Embedded RFID Device in Pallet Cavity for Tracking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional pallet tracking methods using RFID devices are prone to damage and removal due to harsh environmental conditions and exposure, leading to inefficiencies in tracking and rental payment management for reusable pallets.

Innovation Solution

An embedded RFID device is integrated within a laminated placard structure, which is then securely placed inside a pallet's cavity, providing protection from environmental factors and ensuring the RFID device remains non-removably secured, thus enhancing tracking reliability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If RFID device is attached to pallet surface, then tracking function is achieved, but device is exposed to harsh conditions and may be damaged or removed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetracking reliabilityVSAvoidexposure to harsh conditions

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The RFID device is embedded within a cavity of the pallet structure, nesting the device inside the pallet rather than attaching it to the surface. This protects the RFID device from harsh environmental conditions while maintaining tracking functionality through the embedded positioning system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

A protective layer or film is applied over the RFID device within the cavity to shield it from damage while allowing RFID signals to pass through. This thin protective barrier prevents direct exposure to harsh conditions without interfering with the tracking function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Reliability

If RFID device is securely embedded in pallet, then removal risk is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice securityVSAvoidembedding structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pallet structure is segmented to include a dedicated cavity space for the RFID device, separating the protective function from the structural function. This modular approach embeds the RFID device securely while keeping the overall design manageable and not excessively complex.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cavity for the RFID device is integrated into the pallet structure itself, merging the protective cavity with the pallet's structural components. This combination provides secure embedding without requiring separate complex protective structures, as the pallet structure itself serves the protective function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8228201B2Placard having embedded RFID device for tracking objects

Publication Date: 2012.07.24 THE KENNEDY GROUP OHIO LLC

AI summary

A method of embedding an RFID device in a reusable object includes the steps of providing a placard including a plurality of layers, and providing an RFID device including an integrated circuit coupled to an antenna. In one example, the placard includes a top layer, upper intermediate layer, lower intermediate layer, bottom layer, and a plurality of adhesive layers. The method further includes the steps of embedding said RFID device in the placard between an adjacent two of said layers, and encoding the RFID device with information. The method further includes the steps of providing a pallet having a cavity extending into an interior of the pallet, inserting the RFID device into the cavity so that the RFID device is located entirely within the interior of said pallet, and non-removably securing the RFID device within the cavity. In one example, the pallet includes a support base and a top surface.