RFID Inlay Encapsulation in Folded Self-Adhesive Labels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RFID tags and labels are difficult to attach to clothing and accessories, and the RFID inlays can become detached with rough handling or be intentionally removed, leading to loss and tracking issues.
Innovation Solution
A self-adhesive label with an integrated RFID inlay that is secured within the folds of the label, preventing easy removal and ensuring the RFID inlay remains attached to the item.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If RFID inlays are attached separately to clothing items, then they can be easily applied, but they become detached with rough handling or intentional removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the RFID inlay with the self-adhesive label into a single integrated unit. The RFID inlay is positioned on the label and secured within the fold, so that applying the label automatically attaches the RFID inlay. This merging eliminates the separate attachment step while ensuring the RFID inlay cannot be easily removed without removing the entire label, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of application and attachment reliability.
2Reliability
If RFID inlays are secured within label folds, then they prevent easy removal and ensure tracking, but they increase manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID inlay is positioned and secured within the label fold during the label manufacturing process, before the label is applied to the clothing item. This preliminary action ensures the RFID inlay is permanently integrated into the label structure, preventing easy removal. The fold is designed to encapsulate the RFID inlay, creating a secure mechanical attachment that withstands rough handling while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing through standardized label production processes.
3Strength
If the label is folded to enclose the RFID inlay, then the RFID inlay is secured and protected, but the label structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The label is designed with a fold that creates a nested structure, where one portion of the label is folded back to enclose and secure the RFID inlay within the label itself. This nesting approach provides strong mechanical attachment and protection for the RFID inlay while maintaining a relatively simple overall label structure that can be produced using standard label manufacturing processes. The nested fold creates multiple attachment points and distributes stress, enhancing attachment strength without requiring complex additional components.
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 solution provides secure attachment of the RFID inlay to clothing and accessories, enabling effective tracking and loss prevention while withstanding rough handling.
Implementation Method 1
a substrate with an adhesive layer
Data Source
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AI summary
A self-adhesive label (100) incorporating embedded trigger technology, such as an RFID inlay (102) is disclosed. The label (100) is manufactured of a rigid polyester, cardstock, paper, or other material that allows the label (100) to be partially folded on itself. The sticky section (106) of the label (100) that is left out is then stuck to whatever packaging or product is to be labeled. Specifically, the self-adhesive label (100) comprises a hole (104) for hanging the label (100) on a display rack. The RFID inlay (102) is incorporated around the hole (104) of the label (100) and secured within the fold of the label (100) when the label (100) is partially folded on itself.