Composite RFID Label Construction with Segmented Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID and optical label technologies are limited by the need for adhesive stickers, which can damage surfaces and lack flexibility in application, as well as the variability in reader technology availability across industries, necessitating labels that can provide both RFID and optical information in multiple formats.
Innovation Solution
Composite label constructions comprising a first section with an RFID device and a second section without, both formed as laminate constructions with a removable liner, allowing for the creation of hang tags and adhesive labels, enabling flexible labeling options and efficient manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If adhesive stickers are used for labeling, then RFID and optical information can be provided on a single label, but the adhesive may damage the good's surface during peel off
Solution Approach 1:
The label construction is divided into separate modular sections: an RFID section with its own backing and an optical label section with its own adhesive and backing. This segmentation allows the optical label to be applied adhesively while the RFID section can be attached non-adhesively, eliminating surface damage while maintaining both RFID and optical capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive function is extracted from the RFID section and placed only in the optical label section. The RFID section is taken out as a separate non-adhesive component that can be attached by alternative means (string, clip, magnetic attachment), thereby removing the harmful adhesive effect from the RFID portion while preserving it where needed for the optical label.
2Reliability
If RFID labels are used, then tracking and identification capabilities are enhanced, but RFID reader technology is not as widespread as barcode technology
Solution Approach 1:
Both RFID and optical barcode technologies are merged into a single label construction, with the RFID section providing electronic identification and the optical label section providing visual/barcode identification. This combination ensures compatibility with both RFID readers and traditional barcode scanners, maximizing adaptability across different reader technologies while maintaining reliable identification capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The label construction is designed as a universal solution that performs multiple functions: RFID identification, optical barcode scanning, and flexible attachment. By incorporating both RFID circuitry and optically readable elements in separate sections, the label can be read by any RFID reader or barcode scanner, making it universally compatible across different technology platforms.
3Manufacturing precision
If separate RFID and optical labels are manufactured, then each can be optimized for its specific function, but manufacturing efficiency and flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID label construction and optical label construction are merged into a single integrated product manufactured on the same liner during the same manufacturing process. This allows each section to be optimized for its specific function (RFID section with its antenna and chip, optical section with its printed barcode) while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through a unified production line that produces both sections simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
Label constructions comprise a first section and a second section that are laminate constructions of a card stock top surface that may include printed indicia, an adhesive layer disposed underneath the card stock, and a removable liner adhered to the adhesive layer and common to the first and second sections. The first section includes an RFID device. The first section may be configured once removed from the liner to fold on itself to form an RFID tag, or to form an RFID adhesive label. The second section once separately removed from the liner forms an adhesive label. The construction first and second sections are positioned adjacent one another and are formed during the same manufacturing process for purposes of manufacturing efficiency. The first and second sections may be treated to facilitate separate removal from the liner to provide labeling flexibility.