Wireless Media Marking Transponder with Variable Antenna Length
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless identification systems for marking media, such as RFID tags, face challenges in effectively changing their antenna length in response to media attachment, which affects signal transmission and reception efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A media marking transponder system that includes a media fastener with a wireless transponder circuit and antenna, where the antenna's effective length changes when media is attached, allowing for enhanced signal transmission and reception by adjusting its configuration through mechanical or conductive means, such as elastic deformation or additional antenna extension elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the antenna length is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but the signal transmission efficiency deteriorates when media is attached
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamically adjustable antenna system where the antenna length can change between a first length (when no media is attached) and a second length (when media is attached). This is achieved through mechanical structures such as spring-loaded extensions, telescopic elements, or deployable components that automatically adjust the antenna length based on the presence of media, thereby optimizing signal transmission efficiency for different operational states without requiring complex manual configuration.
2Productivity
If the antenna length changes with media attachment, then the signal transmission efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-adjusting mechanisms where the antenna system automatically changes its length in response to media attachment without requiring external control or complex sensing systems. The mechanical structure itself (e.g., spring-loaded extensions, magnetic coupling elements, or friction-based locks) serves as the actuation mechanism, using the physical presence of media to trigger the length change. This self-service approach maintains high operational efficiency while minimizing the complexity of control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates the antenna adjustment function with the media attachment mechanism itself, combining two functions (media fastening and antenna length adjustment) into a single integrated system. The act of attaching media simultaneously triggers both the fastening action and the antenna extension, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining productivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the antenna has different effective lengths, then the adaptability to different media configurations improves, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the antenna into multiple discrete segments or modular components that can be independently positioned and secured at predetermined lengths. These segments can be connected through mechanical joints, magnetic couplings, or snap-fit mechanisms with built-in positioning features. This segmentation allows for easy manufacturing of each segment at standard tolerances, while the assembly process provides the necessary length control precision through mechanical stops, indexed positions, or pre-calibrated spacing, thereby achieving adaptability without excessive manufacturing precision requirements.
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 improves the operational range and efficiency of wireless signal transmission and reception by optimizing the antenna length in response to media attachment, ensuring better interaction with wireless interrogators and increased functionality in tracking and monitoring applications.
Implementation Method 1
Such devices typically employ an antenna structure coupled to a wireless transponder circuit to transmit and/or receive data via electromagnetic signals
Implementation Method 2
adjusting its configuration through mechanical or conductive means, such as elastic deformation or additional antenna extension elements
Data Source
AI summary
A media marking transponder system includes a media fastener and a wireless transponder circuit coupled to the media fastener. The antenna for the wireless transponder circuit has a first effective length when no piece of media is fastened to the media fastener and a second, different effective length when at least one piece of media is fastened to the media fastener.