WO2003093771A1

WO2003093771A1 - Method and apparatus for recording location-specific data

Info

Publication number: WO2003093771A1
Application number: PCT/GB2003/001810
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jennefer Margaret Tobin
Original assignee: Jennefer Margaret Tobin
Priority date: 2002-04-27
Filing date: 2003-04-25
Publication date: 2003-11-13
Also published as: AU2003222989A1

Abstract

A method of recording safety or maintenance related data or samples from specified inspection locations employs a contact identity tag reader together with integral data input means such as a keypad, touch screen, gas sampler, voice recorder, digital camera, transducer or other sensing device, or a label printer for identification of the samples. A contact identity tag is affixed to each data collection point and the tag identity stored in a database in association with its location. Each input data item, or each printed sample label, is recorded in association with the tag identity of the location where it was collected. The invention facilitates the implementation of a verifiable inspection regime whereby the location of each tag is verified by an independent inspector.

Description

Method and apparatus for recording location-specific data

This invention relates to methods and devices for the collection of data or samples from identified locations.

It is known in many industries to collect a wide variety of data, including for example safety, health or maintenance related information, relating to particular equipment in particular locations according to a defined maintenance schedule or day-to-day operational requirements. This enables potentially hazardous conditions to be identified and rectified as they develop.

A good example is the shipping industry. In a cargo vessel, the hull must be regularly surveyed for corrosion and fatigue; the enclosed volumes of the holds may need to be monitored for the buildup of toxic or explosive gases; and the condition of numerous items of safety-related equipment must be systematically monitored and all of the resulting information recorded. Similarly, in the railway industry it is vital to examine, perhaps thousands of miles of tracks and points regularly and systematically for signs of wear and incipient failure and to record evidence of this inspection and maintenance. Regular monitoring and sampling is also necessary in air conditioning and water supply systems to detect the presence of biological contaminants.

Verifiable and consistent record keeping in relation to such inspection regimes is equally important, particularly where the failure to identify and respond to a hazard could expose the operator of the system or equipment to the risk of causing damage to people or to the environment and to statutory liability.

It is particularly important to know that the data relating to repeated inspections at a particular location came from the same location on each occasion. Often however an inspection regime will involve onerous and dirty work in manually inspecting perhaps distant or uncomfortable locations. Inspection work is often entrusted to a number of different maintenance personnel, perhaps employed by subcontractors and speaking a variety of languages, making it difficult to track the personnel and to rely on their performance, and the individual employee may be tempted to make do with a cursory inspection, thus failing to spot the vital signs of failure. Worse still, he may decide to collect data or samples from a more convenient location instead, and make out a false report.

Simple confusion may also lead to data being wrongly indexed. Where a large number of locations are to be inspected, it is still more difficult to ensure that the data are correctly recorded. It is known for example to record data from a large number of test points, such as where a transducer is used to record sound or vibration waves in a large marine engine in accordance with a "walking list" which describes each test point in turn. Where the operator is unfamiliar with the installation, the instructions may be confused and the data collected or recorded in the wrong order.

It is important therefore for the operator of the system or equipment to ensure that the inspection regime is reliable and the data or samples are collected consistently from the same and correct locations, and it is the aim of the present invention to address this need.

In a first aspect the present invention provides a portable device for recording location-specific data, including data input means and data storage means; characterised in that the device is used in association with a plurality of identity tags, each tag being fixed at a location where data are to be recorded, and the identity of each tag being stored in association with its location; and in that the device includes identity tag reading means for reading the identity of each tag, and means for recording the tag identity in association with the input data. According to a second aspect there is provided a portable device for identifying location-specific samples, including means for generating identifying labels for attachment to the samples; characterised in that the device is used in association with a plurality of identity tags, each tag being fixed at a location where a sample is to be collected, and the identity of each tag being stored in association with its location; and in that the device includes identity tag reading means for reading the identity of each tag, and means for associating each tag identity with a respective label.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a method of verifiably recording location-specific data, comprising the steps of:

(a) affixing a plurality of identity tags, each to a location where data is to be recorded;

(b) recording the location of each identity tag in association with its tag identity in a database;

(c) reading the tag identity of a first said identity tag by means of a portable identity tag reader;

(d) inputting an item of data to a data input device associated with the identity tag reader; and (e) storing the item of data in association with the first tag identity.

The method and device according to the invention facilitate the implementation of a regime of data collection or sampling, wherein each data item or sample can be verifiably linked to the location where it was collected. In accordance with a first embodiment of the method of the invention, a number of identity tags, preferably contact identity tags, are first affixed, each to a location where data is to be recorded, and the location of each tag is recorded in association with its tag identity in a database. The database may be located on one or more central computers or servers, and may be password protected or otherwise secured and verified by independent authorities. When an inspection takes place, the personnel carrying out the inspection visit each location where data or samples are to be collected, and read the tag identity of the identity tag in each location using a portable identity tag reader which is integrated with a data input device or label printer as further described below. The data collected, which may be for example a voice recording, a photograph, a gas sample analysis, or any other type of information are then input into the data input device and stored in a memory in association with the tag identity, enabling the location of the input data to be decisively determined from the database. Alternatively a label is printed for affixture to the collected sample as further described below.

The use of contact memory type identity tags rather than remotely interrogated tags offers the advantage that the personnel carrying out the inspection are compelled to reach the location of the tag in order to collect the data, precluding any possibility of false recording or inadequate inspection. Thus for example where it is essential to inspect the floor plating of a ship's locker, a contact identity tag may be fixed to the floor of the locker, compelling the user of the device to remove the contents of the locker in order to gain access to the tag. Reading of the tag thus equates to certification that the precise location in question has been visited.

Verification of an inspection regime implemented in accordance with the invention may be accomplished by the verifying authority or inspector periodically visiting each identity tag and recording its tag identity and location, then cross checking these against the database. The integrity of the database and device according to the invention may be verified by means of password protected software, mechanical seals on the casing of the device and equivalent means. The device and method of the invention thus enable the operator of the inspection regime to show compliance with his statutory obligations to inspect and maintain whilst ensuring that his maintenance and inspection personnel are carrying out their duties conscientiously. Preferably the date and time at which the data were input into the device are also automatically recorded in association with the data and the tag identity. Preferably also, the identity of the individual carrying out the inspection is recorded, for example by reading an identity tag assigned to that individual and also storing this tag identity in association with the input data. This enables the progress of the inspection to be monitored, whilst by cross checking the time taken by different personnel to carry out the inspection of a given set of locations, irregularities in the inspection may be identified. This further enhances the integrity of the collected data and provides proof of presence of each inspection worker, which may also be correlated with his access privileges, such as authorisation to open and inspect railway signalling junction boxes.

In a preferred embodiment, the tag identities and locations are stored on a central database and organised in accordance with a maintenance or inspection schedule. A subset of tag identities is then downloaded from the central database as each inspection round falls due, preferably by placing the tag reader and data input device into a data transfer cradle so that the subset of tag identities is downloaded to a separate, local database or memory located in the device.

Information identifying each tag location is preferably stored in the central database in association with each tag identity and downloaded to the handheld device. By viewing the subset of tag identities and location information as a list, for example by means of drop down menus on a touch screen on the device, the user of the device is able to plan his round of inspections in the correct order. As each tag is read, the stored location information relating to it is automatically output - for example, displayed on the screen or played as an audible instruction set - helping the user to carry out any special instructions associated with the tag.

Special instructions or conditions may be stored and downloaded in association with each tag identity, and may for example program the data input device to accept data only where the conditions are fulfilled. For example, the conditions may specify a maximum time period which may elapse between reading the tag and inputting the data. This allows the individual using the device enough time to read a tag and then input the data — for example, take a gas sample - whilst ensuring that the gas is sampled at the tag location.

Further features and advantages will become apparent from embodiments of the device according to the invention which will now be described in detail by way of illustration and with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

Fig. 1A shows a portable device according to a first embodiment of the invention;

Figs. IB and 1C are respectively rear and lower side elevations of the device of Fig. 1A;

Fig. 2 shows a hand held probe for use with the device of Fig. 1A;

Figs. 3 A and 3B are respectively plan and side views of a contact identity tag;

Fig. 3C is a plan view of a plate with an integral identity tag;

Fig. 4 shows a data transmission cradle for use with the device of Fig. 1A; and

Fig. 5 shows the method of the invention in use in the interior of part of a hold of a ship.

Referring to Fig. 1 A, in a first embodiment of the invention a data recording device is formed as described above as a portable module 1 with an integral identity tag reader, means for inputting data and an internal memory for storing the input data in association with the identity of the identity tag which is read by the tag reader. The module 1 is preferably small enough to be carried about easily by the user, and of a rugged construction suitable for use in demanding outdoor, marine or industrial environments, and is conveniently equipped with loops 2 for attachment to the user's body. The internal memory or local database also stores a list of tag identities and associated information as described above.

Various types of active and passive identity tag are known, including optically readable barcode tags and electronically readable memory tags. Electronically readable tags typically comprise a microchip or other data carrying device which is encoded with an identity, such as a binary number which is unique to that tag, together with means for reading the tag identity remotely, for example by means of radio frequency interrogation, or by contact. Electronic identity tags may carry other information in addition to the tag identity, and may also be writable and erasable. Passive tags benefit in comparison with active tags from enhanced reliability and longevity since no power supply is required, and are hence preferred.

Referring now also to Figs. 3A and 3B, a particularly preferred form of tag comprises a small passive button type contact identity tag 100 containing a microchip or the like which is encoded with the tag identity. The button is robust, impervious to moisture and capable of withstanding long exposure to harsh environments, and in use may be attached to a surface as further described below by any convenient means, such as gluing its base 103, capturing its flange 104 behind a riveted collar or the like. The use of contact rather than remotely interrogated tags also reduces power consumption and allows the tag reader to be more compact, enhancing portability, and avoids the potential for inadvertent reading of the wrong tag.

The contact tag 100 is readable by contacting an inner terminal 101 simultaneously with the tag casing 102, which forms an outer terminal, by means of a probe 10 which is provided on the outer casing of the device 1. The probe 10 has two pointed contacts 11, 12 which in use are pressed against the terminals 101, 102 of the tag so as to form an electrical circuit. The pointed contacts 11, 12 enable the probe in use to penetrate any accumulated dirt or paint film so as to contact the tag, whilst the durable construction of the button type tag 100 allows any gross contamination to be scraped from the surface of the tag without damaging it.

It will be appreciated that other types of tag and tag reader may be selected for use in accordance with the invention. For example, a barcode reader might be used instead of or in addition to the contact tag reader and probe 10; however, barcoded tags placed in outdoor or marine environments are vulnerable to being painted over or washed or scraped off.

In a development, a remote tag reader is used in addition to or in place of the contact tag reader, and preferably is capable of reading an RFID or other passive electronic identity tag over a short, defined range - for example, ten centimetres, two metres or ten metres - by radio frequency interrogation or equivalent means. This enables the tag to be read even where for example it is obstructed by debris; however, the added convenience for the individual using the device entails added uncertainty for the operator of the plant or equipment, since the user may read the tag without closely inspecting the location to which it is affixed.

In certain situations, such as where the tag is to be affixed on an overhead beam and inspection from floor level only is desired, a remote tag reader and remotely readable tags may therefore be preferred; preferably the tags are readable only over a short, defined range. For general use however, contact type identity tags are preferred since this ensures that the individual carrying out the inspection has gained access to the precise location where the inspection is to be made.

In a further refinement, a contact type tag may include a remotely sensed element, and either the tag reader or the tag itself may incorporate a sounder or flashing light which indicates when the tag is in range. This assists the individual carrying out the inspection in locating the tag.

Returning to the first embodiment, on contacting a tag with the probe 10 the identity of the tag is read by the tag reader and stored in the local database or memory of the module 1. Where the tag identity is associated with specified conditions, a timer may then be activated, giving the user a defined time period within which data may be input to the device to be stored in the device memory in association with the tag identity. A flashing light 20 on the casing of the device may indicate to the user that the timer is running. Of course, any other conditions may be specified to link an individual tag identity, for example to other tag identities that must be read simultaneously, to specific values of associated input data, to the identity of the individual carrying out the inspection (preventing for example tags in hazardous locations from being tested by unauthorised personnel), or to any other desired combination of circumstances, the device 1 including logic means for implementing the specified conditions.

The device preferably includes information output means such as a screen 21, which may be a touch screen with a pull-down menus or equivalent means for accessing and navigating the information stored in association with each tag identity in the database. This enables the user to review the list of tags which are due for inspection. As each tag is read its associated information is displayed on the screen. Alternatively or additionally a speaker 22 may be provided to play audible instructions, enabling the device to be used for example in dirty, dark or awkward environments where it is preferable to keep the operator's hands free.

Preferably a date and time recording facility is included, and the date and time of each item of input data is recorded in association with the data and its associated tag identity. The identity of the individual carrying out the inspection may also be recorded, for example by reading an identity tag carried by the individual and recorded in association with the that individual's identity on the database, and storing the tag identity in association with each data item entered during the course of the inspection. Thus the individual may log onto the device at the beginning of his round of inspections and log off at the end.

The touch screen 21 or a keypad 23 may be used to input the data. A microphone 24 may also be provided, enabling the user to record data as a voice message which is stored in association with the tag identity; this is particularly useful where the user is carrying out his inspection in dirty conditions or in an awkward or confined space and wishes to leave his hands free. Preferably means are provided for converting the voice message automatically into a text document; for example, it may be uploaded to a central database and stored as a text file. A number of devices may be used in association with a single central database, and the identity of each device may similarly be recorded.

It will be appreciated that the device 1 is a complex multifunction device, and merely illustrates by way of example a selection of the many types of data input and information output means which may be provided in accordance with the invention. Thus whilst any other type of data input device may be used, such as sensing or analysis equipment of any description, in practice the device need only include one data input means.

Other types of data input means include a gas sampling and analysis facility 25 and a camera 26, which is preferably a digital camera. Thus for example the device may be used to sample the atmosphere in the hold of a ship and record the presence of toxic or explosive gases; or to record a photograph of a set of railway points. Preferably the camera 26 is provided with a compass or equivalent means for determining its spatial orientation at the time that the photograph is taken; the date and time of the photograph and the compass bearing are preferably printed on the photograph. This is particularly useful for example in determining whether the camera is facing up-line or down-line when recording data relating to the condition of a railway track. Other information, such as location, associated with the tag identity can also be printed on the photograph.

Referring to Fig. IB, the device 1 may include a number of tag reading probes 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, arranged on its rear face in a defined spatial pattern; although five probes are shown, in practice a minimum of two might be used. This enables the device to simultaneously read a corresponding spatial array of identity tags which are attached to a surface in the same pattern, by placing the body of the device in position over the tag array. The identities of the tags forming the array are stored in the database in association with conditions specifying that each tag must be simultaneously read by the corresponding probe in order for a data item to be stored in association with one or more of the tag identities. This ensures that the device is oriented in the correct position when the data are input; for example, the tags may be fixed to a surface so as to define a specific view which the camera 26 will photograph. The user must ensure that the device is positioned in contact with the tags when the camera is operated.

The device thus dispenses with the traditional task of writing a description of each photographed location and matching the description with the photograph, with its attendant time and effort and potential for confusion. In a large system or installation with many items of equipment or many miles of track, the potential for confusion of conventionally recorded inspection data is considerable. It will be appreciated that in safety related inspections, the avoidance of even a single instance of confusion over the location of a photograph or the like may enable a hazard to be identified and avert a serious incident.

Other possible data input means include for example devices for sensing paint film thickness; temperature, current, voltage, flow and pressure meters; strain gauges; devices for measuring radioactivity, metal thickness, corrosion, or movement in cracks in walls: and so forth. Referring to Figs. 1 A and 2, the device may include a hand held module 40 which communicates with the module 1 by short range radio or equivalent transmission means 41, 42, or via a flexible lead or any other means. The module 1 may then be worn on the user's body and the probe 40 used to read the tags by means of a probe 43, and / or to collect the input data. Preferably the hand held module 40 is able to communicate with the module 1 only over a short, defined distance, so that the integrity of the association between the tag identity which is read by the probe 43 and the corresponding data which are input into the module 1 is assured. The probe 43 may be provided in addition to or instead of the probe 10.

The data input means may include a transducer, for example a contact sensor 44 which senses sound waves or vibrations propagated through a solid surface and is conveniently provided on the hand held module 40. In use the sensor 44 is applied to a small plate or disc mounted for example on the surface of an engine or a bearing housing so as to detect sound waves or vibrations, enabling incipient problems such as potential bearing failure to be diagnosed. The disc has a flat face which transmits the sound waves to the transducer 44 and is permanently mounted in position so as to define the location at which the sound data are to be collected.

Referring to Fig. 3C a contact identity tag 110 may be integrated into a recess in the plate or disc 45 to which the transducer 44 is applied. By mounting the plate 45 on an engine block, the user of the device 1 may simultaneously read the tag identity of the tag 110 by means of the probe 43 whilst taking a reading from the plate 45 by means of the sensor 44. The identity of the tag 110 may be stored in the database in association with the condition that the sensor 44 reading must be taken simultaneously with reading the tag identity, ensuring that the data collected by the probe 44 is taken at the correct point 45.

Referring to Fig. 1 A, the device 1 may be used alternatively or additionally for identifying samples which are collected during the inspection process. For example, small phials of water may be collected at various points of a water treatment works, or swabs may be taken from points within an air conditioning system to test for the presence of biological contaminants. For this purpose the device may include means for identifying the samples, such as a label generator 50 which prints or encodes indicia or machine readable information on an adhesive label for attachment to the sample or to the phial or plastic bag containing it. The indicia may comprise a barcode or alternatively a legible description identifying the tag read by the probe 10, or alternatively the tag identity may be stored in the memory in association with the indicia or code on the label so that the sample can later be identified as originating from the location which is recorded in the database in association with that tag identity.

In an alternative embodiment the device 1 may be used as a sample identifier, and the label printer 50 may then be provided in place of the data input means.

Referring to Figs. 1C and 4, a master database may be provided as described above on a remote computer or server, and the device 1 provided with means for downloading a list of tag identities and associated information from the master database in accordance with the maintenance or inspection schedule and / or for uploading the input data to the master database at the end of each round of inspections. For this purpose a data transfer cradle 60 may be provided which is mounted, for example on the bridge or a bulkhead of a ship, or in a service hut on a railway track, and communicates with the central server by means of a hard wire link 61 or any other suitable means. The device includes a data transfer socket 65 which connects it to the server via a corresponding plug in the cradle 60. Alternatively an infra red or equivalent data link may be used.

At the beginning of an inspection shift, the user inserts the device 1 into the cradle and downloads a subset of tag identities and associated information, including the locations of the tags and any special instructions associated with each tag, to the device memory. He then reads his personal identity tag, which identifies him on the master server, with the probe 10, and proceeds to carry out the inspection round. When he has finished the shift he replaces the device 1 in the cradle 60 and the input data and associated tag identities are uploaded to the master database.

In an alternative embodiment, the device 1 may be arranged to communicate continuously with a master database, for example via an RF aerial, in addition to or instead of having its own internal memory or local database. This enables the device 1 to input data directly into the main database while the user carries out the inspection. However, the tag reading function and the data input or label printing function are still associated together as with the first embodiment, by association of the probe 10 and data input means 23, 24... or label printer 50 together in the same device. This ensures the integrity of the data collected in association with each tag identity.

Referring to Figs. 1A, IB and 5, the interior of a ship's hold is equipped with a number of tags 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, and a tag array 126, and illustrates the operation of the device of the first embodiment in accordance with the method of the invention. The locations of the tags have been certified by an independent inspector and recorded in a central database, which is password protected. The user has first logged on to the device and downloaded a list of tag identities from the central database via a cradle as described above. The tag identities are all scheduled for inspection on the day in question. He consults the touch screen 21 of the device to display the list of tag identities, which gives him the following information:

The user starts with tag 120 and has to use a ladder to read the tag, ensuring he is able to access and properly inspect the hull rivets 501. He records their condition 5 using the keypad 23. He then moves the ladder to access the tag 121 and takes a measurement of the thickness of the paint film on the beam 502.

Moving on to the next tag 122 he uses the gas sampler 25 to check for the presence of any toxic or explosive gases in the hold; after reading the tag 122 the 0 light 20 starts to flash, indicating that he has 15 seconds within which to take the I sample. If he fails to take the sample within this time then the device displays a message on the screen 21 instructing him to read the tag again. An error message is also played by the speaker 22: "Out of time, read tag again and take sample immediately". This ensures that the sample is taken in the vicinity of the tag 122.

The next tag 123 is on the bulkhead next to a fire extinguisher 503. The extinguisher is a foam type extinguisher, and it is important that no water type extinguishers are substituted for it because flammable oils are stored nearby. The tag identity 123 is therefore stored in the database in association with special conditions, requiring a second tag 124 located on the extinguisher to be read within five seconds of the tag 123. The identity of the tag 124 is then stored as input data in association with the tag identity 123, as it identifies the extinguisher 503 which is mounted at that fire point. If any other tag is read, the screen displays a message: "Wrong extinguisher! Check and replace." If the correct extinguisher is fitted, the user checks its condition and records it using drop down menus displayed on the touch screen 21.

The user next tests the fire bell 125 and uses the microphone 24 to record a voice message indicating whether the bell is functional. Lastly he moves to the array of tags 126 and places the rear face of the device 1 flat against the bulkhead 504 over the tags. It will be noted that the probe 33 is located towards one end of the device, and in use this probe contacts tag 127, ensuring that the device must be placed upside down over the tags in order for each probe 31 ... 35 to contact its corresponding tag. This places the camera in precisely the right position to take a photograph of the centre section of the ship's frame 505.

Of course, in practice the device might include only one or two data input means, so a typical inspection might comprise the taking of a number of similar measurements such as gas samples or paint film thickness measurements from a number of locations, using one or more different devices in accordance with the invention.

On completing the inspection the user then replaces the device 1 in the cradle and uploads the input data to the master database where it is stored securely in the master inspection log. The data may then be ordered into reports and accessed as required.

Typically, a new officer or crew member will have only a short time in which to familiarise himself with a new vessel. The present invention thus assists him in becoming operational more quickly by enabling the outgoing officers to effectively pass on very detailed operational information, such as low level intermittent faults with a particular piece of equipment such as a leaking hydraulic cylinder in the steering gear. The inspection reports relating to the current condition of all reportable items of equipment may be downloaded by the new officer, together with instructions which help him to locate each item in the unfamiliar vessel.

In a less preferred embodiment, the database of tag identities and location information is not provided, and the location of each tag is instead stored on and read directly from the tag itself when the data are collected.

The method and device of the invention may be applied to industries as diverse as oil and gas production, nuclear power generation, papermaking, rail, sea and other transport industries, ensuring safe operation in harsh conditions and discharging the operator's burden of proof whilst relieving him of the traditional task of paper based data recording.

In summary, a preferred embodiment provides a contact identity tag reader together with integral data input means such as a keypad, touch screen, gas sampler, voice recorder, digital camera, transducer or other sensing device, or a label printer for identification of the samples. A contact identity tag is affixed to each data collection point and the tag identity stored in a database in association with its location. Each input data item, or each printed sample label, is recorded in association with the tag identity of the location where it was collected. The invention facilitates the implementation of a verifiable inspection regime whereby the location of each tag is verified by an independent inspector.

The embodiments described are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A portable device for recording location-specific data, including data input means and data storage means;

characterised in that the device is used in association with a plurality of identity tags, each tag being fixed at a location where data are to be recorded, and the identity of each tag being stored in association with its location;

and in that the device includes identity tag reading means for reading the identity of each tag and means for recording the tag identity in association with the input data.

2. A portable device according to claim 1, characterised in that the identity tag reading means comprises contact identity tag reading means for reading the identity of an identity tag by physically contacting the tag.

3. A portable device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that there is provided a first database comprising a plurality of items of information stored in association with the plurality of tag identities,

and the device includes information output means for outputting the information from the first database.

4. A portable device according to claim 3, characterised in that the information output means outputs an item of information from the first database when an associated tag identity is read by the identity tag reading means.

5. A portable device according to claim 3, characterised in that the first database is located within the portable device, and there is provided a second database remote from the portable device, together with means for transferring information or data between the portable device and the second database.

6. A portable device according to claim 2, characterised in that the contact identity tag reading means includes means for reading a first identity tag simultaneously with at least one further identity tag,

wherein the identity tag reading means is arranged in a defined spatial pattern

and the first and further identity tags are arranged in a corresponding pattern;

together with means for associating at least the first tag identity with specified conditions,

such that data are recorded in association with the first tag identity only where both the first tag identity and the at least one further tag identity are read simultaneously.

7. A portable device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the device includes means for associating at least a first tag identity with specified conditions,

such that data are recorded in association with the first tag identity only where the data are input and the first tag identity is read by the identity tag reading means in accordance with the specified conditions.

8. A portable device according to claim 7, characterised in that the conditions specify a maximum time period which may elapse between reading the first tag and inputting the data.

9. A portable device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the device comprises a first module adapted to be held in a user's hand and a second module linked to the first module and adapted to be worn on the user's body.

10. A portable device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the device includes means for recording in association with the data the time and date at which the data were input.

11. A portable device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the data input means includes a keypad, a touch screen or voice recording means.

12. A portable device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the data input means includes a camera.

13. A portable device according to claim 12, characterised in that means are provided for recording the spatial orientation of the camera.

14. A portable device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the data input means includes gas sampling means.

15. A portable device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the data input means includes a transducer.

16. A portable device according to claim 15, characterised in that the transducer comprises a contact sound wave or vibration sensor.

17. A portable device according to claim 16, characterised in that there is provided at least one identity tag integral with a plate, and the tag identity is read when the sensor is applied to the plate, wherein in use the plate is attached to a solid surface through which the sound waves or vibrations are propagated.

18. A portable device for identifying location-specific samples, including means for generating identifying labels for attachment to the samples;

characterised in that the device is used in association with a plurality of identity tags, each tag being fixed at a location where a sample is to be collected, and the identity of each tag being stored in association with its location;

and in that the device includes identity tag reading means for reading the identity of each tag and means for associating each tag identity with a respective label.

19. A method of verifiably recording location-specific data, comprising the steps of

(d) inputting an item of data to a data input device associated with the identity tag reader; and

(e) storing the item of data in association with the first tag identity.

20. A method according to claim 19 characterised in the further steps of

(f) downloading a subset of tag identities from the database in accordance with a maintenance or inspection schedule, and

(g) for each downloaded tag identity, carrying out steps (c) to (e).

21. A method according to claim 19 or claim 20 characterised in the further step of

(h) recording the date and time of the input data in association therewith.