RFID Direction Finding via Primary and Secondary Signal Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RFID-based locationing techniques face challenges in accurately estimating the bearings of RFID tags, particularly in environments with multiple tags and varying signal strengths, leading to inaccuracies and inefficiencies in tracking and monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a transceiver assembly with multiple antenna elements and a controller that transmits a primary signal and receives both primary and secondary signals to communicate with RFID tags, determining signal strengths and estimating the tag's bearing based on these strengths, allowing for improved accuracy in bearing estimation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional RFID bearing estimation methods are used, then the system can communicate with RFID tags, but the bearing estimation accuracy deteriorates in environments with multiple tags and varying signal strengths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal reception process into primary and secondary receive signals. The primary receive signal is used for communication with the RFID tag, while secondary receive signals are specifically used for bearing estimation. This segmentation allows the system to separately optimize for communication and measurement functions, improving bearing estimation accuracy without compromising communication capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension by receiving signals at multiple different times (primary receive signal at first time, secondary receive signals at second time). This time-based differentiation allows the system to capture signal strength variations from multiple tags and use signal strength ratios to determine bearing, thereby improving accuracy in multi-tag environments.
2Measurement precision
If the system receives signals at different times separately, then bearing estimation can be performed, but the time required for signal strength readings increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by transmitting the same or different signals multiple times at different times and receiving both primary and secondary signals during these periodic transmissions. This allows the system to gather multiple signal strength measurements efficiently, improving measurement accuracy while managing the time required through structured periodic sampling.
3Reliability
If the system transmits and receives signals sequentially, then communication with RFID tags is established, but interference between transmission and reception increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal processing into distinct primary and secondary receive signals that are processed separately. The primary receive signal handles communication while secondary receive signals handle bearing estimation, allowing the system to manage interference differently for each function and improve overall reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses signal strength ratios as an intermediary measure. Instead of directly using raw signal strengths that may be affected by interference, the system calculates ratios of signal strengths from different receive signals, which cancels out common interference components and provides more reliable bearing estimation.
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 approach enhances the accuracy of RFID tag bearing estimation by simultaneously transmitting and receiving signals, reducing the time required for signal strength readings and minimizing interference, thereby improving tracking efficiency in diverse environments.
Implementation Method 1
transmit, via at least some of the plurality of antenna elements, a primary transmit signal; to receive, via at least some of the plurality of antenna elements, a primary receive signal
Data Source
AI summary
At least some embodiments of the present invention are directed to RFID reader systems, readers, and/or arrangements configured to estimate a directional bearing of an RFID tag. In an embodiment, the present invention is an RFID arrangement configured communicate with an RFID tag via a primary transmit and receive signals and to contemporaneously determine a plurality of RSSI levels of the RFID tag over a 360-degree azimuth range via a plurality of secondary receive signals.