Method and apparatus for configuring RFID printer using RFID labeling medium

Abstract

A method and system for calibrating a radio frequency identification (RFID) printer, the method comprising: retrieving a frequency hopping capability from an RFID module coupled to the RFID printer; performing a plurality of calibration read and write operations on the calibration RFID label at a plurality of given locations using the RFID module based on a plurality of combinations including one or more field strengths, one or more sets of RFID parameters based on the EPCC1G2 standard, and the frequency hopping capability; determining one or more optimal results of a plurality of results associated with the plurality of calibration read and write operations; determining a tag antenna orientation of the calibration RFID tag based on the plurality of results; and storing one or more optimal configuration settings in printer firmware of the RFID printer based on the tag orientation and the one or more optimal results of the plurality of results.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Example embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to radio frequency identification (RFID) printers, and more particularly, to RFID printers capable of supporting various RFID tag antenna orientations. Background Art

[0002] Radio frequency identification (RFID) label media can be programmed or encoded by an RFID printer. In order to ensure that information is correctly programmed into each label of the RFID label media, the RFID printer should be configured to accurately align the RFID label with the RFID coupler of the RFID printer. There is a calibration process for configuring the alignment of the RFID label with the RFID coupler. However, the existing calibration process does not take into account the different orientations of the RFID tag antennas that may exist on labels of various RFID label media sources. Improperly configuring the RFID printer for a particular RFID label may result in a hung state, no response, or increased error sensitivity when performing reading and / or encoding operations. Applicants have recognized the many technical challenges and difficulties associated with conventional RFID printer calibration. Summary of the invention

[0003] Various embodiments described herein relate to components, devices, and systems for determining the orientation of a radio frequency identification (RFID) printer label and configuring the RFID printer based on the orientation.

[0004] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a method is provided. In some embodiments, the method includes: retrieving frequency hopping capability from an RFID module coupled to the RFID printer by a computing device; instructing the printer hardware by the computing device to advance the calibration RFID label to a plurality of given positions; selecting one or more first field strengths by the computing device; selecting one or more sets of RFID parameters by the computing device; performing a plurality of calibration read and write operations on the calibration RFID label at the plurality of given positions using the RFID module based on a plurality of combinations including the one or more field strengths, the one or more sets of RFID parameters and the frequency hopping capability by the computing device; determining one or more best results among a plurality of results associated with the plurality of calibration read and write operations by the computing device; determining a tag antenna orientation of the calibration RFID label based on the plurality of results by the computing device; and storing one or more best configuration settings in the printer firmware of the RFID printer by the computing device based on the tag orientation and one or more best results among the plurality of results.

[0005] In some embodiments, the RFID parameters may include EPCC1G2 parameters. In some embodiments, the frequency hopping capability is associated with the RFID module hopping through one or more frequencies and / or channels. In some embodiments, the frequency hopping capability is configured to comply with specific regulations of each country of use. In some embodiments, the multiple given positions are based on at least one of the size of the print head associated with the RFID printer or the length of the calibration RFID label. In some embodiments, the one or more first field strengths include one or more values ​​of antenna gain for transmitting or receiving radio frequency signals by the RFID module. In some embodiments, selecting the one or more first field strengths also includes: retrieving a minimum field strength value and a maximum field strength value from the RFID module; and configuring the RFID module using a field strength within the minimum field strength value and the maximum field strength value. In some embodiments, the one or more sets of RFID parameters include values ​​associated with a type A reference interval (TARI), a backscatter link frequency (BLF), and a Miller. In some embodiments, the one or more sets of RFID parameters include attributes associated with an ISO 18000-6C UHF passive system using the EPCC1G2 (Gen2) standard. In some embodiments, multiple results associated with the multiple calibration read and write operations are determined; and the multiple results are indexed using the one or more field strengths and the one or more sets of RFID parameters. In some embodiments, the multiple results include received signal strength indicator values. In some embodiments, the multiple results include the success or failure of the multiple calibration read and write operations. In some embodiments, determining the one or more best results among the multiple results also includes: determining one or more given locations that exhibit successful calibration read and write operations using the one or more field strengths and the majority of the field strengths and RFID parameters in the one or more sets of RFID parameters. In some embodiments, determining the one or more best results among the multiple results also includes: determining that the multiple given locations are associated with RSSI values ​​that meet a threshold.

[0006] According to another embodiment, a computing device is provided. In some embodiments, the computing device includes a memory and one or more processors communicatively coupled to the memory, the one or more processors configured to: retrieve a frequency hopping capability from an RFID module coupled to a radio frequency identification (RFID) printer; instruct printer hardware to advance a calibration RFID tag to a plurality of given locations; select one or more first field strengths; select one or more sets of RFID parameters; perform a plurality of calibration read and write operations on the calibration RFID tag at the plurality of given locations using the RFID module based on a plurality of combinations including the one or more field strengths, the one or more sets of RFID parameters, and the frequency hopping capability; determine one or more best results from a plurality of results associated with the plurality of calibration read and write operations; determine a tag antenna orientation of the calibration RFID tag based on the plurality of results; and store one or more best configuration settings in printer firmware of the RFID printer based on the tag orientation and the one or more best results from the plurality of results.

[0007] In some embodiments, the one or more processors are further configured to: retrieve a minimum field strength value and a maximum field strength value from the RFID module; and configure the RFID module using a field strength within the minimum field strength value and the maximum field strength value. In some embodiments, the one or more groups of RFID parameters include values ​​associated with a type A reference interval (TARI), a backscatter link frequency (BLF), and Miller. In some embodiments, the one or more processors are further configured to: determine the multiple results associated with the multiple calibration read and write operations; and index the multiple results using the one or more field strengths and the one or more groups of RFID parameters. In some embodiments, the multiple results include a received signal strength indicator value. In some embodiments, the multiple results include the success or failure of the multiple calibration read and write operations. In some embodiments, the one or more processors are further configured to: determine one or more given locations that exhibit successful calibration read and write operations using one or more field strengths and the majority of field strengths and RFID parameters in one or more groups of RFID parameters in the multiple given locations. In some embodiments, the one or more processors are further configured to: determine that the multiple given locations are associated with RSSI values ​​that meet a threshold.

[0008] According to another embodiment, one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media are provided. In some embodiments, the one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media include instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: retrieve frequency hopping capabilities from an RFID module coupled to a radio frequency identification (RFID) printer; instruct printer hardware to advance a calibration RFID tag to a plurality of given locations; select one or more first field strengths; select one or more sets of RFID parameters; perform a plurality of calibration read and write operations on the calibration RFID tag at the plurality of given locations using the RFID module based on a plurality of combinations including the one or more field strengths, the one or more sets of RFID parameters, and the frequency hopping capabilities; determine one or more best results among a plurality of results associated with the plurality of calibration read and write operations; determine a tag antenna orientation of the calibration RFID tag based on the plurality of results; and store one or more best configuration settings in the printer firmware of the RFID printer based on the tag orientation and the one or more best results among the plurality of results.

[0009] The above exemplary invention content and other exemplary objects and / or advantages of the present disclosure and the manner of achieving these objects and / or advantages are further explained in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The description of the exemplary embodiments may be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It will be appreciated that, for simplicity and clarity of illustration, the elements shown in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale unless otherwise described. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements unless otherwise described. Embodiments incorporating the teachings of the present disclosure are shown and described with respect to the drawings presented herein, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 An exploded view of an example radio frequency identification (RFID) inlay is shown;

[0012] Figure 2A and Figure 2B An example RFID tag media is shown;

[0013] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C A diagram showing an example RFID printer according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 4 An example RFID printer according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0015] Figure 5 shows an example firmware communication architecture according to various embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0016] Figure 6 A flow chart of an example method for calibrating an RFID printer according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some, but not all, embodiments of the present disclosure. In fact, these disclosures may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure satisfies applicable legal requirements. Throughout the content, similar reference numerals refer to similar elements.

[0018] As used herein, terms such as "front," "rear," "top," and the like are used for illustrative purposes in the examples provided below to describe the relative positions of certain components or portions of components. Additionally, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, the terms "substantially" and "approximately" indicate that the referenced element or associated description is accurate within an applicable engineering tolerance.

[0019] As used herein, the term "comprising" means including but not limited to, and should be interpreted in the manner commonly used in the patent context. It should be understood that the use of broad terms such as "comprising," "including," and "having" provides support for narrower terms such as "consisting of," "consisting essentially of," and "consisting essentially of."

[0020] The phrases "in one embodiment," "according to one embodiment," and the like generally mean that the particular feature, structure, or characteristic following the phrase may be included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, and may be included in more than one embodiment of the present disclosure (importantly, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment).

[0021] The word “example” or “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations.

[0022] If the specification states that a component or feature "may", "can", "could", "should", "will", "preferably", "likely", "usually", "optionally", "for example", "often", or "might" (or other such language) be included or have a property, the specific component or feature is not required to be included or have that property. Such components or features may optionally be included in some embodiments, or may be excluded.

[0023] Embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented in various ways, including being implemented as a computer program product including a product. Such computer program products may include one or more software components, including, for example, software objects, methods, data structures, etc. The software components may be encoded in any of a variety of programming languages. Exemplary programming languages ​​may be low-level programming languages, such as assembly languages ​​associated with a specific hardware architecture and / or operating system platform. Software components including assembly language instructions may need to be converted into executable machine code by an assembler before being executed by the hardware architecture and / or platform. Another example programming language may be a higher-level programming language that can be transplanted across multiple architectures. Software components including higher-level programming language instructions may need to be converted into intermediate representations by an interpreter or compiler before execution.

[0024] Other examples of programming languages ​​include, but are not limited to, macro languages, shell or command languages, job control languages, scripting languages, database query or search languages, and / or report writing languages. In one or more example embodiments, a software component comprising instructions in one of the aforementioned examples of a programming language can be directly executed by an operating system or other software component without first converting to another form. The software component can be stored as a file or other data storage structure. Software components of similar type or functional relevance can be stored together, such as, for example, in a specific directory, folder, or library. The software component can be static (e.g., pre-established or fixed) or dynamic (e.g., created or modified when executed).

[0025] A computer program product may include a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium that stores an application, program, program module, script, source code, program code, object code, byte code, compiled code, interpreted code, machine code, executable instructions, etc. (also referred to herein as executable instructions, instructions for execution, computer program product, program code, and / or similar terms used interchangeably herein). Such non-transitory computer-readable storage media include all computer-readable media (including volatile and non-volatile media).

[0026] The non-volatile computer-readable storage medium may include a floppy disk, a floppy disk, a hard disk, a solid-state storage (SSS) (e.g., a solid-state drive (SSD), a solid-state card (SSC), a solid-state module (SSM)), an enterprise flash drive, a magnetic tape, or any other non-transitory magnetic medium, etc. The non-volatile computer-readable storage medium may also include a punched card, a paper tape, an optical marker sheet (or any other physical medium having a hole pattern or other optically recognizable marker), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a compact disc rewritable (CD-RW), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a Blu-ray disc (BD), any other non-transitory optical medium, etc. Such non-volatile computer-readable storage medium may also include a read-only memory (ROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a flash memory (e.g., serial, NAND, NOR, etc.), a multimedia memory card (MMC), a secure digital (SD) memory card, a smart media card, a compact flash (CF) card, a memory stick, etc. In addition, the non-volatile computer-readable storage medium may also include conductive bridging random access memory (CBRAM), phase change random access memory (PRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FeRAM), non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), magnetoresistive random access memory (MRAM), resistive random access memory (RRAM), silicon-oxide-nitride-oxide-silicon memory (SONOS), floating junction gate random access memory (FJG RAM), millipede memory, racetrack memory, etc.

[0027] The volatile computer-readable storage medium may include random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), fast page mode dynamic random access memory (FPM DRAM), extended data output dynamic random access memory (EDO DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), double data rate type two synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR2 SDRAM), double data rate type three synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR3 SDRAM), Rambus dynamic random access memory (RDRAM), two-transistor RAM (TTRAM), thyristor RAM (T-RAM), zero capacitor (Z-RAM), Rambus embedded memory module (RIMM), dual in-line memory module (DIMM), single in-line memory module (SIMM), video random access memory (VRAM), cache memory (including various levels), flash memory, register memory, etc. It will be understood that where an embodiment is described as using a computer-readable storage medium, other types of computer-readable storage media may be used instead of or in addition to the above-described computer-readable storage media.

[0028] It should be understood that various embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented as methods, apparatuses, systems, computing devices, computing entities, etc. Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure may take the form of apparatuses, systems, computing devices, computing entities, etc. that execute instructions stored on a computer-readable storage medium to perform certain steps or operations. Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure may also take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely computer program product embodiment, and / or an embodiment that includes a combination of a computer program product and hardware that performs certain steps or operations.

[0029] The embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations. Therefore, it should be understood that each box in the block diagram and flowchart illustration can be implemented in the following form: a computer program product, a complete hardware implementation, a combination of hardware and computer program products and / or an apparatus, system, computing device, computing entity, etc. for executing instructions, operations, steps and interchangeable similar words (e.g., executable instructions, instructions for execution, program codes, etc.) on a computer-readable storage medium. For example, the retrieval, loading and execution of the code can be performed in sequence so that one instruction is retrieved, loaded and executed at a time. In some example embodiments, retrieval, loading and / or execution can be performed in parallel so that multiple instructions are retrieved, loaded and / or executed together. Therefore, such embodiments can produce a machine of a specific configuration for executing the steps or operations specified in the block diagram and flowchart illustration. Therefore, the block diagram and flowchart illustration support various combinations of embodiments for executing specified instructions, operations or steps.

[0030] Figure 1 Depicted are example components of a radio frequency identification (RFID) inlay that may be embedded within an RFID tag. RFID inlay 100 includes an integrated circuit 106, a tag antenna 108, and a substrate 110. Tag antenna 108 may include aluminum, silver, and / or copper bonded to polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Tag antenna 108 may be configured to receive radio waves from an RFID interrogator or reader (e.g., of an RFID printer) and transmit data back to the RFID interrogator or reader. Integrated circuit 106 may include an RFID chip configured for data storage, manipulation, and processing.

[0031] RFID inlay 100 also includes a housing 102, a face 104, a substrate 110, and an adhesive 112. Figure 1 As depicted, the tag antenna 108 represents the majority of the structure of the RFID inlay 100 and may define the shape and size of the enclosure 102, face 104, substrate 110, and adhesive 112. The substrate 110 may hold the integrated circuit 106 and the tag antenna 108 together. The face 104 may include a thin layer of clear / white plastic or paper for covering the integrated circuit 106 and the tag antenna 108. The enclosure 102 may include a covering that encapsulates the integrated circuit 106, the tag antenna 108, and the substrate 110. The adhesive 112 may include a material for attaching the RFID inlay 100 to an item such as an RFID tag (of RFID tag media).

[0032] Manufacturers of radio frequency identification (RFID) printers typically do not produce label media for use with their RFID printers. Thus, an RFID printer may be designed to accommodate a variety of label media variables. Label media variables may include gap or continuous labels, thermal or non-thermal labels, and RFID or non-RFID labels. The RFID printer may include RFID printer firmware that may be executed to calibrate printer label media settings for each type of label media used with the RFID printer. Calibrating the printer label media settings may include: detecting label media type (e.g., gap, black mark, or continuous), printing method (e.g., ribbon or no ribbon), or label media length. If the printer label media to be calibrated includes RFID label media, the RFID printer firmware may be further executed to calibrate the RFID label media settings for the RFID label media. The printer label media settings and the RFID label media settings calibrated for each different type of RFID label media may be saved to a printer configuration file, and when printing on a specific RFID label media, the specific settings may be loaded from the printer configuration file.

[0033] Calibrating the RFID tag media settings may include determining an optimal tag position and output power (for producing a particular field strength) for effectively (e.g., with minimum reliability or data integrity) reading and / or encoding (e.g., writing) to the RFID tag. Determining the optimal tag position and output power may include reading from the calibration RFID tag during the RFID calibration process. For example, the RFID calibration process may include incrementally advancing the calibration RFID tag toward an RFID coupler of an RFID printer while the RFID coupler attempts to read data from (and / or write data to) the calibration RFID tag. The RFID coupler may include one or more RFID components coupled to the RFID printer to facilitate RFID reading and encoding, such as an RFID antenna, an RFID chip, and / or associated circuitry. During each increment, the RFID coupler may transmit a series of read commands at various field strengths. The RFID calibration process may continue until the RFID coupler is able to read data from the calibration RFID tag.

[0034] When the RFID inlay of the calibration RFID tag is aligned with the RFID coupler of the RFID printer or positioned within a specific range of the RFID coupler, and the RFID coupler transmits at a field strength sufficient to establish radio frequency (RF) communication between the RFID coupler and the calibration RFID tag, the RFID coupler is able to read data from the calibration RFID tag. The optimal tag position and output power can be determined based on the ability of the RFID coupler to read from the calibration RFID tag at each increment and field strength. For example, the RFID calibration process can determine the label position where the RFID coupler can establish RF communication with the calibration RFID tag at various field strengths, and select the label position where the RFID coupler can communicate with the calibration RFID tag at multiple field strengths or at a minimum field strength amplitude.

[0035] The RFID tag medium may include RFID tags, wherein each RFID tag is embedded with an RFID inlay, such as RFID inlay 100, which includes a tag antenna (e.g., tag antenna 108) on the RFID tag. Figure 2A The horizontal (or transverse) orientation as depicted, or as Figure 2B Depicted in a vertical (or portrait) orientation.

[0036] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C Example components of an RFID printer are depicted. The depicted RFID printer includes a media guide assembly 102, a platen roller 104, a print head 106, and an RFID coupler 108. The platen roller 104 may include a fixed roller located below the print head 106. The RFID label media may be inserted into the RFID printer so that it may be pulled under the print head 106 by the platen roller 104 and fed above the RFID coupler 108 by the media guide assembly 102. The RFID label media may be driven through the RFID printer by the platen roller 104 and arrive under the print head 106. The media guide assembly 102 may include a feed path configured to accommodate the RFID label media. For example, the RFID label media may include a roll of blank labels, each of which has an RFID inlay embedded therein. The print head 106 may be configured to print on the RFID label media. In some embodiments, the print head 106 may be configured to heat a thermal ribbon and press it onto the RFID label media. In some embodiments, the print head 106 may be configured to print directly on the RFID label media.

[0037] like Figure 3CAs shown, the RFID coupler 108 is mounted within the media guide assembly 102 across the width of the media guide assembly 102 (horizontally). In some embodiments, the RFID coupler 108 includes a short-range RFID antenna that is configured to read and encode an RFID tag fed through the media guide assembly 102. When the tag antenna of the RFID inlay is oriented horizontally on the RFID tag, the tag antenna pattern extends parallel to the orientation of the RFID coupler 108, and when the tag antenna is oriented vertically on the RFID tag, the tag antenna pattern extends perpendicular to the orientation of the RFID coupler 108. The RFID coupler 108 can be configured to communicate with the RFID tag via RF communication signals.

[0038] Due to the design properties of the RFID tag antenna, communication between the RFID coupler 108 and the RFID tag is best achieved when the tag antenna of the RFID tag shares the same orientation as the RFID coupler 108. Therefore, the calibration process described above may be most applicable to RFID tags that include a tag antenna that is horizontally oriented based on the position of the RFID coupler 108, which is also horizontally oriented on the RFID printer. Difficulties may arise during the calibration process when the tag antenna of the RFID tag is vertically oriented or perpendicular to the RFID coupler 108. For example, the vertically oriented tag antenna of the RFID tag will be tangential to the RF field signal of the horizontally oriented RFID coupler, resulting in poor or inconsistent RFID communication quality between the RFID tag and the RFID coupler. The optimal tag position and output power determined using poor or inconsistent RFID communication quality may be inaccurate and unreliable.

[0039] The skew and / or orientation of the tag antenna on an RFID label may vary depending on the label manufacturer. However, the placement of the RFID coupler on the RFID printer and its orientation (e.g., in a horizontal position) are constant. Thus, the orientation of the tag antenna on the RFID label relative to the RFID coupler can be an important factor in calibrating the RFID printer to ensure proper reading and encoding of the RFID label.

[0040] Various example embodiments of the present disclosure overcome technical challenges and difficulties in calibrating an RFID printer with RFID label media, and provide various technical advances and improvements. According to various examples of the present disclosure, systems and methods for calibrating an RFID printer with RFID label media including various tag antenna orientations are disclosed. In some embodiments, an RFID printer can be calibrated by determining the tag antenna orientation and configuration settings of the RFID label media. Therefore, embodiments of the present disclosure can help minimize the risk of data inaccuracies and incorrect configuration settings caused by existing calibration techniques.

[0041] Figure 4 An illustrative schematic diagram of an RFID printer 400 that may be used in conjunction with embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. Figure 4 As shown, the RFID printer 400 may include an antenna 412, a transmitter 404 (e.g., a radio device), a receiver 406 (e.g., a radio device), and a processing element 408 (e.g., a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), a microprocessor, a multi-core processor, a co-processing entity, an application specific instruction set processor (ASIP), a microcontroller and / or a controller), which provides signals to the transmitter 404 and the receiver 406 and receives signals from them, respectively.

[0042] The signals provided to and received from the transmitter 404 and the receiver 406, respectively, may include signaling information / data in accordance with the air interface standard of the applicable wireless system. In this regard, the RFID printer 400 may be capable of operating with one or more air interface standards, communication protocols, modulation types, and access types. More specifically, the RFID printer 400 may operate in accordance with any of a plurality of wireless communication standards and protocols. In some embodiments, the RFID printer 400 can operate according to multiple wireless communication standards and protocols, such as General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Code Division Multiple Access 2000 (CDMA2000), CDMA2000 1X (1xRTT), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), Time Division Synchronous Code Division Multiple Access (TD-SCDMA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN), Evolution Data Optimized (EVDO), High Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), High Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, 802.16 (WiMAX), Ultra Wideband (UWB), Infrared (IR) protocol, Near Field Communication (NFC) protocol, Wibree, Bluetooth protocol, wireless Universal Serial Bus (USB) protocol and / or any other wireless protocol. Similarly, RFID printer 400 may operate according to a number of wired and wireless communication standards and protocols via network interface 420 .

[0043] Via these communication standards and protocols, the client computing entity 102 can communicate with various other entities such as a host computing entity or a central server. The RFID printer 400 can also download changes, additional plug-ins and updates to its firmware, software (e.g., including executable instructions, applications, program modules) and operating system. The RFID printer 400 can also include a user interface (which can include a display 416 coupled to the processing element 408) and / or a user input interface (coupled to the processing element 408). For example, the user interface can be a user application, a browser, a user interface and / or similar words used interchangeably herein that are executed on the RFID printer 400 and / or can be accessed via the RFID printer to interact with information / data and / or display information / data. The user input interface may include any of a plurality of devices or interfaces that allow the RFID printer 400 to receive data, such as a keypad 418 (hard keyboard or soft keyboard), a touch display, a sound / voice or motion interface, or other input devices. In embodiments including a keypad 418, the keypad 418 may include (or cause to be displayed) conventional numeric keys (0-9) and related keys (#, *) and other keys for operating the RFID printer 400, and may include a full set of alphabetic keys or a set of keys that may be enabled to provide a full set of alphanumeric keys. In addition to providing input, the user input interface may also be used, for example, to activate or deactivate certain functions.

[0044] The RFID printer 400 may also include volatile memory 422 and / or non-volatile memory 424, which may be embedded and / or removable. For example, the non-volatile memory 424 may be ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory, MMC, SD memory card, memory stick, CBRAM, PRAM, FeRAM, NVRAM, MRAM, RRAM, SONOS, FJG RAM, millipede memory, racetrack memory, etc. The volatile memory 422 may be RAM, DRAM, SRAM, FPM DRAM, EDO DRAM, SDRAM, DDRSDRAM, DDR2SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM, RDRAM, TTRAM, T-RAM, Z-RAM, RIMM, DIMM, SIMM, VRAM, cache memory, register memory, etc. The volatile and non-volatile memory may store databases, database instances, database management systems, data, applications, programs, program modules, scripts, source code, object code, byte code, compiled code, interpreted code, machine code, executable instructions, etc. to implement the functions of the RFID printer 400. As indicated, this may include a user application resident on RFID printer 400 .

[0045] The RFID printer 400 also includes printer hardware 426 coupled to the processing element 408. The printer hardware 426 may include various components that can be controlled by the processing element 408 to provide label media printing functionality, such as a print head, a platen, a media guide assembly, and associated circuitry. The RFID module 428 is coupled to the processing element 408, for example, via a bus or other communication interface, to provide RFID reading and encoding functionality during printing of RFID labels. The RFID module 428 may include an RFID coupler or antenna, an RFID chip, and associated circuitry configured to perform RFID reading and encoding operations in conjunction with printing performed by the printer hardware 426. The RFID module 428 may be configured to: (i) generate an RF field in such a way that the RFID label to be printed by the print head is also read and encoded, while other RFID labels in the same roll of RFID label media as the RFID label are not read or encoded; and (ii) perform reading and encoding on the RFID label as the RFID label moves across the antenna field of the RFID coupler of the RFID module 428.

[0046] In some embodiments, the RFID module 428 can perform a read operation by transmitting an RF signal to elicit a response from any RFID tag within range. For example, the RFID module 428 can verify that the data has been programmed into the RFID tag by reading the data stored in the RFID tag after the RFID module 428 has encoded the data into the RFID tag to verify that the data is correctly encoded into the RFID tag. In some embodiments, the RFID tag can be programmed with known information, such as from a host computer in communication with the printer 400, and the programmed information can be verified to be correct. When the RFID tag is programmed or encoded with data, any existing data on the RFID tag can be erased, and new information can be transmitted via the RFID module 428 and encoded into the RFID tag. Then, the RFID module 428 can be used to perform a read operation to verify that the correct information is encoded into the RFID tag. In one embodiment, if the first read (verify) operation indicates an incorrectly programmed tag, additional encoding operations are performed before the RFID tag is considered defective, and each additional encoding operation is followed by a read (verify) operation. If the RFID inlay is defective, an error notification may be given to the operator of the printer 400 (eg, shown via the display 416) and printing may be stopped, or the printer hardware 426 may print an indication that the RFID label is defective onto the defective RFID label.

[0047] Figure 5 Depicts an example firmware communication architecture between the printer hardware and the RFID module. Figure 5As depicted, the processing element 408 is coupled to the printer hardware 426. The processing element 408 may provide instructions for controlling the operation of the printer hardware 426 by executing printer firmware 502. The printer firmware 502 may include software instructions and / or logic for managing the operation of the printer hardware 426. The printer firmware 502 also includes a calibration algorithm 504. The calibration algorithm 504 may include logic for determining printer label media settings and RFID label media settings and using the same to configure the printer hardware 426.

[0048] In some embodiments, printer label media settings may include configuration for label media type (e.g., gap, black mark, or continuous), printing method (e.g., ribbon or no ribbon), or label media length. In some embodiments, RFID label media settings may include parameters for reading and encoding RFID label media. The calibration algorithm 504 may be executed to generate settings for a variety of label media types and saved to corresponding configuration files. The settings generated by executing the calibration algorithm 504 may configure the printer hardware 426 and RFID module 428 for optimal operation for each specific type of label media and determine the optimal configuration for RFID reading and encoding in an environment with a lot of interference. About Figure 6 The description of describes further details of the calibration algorithm 504 in more detail.

[0049] The processing element 408 can communicate with the RFID module 428 to integrate the RFID functionality provided by the RFID module 428 with the printing performed by the printer hardware 426. In some embodiments, the processing element 408 can communicate with the RFID module 428 via interface commands through a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART) communication protocol. The RFID module 428 includes RFID module firmware 508. The RFID module firmware may include software instructions and / or logic for managing the reading operations and encoding operations performed by the RFID module 428.

[0050] In some embodiments, the processing element 408 may transmit instructions for encoding and verifying (e.g., reading and rewriting) the RFID tag to the RFID module 428. The RFID module 428 may receive instructions from the processing element 408 and transmit RF signals via the RFID antenna based on the instructions. For example, an RFID tag located within the RF signal field of the RFID coupler of the RFID module 428 may receive a signal transmitted from the RFID module 428. If the signal is an encoded signal, the RFID tag may be encoded with the signal. If the signal is a read signal (e.g., for verification), the RFID tag may generate a response RF signal including data recorded on the RFID tag, which may be received by the RFID module 428 via the RFID coupler and verified. In some embodiments, the processing element 408 may also transmit instructions for performing self-calibration to the RFID module 428.

[0051] Figure 6 is an example flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for calibrating an RFID printer according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. It should be noted that each block of the flowchart and combinations of blocks in the flowchart may be implemented by various components such as hardware, firmware, circuits, and / or other devices associated with the execution of software including one or more computer program instructions. For example, Figure 6 One or more of the steps / operations described may be embodied by computer program instructions, which may be stored in a non-transitory memory of a device employing embodiments of the present disclosure and executed by a processor component in the device (such as, but not limited to, processing element 408). For example, the computer program instructions may instruct the processor component to function in a specific manner, so that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage memory produce an article of manufacture, the execution of which implements the functions specified in the flowchart block.

[0052] exist Figure 6 In the example method 600, the self-calibrating RFID printer (e.g., as described above in conjunction with at least Figure 4) is performed by a computing device associated with the RFID printer (shown and described). In some embodiments, at step 602, the computing device retrieves frequency hopping capabilities from an RFID module coupled to the RFID printer. The RFID module may include an RFID coupler or antenna, an RFID chip, and associated circuits configured to perform RFID reading and encoding operations in conjunction with the printing operations performed by the RFID printer. In some embodiments, the RFID module may or may not employ frequency hopping. In the process of transmitting an RF signal to an RFID tag, the RFID module may hop through one or more frequencies and / or channels based on the established frequency hopping regulations. For example, frequency hopping can be performed by transmitting a radio signal using a carrier signal that switches rapidly between many frequency channels to prevent RF interference or reader conflicts when two RFID devices transmit the same frequency at the same time. In some embodiments, the frequency hopping capability is configured to comply with the specific regulations of each country of use.

[0053] In some embodiments, at step 604, the computing device instructs the printer hardware to advance the calibration RFID label to a given position. The given position may refer to the length, distance from a border, or point location of the calibration RFID label. In some embodiments, the given position includes a location on the calibration RFID label for performing one or more calibration processes. In some embodiments, the given position may vary based on the size of the print head of the RFID printer (e.g., 203dpi or 406dpi) and / or the label length of the calibration RFID label (e.g., 3 inches or 5 inches). In some embodiments, for example, at the beginning of calibration, the given position may include an initial position, and in further iterations, the given position may include a predetermined increment by which the calibration RFID label can be advanced until the last calibration position.

[0054] The calibration RFID label may include, for example, a first RFID label or a selected RFID label from a plurality of RFID labels, such as from a roll of RFID label media, which is used to calibrate the RFID printer. The RFID printer may include printer hardware, such as a print head, a media guide assembly, a pressure roller and / or one or more media moving mechanisms, and a sensor. In some embodiments, the given position to which the printer hardware advances the calibration RFID label may be relative to the RFID coupler of the RFID module.

[0055] In some embodiments, at step 606, the computing device selects a first field strength for the RFID module. The field strength may include an antenna gain for transmitting or receiving RF signals by the RFID module. Selecting the field strength for the RFID module may include retrieving a minimum field strength value and a maximum field strength value from the RFID module, and configuring the RFID module using a field strength within the minimum field strength value and the maximum field strength value. For example, the RFID module may be capable of operating at a field strength from 12 dB to 27 dB.

[0056] In some embodiments, at step 608, the computing device selects a first set of RFID parameters for the RFID module. The first set of RFID parameters can be associated with the operation of the RFID module according to the first RFID parameter settings. For example, the RFID module can operate according to a plurality of RFID parameter settings. The RFID parameters can be based on the EPC Radio Frequency Identification Protocol Generation-2 (Ultra High Frequency) UHF RFID standard. In some embodiments, the RFID parameters include properties associated with an ISO 18000-6UHF passive system that employs the EPCC1G2 (Gen2) standard.

[0057] In some embodiments, a set of RFID parameters includes a Type A Reference Interval (TARI), a Backscatter Link Frequency (BLF), and a Miller's value.

[0058] TARI may include a time associated with the duration of a Data-0 symbol. TARI may be used as a reference time interval for commands sent from an RFID reader to an RFID tag. The length of TARI may vary from 6.25 microseconds to 25 microseconds. Longer TARI values ​​may improve immunity to interference and noise. By extending the duration of the reference time interval, the system becomes more tolerant to disturbances and changes in the RF environment, resulting in better overall reliability, but at the expense of a slower data transfer rate.

[0059] The BLF may include the rate at which a tag transmits its data by modulating a reflected signal. The BLF value may be expressed in Hertz (Hz). The BLF value in an RFID system may include 40kHz to 33KHZ. By adjusting the BLF, an RFID system may optimize the tradeoff between communication range, data transmission speed, and interference tolerance. A higher BLF value may allow for a faster data rate, but may reduce the effective read range. A lower BLF value may extend the read range, but may result in a slower data transmission rate.

[0060] Miller can include the type of signal encoding used in RFID tags. Possible Miller modulation types include FM0, Miller-2, Miller-4, Miller-8, which can affect the duration of the modulation. For example, choosing Miller encoding 4 is more resistant to noise and interference, and it can also achieve higher data rates.

[0061] In some embodiments, selecting the first set of RFID parameters further comprises: retrieving one or more RFID parameter set identifiers from the RFID module; determining corresponding parameter values ​​for the one or more RFID parameter set identifiers; and configuring the RFID module using the parameter values ​​associated with one of the one or more RFID parameter set identifiers. Each of the one or more RFID parameter set identifiers may include a combination of predefined parameter values ​​that are unique to the RFID parameter set identifier. Additionally, the one or more RFID parameter set identifiers retrieved from the RFID module may identify a specific RFID parameter configuration that the RFID module may use to operate. Thus, the RFID module may provide the one or more RFID parameter set identifiers to identify specific values ​​of the RFID parameters that may be used to configure the RFID module.

[0062] Example RFID parameter values ​​for a number of example RFID parameter set identifiers according to the EPCC1G2 standard system are provided below:

[0063] Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Standards

[0064] ID 9: BLF=40KHz, MILLER=1, TARI=25;

[0065] ID 12: BLF=160KHz, MILLER=1, TARI=6;

[0066] ID 16: BLF=242KHz, MILLER=4, TARI=12;

[0067] ID 18: BLF=309KHz, MILLER=4, TARI=25;

[0068] ID 25: BLF=333KHz, MILLER=1, TARI=6;

[0069] ID 28: BLF=307KHz, MILLER=1, TARI=6.

[0070] European Telecommunications Standards Institute

[0071] ID 18: BLF=309KHz, MILLER=4, TARI=25;

[0072] ID 21: BLF=160KHz; MILLER=1, TARI=25;

[0073] ID 27: BLF=242KHz; MILLER=4, TARI=25.

[0074] In some embodiments, at step 610, the computing device uses the RFID module to perform one or more calibration read and write operations on the calibration RFID tag at a given location based on the first field strength, the first set of RFID parameters, and the frequency hopping capability. Performing the calibration read and write operations may also include: determining the results or status of the calibration read and write operations performed on the calibration RFID tag at the given location; and indexing the results or status using the first field strength and the first set of RFID parameters, for example in a table or data structure. The success or failure of the calibration read and write operations may provide an indication of the distance between the RFID coupler of the RFID module and the tag antenna of the calibration RFID tag and the orientation of the tag antenna. In some embodiments, determining the results or status of the calibration read and write operations may also include: determining a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) of RF communication between the RFID module and the calibration RFID tag.

[0075] In some embodiments, at step 612, the computing device determines whether another set of RFID parameters (e.g., from one or more RFID parameter set identifiers retrieved from the RFID module) can be used to configure the RFID module to perform one or more additional calibration read and write operations. If a second set of RFID parameters is available, at step 608, the computing device selects the second set of RFID parameters, and at step 610, the computing device uses the RFID module to perform one or more calibration read and write operations on the calibration RFID tag at a given location based on the first field strength, the second set of RFID parameters, and the frequency hopping capability. The computing device can traverse and select multiple sets of RFID parameters, and use the multiple sets of RFID parameter settings to perform calibration read and write operations on the calibration RFID tag with the RFID module at the first field strength until calibration read and write operations have been performed on the calibration RFID tag with each set of RFID parameters in the multiple sets of RFID parameters at the first field strength.

[0076] In some embodiments, if all sets of RFID parameters for the RFID module have been exhausted, then at step 614, the computing device determines whether another field strength value for the RFID module can be selected. If the second field strength is available, then at step 606, the computing device selects the second field strength, and the computing device may iteratively continue to select multiple sets of RFID parameters and perform calibration read and write operations on the calibration RFID tag using the RFID module based on the multiple sets of RFID parameters, the second field strength, and the frequency hopping capability (steps 608, 610, and 612) until calibration read and write operations have been performed on the calibration RFID tag with each set of RFID parameters in the multiple sets of RFID parameters at the second field strength. Thus, via steps 612 and 614, the computing device determines multiple field strength values ​​and multiple sets of RFID parameters by traversing multiple RFID parameter and field strength combinations, and performs calibration read and write operations on the calibration RFID tag based on the multiple field strength values ​​and the multiple sets of RFID parameters.

[0077] In some embodiments, if all field strength values ​​selected for the RFID module have been exhausted, the computing device determines whether the calibration RFID sticker has been advanced to the last calibration position at step 616. If not, the computing device instructs the printer hardware to advance the calibration RFID sticker to the next given position at step 604. For example, advancing the calibration RFID sticker to the next given position may include: advancing the calibration RFID sticker by a predetermined increment.

[0078] The last calibration position may include a predetermined position on the calibration RFID label for terminating the calibration read and write operations. In some embodiments, assuming that the calibration RFID label is symmetrical, especially symmetrical with respect to the tag antenna design pattern and / or the placement of the tag antenna, the last calibration position may include a position at half of the calibration RFID label. In some embodiments, assuming that the calibration RFID label is asymmetrical, the last calibration position may include a position beyond half of the calibration RFID label and before the ending edge of the calibration RFID label, so that calibration can be performed on most of the calibration RFID label. However, as the range over which calibration is performed on the calibration RFID label increases, the time spent performing the calibration will also increase accordingly.

[0079] In some embodiments, if the calibration RFID tag is in the last calibration position, then at step 618, the computing device determines one or more best results from a plurality of results associated with the calibration read and write operations performed on the calibration RFID tag by comparing the results of the calibration read and write operations performed using the selected field strengths and multiple sets of RFID parameters. As discussed above, the results or status of the calibration read and write operations performed at a given position of the calibration RFID tag can be stored and indexed in a table or data structure using various combinations of field strengths and multiple sets of RFID parameters. Determining one or more best results may include: determining one or more given positions of the calibration RFID tag that exhibit successful calibration read and write operations using most field strengths and most sets of RFID parameters. In some embodiments, determining one or more best results may also include: determining one or more given positions of the calibration RFID tag associated with RSSI values ​​that meet a specific threshold.

[0080] In some embodiments, at step 620, the computing device determines the tag antenna orientation of the calibration RFID tag and stores one or more optimal configuration settings in the printer firmware of the RFID printer. The tag antenna orientation may be determined based on the results of one or more calibration read and write operations performed using the selected field strength and multiple sets of RFID parameters. For example, the results of one or more calibration read and write operations for a horizontally oriented tag antenna may include consistent tag read / write success (and consistent RSSI values) across multiple gain variations when the calibration RFID tag is advanced to bring it closer to the RFID coupler of the RFID module, while the results of one or more calibration read and write operations for a vertically oriented tag antenna may include inconsistent tag read / write success (and inconsistent RSSI values) across multiple gain variations when the calibration RFID tag is advanced to bring it closer to the RFID coupler.

[0081] Inconsistent tag read / write success for RFID labels with vertically oriented tag antennas may be due to the design of the tag antenna. That is, when the tag antenna is vertically oriented relative to the RFID coupler, the tag antenna is tangential to the RF field signal of the RFID coupler, resulting in poor or inconsistent RFID communication quality between the tag antenna and the RFID coupler. In addition, when the tag antenna is vertically oriented relative to the horizontally oriented RFID coupler, a smaller portion or profile of the tag antenna faces the RFID coupler and may increase the chance of exposure to gaps in the tag antenna structure. Therefore, to ensure optimal functionality in the case of RFID labels with vertically oriented tag antennas, the computing device stores one or more optimal configuration settings in the printer firmware for use in the case of RFID labels with vertically oriented tag antennas. The optimal configuration settings may include one or more optimal results for one or more calibration read and write operations.

[0082] It should be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation unless otherwise specified.

Claims

1. A method for calibrating a radio frequency identification (RFID) printer, the method comprising: retrieving, by a computing device, a frequency hopping capability from an RFID module coupled to the RFID printer; Instructing the printer hardware, by the computing device, to advance the calibration RFID label to a plurality of given positions; selecting, by the computing device, one or more first field strengths; selecting, by the computing device, one or more sets of RFID parameters; performing, by the computing device, a plurality of calibration read and write operations on the calibration RFID tag at the plurality of given locations using the RFID module based on a plurality of combinations including the one or more field strengths, the one or more sets of RFID parameters, and the frequency hopping capability; determining, by the computing device, one or more best results from a plurality of results associated with the plurality of calibration read and write operations; determining, by the computing device, a tag antenna orientation of the calibration RFID tag based on the plurality of results; as well as One or more optimal configuration settings are stored, by the computing device, in printer firmware of the RFID printer based on the tag orientation and the one or more optimal results from the plurality of results.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of given positions is based on at least one of a size of a print head associated with the RFID printer or a length of the calibration RFID label.

3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: determining the plurality of results associated with the plurality of calibration read and write operations; as well as The plurality of results are indexed using the one or more field strengths and the one or more sets of RFID parameters. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of results comprises success or failure of the plurality of calibration read and write operations.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the one or more best results among the plurality of results further comprises: One or more given locations among the plurality of given locations that exhibit successful calibration read and write operations using a majority of the one or more field strengths and RFID parameters among the one or more sets of RFID parameters are determined.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the one or more best results among the plurality of results further comprises: It is determined that the plurality of given locations are associated with RSSI values ​​that satisfy a threshold.

7. A computing device comprising a memory and one or more processors communicatively coupled to the memory, the one or more processors being configured to: retrieving frequency hopping capabilities from a radio frequency identification (RFID) module coupled to a radio frequency identification (RFID) printer; Instructing the printer hardware to advance the calibration RFID sticker to a plurality of given positions; Select one or more first field strengths; Select one or more sets of RFID parameters; performing a plurality of calibration read and write operations on the calibration RFID tags at the plurality of given locations using the RFID module based on a plurality of combinations including the one or more field strengths, the one or more sets of RFID parameters, and the frequency hopping capability; determining one or more best results among a plurality of results associated with the plurality of calibration read and write operations; determining a tag antenna orientation of the calibration RFID tag based on the plurality of results; as well as One or more optimal configuration settings are stored in printer firmware of the RFID printer based on the tag orientation and the one or more optimal results of the plurality of results.

8. The computing device of claim 7, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to: determining the plurality of results associated with the plurality of calibration read and write operations; and The plurality of results are indexed using the one or more field strengths and the one or more sets of RFID parameters.

9. The computing device of claim 7, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to: One or more given locations among the plurality of given locations that exhibit successful calibration read and write operations using a majority of the one or more field strengths and RFID parameters among the one or more sets of RFID parameters are determined.

10. One or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: retrieving frequency hopping capabilities from a radio frequency identification (RFID) module coupled to a radio frequency identification (RFID) printer; Instructing the printer hardware to advance the calibration RFID sticker to a plurality of given positions; Select one or more first field strengths; Select one or more sets of RFID parameters; performing a plurality of calibration read and write operations on the calibration RFID tags at the plurality of given locations using the RFID module based on a plurality of combinations including the one or more field strengths, the one or more sets of RFID parameters, and the frequency hopping capability; determining one or more best results among a plurality of results associated with the plurality of calibration read and write operations; determining a tag antenna orientation of the calibration RFID tag based on the plurality of results; as well as One or more optimal configuration settings are stored in printer firmware of the RFID printer based on the tag orientation and the one or more optimal results of the plurality of results.

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