RFID Booster Antenna for Connector Lock Position Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for checking the closed position of a connector's locking mechanism require visual accessibility, which is inefficient and unreliable, especially in the automotive industry where Connector Position Assurance (CPA) is crucial for ensuring proper mating and preventing accidental un-mating.
Innovation Solution
An RFID tag with a near-field antenna integrated circuit and a far-field antenna booster, where the near-field antenna is inductively coupled with the far-field antenna upon the CPA member being locked, enabling RFID communication in both near and far fields, and a locking mechanism that prevents accidental separation of the components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If visual inspection or Data Matrix code scanning is used to verify connector closed position, then the checking process can be performed, but visual accessibility is required which reduces efficiency and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual inspection system with an RFID electromagnetic field-based detection system. The RFID reader detects the state of the locking mechanism through electromagnetic coupling between antennas, eliminating the need for visual accessibility and significantly improving checking efficiency and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an RFID tag with dual antennas as an intermediary device attached to the locking mechanism. This intermediary translates the mechanical state of the locking mechanism into electromagnetic signals that can be detected remotely, allowing verification without direct visual contact with the connector.
2Reliability
If a near-field antenna is used for RFID communication, then the integrated circuit can be read, but the reading range is limited to near field only
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges a near-field antenna and a far-field antenna into a single RFID tag system. The near-field antenna ensures reliable short-range communication, while the far-field antenna extends the reading range. Both antennas are electrically connected to the same integrated circuit, allowing the system to function in both near-field and far-field modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both near-field and far-field communication capabilities. This allows the same tag to serve dual purposes: reliable short-range reading when the connector is closed and extended range reading for remote verification, eliminating the need for separate systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the locking mechanism allows separation of components, then the connector can be opened, but accidental un-mating may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses a dynamic design where the first and second components can pivot between locked and unlocked positions. The RFID tag is attached to one component and moves with it, so the RFID signal state dynamically reflects the locking state. This allows the connector to be opened intentionally while preventing accidental separation through the secure locking engagement.
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 solution allows for reliable verification of the connector's closed position without visual inspection, ensuring secure mating and preventing accidental un-mating, while also extending the reading range of the RFID system, thus enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the connector system.
Implementation Method 1
the near-field antenna is inductively coupled with the far-field antenna upon the CPA member being locked
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present disclosure relates an RFID tag (1) comprising a first component (2) provided with an integrated circuit (10) and a near-field antenna (3) being electrically connected to the integrated circuit (10), a second component (4) provided with a far-field antenna (5) and a pivoting mechanism (6) configured to allow pivoting of the first component (2) and the second component (4) from an open position, in which the first and second component (2, 4) are separated to a closed position, in which the integrated circuit (10) with near-field antenna (3) is inductively coupled with the far-field antenna (5) such that the integrated circuit (10) is readable not only in the near field RFID communication but also in the far field of RFID communication.