RFID Interrogator System for Simultaneous Tag Programming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID technologies face inefficiencies in programming large groups of tags, particularly passive RFID tags, due to the need for prolonged power transmission and the inability to specify unique data for each tag, leading to lengthy programming times and potential data collision issues.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an interrogator system that uses a BeingAddressed indicator to transition tags into a state allowing simultaneous programming of specified tags with individual or identical data, utilizing a two-command operation for unique data and a single command for identical data, and incorporating a Command Counter for verification, optimizing the programming process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If individual programming of each Tag is performed, then data accuracy is improved, but programming time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the programming process into two distinct phases: a setup phase where individual Tag addresses and corresponding data are assigned, and an execution phase where multiple Tags are programmed simultaneously using broadcast commands. This segmentation allows the system to maintain data accuracy through individual address assignment while achieving time efficiency through simultaneous execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by requiring the interrogator to pre-configure a mapping between Tag addresses and programming data before initiating the bulk programming operation. This preliminary setup ensures that when the simultaneous programming command is broadcast, each Tag receives the correct individualized data without requiring real-time individual processing, thus resolving the contradiction between accuracy and speed.
2Productivity
If broadcast writing to all Tags within range is performed, then programming speed is improved, but data collision and verification issues worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enabling simultaneous programming with individualized data for each Tag based on its unique address, rather than broadcasting identical data to all Tags. The interrogator maintains a local mapping table that assigns specific data to specific Tag addresses, ensuring that each Tag receives appropriate individualized content while benefiting from simultaneous execution, thus avoiding data collision and verification issues.
3Loss of time
If simultaneous programming of multiple Tags is performed, then programming time is reduced, but the ability to specify unique data for each Tag is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary data structure in the form of an address-to-data mapping table stored in the interrogator's memory. This intermediary allows the system to translate simultaneous broadcast commands into individualized data delivery for each Tag. The mapping table acts as a mediator between the simultaneous programming mechanism and the requirement for unique data specification, enabling both goals to be achieved together.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for simultaneous programming of data to individually addressed Tags. Tags contain a being addressed indicator that allows for processing of simultaneous programming commands. Specified Tags are individually pre-addressed to receive simultaneous programming. Tag data is programmed simultaneously for all Tags in a specified group of Tags. Data is individually verified for each specified Tag in the group of Tags and verification includes tracking a command counter for each specified Tag.