Multi-Conductor RFID Antennas for Wash- and Flex-Responsive Tags
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID devices lack flexibility and durability when exposed to flex forces, and they do not have the capability to change their performance in response to external events such as washing, stretching, or heating.
Innovation Solution
The development of an RFID device with multiple conductive structures made from different materials and configurations, which can change their performance by altering the conductive communication between the structures in response to external stimuli.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional single-conductor antenna structures are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but flexibility and durability under flex forces are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is divided into multiple separate conductors (first conductor and second conductor) instead of using a single continuous conductor. This segmentation allows each conductor to be optimized independently for flexibility and durability while maintaining the overall antenna function through their combined configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs multiple conductors made from different materials with complementary properties. The first conductor may be made from a flexible material while the second conductor provides structural support, creating a composite antenna system that achieves both flexibility and durability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed-performance RFID devices are used, then device design is simpler, but the ability to respond to external events (washing, stretching, heating) is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is designed to dynamically change its electrical characteristics in response to external stimuli. The relative positions, orientations, or configurations of the multiple conductors can change when subjected to washing, stretching, or heating, thereby altering the RFID device's performance characteristics adaptively.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in physical parameters (such as distance between conductors, angular orientation, or contact state) of the multiple conductors in response to external events. These parameter changes directly affect the electrical properties of the antenna system, enabling the RFID device to adapt its performance based on environmental conditions.
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 RFID device achieves enhanced flexibility and durability while enabling changes in its performance in response to external events, either permanently or reversibly, depending on the materials and configurations used.
Implementation Method 1
RFID is the use of electromagnetic energy to stimulate a responsive device (known as an RFID 'tag' or transponder) to identify itself
Implementation Method 2
antenna structures used with RFID devices have been formed from a conductive material (e.g., copper, silver, or aluminum)
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, an RFID device is disclosed that contains a first conductive structure and a second conductive structure formed from multiple conductive materials configured to move between a first operating condition and a second operating condition when exposed to an event or other stimuli. The second conductive structure is initially operatively coupled to the first conductive structure in the first operating condition. However, after exposure to the event, the first conductive structure is altered to change the behavior of the RFID device. The RFID device is attachable to a substrate, such as a garment or a fabric, and the event may be a single or multiple occurrence event, such as washing, stretching, heating, or exposure of the RFID device to electrical signals.