Multi-Frequency RFID Transponder With NFC Code Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing selectable RFID transponders for vehicle lanes require mechanical mechanisms for switching between identification codes, which are bulky, costly, and have a limited read range, lacking a convenient and efficient non-mechanical method for code switching.

Innovation Solution

A multi-frequency RFID transponder with dual antennas (UHF and HF/NFC) and a single chip, enabling code switching via a mobile device using NFC, eliminating mechanical components and allowing read/write functionality across different frequency bands.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If mechanical switching mechanisms (pushing, sliding or rotary) are used to activate different RFID chips, then code switching functionality is achieved, but device complexity and bulkiness increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecode switching functionalityVSAvoidmechanical mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical switching mechanisms with an electronic control system. A controller selectively activates different RFID chips through electrical control signals, eliminating the need for physical pushing, sliding, or rotary mechanisms. This substitution reduces device complexity while maintaining code switching functionality, allowing the transponder to present different identification codes without mechanical movement parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple RFID chips are included in a selectable transponder, then code versatility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveidentification code optionsVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal controller that can selectively activate multiple RFID chips within a single transponder unit. This multi-functional controller manages different identification codes (such as private and public codes) using a single control architecture, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost compared to having separate transponders for each code type.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple RFID chips and a control system into a single integrated transponder unit. By merging the functionality of multiple separate transponders into one device with selective activation capability, the overall system becomes more cost-effective while providing the same versatility in identification code options.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a selectable RFID transponder is used for HOV lanes, then lane enforcement capability is improved, but read range is limited compared to passive transponders

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveHOV lane enforcement capabilityVSAvoidread range

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic code switching capability that allows the transponder to present different identification codes based on real-time conditions. This dynamic adaptability enables the system to optimize performance for specific applications like HOV lane enforcement, where selective code presentation can enhance recognition reliability and effectively extend operational range in targeted scenarios.

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

Provides a compact, cost-effective, and efficient method for switching identification codes without mechanical parts, reducing manufacturing costs and maintaining a small form factor while extending read range and functionality.

Implementation Method 1

a first antenna, operated at a first frequency band, connected to the multi-frequency chip... the RFID transponder is readable by an RFID reader at the first frequency band to obtain the identification code

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

connecting wirelessly the multi-frequency RFID transponder through an HF/near field communications (NFC) antenna of the multi-frequency RFID transponder by magnetic induction or magnetic coupling

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12450448B1Selectable radio frequency identification transponder

Publication Date: 2025.10.21 STAR SYST INT LTD

AI summary

The provided are a selectable multi-frequency radio frequency identification (RFID) transponder as well as a non-mechanical method to change an identification code of a selectable multi-frequency RFID transponder. The selectable multi-frequency RFID transponder includes a multi-frequency chip, a first antenna, and a second antenna. The method includes: connecting wirelessly the selectable multi-frequency RFID transponder; establishing a short range link between the selectable multi-frequency RFID transponder and a hand-held terminal; and changing the identification code of the selectable multi-frequency RFID transponder through a mobile application.