Pivotable RFID Connector Lock With Near-Far Field Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for ensuring proper positioning of connectors, such as the CPA locking mechanism, require visual accessibility for inspection or rely on Data Matrix codes, which can be cumbersome and prone to human error.
Innovation Solution
A connector system incorporating a CPA member with a near-field antenna electrically connected to an integrated circuit and a far-field antenna, allowing inductive coupling when the CPA member is in the closed position, enabling far-field RFID communication and ensuring secure connection without visual inspection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If visual inspection or Data Matrix code scanning is used to verify connector positioning, then the connector position can be verified, but visual accessibility is required and the process is prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/visual verification systems with an RFID-based electromagnetic field detection system. The RFID reader detects the presence and position of the CPA member through electromagnetic coupling between antennas, eliminating the need for visual inspection or Data Matrix code scanning, thereby improving reliability while reducing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an RFID reader as an intermediary device that mediates between the CPA member (with integrated circuit and near-field antenna) and the verification system. This intermediary enables automatic detection of connector positioning through RFID communication, removing the need for direct visual access or manual inspection
2Reliability
If a near-field antenna is used in the CPA member, then RFID communication is possible, but the readable distance is limited to near-field only
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the near-field antenna of the CPA member with a far-field antenna in the connector system. When the CPA member is properly positioned in the closed position, the two antennas are brought into close proximity, enabling electromagnetic coupling that allows the integrated circuit to be readable at far-field distances while maintaining near-field communication capabilities
3Reliability
If the CPA member is made movable to allow open and closed positions, then connector positioning can be verified and accidental un-mating prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-verifying system where the movable CPA member automatically indicates connector positioning status through its position-dependent RFID detectability. The system self-verifys the closed position through automatic RFID detection when the near-field and far-field antennas are properly coupled, eliminating the need for external verification mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity
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 ensures reliable and automatic verification of connector positioning, preventing accidental un-mating and eliminating the need for visual verification, with the near-field antenna being readable in both near and far-field RFID communication when properly mated.
Implementation Method 1
the near-field antenna is inductively coupled with the far-field antenna such that communication with the integrated circuit of the CPA member is now possible in the far-field of RFID communication
Data Source
AI summary
A Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag including a first component provided with an integrated circuit and a near-field antenna being electrically connected to the integrated circuit, a second component provided with a far-field antenna, and a pivoting mechanism configured to allow pivoting of the first component and the second component from an open position, in which the first and second components are separated, to a closed position, in which the integrated circuit with near-field antenna is inductively coupled with the far-field antenna such that the integrated circuit is readable not only in a near-field RFID communication but also in a far-field RFID communication.