Radio With Removable External Features Embedded With RFID Tags
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio communication devices lack efficient inventory tracking mechanisms that do not interfere with their form factor or user interface, and retrofitting with RFID tags is challenging, especially for products shipped without initial RFID capability.
Innovation Solution
Embedding RFID tags into removable and replaceable external radio features such as control knobs, antennas, identification bands, battery packs, or belt clips, allowing for easy retrofitting without altering the internal components or redesigning the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RFID tags are embedded into the radio device, then inventory tracking capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the RFID functionality from the main radio device by embedding the RFID tag into a removable external feature (such as control knobs, antenna, battery cover, or belt clip). This allows the RFID capability to be separated and independently managed, reducing the complexity burden on the core radio device while maintaining inventory tracking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The external radio feature serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical control or structural support for the radio while simultaneously housing an RFID tag for inventory tracking. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate dedicated RFID component, thereby adding tracking capability without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
2Reliability
If RFID tags are integrated into the radio manufacturing process, then RFID capability is achieved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By placing the RFID tag in a removable external feature rather than integrating it into the main radio housing, the patent enables separate manufacturing of the RFID-containing component. This segmentation allows manufacturers to produce standard radios without RFID expense, and only add RFID-equipped external features when inventory tracking is required, thereby reducing overall manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The external feature containing the RFID tag can be produced as a lower-cost, easily replaceable component. If RFID tags become obsolete or need updating, only the external feature needs to be replaced rather than the entire radio device, reducing long-term manufacturing and maintenance costs.
3Reliability
If RFID tags are added to existing radios, then inventory tracking is enabled, but retrofitting complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the RFID tag as part of a removable external feature that can be independently detached and replaced. For retrofitting, users simply remove the original external feature and attach a new one containing an RFID tag, avoiding complex internal modifications to the radio device and minimizing retrofitting complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID functionality is extracted from the main radio body and placed in a separate removable external feature. This extraction allows the RFID upgrade to be performed by simply replacing the external feature rather than opening and modifying the radio's internal components, greatly simplifying the retrofitting process.
4Ease of manufacture
If RFID tags are embedded in removable external features, then RFID capability is achieved without altering internal components, but the external feature design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The external feature is designed to serve dual purposes: maintaining its original mechanical function (control, antenna support, battery cover, or attachment mechanism) while simultaneously housing an RFID tag. This multi-functionality justifies the added design complexity by eliminating the need for separate RFID components and reducing overall system cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the RFID tag with the existing external feature structure rather than adding a separate RFID housing. The RFID tag is embedded within or attached to the external feature, combining identification functionality with the feature's primary mechanical role, thereby managing design complexity efficiently.
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
Enables cost-effective and efficient inventory tracking of radios without opening containers, minimizing damage and improving operational efficiency by maintaining the device's aesthetics and usability while providing RFID capability.
Implementation Method 1
Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology is becoming increasingly important for logistics concerns, material handling and inventory management
Data Source
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AI summary
A radio (100) comprises a radio housing (102) having external radio features (104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114, 116) located on a surface of the radio housing. At least one of the external radio features (104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114, 116) is removable and replaceable by another external radio feature having a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag (120) embedded therein for retrofitting the radio (100) with RFID capability.