Destructible RFID Tag Antenna Subsystem Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
RFID tags can be misused by being removed from one object and reused on another, leading to unauthorized access and cost avoidance for service providers, as users attempt to utilize a single tag for multiple items.
Innovation Solution
A destructible RFID tag design featuring a far field antenna and a near field loop, inductively coupled and bonded with a weak adhesive, which separates or destroys when removed from an object, preventing reuse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If RFID tags are made removable and reusable, then ease of operation and versatility are improved, but reliability and security deteriorate due to unauthorized reuse and tag theft
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag is divided into separable components: a permanent substrate bonded to the object and a removable antenna assembly. When the tag is pried or removed, the antenna separates from the substrate, destroying the tag's functionality and preventing reuse while allowing legitimate removal during normal operation
Solution Approach 2:
The bond strength parameter of the adhesive is specifically engineered to create different failure modes: strong enough to withstand normal removal operations, but weak enough to fail when subjected to prying forces or attempted theft, thereby changing the tag's operational state from functional to destroyed
2Reliability
If RFID tags are made permanently bonded, then reliability and prevention of misuse are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to inability to remove or reposition tags
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive bond strength is optimized to a specific range that allows legitimate removal under controlled conditions while preventing unauthorized removal. The bond maintains integrity during normal handling and operation but fails when subjected to excessive force or prying actions
Solution Approach 2:
The tag structure is segmented into a permanent substrate and a removable antenna component, allowing the substrate to remain firmly bonded to the object while the antenna can be legitimately removed and replaced, providing both security and operational flexibility
3Strength
If RFID tags use strong bonding materials, then reliability and prevention of theft are improved, but the ability to legitimately remove and reposition tags deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive's bond strength parameter is precisely controlled to create a threshold effect: the bond is strong enough to prevent casual removal and theft, but weak enough to allow legitimate removal when sufficient force is applied under proper conditions, enabling both security and operational flexibility
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
Prevents the misuse of RFID tags by ensuring they cannot be removed and reused, maintaining the integrity of tracking and authorization systems across various industries.
Implementation Method 1
the far field antenna and the near field loop are inductively coupled in a manner that allows the near field loop to send a long distance signal via the far field loop
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a destructible RFID Tag that may include a far field antenna, a near field loop having an RFID chip, and an attachment adhesive configured to bond the destructible RFID Tag to an object. In at least one nonlimiting example embodiment the far field antenna and the near field loop are inductively coupled in a manner that allows the near field loop to send a long distance signal via the far field loop, and wherein the destructible RFID Tag destructs when the destructible RFID Tag is removed from an object after the attachment adhesive is bonded to the object.