RFID Connector Assembly for Wireless Connection Status Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a connection verifier that ensures clamps or connectors are adequately secured, particularly in applications involving hazardous substances, and existing solutions lack a reliable method to confirm secure connections using radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology.
Innovation Solution
A radio-frequency identification (RFID) connector system that includes an RFID tag and contacts, where the RFID tag indicates an open or closed state based on the engagement of components, allowing for wireless verification of the connection status, ensuring secure connections are properly established.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mechanical clamps are used to secure connections, then the connection can be physically secured, but there is no reliable method to verify or confirm the secure connection status
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using RFID tags to continuously provide information about the connection status. The system reads the RFID tag data to determine whether the clamp is properly secured, creating a closed-loop verification system that provides real-time feedback on connection integrity without requiring manual inspection.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag serves as an intermediary between the mechanical clamp and the verification system. Instead of directly monitoring the mechanical connection, the system uses the RFID tag as a mediator that encodes connection status information, allowing wireless verification without physical contact with the clamp mechanism itself.
2Productivity
If manual inspection methods are used to verify clamp security, then verification can be performed, but the process is time-consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection with an automated electromagnetic field-based RFID reading system. Instead of physically examining the clamp or requiring human operators to visually inspect connections, the system uses RFID readers to wirelessly retrieve connection status information, dramatically reducing verification time and eliminating human error.
3Extent of automation
If RFID tags are integrated into clamp components, then wireless verification capability is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the RFID verification system with the existing clamp structure by integrating RFID tags into the clamp components themselves. Rather than adding a separate verification system, the RFID tag is combined with the mechanical clamp, allowing the same component to serve both mechanical fastening and wireless identification functions simultaneously.
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 connector system provides a reliable method to verify the secure status of connections, enhancing safety and reliability in applications involving hazardous substances by ensuring proper engagement and secure connections are consistently identified.
Implementation Method 1
a RFID assembly connected to the connector, the RFID assembly including a RFID tag
Data Source
AI summary
A radio-frequency identification (RFID) connector, including a connector, including at least one component, and a RFID assembly connected to the connector, the RFID assembly including a RFID tag, and at least one contact arranged on the at least one component and electrically connected to the RFID tag, wherein in an unlocked state of the RFID connector, the RFID tag indicates an open state of the RFID assembly, and in a locked state of the RFID connector, the RFID tag indicates a closed state of the RFID assembly.