Code Reader RFID Emulation for Decentralized Object Data Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sensor arrangements for object identification and tracking, such as RFID systems, are costly and lack decentralized, mobile data storage capabilities.

Innovation Solution

Combining optical code readers with an RFID emulator system that uses an emulator data channel to simulate RFID functionality, allowing for cost-effective object identification and decentralized data storage by emulating an RFID sensor.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If RFID systems are used for object identification and tracking, then decentralized data storage capability is improved, but cost increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedecentralized data storage capabilityVSAvoidcost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual copy of RFID functionality by implementing an RFID emulator in software on a code reader. This software emulator replicates the data storage and communication behaviors of physical RFID tags, allowing the system to achieve decentralized data storage capabilities without the cost of actual RFID hardware. The emulator reads codes on objects and stores associated data in its memory, mimicking how RFID tags would function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the physical RFID hardware system with a software-based emulation system running on existing code reader devices. Instead of using electromagnetic RFID fields and physical tags, the system uses software to simulate RFID tag behavior, substituting a mechanical/physical system with a software-based solution that achieves the same functional goals at lower cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of manufacture

If code readers are used for object identification, then cost-effectiveness is improved, but decentralized data storage capability is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecost-effectivenessVSAvoiddecentralized data storage capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the code reader into a multi-functional device by adding RFID emulator software. The code reader now performs both its original function of reading optical codes and the additional function of storing and managing object data locally, similar to how RFID tags function. This universalization allows a single device to replace multiple specialized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The code reader with RFID emulator software becomes self-sufficient by storing object data locally in its own memory rather than requiring constant connection to a central system or database. The device can independently read codes, store associated data, and retrieve information, providing autonomous data management capabilities that mimic decentralized RFID functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3995987B1Sensor arrangement
Publication Date: 2025.08.20 LEUZE ELECTRONIC GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3995987B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3995987B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3995987B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The invention relates to a sensor arrangement (1) comprising at least one code reader configured for reading codes (3) and at least one computer unit (7). The code reader and the computer unit (7) form an RFID emulator sensor (2) by being connected via an emulator data channel (9), through which only subsystem data and/or transponder emulator data can be read from the code reader into a memory area of ​​a memory unit of the computer unit (7), or subsystem data and/or transponder emulator data can be read from this memory unit by means of the code reader, wherein this memory area is defined by a code (3) read by the code reader.