Handheld Printer RFID Read Write Barcode Scanner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RFID systems are limited by stationary printers that can only read and write data to RFID chips embedded in labels as they pass through the printer, lacking portability and the ability to interact with external RFID chips or perform barcode scanning.
Innovation Solution
A hand-held portable printer with integrated RFID read/write capabilities, barcode scanning, and communication interfaces, allowing data to be received from various input devices, printed on labels, and written to external RFID chips, while also enabling real-time communication with a host system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a stationary printer with integrated RFID transponder is used, then data can be written to RFID chips and printed on labels, but the device lacks portability and cannot read from external RFID chips
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the stationary printer into a portable handheld device that can move freely in space. The RFID reader/writer module is integrated into this portable unit, enabling it to dynamically interact with RFID chips both internally and externally, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and portability
Solution Approach 2:
The handheld printer is designed to perform multiple functions: printing data on labels, reading from external RFID chips, writing to RFID chips, and communicating with host systems. This multi-functionality addresses the limitation of stationary printers that could only perform specific tasks
2Adaptability or versatility
If a stationary RFID read module is used, then data can be read from RFID chips on conveyor belts, but the system cannot portably access external RFID chips
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the RFID reader/writer module with the handheld printing device, merging two previously separate functions into one portable unit. This integration enables the device to both print and read/write RFID data without requiring a complex stationary system
3Adaptability or versatility
If a portable barcode printer with barcode scanner is used, then data can be scanned and printed, but the device cannot read or write to RFID chips
Solution Approach 1:
The handheld device integrates barcode scanning, printing, and RFID read/write capabilities into a single portable unit. The processor can selectively route data from barcode scanners or RFID readers to the printing system, enabling the device to handle multiple data types and interaction modes
4Adaptability or versatility
If a stationary printer hardwired to computer is used, then data can be received and printed, but the device has limited use and cannot independently process data
Solution Approach 1:
The handheld printer includes an onboard processor and memory that enable it to independently process data from various input devices (barcode scanners, keyboards, RFID readers) and communicate with host systems. This self-service capability allows the device to operate autonomously without continuous hardwired connection
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
Enables flexible barcode and RFID tracking, data collection, and printing, allowing users to read and write data to RFID chips on labels or external devices, expanding the range of applications beyond stationary systems.
Implementation Method 1
a RFID read/write module in a read mode operable to read data from an external RFID chip
Implementation Method 2
the communication interface in a transmit mode and the RFID read/write module in a write mode for writing data to an external RFID chip
Data Source
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AI summary
A hand-held portable printer (110) includes a number of input devices mounted in or on a printer housing (112) including a barcode scanner (126), keypad (140), communication interface in a receive mode and an RFID read/writer (136) in a read mode. The hand-held portable printer (110) also includes a number of output devices including a printing system (120), the communication interface in a transmit mode and the RFID read/writer (136) in a write mode for writing to an external RFID chip. A processor selects received data from one or more of the input devices manipulates the data and/or combines it with other data for an output device wherein the data selected for one output device may be different then the data selected for another output device. The hand-held portable printer (110) may utilize both an internal antenna (117) and external antenna (115). Applying different energy levels to the antennas may determine whether the hand-held portable printer reads from and/or writes to a single RFID chip or a plurality of RFID chips.