Contoured RFID Antenna Assembly for Barcode Readers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RFID tag reader assemblies face challenges in consistently capturing data from RFID tags due to the non-apparent position of tags and the invisible field of radiated RF energy, especially when used in conjunction with barcode readers in retail environments.
Innovation Solution
A cost-effective RFID tag reader assembly design featuring a head portion with an imaging assembly, a base portion housing an RFID tag reader, and an intermediate portion with a contoured antenna assembly comprising monopole and dipole flexible antennas, allowing for improved RF energy emission and capture within a predefined scanning region.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RFID tag reader assembly uses traditional antenna configuration, then structure is simple, but data capture consistency is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna assembly is segmented into multiple independent antenna elements (first antenna element, second antenna element, third antenna element) with different orientations. Each element targets specific tag orientations, and their combined effect improves overall data capture consistency across various tag positions and orientations.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the antenna assembly have different properties - each antenna element is oriented differently to emit RF energy in specific directions. The first element emits in a first orientation, the second in a second orientation, and the third in a third orientation, creating localized quality variations that collectively improve coverage.
2Reliability
If RFID tag reader assembly uses multiple antenna elements, then data capture reliability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna elements are implemented as flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) structures rather than traditional rigid antennas. This flexibility allows the complex multi-element antenna assembly to be manufactured using standard FPCB fabrication processes, reducing manufacturing complexity despite the increased number of elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical antenna structures with electromagnetic field-based FPCB antennas. The flexible circuit board structure inherently provides the necessary electrical connections and mechanical support, eliminating the need for separate mechanical mounting structures and simplifying the manufacturing process.
3Reliability
If RFID tag reader assembly uses contoured antenna design, then RF energy coverage improves, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna assembly adopts a contoured, curved design that follows the surface geometry of the barcode reader housing. This curvature allows the antenna elements to be positioned optimally across different angles and orientations, improving RF energy coverage and emission consistency without requiring complex internal support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The contoured antenna assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural integration with the housing, enables optimal positioning of multiple antenna elements, and ensures consistent RF energy emission across various directions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
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
Enhances the consistency and reliability of RFID tag data capture, reducing complexity and costs by using flexible antenna configurations that emit differently polarized RF energy, accommodating various tag orientations and improving functionality in retail settings.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna assembly at least partially contoured around the face of the chassis, and wherein the antenna assembly includes: a monopole flexible antenna having a first monopole antenna element positioned near a top portion of the face of the chassis and a second monopole antenna element positioned near a bottom portion of the face of the chassis; and a dipole flexible antenna extending at least partially over at least a portion of the first monopole antenna element
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, the present invention is a barcode and RFID tag reader that includes a head portion housing an imaging assembly, the imaging assembly configured to capture images of an environment appearing with a FOV extending through a window; a base portion housing an RFID tag reader assembly; and an intermediate portion extending between the head portion and the base portion. Preferably, the RFID tag reader assembly includes a chassis having a face directed towards the FOV and an antenna assembly at least partially contoured around the face of the chassis where the antenna assembly includes: a monopole flexible antenna having a first monopole antenna element having a first half and a second half, the first half and the second half being substantially symmetrical about a line of symmetry; and a dipole flexible antenna extending at least partially over at least a portion of the first monopole antenna element.