RFID Tag Embedded in Cast Concrete via Breakaway Registration Posts
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems fail to efficiently track and maintain accurate records of precast concrete elements used in civil engineering projects, such as wastewater systems, due to the difficulty in collecting and managing information like serial numbers, manufacturing details, and inspection data.
Innovation Solution
A radio frequency identification (RFID) assembly is integrated into cast concrete elements, featuring a passive RFID tag sealed within a planar back plate with registration posts and engagement flanges, allowing for secure attachment to the concrete and enabling the storage and retrieval of unique serial numbers and other relevant information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RFID tag is sealed within the concrete component, then the RFID tag is protected from damage and environmental factors, but the RFID tag cannot be accessed or read during manufacturing and inspection processes
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID assembly is installed in the mold before the concrete is poured, positioning the RFID tag in its final location within the concrete component. This preliminary action ensures the tag is protected during casting while maintaining accessibility during the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The mold serves as an intermediary structure that temporarily holds the RFID assembly in position during manufacturing and inspection. The mold's cavity allows the RFID tag to be sealed within the concrete while providing access points for reading the tag before the concrete cures.
2Manufacturing precision
If RFID assembly is attached to rebar before pouring, then the RFID assembly is positioned correctly within the concrete component, but the RFID assembly may interfere with rebar positioning and mold setup
Solution Approach 1:
The mold is designed with integrated features that serve multiple functions: it forms the concrete component, positions the RFID assembly, and provides access for reading the RFID tag. The cavity and access points are built into the mold structure itself, eliminating the need for separate positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID assembly positioning is merged with the mold structure. The mold cavity is designed to accommodate the RFID assembly in its final position, and the access points in the mold allow for RFID reading without requiring separate positioning devices or complex assembly procedures.
3Reliability
If registration posts are left intact after concrete pouring, then the RFID assembly remains securely attached to the mold, but the registration posts protrude from the concrete surface and may interfere with subsequent handling and installation
Solution Approach 1:
The registration posts are designed to be broken away after the concrete has cured and the RFID assembly has been verified. This preliminary breaking away action ensures the RFID assembly remains securely attached during handling and installation, while allowing clean removal of protruding elements before final installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The registration posts serve a temporary function during manufacturing and are then discarded (broken away) once their purpose is fulfilled. This allows the RFID assembly to maintain secure attachment during critical phases while eliminating interference during subsequent handling and installation phases.
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 efficient tracking and maintenance of concrete components by allowing workers to read the RFID tag through the concrete and rebar, facilitating accurate data collection and management throughout the construction, installation, and maintenance phases.
Implementation Method 1
a radio frequency identification (RFID) assembly that is configured for use with cast concrete elements
Implementation Method 2
a RFID reader, energizing the RFID tag and reading its data using a RFID reader
Data Source
AI summary
A radio frequency identification (RFID) assembly is configured for use with cast concrete components. The RFID assembly has a planar back plate having a plurality of break-away, registration posts extending perpendicular to the nominal plane of the back plate, and a plurality of gripping surfaces extending opposite the registration posts. The RFID assembly further includes a RFID transponder encapsulated between the back plate and a cover. The RFID transponder is programmed with information concerning the cast concrete component to which the RFID tag is affixed.