RFID Transponder Printing on Labels Using Conductive Ink
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing labeling processes for containers, particularly bottles, are complicated and inefficient due to the need for pre-assembly of RFID transponders with label paper, which slows down the labeling process.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that integrate the formation of at least part of an RFID transponder, including an antenna and microchip, directly into the label production process using electrically conductive ink, allowing for printing and assembly during label production, simplifying and streamlining the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RFID transponders are pre-assembled with label paper, then RFID functionality is achieved, but the labeling process becomes more complicated and slower
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the RFID transponder formation process with the label production process into a single integrated operation. The RFID transponder is formed directly on the label during production using printing technology, eliminating the need for separate pre-assembly steps. This combines two previously distinct processes (label production and RFID transponder assembly) into one unified process, thereby improving productivity while maintaining RFID functionality.
2Reliability
If RFID transponders are pre-assembled with label paper, then RFID functionality is achieved, but the labeling process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the label production process with the RFID transponder formation process into a single integrated process. By forming the RFID transponder directly on the label during production using printing technology, the patent eliminates the need for separate pre-assembly operations, thereby reducing process complexity while maintaining full RFID functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The label production system performs the RFID transponder formation function itself during the normal label production process. The printing device that produces the label also forms the RFID transponder components (antenna and memory element) in the same operational sequence, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for external pre-assembly operations.
3Productivity
If RFID transponders are formed during label production, then production efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The label production system is equipped with printing capability that automatically forms the RFID transponder components during the normal label production process. The same printing device that produces the label graphic also deposits conductive ink to form the antenna and memory element, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for separate RFID transponder manufacturing and assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The printing device in the label production system performs multiple functions: it produces the label graphic, forms the RFID antenna, and creates the memory element. This multi-functional approach allows a single device to accomplish what previously required multiple specialized processes, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity.
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 enables more efficient and reliable production of labels with RFID transponders, simplifying the labeling process and reducing complexity by forming essential components of the transponder during label production, such as printing electrically conductive ink to create antennas and microchips, and integrating them into the label or directly onto the container surface.
Implementation Method 1
The transponder is typically coupled to the reader either inductively or via backscattering. In the first case, the reader reads data from the transponder by load modulation of the electromagnetic field emitted by the reader.
Implementation Method 2
The RFID manufacturing equipment can include a printing device for printing part of an RFID transponder, the printing device being advantageously configured to print electrically conductive ink.
Data Source
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AI summary
The device includes RFID manufacturing unit for attaching an RFID transponder to a label during the production of the label. The RFID manufacturing unit has a printing mechanism (7) provided for printing a part of the RFID transponder using electrically conductive ink. The RFID manufacturing unit forms an antenna and a RFID chip as parts of the RFID transponder, and forms the RFID transponder on a carrier medium or on the surface of the container. An embossing unit (6), ink and color control unit (8), drying unit (9), precipitation unit (10) and isolating unit (11) are used with printing unit. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) Labeling machine; and (2) Label with RFID transponder manufacture method.