Passive RFID Tag Switch Matrix for Control Complexity Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing passive RFID remote control devices require a large number of chips and complex multiport microstrip networks, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to the limited range and maintenance needs of battery-powered devices.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing at least two radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag devices, activated by a single switch, which transmits signals to an RFID reader, allowing for efficient control of electronic devices by reducing the number of required RFID tags and simplifying the network architecture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of RFID chips are used in passive remote control devices, then the control functionality is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple RFID tags are merged into a single integrated circuit that can be selectively activated. The patent combines the functionality of multiple chips into one device with a switch matrix, allowing any number of tags to be activated simultaneously without requiring separate physical chips for each control function.
Solution Approach 2:
A single RFID tag with multiple antennas serves multiple control functions. The patent implements a universal tag that can be activated in different configurations (single antenna or multiple antennas) to provide various control capabilities, eliminating the need for dedicated chips for each function.
2Length of stationary object
If battery-powered active tags are used, then the transmission range is improved, but the maintenance needs and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The passive RFID tags harvest energy from the electromagnetic fields generated by the RFID reader during the communication process. The tags serve themselves by converting the reader's transmission energy into power for their own operation, eliminating the need for batteries or external power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical battery power system with an electromagnetic energy harvesting system. Instead of using chemical energy storage, the tags utilize the electromagnetic fields in the environment to generate power, substituting a mechanical/electrical power source with a field-based energy extraction mechanism.
3Quantity of substance
If passive RFID tags are used, then the cost and size are reduced, but the required power level for operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power requirement is segmented and distributed across multiple antennas rather than requiring a single high-power transmission. The patent divides the total energy need into multiple smaller energy units, each provided by a separate antenna, allowing the system to achieve required power levels through distributed energy collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-antenna system to a multi-antenna system, adding spatial dimensionality to the energy collection process. By utilizing multiple antennas in different spatial positions, the system can aggregate energy from multiple directions, effectively reducing the power requirement for each individual antenna while maintaining overall system performance.
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 approach enables a more efficient and cost-effective passive remote control system with reduced complexity and increased range, as the RFID tags can be activated simultaneously or staggered, allowing for effective communication with RFID readers without the need for multiple chips and complex networks.
Implementation Method 1
RFID tags may be passive, active or battery-assisted (or semi) passive. A passive tag may be cheaper and smaller because it has no battery; instead, the tag uses the radio energy transmitted by the reader as the power source.
Implementation Method 2
an antenna for receiving and transmitting the signal
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatus (300, 400) and method (600) for passive remote control are provided. The apparatus (300) includes at least two radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag devices (330_1, 330_2, 330_N, 430_1, 430_2) each operable to transmit a signal when activated and a first switch coupled to the at least two RFID tag devices (310_1, 310_2, 310_K, 410_1) and operable to activate the at least two RFID tag devices when the first switch is in a first switch state, said first switch being a first key identified by RFID tag information of the at least two RFID tag devices. Apparatus (110) and method (700) for receiving RFID signals are also provided.