Capacitively Coupled RFID Antenna in Bioptic Barcode Reader

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Solution Overview

Problem

Bioptic barcode readers with compact designs and metal enclosures pose challenges for integrating RFID antennas due to limited space and restrictive RF environments, making it difficult to accurately track items sold or no longer in a retail location.

Innovation Solution

The use of a feed patch capacitively coupled to the metal platter of the bioptic barcode reader allows the platter to function as an RFID antenna without physical contact, enabling directional high-gain radiation for reading RFID tags in the product scanning region.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If RFID antennas are integrated into the bioptic barcode reader, then RFID tag reading capability is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveRFID tag reading capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The metal platter is designed to serve dual functions: its traditional weighing function and its new function as an RFID antenna. By making the platter itself the antenna element, the patent eliminates the need for separate antenna components, thereby improving RFID capability while avoiding increased device complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the platter and RFID antenna into a single integrated component. The feed patch is positioned beneath the platter to capacitively couple with it, creating a merged structure where the platter serves as both the weighing surface and the radiating element for RFID communication

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional RFID antennas are added to the bioptic barcode reader, then RFID reading capability is improved, but the available space is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveRFID reading capabilityVSAvoidavailable space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The platter is transformed into a multi-functional component that simultaneously serves as the weighing surface and the RFID antenna. This eliminates the need for additional antenna space, as the platter itself becomes the radiating element through capacitive coupling with the feed patch

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the platter and antenna functions into a single integrated structure. The feed patch is positioned directly beneath the platter, creating a compact capacitive coupling arrangement that requires minimal additional space while achieving effective RFID reading capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If physical connection is made to the platter for antenna integration, then RFID antenna connection is achieved, but the weight scale integrity is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveantenna connectionVSAvoidweight scale integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The feed patch acts as an intermediary element that enables electrical connection to the platter without direct physical contact. Through capacitive coupling, the feed patch transfers RF energy to the platter antenna while maintaining the platter's structural integrity and weighing accuracy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces direct mechanical/electrical connection with capacitive coupling. Instead of making physical contact with the platter to connect the antenna, the system uses electromagnetic fields to transfer energy, thereby preserving the weight scale's integrity while achieving antenna functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution enables accurate tracking of items by utilizing the platter as an RFID antenna, enhancing reading capabilities while maintaining the weight scale's integrity and avoiding physical contact restrictions.

Implementation Method 1

a feed patch positioned underneath, but spaced part from, the platter so that the feed patch is capacitively coupled to the platter and is configured to energize the platter

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCapacitive coupling: Capacitance

Implementation Method 2

the platter is operative as an RFID antenna when energized by the feed patch

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10963653B2Bioptic barcode reader with capacitively coupled radio-frequency antenna

Publication Date: 2021.03.30 ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES CORP

AI summary

A bioptic barcode reader configured to be supported by a workstation and having a lower housing with a platter having a generally horizontal window and a tower extending generally perpendicular to the lower housing and having a generally vertical window. A radio-frequency identification radio is positioned within the lower housing and is communicatively coupled to a feed patch positioned within the lower housing and proximate, but spaced apart from, the platter such that the feed patch is capacitively coupled to the platter and configured to energize the platter such that the platter is operative as a radio-frequency identification reader antenna.