RFID Tracking for Conductive Composite Pressure Tanks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Composite pressurized fuel tanks made with carbon fibers are lightweight but susceptible to damage, interference with RFID signals due to conductivity, and are expensive and prone to theft, requiring effective tracking and inspection methods.
Innovation Solution
A tracking system for composite pressurized tanks using a non-carbon plastic blind boss with an RFID device and anchor material, allowing for wireless identification, location tracking, and data collection without interference, utilizing UHF RFID technology and a network for asset management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If carbon fiber composite materials are used to construct pressurized tanks, then tank weight is reduced and strength is improved, but RFID signal interference increases due to conductivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the RFID tag from direct contact with the conductive carbon fiber composite tank body. By mounting the RFID tag on a separate non-conductive boss structure that protrudes from the tank, the conductive material is removed from the immediate vicinity of the RFID antenna, eliminating signal interference while preserving the lightweight composite tank construction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a non-conductive boss as an intermediary mounting structure between the RFID tag and the carbon fiber tank. This intermediary element provides mechanical support for the RFID tag while electrically isolating it from the conductive tank body, allowing RFID signals to function properly without direct contact with interfering conductive materials
2Reliability
If RFID tags are mounted directly on composite tanks, then tracking capability is improved, but signal reliability deteriorates due to conductive material interference
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag is extracted from direct mounting on the conductive tank surface and repositioned on a separate non-conductive boss structure. This spatial separation removes the source of signal interference from the RFID tag's operational environment, ensuring reliable signal transmission for tracking while maintaining continuous tracking capability
Solution Approach 2:
A non-conductive boss serves as an intermediary mounting structure that physically supports the RFID tag while electrically isolating it from the conductive carbon fiber tank. This intermediary element guarantees signal reliability by preventing conductive interference pathways while enabling persistent tracking functionality
3Strength
If traditional metal tanks are used, then structural strength and durability are improved, but weight increases compared to composite tanks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs carbon fiber composite materials with a resin matrix to construct the tank body, combining the high strength-to-weight ratio of carbon fibers with the protective and bonding properties of the resin. This composite construction achieves superior strength and durability comparable to metal tanks while significantly reducing weight, and the non-conductive nature of the composite enables reliable RFID mounting
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 reliable wireless tracking and identification of tanks, reduces interference issues, and provides comprehensive data management for asset tracking and safety inspections, enhancing safety and reducing theft risks.
Implementation Method 1
Signal communication to or from a Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a form of wireless communication that uses radio waves to identify and track objects
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~9
AI summary
Disclosed is a device, system and methods for tracking conductive composite pressurized gaseous storage tanks. The system including anchoring an RFID device in a non-conductive blind boss. Wherein the anchor material has a low dielectric and has minimal reflection if RF energy.