Integrated RFID Key Switch Assembly Design

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing RFID systems require separate modules for RFID processing circuitry, increasing system size, installation complexity, and parts count, which complicates manufacturing and installation.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating RFID processing circuitry directly into the housing of the key switch assembly, eliminating the need for separate modules and simplifying installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If RFID processing circuitry is housed in a separate module, then security functionality is provided, but system package size and installation real estate increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity functionalityVSAvoidsystem package size

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the RFID processing circuitry with the key switch housing into a single integrated assembly. The RFID circuit board is mounted within the key switch housing, merging two previously separate modules (RFID module and key switch module) into one unified component, thereby reducing overall system package size while maintaining security functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If RFID processing circuitry is housed in a separate module, then security functionality is provided, but parts count and assembly steps increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity functionalityVSAvoidparts count and assembly steps

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates RFID processing circuitry, key switch mechanism, and housing into a single assembly unit. This merging reduces the number of separate parts that need to be procured, managed, and assembled, while the integrated design allows for streamlined manufacturing and installation processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Volume of stationary object

If RFID processing circuitry is incorporated into key switch housing, then system package size is reduced, but manufacturing integration complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem package sizeVSAvoidmanufacturing integration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a modular design where the RFID circuit board is a separate component that can be manufactured independently and then mounted within the key switch housing. This segmentation allows for specialized RFID circuit board manufacturing while maintaining ease of assembly, balancing integration benefits with manufacturing simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 integration enhances security, reduces space requirements, and streamlines the manufacturing and installation processes by embedding all necessary components within the key switch housing.

Implementation Method 1

Radio frequency identification systems (RFID) can be used to detect and prevent inventory shrinkage

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRadio frequency identification (RFID): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP2149125B1RFID key switch with integrated key circuitry

Publication Date: 2015.04.01 HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC

Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4

AI summary

A system and method for enhanced security by incorporating RFID processing circuitry within a key switch assembly. The RFID key switch assembly includes four subassemblies; the key/tumbler assembly, rotating and stationary switch contacts, RFID Processing Circuitry and an electrical connection interface. The RFID Processing Circuitry incorporated in the key switch assembly reads RF signals transmitted from an RFID tag embedded in a key inserted into the key switch.