7724857.normalList.109.7ab1a3f6bIc4gp

Atkins. (2019, June 24). How will the airports of the future embrace digitalization. Retrieved

from International Airport Review:

https://www.internationalairportreview.com/article/94522/airports-future-digitalisation/

Atkins, J. (2019). Airports Future Digitalisation. Retrieved from International Airport Review:

https://www.internationalairportreview.com/article/94522/airports-future-digitalisation/

Betters, E. (2015, March 16). Dyson's $15M investment into Sakti3 will bring solid state

batteries to its cordless vacuums. Retrieved from Pocket-lint: https://www.pocket-

lint.com/smart-home/news/dyson/133205-dyson-s-15m-investment-into-sakti3-will-

bring-solid-state-batteries-to-its-cordless-vacuums

Bureau of Transportation Statistics [BTS]. (2020, June 10). Preliminary Air Traffic Data, April

2020: 96% Reduction in U.S. Airline Passengers from 2019. Retrieved from Bureau of

Transportation Statistics: https://www.bts.gov/newsroom/preliminary-air-traffic-data-

april-2020-96-reduction-us-airline-passengers-2019

Bureau of Transportation Statistics [BTS]. (2020, January 17). Preliminary Estimated Full Year

2019 and December 2019 U.S. Airline Traffic Data. Retrieved from Bureau of

28

Transportation Statistics: https://www.bts.gov/newsroom/preliminary-estimated-full-

year-2019-and-december-2019-us-airline-traffic-data

Chipolo. (n.d.). Difference between Bluetooth Trackers and GPS Trackers. Retrieved from

Chipolo: https://www.chipolo.net/en/blogs/difference-between-bluetooth-trackers-and-

gps-trackers

Cisco. (2020, October 5). Cisco DNA Spaces FAQ. Retrieved from Cisco:

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/solutions/collateral/enterprise-networks/dna-spaces/q-and-

a-c67-741795.html

Girish, D. (2019, July 10). Beacons vs Geofencing: Which Location-Aware Technology Should

Your Business Use? Retrieved from beconstac:

https://blog.beaconstac.com/2015/09/beacons-vs-geofencing-which-location-aware-

technology-should-your-business-use

Halaschak, Z. (2019, July 5). Airports struggle to improve terminal infastructure. Retrieved from

Washington Examiner: https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/airports-struggle-to-

improve-terminal-infrastructure

Hoggan, K. (2019, September 11). Will Artificial Intelligence Improve Airport Security.

Retrieved from H4-Solutions: https://www.h4-solutions.com/blog/will-artificial-

intelligence-improve-airport-security

Krystal, B. (2013, January 17). How to get through airport security with medcial disabilities or

equipment. Retrieved from The Washington Post:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/how-to-get-through-airport-security-

with-medical-disabilities-or-equipment/2013/01/17/8033a096-5b44-11e2-beee-

6e38f5215402_story.html

29

Lars, T. (2013, March 27). Method and Hand Luggage Trolley for Facilitating a Flow of

Passengers in an Airport Terminal. Retrieved from Google Patents:

https://patents.google.com/patent/US10021531B2/en?q=tracking&oq=in+airport+termina

l+tracking

Liddell, D. (2019, April 24). The future of flying? AI that shames you into being a better

passenger. Retrieved from Fast Company: https://www.fastcompany.com/90333075/the-

future-of-air-travel-ai-that-shames-you-into-being-a-better-passenger

Moroney, H. (2018, March 11). Localization and Tracking Vehicles: GPS vs. Bluetooth Beacon

vs. RFID. Retrieved from SMATS: www.smatstraffic.com/2018/05/11/localization-

tracking-vehicles-gps-bluetooth-beacon-rfid

OLED-info. (2019, August 25). Flexible OLEDs: introduction and market status. Retrieved from

Oled-info: https://www.oled-info.com/flexible-oled

Peterson, A. (2016, September 12). Why those Samsung batteries exploded. Retrieved from The

Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-

switch/wp/2016/09/12/why-those-samsung-batteries-exploded/

SERITAG. (2020, April 22). NFC Tags Explained. Retrieved from SERITAG:

https://seritag.com/learn/using-nfc/nfc-tags-explained

SITA. (2020, October 22). Baggage IT Insights 2019. Retrieved from SITA:

https://www.sita/aero/resources/type/surveys-reports/baggage-it-insights-2019

Stoller, G. (2018, June 26). One of Every Seven Travellers Have Recently Missed A Flight

Because Of Long Airport Security Lines. Retrieved from Forbes:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/garystoller/2018/06/26/one-of-every-seven-travelers-miss-

their-flights-because-of-long-airport-security-lines/

30

Transportation Security Administration [TSA]. (n.d.). Computer Topography. Retrieved from

Transportation Security Administration: https://www.tsa.gov/computed-tomography

Warther, R. O. (2009, April 1). Smart Device Programmable Electronic Luggage Tag and Bag

Mountings. Retrieved from Google Patents:

https://patents.google.com/patent/US20160183653?oq=digital+luggage+tag

31

Appendices

Letter of Support

Figure 14

Letter of Support from the UND Aerospace Dean, Paul D. Lindseth