Data Carrier Sensor Circuit with Shared Connection Pads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data carrier systems require either expensive semiconductor-based interfaces for integrated sensors or additional connection pads for external sensors, complicating sensor integration and increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A circuit with dual connection means that allows for contactless communication and simultaneous electrical connection to both communication and sensor means, eliminating the need for semiconductor-based interfaces and additional connection pads, enabling efficient use of standard sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If sensor means are integrated with the circuit using semiconductor-based interface, then sensor connection is simplified, but manufacturing cost increases and semiconductor space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The connection pads are designed to serve dual purposes: as antenna connection pads for RF communication and as sensor connection pads for sensor signal input. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate semiconductor-based sensor interfaces, reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining simple sensor connection through the shared pads.
2Adaptability or versatility
If sensor means are connected via additional connection pads to the circuit, then standard external sensors can be used, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The same connection pads that handle RF communication also serve as the interface for sensor means. This universal connection approach allows standard external sensors to be used without requiring additional dedicated connection pads, thereby maintaining device versatility while avoiding increased structural complexity.
3Reliability
If sensor means are powered continuously, then sensor availability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is powered periodically only during interrogation periods when measurement data needs to be read, rather than continuously. The power supply unit activates the sensor temporarily during communication cycles with the read/write station, reducing overall energy consumption while ensuring sensor availability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is powered through the existing RF power reception mechanism during communication cycles, utilizing the same energy pathway that powers the data carrier's communication functions. This self-service approach allows the sensor to be powered on-demand without requiring separate continuous power infrastructure.
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 simplifies sensor connection, reduces costs, and prolongs the operational life of sensors by powering them only when interrogated, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of sensor-equipped data carriers.
Implementation Method 1
The communication coil arrangement is designed for the inductive coupling with a corresponding communication coil arrangement of the read/write station such that the circuit in the data carrier can be electrically powered and operated by means of a radio frequency signal that is generated and transmitted by the read/write station
Implementation Method 2
The data carrier further comprises sensor means that are designed for sensing an environment parameter and for providing a sensor signal that represents the sensed environment parameter
Data Source
AI summary
In a circuit (3) for a data carrier (1), which data carrier (1) comprise a sensor (2) that is designed for providing a sensor signal (SS) that represents an environment parameter and a communication element (CM) that is designed for the contact-less communication with an interrogator station, first connection elements for connecting the circuit (3) to the communication element (CM) and second connection elements for establishing an electronic connection of the circuit (3) to the sensor (2) are provided, wherein the second connection elements are realized by the first connection elements and wherein the circuit (3) comprises a sensor signal processing stage (11A) designed for receiving said sensor signal (SS) via the first connection element and for processing said received sensor signal (SS).