Partially Embedded RFID Tracking Device in Polymeric Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional RFID tracking devices in polymeric packaging are prone to damage during transportation, can be easily removed, and are costly to attach, while existing solutions for anti-theft packaging in composite containers with foil-based liners are limited.
Innovation Solution
A polymeric package with a tracking device partially embedded and visible on its surface, integrated during the forming process using thermoformable or injection moldable materials, allowing for easy visibility and deterrence without additional labels or covers, and a method for forming such packages that secures the device within the material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the tracking device is completely embedded in the package structure, then the package wall thickness can be reduced, but the tracking device becomes invisible and cannot provide theft deterrence
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device is partially embedded in the package structure rather than completely embedded. This partial embedding allows the device to remain visible on the package surface, providing theft deterrence while still achieving the goal of reduced package wall thickness. The device extends through the package wall to a visible position without requiring the entire wall to be thick.
2Reliability
If the tracking device is attached to the package using adhesive labels, then the device can be securely attached, but the label can be easily removed by shoplifters and the attachment process is expensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device is integrated directly into the package structure during the forming process, merging the device attachment with the package manufacturing process. This eliminates the need for separate adhesive labeling steps, reducing manufacturing cost and time while ensuring secure attachment that cannot be easily removed.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking device is positioned and secured in the package structure during the initial forming process, before the package is completed. This preliminary integration ensures the device is permanently attached and cannot be easily removed, while also streamlining the manufacturing process by combining device attachment with package formation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional RFID tags are used with adhesive substrates, then the tags can be applied to packages, but the tags are easily removed and the application process is expensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tracking device is integrated directly into the package structure during the forming process, merging the device attachment with the package manufacturing process. This eliminates the need for separate adhesive labeling steps, reducing manufacturing cost and time while ensuring secure attachment that cannot be easily removed.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking device is positioned and secured in the package structure during the initial forming process, before the package is completed. This preliminary integration ensures the device is permanently attached and cannot be easily removed, while also streamlining the manufacturing process by combining device attachment with package formation.
4Ease of manufacture
If the tracking device is made visible on the package surface, then theft deterrence is enhanced, but the device may be more susceptible to damage during transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device is partially embedded in the package structure rather than completely embedded. This partial embedding allows the device to remain visible on the package surface, providing theft deterrence while still achieving the goal of reduced package wall thickness. The device extends through the package wall to a visible position without requiring the entire wall to be thick.
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
Reduces manufacturing costs, enhances visibility and deterrence against theft, and maintains the functionality of the tracking device while minimizing material usage and avoiding interference from metal foils.
Implementation Method 1
The transmitter sends a magnetic or radio frequency signal at one or more predetermined frequencies to the receiver
Implementation Method 2
a reader generates a magnetic field at a predetermined frequency. When an RFID device enters the magnetic field, a small electric current forms in the device's resonant circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A package and method for products is provided. The package includes a non-planar package comprising a wall formed of polymeric material, and at least one tracking device partially embedded within a thickness of the wall during forming of the package such that the tracking device is exposed and visible on a surface of the package.