Magnetic Alignment for RFID Tag Holder Antenna Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing RFID tag systems face challenges in achieving optimal reading performance due to the need for precise alignment between the tag and the tag holder, which is difficult to maintain without alignment mechanisms, leading to inconsistent communication links.

Innovation Solution

An accessory with a tag holder featuring a slot and an integrated antenna, utilizing magnetic coupling and mechanical guiding structures to align and securely position the RFID tag, ensuring proper alignment of the radiator and feeder for enhanced communication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If no alignment mechanism is used, then the device structure remains simple, but the alignment between tag and tag holder becomes inconsistent leading to poor reading performance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereading performanceVSAvoidalignment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment structures with magnetic field-based alignment. Magnets embedded in the tag holder and corresponding magnetic elements in the tag create automatic alignment through magnetic attraction, eliminating the need for precision mechanical guides while ensuring consistent positioning for optimal reading performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the alignment approach from mechanical constraint to magnetic field interaction. By utilizing magnetic field strength and direction as the alignment parameter, the system achieves reliable positioning without complex mechanical structures, improving both simplicity and effectiveness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If precise alignment is required for optimal performance, then reading performance improves, but the ease of operation decreases due to difficulty in maintaining alignment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication linkVSAvoidalignment maintenance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic alignment system is self-aligning - when the tag is brought near the tag holder, magnetic attraction automatically positions the tag's feeder aligned with the holder's radiator. This self-service alignment eliminates the need for manual precision positioning, making operation simple while ensuring reliable communication

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Stability of the object's composition

If the tag holder securely holds the tag, then the position stability improves, but the ease of removing and replacing tags decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition stabilityVSAvoidtag replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic holding force provides dynamic balance - strong enough to secure the tag firmly during use for position stability, but allowing easy removal when needed. The magnetic attraction can be overcome with simple manual force, enabling quick tag replacement while maintaining operational stability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

The solution enhances RFID tag reading performance by maintaining consistent alignment, extending the readable range and ensuring reliable communication with RFID readers, reducing misalignment errors and improving user experience.

Implementation Method 1

the alignment mechanism includes a magnet arranged to cooperate with a counter-piece provided at a corresponding position on the tag device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

the tag device is repelled by a mutual repulsive force generated by magnets with the same polarity on both the tag device and the slot

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic repulsion: Ion Repulsion/Attraction

Implementation Method 3

the antenna has a radiator arranged to couple to a feeder of the tag device when the tag device is positioned in the predetermined position within the slot

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11436462B2Accessory for a tag device and a tag device using the same
Publication Date: 2022.09.06 LOGISTICS & SUPPLY CHAIN MULTITECH R&D CENT LTD
  • US11436462B2 patent drawing
  • US11436462B2 patent drawing
  • US11436462B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An accessory for a tag device and a RFID tagging device using the accessory. The accessory includes a tag holder defining with a slot arranged to receive the tag device and to removably secure the tag device in a predetermined position; and an antenna provided on the tag holder, wherein the antenna has a radiator arranged to couple to a feeder of the tag device when the tag device is positioned in the predetermined position within the slot.