Communication method, apparatus, and system
Through multi-capacitor design and circuit management module, RFID tags can flexibly select capacitors to use in different scenarios, solving the problems of response speed and reliability of passive RFID tags under low signal strength or long distance, and realizing stable and efficient tag information transmission.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-10-30
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-15
AI Technical Summary
Passive RFID tags suffer from reduced response speed and reliability under low signal strength or long distance conditions. Traditional energy storage mechanisms struggle to balance energy reserves and response speed, hindering the widespread use of RFID technology.
The RFID tag design employs multiple capacitors. It generates DC power by receiving radio frequency or ambient energy and charges multiple capacitors accordingly. The capacitors can be flexibly selected to meet the energy requirements of different scenarios. The design includes a circuit management module and a switching circuit to manage capacitor usage.
It improves the response speed and reliability of RFID tags in different scenarios, ensures stable operation in high-frequency inventory and long-distance identification scenarios, and reduces the interruption of tag information transmission caused by insufficient energy.
Smart Images

Figure CN2025131146_15052026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
A communication method, apparatus and system
[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411590875.1, filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on November 7, 2024, entitled "A Communication Method, Apparatus and System", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0002] This application relates to the field of communications, and more particularly to a communication method, apparatus, and system. Background Technology
[0003] Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems typically consist of two parts: a reader and an RFID tag. RFID tags can be divided into passive and active RFID tags. Passive RFID tags can obtain power through the following radio frequency energy harvesting method: the passive RFID tag collects the radio frequency signal transmitted by the reader through a radio frequency energy harvesting rectifier circuit, and converts the collected radio frequency signal into direct current to power the passive RFID tag. Furthermore, active RFID tags can incorporate an energy storage mechanism to briefly maintain the operation of the passive RFID tag when the radio frequency signal is interrupted.
[0004] Although passive RFID tags can be powered by radio frequency energy harvesting, the efficiency of this method is limited by the signal strength of the radio frequency signal from the reader. When the reader's radio frequency signal strength is low, the response speed and reliability of the passive RFID tag will decrease significantly. Furthermore, traditional energy storage mechanisms struggle to balance energy reserves with the response speed of the passive RFID tag, hindering the widespread adoption of RFID technology. For example, passive RFID tags cannot be used in scenarios such as high-frequency inventory checks and long-distance identification.
[0005] Therefore, designing an efficient and flexible energy storage mechanism is key to radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. Summary of the Invention
[0006] This application provides a communication method, apparatus, and system to enable the dynamic transmission of tag information by radio frequency identification tags.
[0007] To achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution:
[0008] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication method. This method can be executed by a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag including multiple capacitors, or by a component of the RFID tag including multiple capacitors, such as a processor, chip, or chip system of the RFID tag including multiple capacitors. It can also be implemented by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of an RFID tag including multiple capacitors. The method includes: in response to receiving radio frequency energy or ambient energy from a first radio frequency signal, charging a first capacitor (one of multiple capacitors) with direct current generated based on the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal or the ambient energy; charging a second capacitor (any one of the multiple capacitors other than the first capacitor); the capacitance of the first capacitor supporting the RFID tag to transmit tag information at least once; the tag information being information stored by the RFID tag or information obtained through sensing.
[0009] Based on the method described in the first aspect, compared with the radio frequency energy harvesting method that stores radio frequency energy in a single capacitor, the radio frequency identification tag that includes multiple capacitors can convert the radio frequency energy of the received first radio frequency signal or the DC power generated by the conversion of ambient energy into DC power, and then charge the multiple capacitors in the radio frequency identification tag in turn. This allows the radio frequency identification tag to flexibly use the energy stored in different capacitors to provide power for its own operation in different scenarios.
[0010] In one possible design, if the energy stored in the first capacitor is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold, the second capacitor is charged. The energy stored at the first preset threshold supports the RFID tag to send tag information once, or the energy stored at the first preset threshold is the capacitance of the first capacitor when fully charged.
[0011] Based on this possible design, the RFID tag, which includes multiple capacitors, can charge the second capacitor only when the energy stored in the first capacitor is sufficient to support one transmission of tag information. This avoids the interruption of tag information transmission caused by switching capacitor power supply due to insufficient energy during one transmission of tag information.
[0012] In one possible design, the capacitance of the first capacitor is equal to the capacitance of the second capacitor; or, the capacitance of the first capacitor is less than the capacitance of the second capacitor.
[0013] Based on this possible design, in different scenarios, the capacitance of the first capacitor and the capacitance of the second capacitor among the multiple capacitors included in the RFID tag can be the same or different. For example, when the second capacitor serves as a spare capacitor for the RFID tag, the capacitance of the first capacitor and the capacitance of the second capacitor are equal; when the RFID tag needs to quickly send its tag information to the reader, the capacitance of the first capacitor is less than the capacitance of the second capacitor.
[0014] In one possible design, the RFID tag includes a circuit management module for managing any one of a plurality of capacitors. Based on this possible design, the RFID tag may include a circuit management module to manage any one of the plurality of capacitors included in the RFID tag.
[0015] In one possible design, the circuit management module includes a first rectifier circuit and a first switching circuit. The first switching circuit includes a first terminal and a second terminal. The first terminal of the first switching circuit is connected to the first rectifier circuit, and the second terminal of the first switching circuit is used to connect any one of the multiple capacitors. The second terminal of the first switching circuit is initially configured to be connected to the first capacitor.
[0016] Based on this possible design, the circuit management module in the RFID tag may include a first rectifier circuit and a first switching circuit to manage any one of the multiple capacitors included in the RFID tag.
[0017] In one possible design, before charging the second capacitor, the first aspect of the method further includes: a first switching circuit detecting that the energy stored in the first capacitor is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold; and the first switching circuit switching the connection between the second terminal and the second capacitor.
[0018] Based on this possible design, a first switching circuit in an RFID tag including multiple capacitors switches the connection of the second terminal to the second capacitor when the energy stored in the first capacitor is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold, so as to switch from charging the first capacitor to charging the second capacitor.
[0019] In one possible design, charging the first capacitor includes: a first rectifier circuit converting the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal or ambient energy into direct current (DC), and transmitting the DC to a first switching circuit; the first switching circuit receiving the DC and transmitting the DC to the first capacitor through a first path, wherein the first path is a path between the second terminal and the first capacitor; charging the second capacitor includes: the first rectifier circuit converting the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal or ambient energy into DC, and transmitting the DC to the first switching circuit; the first switching circuit receiving the DC and transmitting the DC to the second capacitor through a second path, wherein the second path is a path between the second terminal and the second capacitor.
[0020] Based on this possible design, the circuit management module in the RFID tag may include a first rectifier circuit and a first switching circuit to enable charging of a first capacitor or a second capacitor.
[0021] In one possible design, the method described in the first aspect may further include: a first switching circuit in the RFID tag detecting the stored energy of a first capacitor; if the stored energy of the first capacitor is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of the first capacitor to send tag information to a reader; if the stored energy of the first capacitor is less than the second preset threshold, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of a second capacitor to send tag information to a reader, and the reader provides a first radio frequency signal to the RFID tag.
[0022] Based on this possible design, the RFID tag detects the stored energy of the first capacitor through the first switching circuit, compares the stored energy of the first capacitor with a second preset threshold, and realizes the flexible use of the stored energy of the first capacitor or the stored energy of the second capacitor to send tag information to the reader.
[0023] In one possible design, the first aspect of the method may further include: detecting the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal; if the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal is greater than or equal to a third preset threshold, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of the first capacitor to send tag information to the reader; if the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal is less than the third preset threshold, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of the second capacitor to send tag information to the reader. The second radio frequency signal is used to trigger the transmission of tag information to the reader, and the reader is used to provide the first radio frequency signal and the second radio frequency signal to the RFID tag.
[0024] Based on this possible design, the RFID tag can send tag information to the reader by detecting the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal and comparing the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal with a third preset threshold, thereby flexibly using the energy stored in the first capacitor or the energy stored in the second capacitor.
[0025] In one possible design, the third preset threshold is determined based on the sensitivity of the RFID tag. This design ensures that the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal is sufficient to activate the RFID tag, which includes multiple capacitors, enabling the RFID tag to function properly.
[0026] In one possible design, the method described in the first aspect may further include: receiving a second radio frequency signal from a reader, the second radio frequency signal being used to trigger the transmission of tag information to the reader, and the reader being used to provide a first radio frequency signal and a second radio frequency signal to the radio frequency identification tag.
[0027] Based on this possible design, an RFID tag including multiple capacitors can be triggered by a second radio frequency signal to send tag information to a reader.
[0028] In one possible design, the method described in the first aspect may further include: receiving a second radio frequency signal from the reader when there is no signal obstruction between the reader and the RFID tag.
[0029] Based on this possible design, RFID tags including multiple capacitors can receive a second radio frequency signal from a reader in a stable, low-interference environment.
[0030] In one possible design, the method described in the first aspect may further include: receiving a second radio frequency signal from the reader in the absence of signal reflection between the reader and the RFID tag.
[0031] Based on this possible design, RFID tags including multiple capacitors can receive a second radio frequency signal from a reader in a stable, low-interference environment.
[0032] In one possible design, the second radio frequency signal includes any of the following: inventory command, logistics tracking command, vehicle identification request, or product request.
[0033] Based on this possible design, the second radio frequency signal can include different information in different communication scenarios.
[0034] In one possible design, the method described in the first aspect may further include: receiving an acknowledgment message from the reader, the acknowledgment message indicating that the reader has successfully received the tag information.
[0035] Based on this possible design, RFID tags can determine whether the reader has successfully received the tag information through an acknowledgment message from the reader.
[0036] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which includes a radio frequency identification tag, the radio frequency identification tag including a first capacitor and a second capacitor;
[0037] The capacitance of the first capacitor supports the RFID tag to send tag information at least once. The tag information is the information stored by the RFID tag or the information obtained by sensing.
[0038] The second capacitor is charged when the energy stored in the first capacitor is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold, wherein the energy stored at the first preset threshold is sufficient to support the RFID tag to send tag information once, or the energy stored at the first preset threshold is the capacity of the first capacitor when fully charged.
[0039] In one possible design, the capacitance of the first capacitor is equal to the capacitance of the second capacitor; or, the capacitance of the first capacitor is less than the capacitance of the second capacitor.
[0040] In one possible design, the RFID tag includes a circuit management module for managing a first capacitor and a second capacitor.
[0041] In one possible design, the circuit management module includes a first rectifier circuit and a first switching circuit. The first switching circuit includes a first terminal and a second terminal. The first terminal of the first switching circuit is connected to the first rectifier circuit, and the second terminal of the first switching circuit is used to connect any one of the multiple capacitors. The second terminal of the first switching circuit is initially configured to be connected to the first capacitor.
[0042] Thirdly, this application provides a communication device that can be applied to the RFID tag comprising multiple capacitors described in the first aspect to realize the functions performed by the RFID tag comprising multiple capacitors. The communication device can be an RFID tag comprising multiple capacitors, or a chip, chip system, or system-on-a-chip of the RFID tag comprising multiple capacitors. The communication device can execute the functions performed by the transmitting end through hardware, or it can execute corresponding software through hardware. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the above functions. For example: a module for charging a first capacitor with DC power generated by converting the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal or ambient energy in response to receiving radio frequency energy or ambient energy from the first radio frequency signal; a module for charging a second capacitor; wherein the first capacitor is one of multiple capacitors, and the second capacitor is any other capacitor among the multiple capacitors except the first capacitor, and the capacitance of the first capacitor supports the RFID tag to transmit tag information at least once, the tag information being information stored in the RFID tag or information obtained through sensing.
[0043] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which includes one or more processors; the one or more processors are configured to run computer programs or instructions, such that when the one or more processors execute the computer instructions or instructions, the communication method described in the first aspect is performed.
[0044] In one possible design, the communication device further includes one or more memories coupled to one or more processors, the memories used to store the aforementioned computer programs or instructions. In one possible implementation, the memories are located outside the communication device. In another possible implementation, the memories are located inside the communication device. In embodiments of this application, the processor and memory may also be integrated into a single device, i.e., the processor and memory may be integrated together. In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a transceiver for receiving and / or transmitting information.
[0045] In one possible design, the communication device further includes one or more communication interfaces coupled to one or more processors, and the communication interfaces are used to communicate with other modules outside the communication device.
[0046] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which includes an interface circuit and a logic circuit; the interface circuit is used to input and / or output information; the logic circuit is used to execute the communication method as described in the first aspect, and to process and / or generate information based on the information.
[0047] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions or programs that, when executed on a computer, cause the communication method described in the first aspect to be performed.
[0048] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product containing computer instructions that, when run on a computer, causes the communication method described in the first aspect to be executed.
[0049] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the communication method described in the first aspect to be executed.
[0050] Ninthly, embodiments of this application provide a chip, including: a processor coupled to a memory, the memory being used to store programs or instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the communication method described in the first aspect to be executed.
[0051] The technical effects of any of the design methods in aspects two through nine are similar to those in aspect one, and will not be elaborated upon further.
[0052] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication system that may include communication means for performing the methods described in the first aspect or any possible design of the first aspect. Attached Figure Description
[0053] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0054] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a radio frequency identification tag provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0055] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0056] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0057] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0058] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0059] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0060] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0061] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0062] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation
[0063] Before introducing the embodiments of this application, some technical terms involved in the embodiments of this application will be explained. It should be noted that the following explanations are for the purpose of making the embodiments of this application easier to understand, and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope of protection claimed by the embodiments of this application.
[0064] A radio frequency identification (RFID) system typically consists of two parts: a reader and an RFID tag. A reader is a device used to read or write information from an RFID tag. An RFID tag is a tiny device that can store and transmit data; it usually consists of an antenna, an RFID chip, and circuitry. The antenna is responsible for receiving or transmitting radio frequency signals, the RFID chip is used to process and store information or data, and the circuitry manages energy conversion and signal processing.
[0065] Radio frequency identification (RFID) tags can be divided into passive RFID tags and active RFID tags. Active RFID tags have their own batteries, while passive RFID tags do not have batteries and need to obtain power from external sources.
[0066] Passive RFID tags can obtain power through the following radio frequency energy harvesting method: the passive RFID tag collects the radio frequency signal sent by the reader through a radio frequency energy harvesting rectifier circuit, and converts the collected radio frequency signal into direct current to provide power for the passive RFID tag. Radio frequency energy, also known as electromagnetic wave energy, is the energy carried by the radio frequency signal as it propagates through space.
[0067] In one example, to address the energy supply issue of passive RFID tags operating in environments with discontinuous radio frequency signals, an energy storage mechanism can be added to the passive RFID tag based on the radio frequency energy harvesting method. For instance, the passive RFID tag can be equipped with an energy storage capacitor, which acts as an energy buffer. When the radio frequency signal disappears or weakens, it provides continuous power to the passive RFID tag circuit to maintain the basic functions of the passive RFID tag or complete the data transmission task, thus enabling the passive RFID tag to temporarily maintain operation when the radio frequency signal is interrupted.
[0068] Although passive RFID tags can be powered by the aforementioned RF energy harvesting methods, these methods have the following limitations:
[0069] (1) The efficiency of radio frequency energy harvesting is limited by the signal strength of the radio frequency signal from the reader.
[0070] When the reader's radio frequency signal strength is low, or when the distance between the reader and the passive RFID tag is large, the response speed and reliability of the passive RFID tag will be significantly reduced. For example, if the distance between the passive RFID tag and the reader is large, the radio frequency signal received by the passive RFID tag will be weak, causing the passive RFID tag to be unable to quickly obtain power to drive itself, and thus unable to quickly feed back its stored data to the reader.
[0071] (2) The capacitance of a single energy storage capacitor configured in a passive RFID tag is difficult to balance with the response speed of the passive RFID tag, which makes it impossible for RFID technology to be widely used.
[0072] For example, small-capacity energy storage capacitors can charge quickly, allowing passive RFID tags to rapidly transmit their stored data to the reader. This makes them suitable for scenarios requiring rapid response, such as high-speed inventory checks and vehicle identification. However, they cannot provide sustained power for passive RFID tags. Large-capacity energy storage capacitors, due to their higher energy storage capacity, can provide sustained power for passive RFID tags even in environments with low RF signal strength. This makes them suitable for scenarios requiring long-term operation, such as long-distance identification scenarios like logistics tracking and asset management. However, large-capacity energy storage capacitors require longer charging times, reducing the real-time response capability of passive RFID tags in dynamic environments.
[0073] (3) Individual storage capacitors experience energy loss during charging, especially in the initial stage of charging, where energy conversion efficiency is low due to capacitor characteristics. In addition, the nonlinear change in charging current also leads to a decrease in energy utilization.
[0074] To address the aforementioned issues, embodiments of this application provide a communication method based on a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag comprising multiple capacitors. The method may include: the RFID tag, in response to receiving a first radio frequency signal or ambient energy, charging a first capacitor among the multiple capacitors with direct current generated by the conversion of the first radio frequency signal or ambient energy; and further charging any of the other capacitors (second capacitors) among the multiple capacitors, excluding the first capacitor. The capacitance of the first capacitor supports the RFID tag in transmitting tag information at least once, where the tag information is information stored by the RFID tag or information obtained through sensing.
[0075] Thus, compared to radio frequency energy harvesting methods that rely on single-capacitor storage, the communication method provided in this application, which includes an RFID tag with multiple capacitors, can sequentially charge the multiple capacitors in the RFID tag with DC power generated from the received first radio frequency signal or ambient energy conversion. This allows the RFID tag to use the stored energy of different capacitors to power its operation in different scenarios. For example, if the capacitance of the first capacitor is smaller than that of the second capacitor, in scenarios with high real-time requirements, the RFID tag can use the stored energy of the first capacitor to feed back its tag information to the reader, reducing the RFID tag's response time and improving system efficiency. In scenarios requiring long-term operation, such as long-distance identification scenarios like logistics tracking and asset management, the RFID tag can use the stored energy of the second capacitor to feed back its tag information to the reader for a longer period, ensuring the stability of the RFID tag's operation.
[0076] The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0077] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system includes a reader and a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. The RFID tag in Figure 1 includes multiple capacitors, such as a first capacitor and a second capacitor. It should be understood that the capacitors in Figure 1 are illustrative and may include two or more capacitors, etc., and are not limited thereto.
[0078] Taking the first capacitor and the second capacitor as examples, one of the multiple capacitors is the first capacitor. The capacitance of the first capacitor supports the RFID tag in sending tag information at least once. The tag information is the information stored by the RFID tag or the information obtained through sensing. Any other capacitor among the multiple capacitors besides the first capacitor is the second capacitor. The reader in Figure 1 is used to send a first radio frequency signal and a second radio frequency signal to the RFID tag in Figure 1. The RFID tag in Figure 1 can generate DC power based on the first radio frequency signal or environmental energy conversion to charge any one of the multiple capacitors. The second radio frequency signal is used to trigger the RFID tag in Figure 1 to send its tag information to the reader in Figure 1. Environmental energy can include solar energy, mechanical energy, vibration energy, etc.
[0079] Optionally, the RFID tag in Figure 1 further includes a circuit management module for managing any one of the multiple capacitors. This circuit management module may include a first rectifier circuit and a first switching circuit. The first rectifier circuit converts the received first radio frequency signal or ambient energy into direct current. The first switching circuit can be used to detect the stored energy of the first capacitor. The first switching circuit includes a first terminal and a second terminal. The first terminal of the first switching circuit is connected to the first rectifier circuit, and the second terminal of the first switching circuit is used to connect to any one of the multiple capacitors in the RFID tag in Figure 1. The second terminal of the first switching circuit is initially configured to be connected to the first capacitor.
[0080] Optionally, the RFID tag in Figure 1 also includes a signal strength detection module for detecting the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal. Based on the signal strength detection module, the RFID tag in Figure 1 can choose to use the energy stored in the first capacitor or the energy stored in the second capacitor to send its tag information to the reader in Figure 1.
[0081] Optionally, the RFID tag in Figure 1 also includes a signal obstruction detection module, which is used to detect whether there is signal obstruction between the reader in Figure 1 and the RFID tag in Figure 1.
[0082] Optionally, the RFID tag in Figure 1 also includes a signal reflection detection module, which is used to detect whether there is a signal transmission between the reader in Figure 1 and the RFID tag in Figure 1.
[0083] Optionally, the RFID tag in Figure 1 also includes a speed detection module, which is used to detect the operating speed of the product carrying the RFID tag in Figure 1.
[0084] Optionally, the RFID tag in Figure 1 also includes a data processing module, which is responsible for operations such as encoding, decoding, data encryption, and data decryption.
[0085] Optionally, the RFID tag in Figure 1 also includes a communication module, which is responsible for information transmission between the RFID tag and other devices (such as a reader).
[0086] In this application, the first rectifier circuit may include an RF rectifier, and the first switching circuit may include a logic control switch, a power / energy management circuit, etc. Furthermore, the RFID tag may also include an antenna, a matching network, a low-voltage charge pump, and an AC signal source. The following example illustrates the structure of an RFID tag, using an RF rectifier as the first rectifier circuit and a logic control switch and a low-voltage monitoring circuit as the first switching circuit. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of an RFID tag provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 2, the RFID tag may include an antenna, a matching network, an RF rectifier, a logic control switch, a first capacitor, a second capacitor, a power / energy management circuit, a low-voltage charge pump, and an AC signal source.
[0087] Antennas can be used for receiving and transmitting radio waves. For example, an RFID tag can receive a first or second radio frequency signal from a reader through the antenna in Figure 2, and send the tag information of the RFID tag to the reader through the antenna in Figure 2.
[0088] Matching networks can be used to ensure efficient signal transmission, improve antenna efficiency, and enhance the system's anti-interference capabilities.
[0089] Radio frequency rectifiers can be used to convert the radio frequency energy of a first radio frequency signal into direct current.
[0090] The logic control switch can be used to transfer DC power to a first capacitor to charge the first capacitor, or to transfer DC power to a second capacitor to charge the second capacitor.
[0091] The power / energy management circuit can be used to detect the stored energy of the first capacitor in real time.
[0092] Low-voltage charge pumps can achieve voltage conversion in low-voltage environments through the charging and discharging process of a first or second capacitor.
[0093] An AC signal source is used to convert the energy stored in the first capacitor or the energy stored in the second capacitor into AC power to drive devices that require AC power.
[0094] As shown in Figure 2, one end of the logic control switch in Figure 2 is connected to the RF rectifier in Figure 2, and the other end of the logic control switch in Figure 2 is connected to the first capacitor or the second capacitor. The other end of the logic control switch in Figure 2 is initially configured to be connected to the first capacitor. The two ends of the low voltage detection circuit in Figure 2 are connected to the start and end ends of each capacitor respectively to realize the real-time detection of the stored energy of each capacitor.
[0095] It is understood that Figures 1 and 2 above are schematic diagrams and do not constitute a limitation on the applicable scenarios of the technical solutions provided in this application. Those skilled in the art should understand that in the specific implementation process, the communication system shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2 may include fewer devices than those shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2, or the communication system shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2 may also include other devices. At the same time, the number of devices in the communication system shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2 can be determined according to specific needs and is not limited.
[0096] Optionally, the devices in Figure 1 (e.g., RFID tags, readers) can also be referred to as communication devices. They can be general-purpose devices or special-purpose devices. This application does not specifically limit them in this regard.
[0097] Optionally, the functions of each device in Figure 1 of this application can be implemented by one device, multiple devices working together, or one or more functional modules within a single device. This application does not specifically limit these functions. It is understood that the aforementioned functions can be network elements in hardware devices, software functions running on dedicated hardware, a combination of hardware and software, or virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform).
[0098] The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to the communication system shown in Figure 1. The actions, terms and other information involved in the following embodiments can be referred to each other. The message names or parameter names in the messages between devices in each embodiment are just examples, and other names can be used in specific implementations. For example, "corresponding" in the following embodiments can be replaced by "associating", etc., and "transmitting" in the following embodiments can be replaced by "sending", etc.
[0099] The following describes a communication method provided by an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 3, the method may include the following steps:
[0100] S301: In response to the radio frequency energy or ambient energy of the first radio frequency signal, the RFID tag charges the first capacitor with DC power generated by the conversion of the radio frequency energy or ambient energy of the first radio frequency signal.
[0101] The RFID tag may include multiple capacitors, one of which is a first capacitor, and any other capacitor besides the first capacitor is a second capacitor. The capacitance of the first capacitor supports the RFID tag in sending tag information at least once. The tag information is information stored by the RFID tag or information obtained through sensing.
[0102] The information stored in an RFID tag may include one or more of the following: the tag's identification code, the serial number of the product to which the tag is attached, and the product's production date. The information sensed and obtained by the RFID tag may refer to the information perceived and recorded by the sensors within the tag. For example, the information sensed and obtained by the RFID tag may include one or more of the environmental parameters sensed by the sensors within the tag, such as temperature, humidity, pressure, and light intensity.
[0103] The first radio frequency signal refers to the radio frequency signal used to provide power to drive the radio frequency identification tag. The radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal refers to the energy carried by the first radio frequency signal when it propagates in space; the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal can be simply referred to as the first radio frequency energy.
[0104] In one example, the RFID tag can acquire a first radio frequency (RF) signal through a reader, thereby responding to the RF energy of the first RF signal. For instance, the reader sends the first RF signal to the RFID tag, the RFID tag receives the first RF signal from the reader, and in response to the RF energy of the received first RF signal, the RFID tag charges a first capacitor with DC power generated based on the RF energy conversion of the first RF signal. The relevant description of the reader is described above and will not be repeated here.
[0105] Among them, environmental energy refers to other energy besides the first radio frequency energy that can be used to provide power for the radio frequency identification tag. Environmental energy includes, but is not limited to, various types of energy in the environment such as solar energy, wind energy, radio frequency energy, mechanical energy, vibration energy, and thermal energy.
[0106] In one example, the RFID tag can acquire ambient energy from its surroundings via an environmental energy harvesting device, and thus respond to the ambient energy. For instance, the RFID tag can acquire solar energy from the surrounding environment via a solar energy harvesting device (such as a solar panel), and in response to the acquired solar energy, the RFID tag charges a first capacitor based on the direct current generated by the conversion of that solar energy.
[0107] In this application, the capacitance of the first capacitor and the capacitance of the second capacitor are equal, or the capacitance of the first capacitor is less than the capacitance of the second capacitor. The capacitance of the first capacitor can be used to indicate the maximum energy that the first capacitor can store, and the capacitance of the second capacitor can be used to indicate the maximum energy that the second capacitor can store.
[0108] When the capacitance of the first capacitor and the capacitance of the second capacitor are equal, the second capacitor serves as a backup capacitor for the RFID tag. If the first capacitor fails to function properly, or if the RFID tag still requires power after the energy stored in the first capacitor is exhausted, the energy stored in the second capacitor will provide power to drive the RFID tag to support the RFID tag in transmitting tag information.
[0109] When the capacitance of the first capacitor is less than that of the second capacitor, the RFID tag can dynamically select either the first or second capacitor to provide power for operation, depending on the applicable scenario. For example, if the RFID tag needs to quickly send its tag information to the reader, it can charge the first capacitor in a short time and then use its stored energy to send the tag information, improving the tag's response efficiency. Conversely, if the RFID tag needs to send its tag information to the reader stably for a longer period, it can charge the second capacitor, which has a larger capacitance, and then use its stored energy to send the tag information, achieving stable operation.
[0110] Optionally, as shown in Figure 1, the RFID tag may further include a circuit management module for managing any one of the multiple capacitors. As shown in Figure 1, the circuit management module may include a first rectifier circuit and a first switching circuit. The first rectifier circuit converts the received first RF signal or ambient energy into direct current, and the first switching circuit can be used to detect the stored energy of the first capacitor. The first switching circuit includes a first terminal and a second terminal. The first terminal of the first switching circuit is connected to the first rectifier circuit, and the second terminal of the first switching circuit is used to connect any one of the multiple capacitors. The second terminal of the first switching circuit is initially configured to be connected to the first capacitor.
[0111] S302: The RFID tag charges the second capacitor.
[0112] Specifically, the RFID tag can charge the second capacitor only when the energy stored in the first capacitor is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold. The first preset threshold corresponds to energy storage sufficient to support one transmission of tag information by the RFID tag, or the energy storage capacity corresponding to the first preset threshold is equal to the full capacity of the first capacitor when fully charged. In other words, the second capacitor is only charged when the energy stored in the first capacitor is sufficient to support one transmission of tag information, thus avoiding interruptions in tag information transmission caused by switching capacitor power supply due to insufficient energy during a single transmission.
[0113] Optionally, the RFID tag includes a first switching circuit. Before the RFID tag charges the second capacitor, the first switching circuit detects the stored energy of the first capacitor. If the first switching circuit detects that the stored energy of the first capacitor is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold, the first switching circuit switches the connection between the second terminal and the second capacitor. The first switching circuit is included in the circuit management module. The circuit management module and the first switching circuit are described in Figure 1 above and will not be repeated here.
[0114] The following uses the communication system architecture shown in Figure 1, which includes a reader and an RFID tag, as an example. The RFID tag includes a first rectifier circuit, a first switching circuit, a first capacitor, and a second capacitor. The charging process of the first capacitor and the second capacitor in Figure 1 will be described below:
[0115] The charging process of the first capacitor may include: the reader sending a first radio frequency signal to the RFID tag; in response to the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal from the reader, the first rectifier circuit converts the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal into direct current and transmits the direct current to the first switching circuit; the first switching circuit receives the direct current from the first rectifier circuit and transmits the direct current to the first capacitor through a first path, wherein the first path is the path between the second terminal of the first switching circuit and the first capacitor.
[0116] The charging process of the second capacitor may include: the reader sending a first radio frequency signal to the RFID tag; in response to the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal from the reader, the first rectifier circuit converts the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal into direct current and transmits the direct current to the first switching circuit; the first switching circuit receives the direct current from the first rectifier circuit and transmits the direct current to the second capacitor through a second path, the second path being the path between the second terminal of the first switching circuit and the second capacitor.
[0117] Based on the communication method shown in Figure 3, compared with the radio frequency energy harvesting method that stores radio frequency energy in a single capacitor, the radio frequency identification tag that includes multiple capacitors can sequentially charge multiple capacitors in the radio frequency identification tag with the direct current generated by converting the radio frequency energy of the received first radio frequency signal or the ambient energy. This allows the radio frequency identification tag to use the energy stored in different capacitors to provide power for its operation in different scenarios.
[0118] The above steps S301 and S302 specifically describe the charging process of multiple capacitors in the RFID tag. In response to the second radio frequency signal, after step S302, the RFID tag can use the stored energy of any one of the multiple capacitors to send the tag information of the RFID tag to the reader. The following describes steps S303-S306 that the RFID tag may execute after step S302, taking the RFID tag including a first switching circuit for detecting the stored energy of the first capacitor as an example.
[0119] Optionally, the communication method shown in Figure 3 may also include one or more of the following steps:
[0120] S303: The reader sends a second radio frequency signal to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the second radio frequency signal from the reader.
[0121] The second radio frequency signal is used to trigger the transmission of tag information to the reader. The reader and tag information are described in the relevant description above and will not be repeated here.
[0122] The second radio frequency signal may include any one or more of the following: inventory command, tracking command, vehicle identification query, and product query. An inventory command is used in high-frequency inventory applications to trigger RFID tags to send tag information to the reader. A tracking command is used in long-distance logistics tracking applications to trigger RFID tags to send tag information to the reader. A vehicle identification query is used in smart city applications to trigger RFID tags to send tag information to the reader. A product query is used in retail or industrial automation applications to trigger RFID tags to send tag information to the reader.
[0123] Optionally, before the RFID tag receives the second RF signal from the reader, signal obstruction detection can be performed, and the tag can receive the second RF signal from the reader if there is no signal obstruction between the reader and the RFID tag.
[0124] Taking signal obstruction detection via a signal obstruction detection module for RFID tags as an example, the process includes: the RFID tag detecting the signal strength from the reader using the signal obstruction detection module. If the signal strength from the reader is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, there is no signal obstruction between the reader and the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the second radio frequency signal from the reader. If the signal strength from the reader is less than the preset threshold, there is signal obstruction between the reader and the RFID tag. The RFID tag can change the relative position between the reader and the RFID tag or remove the obstacle between them to further receive the second radio frequency signal from the reader. The preset threshold can be dynamically adjusted according to the specific communication scenario and is not limited here.
[0125] Optionally, before the RFID tag receives the second RF signal from the reader, signal reflection detection can be performed, and the second RF signal from the reader can be received if there is no signal reflection between the reader and the RFID tag.
[0126] Taking signal reflection detection via a signal reflection detection module using an RFID tag as an example, the process includes: the RFID tag can detect the signal strength of the signal from the reader through the signal reflection detection module. If the signal strength from the reader is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, there is no signal reflection between the reader and the RFID tag, or the energy loss from signal reflection is small, and the RFID tag receives the second radio frequency signal from the reader. If the signal strength from the reader is less than the preset threshold, the energy loss from signal reflection between the reader and the RFID tag is large, and the RFID tag can change the relative position between the reader and the RFID tag or remove the obstacle between them to further receive the second radio frequency signal from the reader. The preset threshold can be dynamically adjusted according to the specific communication scenario and is not limited here.
[0127] S304: In response to the second radio frequency signal, the RFID tag transmits tag information to the reader using the stored energy of the first capacitor or the stored energy of the second capacitor. Accordingly, the reader receives the tag information from the RFID tag.
[0128] In this process, the RFID tag can detect the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal in step S3041, and in step S3042, the first switching circuit in the RFID tag can detect at least one of the stored energy of the first capacitor to determine whether to use the stored energy of the first capacitor or the stored energy of the second capacitor to send tag information to the reader. Steps S3041 and S3042 are described below:
[0129] S3041: RFID tag detects the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal.
[0130] Specifically, the RFID tag detects the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal to determine whether to use the stored energy of the first capacitor or the stored energy of the second capacitor to transmit tag information. The process of the RFID tag detecting the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal can include: if the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal is greater than or equal to a third preset threshold, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of the first capacitor to transmit tag information to the reader; if the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal is less than the third preset threshold, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of the second capacitor to transmit tag information to the reader.
[0131] The third preset threshold can be determined based on the sensitivity of the RFID tag; for example, the third preset threshold can be equal to the sensitivity of the RFID tag. The sensitivity of an RFID tag typically refers to the minimum power or signal strength required for the tag to activate. The RFID tag can only be activated and function normally when the signal strength of the radio frequency signal sent by the reader reaches or exceeds the sensitivity.
[0132] Optionally, the RFID tag shown in Figure 1 can detect the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal through its own signal strength detection module. The signal strength detection module is described above and will not be repeated here.
[0133] In this application, step S3041 is an optional operation. S3041 is executed when the RFID tag has not determined whether to use the energy stored in the first capacitor or the energy stored in the second capacitor to send tag information; S3041 is not executed when the RFID tag has determined whether to use the energy stored in the first capacitor or the energy stored in the second capacitor to send tag information.
[0134] S3042: The first switching circuit in the RFID tag detects the stored energy of the first capacitor.
[0135] In this RFID tag, the first switching circuit detects the stored energy of the first capacitor to ensure that the stored energy of the first capacitor can provide sufficient power to drive the RFID tag to transmit tag information, or, if the stored energy of the first capacitor can provide sufficient power to drive the RFID tag to transmit tag information, determines whether to use the stored energy of the first capacitor or the stored energy of the second capacitor to transmit tag information.
[0136] Specifically, the process of the first switching circuit in the RFID tag detecting the stored energy of the first capacitor may include: the first switching circuit in the RFID tag detecting the stored energy of the first capacitor; if the stored energy of the first capacitor is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of the first capacitor to send tag information to the reader; if the stored energy of the first capacitor is less than the second preset threshold, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of the second capacitor to send tag information to the reader.
[0137] In this application, step S3042 is an optional operation, and the RFID tag can perform step S3042 in any of the following situations:
[0138] Scenario 1: In the initial configuration of the RFID tag, the stored energy of the first capacitor is used first to send tag information to the reader. In response to the second radio frequency signal, step S3042 is executed to ensure that the stored energy of the first capacitor can provide sufficient power to drive the RFID tag to send tag information.
[0139] Scenario 2: After the first capacitor of the RFID tag is fully charged during initial configuration, the energy stored in the first capacitor determines whether to use the energy stored in the first capacitor or the second capacitor to send tag information to the reader. Since the capacitance of the first capacitor supports the RFID tag sending tag information at least once, the energy stored in the first capacitor, when fully charged, can provide sufficient power to drive the RFID tag to send tag information.
[0140] Scenario 3: If the RFID tag has already determined before S3042 to use the energy stored in the first capacitor to send tag information to the energy storage reader, then step S3042 is executed to ensure that the energy stored in the first capacitor can provide sufficient power to drive the RFID tag to send tag information.
[0141] In one example, the initial configuration of the RFID tag preferentially uses the energy stored in the first capacitor to send tag information to the reader. In response to the second radio frequency signal, the first switching circuit in the RFID tag detects the energy stored in the first capacitor. If the energy stored in the first capacitor is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold, the energy stored in the first capacitor can provide sufficient power to drive the RFID tag to send tag information, and therefore the energy stored in the first capacitor is used to send tag information to the reader. If the energy stored in the first capacitor is less than the second preset threshold, the energy stored in the first capacitor cannot provide sufficient power to drive the RFID tag to send tag information, and therefore the energy stored in the second capacitor is used to send tag information to the reader.
[0142] In another example, the RFID tag determines to send tag information using the stored energy of the first capacitor by detecting the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal. Further, the first switching circuit in the RFID tag detects the stored energy of the first capacitor. If the stored energy of the first capacitor is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of the first capacitor to send tag information to the reader; if the stored energy of the first capacitor is less than the second preset threshold, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of the second capacitor to send tag information to the reader.
[0143] S305: The reader sends an acknowledgment message to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the acknowledgment message from the reader.
[0144] The confirmation message is used to indicate that the reader has successfully received the tag information.
[0145] Steps S301 to S305 described above constitute a single transmission of tag information between the reader and the RFID tag. In cases where tag information is transmitted multiple times between the reader and the RFID tag, steps S301 to S305 are executed multiple times.
[0146] The following section, using the communication system shown in Figure 1 as an example, describes a high-frequency inventory application scenario. Taking the RFID tag in Figure 1 as an example, and the energy storage corresponding to the first preset threshold in Figure 3 as the capacitance of a fully charged first capacitor, the RFID tag in Figure 1 includes a first capacitor, a second capacitor, a first rectifier circuit, and a first switching circuit. The capacitance of the first capacitor is smaller than that of the second capacitor. The initial configuration of the RFID tag in Figure 1 prioritizes using the energy storage of the first capacitor to send tag information to the reader. The RFID tag, first capacitor, second capacitor, first rectifier circuit, and first switching circuit in Figure 1 are described above and will not be repeated here. The communication method shown in Figure 3 will be introduced with reference to Figure 4.
[0147] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 4, the method may include:
[0148] S401: The reader sends a first radio frequency signal to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the first radio frequency signal from the reader.
[0149] The relevant description of the first radio frequency signal is provided in S301 and will not be repeated here.
[0150] S402: In response to the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal, the first rectifier circuit in the RFID tag converts the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal into direct current.
[0151] S403: The RFID tag charges the first capacitor with DC power generated by the radio frequency energy conversion of the first radio frequency signal.
[0152] The DC power generated by the radio frequency energy conversion based on the first radio frequency signal refers to the DC power obtained by converting the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal into DC power by the first rectifier circuit in the radio frequency identification tag.
[0153] The charging process of the first capacitor in S403 is described in the relevant description of the charging process of the first capacitor in Figure 1 above, and will not be repeated here.
[0154] S404: The first switching circuit in the RFID tag detects the stored energy of the first capacitor.
[0155] S405: The RFID tag charges the second capacitor based on the DC power generated by the RF energy conversion of the first RF signal, according to the detection result of the energy stored in the first capacitor.
[0156] The DC power generated by the radio frequency energy conversion based on the first radio frequency signal is described in the above-mentioned relevant description and will not be repeated here.
[0157] Specifically, the RFID tag compares the detection result of the energy stored in the first capacitor with a first preset threshold. If the energy stored in the first capacitor is greater than or equal to the first preset threshold, the first switching circuit switches the second terminal to connect with the second capacitor to charge the second capacitor. If the energy stored in the first capacitor is less than the first preset threshold, the first switching circuit keeps the second terminal connected to the first capacitor to continue charging the first capacitor until the energy stored in the first capacitor reaches the first preset threshold.
[0158] S406: The reader sends an inventory command to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the inventory command from the reader.
[0159] The inventory command is described in S303 and will not be repeated here.
[0160] S407: In response to an inventory command, the first switching circuit in the RFID tag detects the stored energy of the first capacitor.
[0161] S408: Based on the detection result of the energy stored in the first capacitor, the RFID tag uses either the energy stored in the first capacitor or the energy stored in the second capacitor to send tag information to the reader. Correspondingly, the reader receives the tag information from the RFID tag.
[0162] Once the reader receives the tag information from the RFID tag, it can convert the tag information into inventory data that represents the quantity and type of the inventory items carrying the RFID tag. Therefore, the tag information in high-frequency inventory application scenarios can also be called inventory data.
[0163] Specifically, the process by which the RFID tag sends tag information to the reader using the energy stored in the first capacitor or the energy stored in the second capacitor, based on the detection result of the energy stored in the first capacitor, is similar to the process of the first switching circuit in the RFID tag detecting the energy stored in the first capacitor in S3042, and will not be repeated here.
[0164] S409: The reader sends an acknowledgment message to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the acknowledgment message from the reader.
[0165] For a description of S409, please refer to S305, and it will not be repeated here.
[0166] Based on the communication method shown in Figure 4, the RFID tag, including a first capacitor and a second capacitor, can convert the radio frequency energy of the received first radio frequency signal into direct current, which is then used to charge the first and second capacitors in the RFID tag sequentially. Since the capacitance of the first capacitor is smaller than that of the second capacitor, the first capacitor can be used as a fast-response capacitor. In scenarios with high real-time requirements, the energy stored in the first capacitor is used to send tag information to the reader, ensuring the high-speed response capability of the RFID tag when an inventory command arrives. The second capacitor can be used as a large-capacity energy storage capacitor, effectively extending the continuous working time of the RFID tag in low-radio frequency energy environments in scenarios where the RFID tag needs to work for a long time, ensuring the stability of high-frequency inventory checks. In this way, a balance between efficient response and energy reserve of the RFID tag is achieved in high-frequency inventory check scenarios, significantly improving the response speed and overall operating efficiency of the RFID system. It has significant technical advantages and application potential in scenarios such as logistics inventory and asset management.
[0167] The following section, using the communication system shown in Figure 1 as an example, describes a long-distance identification application scenario for logistics tracking. The RFID tag in Figure 1 is used as an example, and the energy storage corresponding to the first preset threshold in Figure 3 is the capacitance of the first capacitor when fully charged. The RFID tag in Figure 1 includes a first capacitor, a second capacitor, a first rectifier circuit, a first switch circuit, and a signal strength detection module. The capacitance of the first capacitor is smaller than that of the second capacitor. The RFID tag, first capacitor, second capacitor, first rectifier circuit, first switch circuit, and signal strength detection module in Figure 1 are described above and will not be repeated here. The communication method shown in Figure 3 will be introduced with reference to Figure 5.
[0168] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 5, the method may include:
[0169] S501: The reader sends a first radio frequency signal to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the first radio frequency signal from the reader.
[0170] S502: In response to the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal, the first rectifier circuit in the RFID tag converts the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal into direct current.
[0171] S503: The RFID tag charges the first capacitor with DC power generated by the radio frequency energy conversion of the first radio frequency signal.
[0172] S504: The first switching circuit in the RFID tag detects the stored energy of the first capacitor.
[0173] S505: The RFID tag charges the second capacitor based on the DC power generated by the RF energy conversion of the first RF signal, according to the detection result of the energy stored in the first capacitor.
[0174] Steps S501 to S505 can be referred to in the relevant descriptions of steps S401 to S405, and will not be repeated here.
[0175] S506: The reader sends a logistics tracking command to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the logistics tracking command from the reader.
[0176] The logistics tracking command is described in S303 and will not be repeated here.
[0177] S507: In response to a logistics tracking command, the signal strength detection module in the RFID tag detects the signal strength of the logistics tracking command.
[0178] S508: Based on the signal strength detection result of the logistics tracking command, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of the first capacitor or the stored energy of the second capacitor to send tag information to the reader. Correspondingly, the reader receives the tag information from the RFID tag.
[0179] Once the reader receives the tag information from the RFID tag, it can convert the tag information into logistics tracking data that represents the weight, type, mode of transport, and route of the item carrying the RFID tag. Therefore, the tag information in long-distance identification application scenarios for logistics tracking can also be called logistics tracking data.
[0180] Since the logistics tracking command is also a second radio frequency signal, the process by which the RFID tag sends tag information to the reader using the energy stored in the first capacitor or the energy stored in the second capacitor based on the detection result of the signal strength of the logistics tracking command is similar to the process of the RFID tag detecting the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal in S3041, and will not be repeated here.
[0181] S509: The reader sends an acknowledgment message to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the acknowledgment message from the reader.
[0182] For a description of S509, please refer to S305, and it will not be repeated here.
[0183] Based on the communication method shown in Figure 5, the RFID tag, including a first capacitor and a second capacitor, can convert the radio frequency energy of the received first radio frequency signal into direct current, which is then used to charge the first and second capacitors in the RFID tag sequentially. Since the capacitance of the first capacitor is smaller than that of the second capacitor, the first capacitor can be used as a fast-response capacitor. In scenarios with high signal strength for logistics tracking commands, the stored energy of the first capacitor is used to send tag information to the reader, ensuring the high-speed response capability of the RFID tag when a logistics tracking command arrives. Conversely, the second capacitor can be used as a large-capacity energy storage capacitor, effectively extending the continuous working time of the RFID tag in low-radio frequency energy environments when the signal strength of logistics tracking commands is low, ensuring the integrity and stability of tag information transmission. Thus, in long-distance identification scenarios for logistics tracking, efficient response and stable transmission of RFID tags are achieved, significantly improving the efficiency and accuracy of logistics tracking and asset management, and providing strong technical support for the application of RFID technology in the fields of logistics tracking and logistics management.
[0184] The following section, using the communication system shown in Figure 1 as an example, describes a smart city application scenario. The RFID tag in Figure 1 is used as an example, and the energy storage corresponding to the first preset threshold in Figure 3 is the capacitance of the first capacitor when fully charged. The RFID tag in Figure 1 includes a first capacitor, a second capacitor, a first rectifier circuit, a first switch circuit, and a signal strength detection module. The capacitance of the first capacitor is smaller than that of the second capacitor. The RFID tag, first capacitor, second capacitor, first rectifier circuit, first switch circuit, and signal strength detection module in Figure 1 are described above and will not be repeated here. The communication method shown in Figure 3 will be introduced with reference to Figure 6.
[0185] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 6, the method may include:
[0186] S601: The reader sends a first radio frequency signal to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the first radio frequency signal from the reader.
[0187] S602: In response to the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal, the first rectifier circuit in the RFID tag converts the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal into direct current.
[0188] S603: The RFID tag charges the first capacitor with DC power generated by the radio frequency energy conversion of the first radio frequency signal.
[0189] S604: The first switching circuit in the RFID tag detects the stored energy of the first capacitor.
[0190] S605: The RFID tag charges the second capacitor based on the DC power generated by the RF energy conversion of the first RF signal, according to the detection result of the energy stored in the first capacitor.
[0191] Steps S601 to S605 can be referred to in the relevant descriptions of steps S401 to S405, and will not be repeated here.
[0192] S606: The reader sends a vehicle identification request to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the vehicle identification request from the reader.
[0193] For details regarding vehicle identification requests, please refer to the relevant description in S303, which will not be repeated here.
[0194] S607: In response to a vehicle identification request, the signal strength detection module in the RFID tag detects the signal strength of the vehicle identification request.
[0195] S608: Based on the signal strength detection result of the vehicle identification request, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of the first capacitor or the stored energy of the second capacitor to send tag information to the reader. Correspondingly, the reader receives the tag information from the RFID tag.
[0196] Once the reader receives the tag information from the RFID tag, it can convert the tag information into vehicle identification data that represents the color, brand, and license plate number of the vehicle carrying the RFID tag. Therefore, the tag information in smart city application scenarios can also be called vehicle identification data.
[0197] Since the vehicle identification request is also a second radio frequency signal, the process by which the RFID tag sends tag information to the reader using the energy stored in the first capacitor or the energy stored in the second capacitor based on the detection result of the signal strength of the vehicle identification request is similar to the process of the RFID tag detecting the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal in S3041, and will not be repeated here.
[0198] S609: The reader sends an acknowledgment message to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the acknowledgment message from the reader.
[0199] For a description of S609, please refer to S305, and it will not be repeated here.
[0200] Based on the communication method shown in Figure 6, the RFID tag, including a first capacitor and a second capacitor, can convert the radio frequency energy of the received first radio frequency signal into direct current, which is then used to charge the first and second capacitors in the RFID tag sequentially. Since the capacitance of the first capacitor is smaller than that of the second capacitor, the first capacitor can be used as a fast-response capacitor. In scenarios where the signal strength of the vehicle identification request is high, the energy stored in the first capacitor is used to send tag information to the reader, ensuring the high-speed response capability of the RFID tag when the vehicle identification request arrives. The second capacitor can be used as a large-capacity energy storage capacitor. In scenarios where the signal strength of the vehicle identification request is low, the continuous working time of the RFID tag in low radio frequency energy environments is effectively extended, ensuring the integrity and stability of tag information transmission. In this way, efficient response and stable transmission of RFID tags are achieved in smart city application scenarios. This not only significantly improves the identification speed and energy utilization efficiency of RFID tags, but also enhances the operational efficiency and user experience of the entire smart parking system, demonstrating significant technological advantages and market potential in the fields of smart city construction and traffic management.
[0201] The following section, using the communication system shown in Figure 1 as an example in an industrial automation application scenario, takes the RFID tag in Figure 1 as an example, and the energy storage corresponding to the first preset threshold in Figure 3 as the capacitance of the first capacitor when fully charged. The RFID tag in Figure 1 includes a first capacitor, a second capacitor, a first rectifier circuit, a first switch circuit, a signal strength detection module, and a speed detection module. The capacitance of the first capacitor is smaller than that of the second capacitor. The RFID tag, the first capacitor, the second capacitor, the first rectifier circuit, the first switch circuit, the signal strength detection module, and the speed detection module in Figure 1 are described above and will not be repeated here. The communication method shown in Figure 3 will be introduced with reference to Figure 7.
[0202] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 7, the method may include:
[0203] S701: The reader sends a first radio frequency signal to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the first radio frequency signal from the reader.
[0204] S702: In response to the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal, the first rectifier circuit in the RFID tag converts the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal into direct current.
[0205] S703: The RFID tag charges the first capacitor with DC power generated by the radio frequency energy conversion of the first radio frequency signal.
[0206] S704: The first switching circuit in the RFID tag detects the stored energy of the first capacitor.
[0207] S705: The RFID tag charges the second capacitor based on the DC power generated by the RF energy conversion of the first RF signal, according to the detection result of the energy stored in the first capacitor.
[0208] Steps S701 to S705 can be referred to in the relevant descriptions of steps S401 to S405, and will not be repeated here.
[0209] S706: The reader sends a product identification request to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the product identification request from the reader.
[0210] For details regarding product identification requests, please refer to the relevant description in S303, which will not be repeated here.
[0211] S707: In response to a product identification request, the speed detection module in the RFID tag detects the operating speed of the product carrying the RFID tag.
[0212] S708: The RFID tag selects the energy stored in the first capacitor or the energy stored in the second capacitor based on the detection result of the operating speed, and sends the tag information to the reader.
[0213] Operating speed refers to the operating speed of the product carrying the RFID tag.
[0214] Once the reader receives the tag information from the RFID tag, it can convert the tag information into product data that represents the weight, price, type, and other characteristics of the product carrying the RFID tag. Therefore, the tag information in industrial automation applications can also be referred to as product data.
[0215] Specifically, the process by which the RFID tag selects the energy stored in the first capacitor or the energy stored in the second capacitor to send tag information to the reader based on the detection result of the operating speed includes: the RFID tag compares the detection result of the operating speed with a preset speed threshold; if the operating speed is greater than or equal to the preset speed threshold, it selects the energy stored in the first capacitor to send tag information to the reader; if the operating speed is less than the preset speed threshold, it selects the energy stored in the second capacitor to send tag information to the reader.
[0216] S709: In response to the selection result, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of the first capacitor or the stored energy of the second capacitor to send tag information to the reader. Accordingly, the reader receives the tag information from the RFID tag.
[0217] Specifically, when the first capacitor's stored energy is selected to send tag information to the reader in step S708, the first switching circuit in the RFID tag detects the first capacitor's stored energy to ensure that the first capacitor's stored energy can provide sufficient power to drive the RFID tag to send tag information; when the second capacitor's stored energy is selected to send tag information to the reader in step S708, the RFID tag uses the second capacitor's stored energy to send tag information to the reader.
[0218] The process of the first switching circuit in the RFID tag detecting the energy stored in the first capacitor is the same as the process of the first switching circuit in the RFID tag detecting the energy stored in the first capacitor in S3042, and will not be repeated here.
[0219] S710: The reader sends an acknowledgment message to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the acknowledgment message from the reader.
[0220] For a description of S710, please refer to S305, which will not be repeated here.
[0221] Based on the communication method shown in Figure 7, the RFID tag, including a first capacitor and a second capacitor, can convert the radio frequency energy of the received first radio frequency signal into direct current, which is then used to charge the first and second capacitors in the RFID tag sequentially. Since the capacitance of the first capacitor is smaller than that of the second capacitor, the first capacitor can be used as a fast-response capacitor. In scenarios where the product carrying the RFID tag operates at a high speed, the energy stored in the first capacitor is used to send tag information to the reader, ensuring the high-speed response capability of the RFID tag when a product identification request arrives. Conversely, the second capacitor can be used as a large-capacity energy storage capacitor. In scenarios where the product carrying the RFID tag operates at a low speed, this effectively extends the continuous working time of the RFID tag in low-radio frequency energy environments, ensuring the integrity and stability of tag information transmission. Thus, in industrial automation applications, efficient response and stable transmission of RFID tags are achieved, significantly improving the automation efficiency and production quality of product identification, demonstrating significant technological advantages and industrial application potential.
[0222] The following section, using the communication system shown in Figure 1 as an example, describes a retail application scenario. The RFID tag in Figure 1 represents the RFID tag itself, and the energy storage corresponding to the first preset threshold in Figure 3 is the capacitance of the first capacitor when fully charged. The RFID tag in Figure 1 includes a first capacitor, a second capacitor, a first rectifier circuit, a first switch circuit, a signal strength detection module, a signal obstruction detection module, and a signal reflection detection module. The capacitance of the first capacitor is smaller than that of the second capacitor. The RFID tag, first capacitor, second capacitor, first rectifier circuit, first switch circuit, signal strength detection module, signal obstruction detection module, and signal reflection detection module in Figure 1 are described above and will not be repeated here. The communication method shown in Figure 3 will be introduced with reference to Figure 8.
[0223] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 8, the method may include:
[0224] S801: The reader sends a first radio frequency signal to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the first radio frequency signal from the reader.
[0225] S802: In response to the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal, the first rectifier circuit in the RFID tag converts the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal into direct current.
[0226] S803: The RFID tag charges the first capacitor with DC power generated by the radio frequency energy conversion of the first radio frequency signal.
[0227] S804: The first switching circuit in the RFID tag detects the stored energy of the first capacitor.
[0228] S805: The RFID tag charges the second capacitor based on the DC power generated by the RF energy conversion of the first RF signal, according to the detection result of the energy stored in the first capacitor.
[0229] Steps S801 to S805 can be referred to in the relevant descriptions of steps S401 to S405, and will not be repeated here.
[0230] S806: The signal obstruction detection module in the RFID tag performs signal obstruction detection.
[0231] Specifically, the process of signal obstruction detection by the signal obstruction detection module in the RFID tag is the same as the process of signal obstruction detection in RFID tags in S303, and will not be repeated here.
[0232] S807: The signal reflection detection module in the RFID tag performs signal reflection detection.
[0233] Specifically, the process of signal reflection detection by the signal reflection detection module in the RFID tag is the same as the process of signal reflection detection in RFID tags in S303, and will not be repeated here.
[0234] S808: The RFID tag receives a product identification request from the reader based on the detection results.
[0235] The detection results may include obstruction detection results and signal reflection detection results. If the detection results include obstruction detection results, and there is no signal obstruction between the reader and the RFID tag, the RFID tag receives a product identification request from the reader. If the detection results include reflection detection results, and there is no signal reflection between the reader and the RFID tag, the RFID tag receives a product identification request from the reader.
[0236] For details regarding product identification requests, please refer to the relevant description in S303, which will not be repeated here.
[0237] S809: In response to a product identification request, the first switching circuit in the RFID tag detects the stored energy of the first capacitor.
[0238] S810: Based on the detection result of the energy stored in the first capacitor, the RFID tag uses either the energy stored in the first capacitor or the energy stored in the second capacitor to send tag information to the reader. Correspondingly, the reader receives the tag information from the RFID tag.
[0239] Once the reader receives the tag information from the RFID tag, it can convert the tag information into product data that represents the weight, brand, unit price, and other information of the product carrying the RFID tag. Therefore, the tag information in retail applications can also be called product data.
[0240] Specifically, the process by which the RFID tag sends tag information to the reader using the energy stored in the first capacitor or the energy stored in the second capacitor, based on the detection result of the energy stored in the first capacitor, is similar to the process of the first switching circuit in the RFID tag detecting the energy stored in the first capacitor in S3042, and will not be repeated here.
[0241] S811: The reader sends an acknowledgment message to the RFID tag, and the RFID tag receives the acknowledgment message from the reader.
[0242] For a description of S811, please refer to S305, which will not be repeated here.
[0243] Based on the communication method shown in Figure 8, the RFID tag, including a first capacitor and a second capacitor, can convert the radio frequency energy of the received first radio frequency signal into direct current, which is then used to charge the first and second capacitors in the RFID tag sequentially. Since the capacitance of the first capacitor is smaller than that of the second capacitor, the first capacitor can be used as a fast-response capacitor. If there is no signal obstruction or reflection between the product carrying the RFID tag and the reader, in scenarios with high real-time requirements, the energy stored in the first capacitor can be used to send tag information to the reader, ensuring the high-speed response capability of the RFID tag when a product identification request arrives. The second capacitor can be used as a large-capacity energy storage capacitor. If there is signal obstruction or reflection between the product carrying the RFID tag and the reader, in scenarios requiring long-term operation of the RFID tag, it effectively extends the continuous working time of the RFID tag in low-radio frequency energy environments, ensuring the stability of high-frequency inventory checks. Thus, in retail application scenarios, efficient response and stable operation of RFID tags are achieved, significantly improving automatic checkout efficiency and the accuracy of product anti-counterfeiting verification, providing strong technical support for the construction of intelligent and anti-counterfeiting systems in the retail industry.
[0244] The foregoing mainly describes the solutions provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of the interaction between various devices. It is understood that each device, such as an RFID tag or reader, includes corresponding hardware structures and / or software modules to perform the aforementioned functions. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the algorithm steps of the examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.
[0245] This application embodiment can group RFID tags, readers, etc., into functional modules according to the above method examples. For example, each functional group can be assigned to a specific functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into a single processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be noted that the module grouping in this application embodiment is illustrative and represents only one logical functional grouping; other grouping methods may be used in actual implementation.
[0246] Figure 9 shows a structural diagram of a communication device 900, which can be used to perform the functions of a radio frequency identification tag including multiple capacitors involved in the above embodiments. As one possible implementation, the communication device 900 shown in Figure 9 includes: a transceiver unit 901 and a processing unit 902;
[0247] The transceiver unit 901 is configured to charge a first capacitor with DC power generated from the received radio frequency energy or ambient energy of the first radio frequency signal. The first capacitor is one of multiple capacitors, and its capacitance supports the RFID tag in transmitting tag information at least once. The tag information is information stored in the RFID tag or information obtained through sensing. For example, the transceiver unit 901 may support the communication device 900 in executing S301, or S401-S403, or S501-S503, or S601-S603, or S701-S703, or S801-S803.
[0248] Optionally, the transceiver unit 901 is further configured to receive a second radio frequency signal from the reader, the second radio frequency signal being used to trigger the transmission of tag information to the reader, and the reader being used to provide the first radio frequency signal and the second radio frequency signal to the RFID tag. For example, the transceiver unit 901 may support the communication device 900 in executing S303, or the transceiver unit 901 may support the communication device 900 in executing S406, or the transceiver unit 901 may support the communication device 900 in executing S506, or the transceiver unit 901 may support the communication device 900 in executing S606, or the transceiver unit 901 may support the communication device 900 in executing S706, or the transceiver unit 901 may support the communication device 900 in executing S808.
[0249] Optionally, the transceiver unit 901 is further configured to receive an acknowledgment message from the reader, the acknowledgment message indicating that the reader has successfully received the tag information. For example, the transceiver unit 901 may support the communication device 900 in executing S305, or the transceiver unit 901 may support the communication device 900 in executing S409, or the transceiver unit 901 may support the communication device 900 in executing S509, or the transceiver unit 901 may support the communication device 900 in executing S609, or the transceiver unit 901 may support the communication device 900 in executing S710, or the transceiver unit 901 may support the communication device 900 in executing S811.
[0250] Processing unit 902 is used to charge a second capacitor, which is any one of the multiple capacitors other than the first capacitor. For example, processing unit 902 may support communication device 900 to execute S302, or processing unit 902 may support communication device 900 to execute S404-S405, or processing unit 902 may support communication device 900 to execute S504-S505, or processing unit 902 may support communication device 900 to execute S604-S605, or processing unit 902 may support communication device 900 to execute S704-S705, or processing unit 902 may support communication device 900 to execute S804-S805.
[0251] Optionally, the processing unit 902 is further configured to send tag information to the reader using the stored energy of the first capacitor or the stored energy of the second capacitor in response to the second radio frequency signal. For example, the processing unit 902 may also support the communication device 900 to execute S304, or the processing unit 902 may also support the communication device 900 to execute S407-S408, or the processing unit 902 may also support the communication device 900 to execute S507-S508, or the processing unit 902 may also support the communication device 900 to execute S607-S608, or the processing unit 902 may also support the communication device 900 to execute S707-S709, or the processing unit 902 may also support the communication device 900 to execute S809-S810.
[0252] The descriptions of the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal, the ambient energy, the first capacitor, the second capacitor, the tag information, the second radio frequency signal, the radio frequency identification tag, and the reader can be found in the above method embodiments.
[0253] Specifically, all relevant content regarding each step of the RFID tag in the method embodiments shown in Figures 3-8 can be referenced from the functional descriptions of the corresponding functional modules, and will not be repeated here. The communication device 900 is used to execute the function of the RFID tag in the communication method shown in Figures 3-8, and therefore can achieve the same effect as the above-described communication method.
[0254] The processing unit mentioned above can be a processing module, a processor, or a controller. It can implement or execute various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the disclosure of this application. A processor can also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as a combination of one or more microprocessors, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, etc. A transceiver unit can be a communication module, a transceiver circuit, or a communication interface, etc. Any of the communication devices mentioned above can also include a storage unit for storing the program code and data of any communication device. The storage unit can be a storage module or a memory. When the processing module is a processor, the communication module is a communication interface, and the storage module is a memory, the communication device 900 involved in the embodiments of this application can be the communication device 1000 shown in FIG. 10. For example, the RFID tag including multiple capacitors mentioned above can adopt the composition structure shown in FIG. 10 or include the components shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the composition of a communication device 1000 provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in FIG. 10, the communication device 1000 can include a processor 1001, and optionally, a communication line 1002 and a communication interface 1003.
[0255] Furthermore, the communication device 1000 may also include a memory 1004. The processor 1001, the memory 1004, and the communication interface 1003 can be connected via a communication line 1002.
[0256] The processor 1001 can be a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a programmable logic device (PLD), or any combination thereof. The processor 1001 can also be other communication devices with processing capabilities, such as circuits, devices, or software modules.
[0257] Communication line 1002 is used to transmit information between the components included in communication device 1000.
[0258] Communication interface 1003 is used for communication with other devices or other communication networks. These other communication networks can be Ethernet, radio access network (RAN), wireless local area network (WLAN), etc. Communication interface 1003 can be a radio frequency module, transceiver, or any communication device capable of communication. This application embodiment uses a radio frequency module as an example to illustrate communication interface 1003. The radio frequency module can include an antenna, radio frequency circuitry, etc., and the radio frequency circuitry can include a radio frequency integrated chip, a power amplifier, etc.
[0259] Memory 1004 is used to store instructions. These instructions can be computer programs.
[0260] The memory 1004 can be a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device that can store static information and / or instructions; it can also be a random access memory (RAM) or other type of dynamic storage device that can store information and / or instructions; it can also be an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage, magnetic disk storage medium or other magnetic storage device. Optical disc storage includes compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.
[0261] It should be noted that the memory 1004 can exist independently of the processor 1001, or it can be integrated with the processor 1001. The memory 1004 can be used to store instructions, program code, or some data, etc. The memory 1004 can be located inside or outside the communication device 1000, without limitation. The processor 1001 is used to execute the instructions stored in the memory 1004 to implement the random access procedure preamble transmission method provided in the following embodiments of this application.
[0262] In one example, processor 1001 may include one or more CPUs, such as CPU0 and CPU1 in Figure 10.
[0263] As an optional implementation, the communication device 1000 may include multiple processors, for example, in addition to the processor 1001 in FIG10, it may also include a processor 1007.
[0264] As an optional implementation, the communication device 1000 also includes an output device 1005 and an input device 1006. The input device 1006 is a keyboard, mouse, microphone, or joystick, etc., and the output device 1005 is a display screen, speaker, etc.
[0265] It should be noted that the communication device 1000 can be a desktop computer, a portable computer, a web server, a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a wireless terminal, an embedded device, a chip system, or a device with a similar structure to that shown in Figure 10. Furthermore, the composition shown in Figure 10 does not constitute a limitation on the communication device. In addition to the components shown in Figure 10, the communication device may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.
[0266] In this embodiment of the application, the chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.
[0267] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. This program can be stored in the computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the above method embodiments. The computer-readable storage medium can be a terminal device of any of the foregoing embodiments, such as an internal storage unit including a data transmission end and / or a data receiving end, like a hard disk or memory of the terminal device. The computer-readable storage medium can also be an external storage device of the terminal device, such as a plug-in hard disk, smart media card (SMC), secure digital (SD) card, flash card, etc., equipped on the terminal device. Further, the computer-readable storage medium can include both internal storage units and external storage devices of the terminal device. The computer-readable storage medium is used to store the computer program and other programs and data required by the terminal device. The computer-readable storage medium can also be used to temporarily store data that has been output or will be output.
[0268] It should be understood that the collection, storage, use, processing, transmission, provision, and disclosure of user personal information involved in the technical solution of this application all comply with relevant laws and regulations and do not violate public order and good morals. For example, in the technical solution of this application, the processing of user personal information is carried out with the user's authorization, and this will not be repeated hereafter.
[0269] It should be noted that the terms "first" and "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or apparatuses.
[0270] It should be understood that in this application, "at least one (item)" means one or more, "more than one" means two or more, "at least two (items)" means two or three or more, and "and / or" is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can mean: only A exists, only B exists, and A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can mean: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.
[0271] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, "B corresponding to A" means that B is associated with A. For example, B can be determined based on A. It should also be understood that determining B based on A does not mean that B is determined solely based on A; B can also be determined based on A and / or other information. Furthermore, the term "connection" in the embodiments of this application refers to various connection methods, such as direct connection or indirect connection, to achieve communication between devices, and the embodiments of this application do not impose any limitations on this.
[0272] Unless otherwise specified, the term "transmission" in the embodiments of this application refers to bidirectional transmission, encompassing the actions of sending and / or receiving. Specifically, "transmission" in the embodiments of this application includes sending data, receiving data, or both sending and receiving data. In other words, data transmission here includes uplink and / or downlink data transmission. Data may include channels and / or signals; uplink data transmission refers to uplink channel and / or uplink signal transmission, and downlink data transmission refers to downlink channel and / or downlink signal transmission. The terms "network" and "system" in the embodiments of this application refer to the same concept; a communication system is a communication network.
[0273] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, only the grouping of the above functional modules is used as an example. In actual applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above.
[0274] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed communication devices and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the communication device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the grouping of modules or units is only a logical functional grouping, and in actual implementation, there may be other grouping methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, or indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units, and may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.
[0275] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. A component shown as a unit can be one or more physical units; that is, it can be located in one place or distributed in multiple different locations. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.
[0276] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.
[0277] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, essentially, or the parts that contribute to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solutions, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a device, such as a microcontroller, chip, or processor, to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media for storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.
[0278] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to an RFID tag, the RFID tag comprising multiple capacitors; the method includes: In response to the received radio frequency energy or ambient energy of the first radio frequency signal, the first capacitor is charged with DC power generated by the conversion of the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal or the ambient energy. The first capacitor is one of the plurality of capacitors. The capacitance of the first capacitor supports the radio frequency identification tag to send tag information at least once. The tag information is information stored by the radio frequency identification tag or information obtained by sensing. The second capacitor is charged, and the second capacitor is any one of the plurality of capacitors other than the first capacitor.
2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the energy stored in the first capacitor is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold, the second capacitor is charged. The energy stored at the first preset threshold supports the RFID tag in sending the tag information once, or the energy stored at the first preset threshold is equal to the capacity of the first capacitor when fully charged.
3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The capacitance of the first capacitor is equal to the capacitance of the second capacitor; or, The capacitance of the first capacitor is smaller than that of the second capacitor.
4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The radio frequency identification tag includes a circuit management module, which is used to manage any one of the plurality of capacitors.
5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The circuit management module includes a first rectifier circuit and a first switching circuit. The first switching circuit includes a first terminal and a second terminal. The first terminal of the first switching circuit is connected to the first rectifier circuit, and the second terminal of the first switching circuit is used to connect to any one of the plurality of capacitors. The second terminal of the first switching circuit is initially configured to be connected to the first capacitor.
6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, Before charging the second capacitor, the method further includes: The first switching circuit detects that the stored energy of the first capacitor is greater than or equal to the first preset threshold. The first switching circuit switches the connection between the second terminal and the second capacitor.
7. The method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The charging of the first capacitor includes: The first rectifier circuit converts the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal or the ambient energy into direct current and transmits the direct current to the first switching circuit. The first switching circuit receives the DC power and transmits the DC power to the first capacitor through a first path, wherein the first path is the path between the second terminal and the first capacitor; The charging of the second capacitor includes: The first rectifier circuit converts the radio frequency energy of the first radio frequency signal or the ambient energy into direct current and transmits the direct current to the first switching circuit. The first switching circuit receives the DC power and transmits the DC power to the second capacitor through the second path, which is the path between the second terminal and the second capacitor.
8. The method according to any one of claims 5-7, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first switching circuit in the RFID tag detects the stored energy of the first capacitor. When the stored energy of the first capacitor is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold, the RFID tag uses the stored energy of the first capacitor to send the tag information to the reader; the reader is used to provide the first radio frequency signal to the RFID tag; When the energy stored in the first capacitor is less than the second preset threshold, the RFID tag uses the energy stored in the second capacitor to send the tag information to the reader.
9. The method according to any one of claims 5-8, characterized in that, The method further includes: The signal strength of the second radio frequency signal is detected; the second radio frequency signal is used to trigger the transmission of the tag information to the reader, and the reader is used to provide the first radio frequency signal and the second radio frequency signal to the radio frequency identification tag. When the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal is greater than or equal to a third preset threshold, the radio frequency identification tag uses the energy stored in the first capacitor to send the tag information to the reader; When the signal strength of the second radio frequency signal is less than the third preset threshold, the radio frequency identification tag uses the energy stored in the second capacitor to send the tag information to the reader.
10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The third preset threshold is determined based on the sensitivity of the RFID tag.
11. The method according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The method further includes: The reader receives a second radio frequency signal from the reader, the second radio frequency signal being used to trigger the transmission of the tag information to the reader, and the reader being used to provide the first radio frequency signal and the second radio frequency signal to the radio frequency identification tag.
12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The method further includes: In the absence of signal obstruction between the reader and the RFID tag, the second radio frequency signal is received from the reader.
13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second radio frequency signal is received from the reader when there is no signal reflection between the reader and the radio frequency identification tag.
14. The method according to any one of claims 11-13, characterized in that, The second radio frequency signal includes any of the following: inventory command, logistics tracking command, vehicle identification request, product request.
15. The method according to any one of claims 1-14, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive an acknowledgment message from the reader, the acknowledgment message indicating that the reader has successfully received the tag information.
16. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes a radio frequency identification tag, and the radio frequency identification tag includes a first capacitor and a second capacitor; The capacitance of the first capacitor supports the RFID tag in transmitting tag information at least once, and the tag information is information stored by the RFID tag or information obtained through sensing. The second capacitor is charged when the energy stored in the first capacitor is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold, wherein the energy stored corresponding to the first preset threshold supports the radio frequency identification tag to send tag information once, or the energy stored corresponding to the first preset threshold is the capacitance of the first capacitor when fully charged.
17. The apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that, The capacitance of the first capacitor is equal to the capacitance of the second capacitor; or, The capacitance of the first capacitor is smaller than that of the second capacitor.
18. The apparatus according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that, The radio frequency identification tag includes a circuit management module, which is used to manage the first capacitor and the second capacitor.
19. The apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that, The circuit management module includes a first rectifier circuit and a first switching circuit. The first switching circuit includes a first terminal and a second terminal. The first terminal of the first switching circuit is connected to the first rectifier circuit, and the second terminal of the first switching circuit is used to connect to any one of the plurality of capacitors. The second terminal of the first switching circuit is initially configured to be connected to the first capacitor.
20. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes a processor for supporting the communication device in performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-15.
21. A communication system, characterized in that, The communication system includes communication means for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-15.
22. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-15.
23. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes computer instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-15.