Micro RFID Tag with Conductive Interface for Extended Read Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID tags have limited read range and increased size when attempting to enhance signal gain, making them inefficient for tracking equipment in industrial and medical settings, and can obstruct or damage delicate articles due to their size and weight.
Innovation Solution
A micro RFID tag with a conductive surface that contacts the article, featuring an extended antenna and additional capacitors for increased charge and output power, encapsulated for protection against chemicals and extreme temperatures, maintaining a compact size and weight while enhancing read range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If the antenna length is increased to enhance signal gain, then the read range is improved, but the size and weight of the RFID tag increase
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag components including the antenna, integrated circuit, and capacitors are nested within a compact encapsulated housing. The antenna is integrated into the substrate structure, allowing maximum antenna length within minimal external dimensions, resolving the contradiction between antenna length and tag size/weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from planar antenna designs to three-dimensional folded and meandered antenna structures. This dimensional transformation allows the antenna to achieve effective electrical length equivalent to much longer straight antennas while maintaining a compact physical footprint, thereby improving read range without increasing tag dimensions or weight.
2Power
If additional capacitors are added to increase charge and output power, then the read range is extended, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple capacitors are integrated into a single encapsulated module with the antenna and integrated circuit. The capacitors are positioned to optimize electromagnetic coupling with the antenna while sharing common mounting structures and encapsulation, reducing overall device complexity despite the addition of multiple energy storage components.
Solution Approach 2:
The additional capacitors serve multiple functions: energy storage for extended read range, tuning the resonant frequency of the antenna system, and providing electrical coupling between circuit components. This multi-functionality justifies the added components without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Length of stationary object
If the RFID tag is made larger to accommodate extended antenna, then the read range is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to obstruction and damage risk
Solution Approach 1:
The extended antenna structure is nested within a compact three-dimensional configuration, allowing the antenna to achieve long electrical length while the external tag dimensions remain small. This enables long read range without the tag obstructing or damaging the attached article during handling and operation.
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 micro RFID tag achieves extended read range and easier mounting on equipment without obstructing its operation, while withstanding harsh conditions, thus improving tracking efficiency and reliability in extreme environments.
Implementation Method 1
radio frequency identification tag assembly that includes a conductive interface which is operatively mounted to a surgical instrument for identifying and tracking the surgical instrument
Implementation Method 2
The conductive interface may include a conductive coating or conductive material that is in contact with the conductive surface of the surgical instrument
Implementation Method 3
additional capacitors for increased charge and output power
Data Source
AI summary
A micro radio frequency identification tag for use on articles in an equipment identification and tracking system includes a substrate, an RFID chip, a power storage means, an antenna, and a conductive means. The substrate has a pair of surfaces. The RFID chip and power storage means are operatively retained on one surface. The antenna is operatively retained on the other surface of the substrate and acts as a conductive layer. The conductive means extends between the surfaces of the substrate to operatively connect the antenna to the RFID chip and power storage means.