Flexible RFID Label With Integrated Power Harvesting And Sensor Computing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems, particularly in RFID systems, face challenges in efficiently powering passive RFID tags and accurately sensing environmental conditions due to limitations in power supply circuits and data processing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The integration of sensor computing devices and passive wireless sensors that utilize power harvesting circuits and back-scattering techniques to convert RF signals into DC power and generate coded values representing environmental conditions, enabling accurate data processing and communication of sensed data through wireless communication systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If passive RFID tags use power supply circuits to convert RF signals into DC power, then the tags can be powered wirelessly, but the power conversion efficiency is limited and the circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power supply circuit and sensor computing device into an integrated RFID tag system. The power supply circuit, sensor computing device, and communication module are merged into a single cohesive unit, eliminating the need for separate power conversion components while maintaining wireless power conversion capability. This integration reduces overall circuit complexity while preserving power conversion efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag is designed with multi-functionality, where the same circuit components serve multiple purposes. The power supply circuit not only converts RF signals to DC power but also works in conjunction with the sensor computing device for environmental monitoring. The integrated architecture allows components to perform multiple functions, reducing the need for dedicated separate circuits and thereby simplifying the overall system.
2Ease of operation
If RFID tags store and transmit serial numbers using back-scattering, then the communication is wireless and simple, but the data processing capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges traditional RFID back-scattering communication with a sensor computing device. The RFID tag maintains its simple wireless communication capability through back-scattering while integrating a sensor computing device that can process environmental data. This combination allows the system to preserve communication simplicity while significantly enhancing data processing capabilities through the embedded computing unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor computing device performs preliminary processing of environmental sensor data before transmission. Instead of simply storing and transmitting raw serial numbers, the computing device pre-processes sensor readings, filters relevant information, and prepares data for transmission. This preliminary action enhances data processing capability while maintaining the simplicity of wireless communication through back-scattering.
3Measurement precision
If the RFID tag includes integrated sensor computing devices, then environmental conditions can be sensed and processed, but the device complexity and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates sensor computing devices directly into the RFID tag structure, merging environmental sensing, data processing, and wireless communication into a single unit. This integration achieves precise environmental measurement while reducing overall device complexity by eliminating separate standalone sensors and processing units. The merged architecture allows the RFID tag to perform sophisticated environmental monitoring without requiring additional external components.
4Power
If power supply circuits use diodes and capacitors for rectification and filtering, then DC power can be generated from RF signals, but the power conversion efficiency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power supply circuit with the sensor computing device in an integrated architecture. The power supply circuit, using diodes and capacitors for rectification and filtering, is merged with the computing device's power management unit. This integration optimizes power conversion efficiency by reducing energy losses at connection interfaces and allowing coordinated operation between power conversion and computational tasks, thereby improving overall energy utilization.
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 enables efficient power supply for passive RFID tags and accurate sensing of environmental conditions, allowing for real-time monitoring and data processing across local and wide area networks, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of wireless communication systems in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
passive wireless sensors that utilize power harvesting circuits and back-scattering techniques to convert RF signals into DC power
Implementation Method 2
passive wireless sensors that utilize power harvesting circuits and back-scattering techniques to convert RF signals into DC power and generate coded values
Data Source
AI summary
A label sensor that can be affixed to an item includes a first section and a second section. The first section includes a memory, an environmental sensor, a radio frequency (RF) front end that includes a tuning circuit, and a processing module. The processing module is operably coupled to the memory, the environmental sensor, and the RF front end. The second section includes an activation circuit that is operable, upon receiving an input, to activate one or more of the memory, the environmental sensor, the RF front end and the processing module. The activation causes the label sensor to be put in a first operational mode of a plurality of operational modes.