RFID Tag Using PCB Power Patterns as Antenna
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID tag technologies face challenges in miniaturization and integration with electronic product PCBs, particularly due to the need for separate antennas and limitations in using barcode labels, which result in time delays and difficulties in managing assembly processes of small electronic products.
Innovation Solution
An RFID tag design that utilizes the existing DC power and ground patterns on the electronic product PCB as an antenna, employing reactive coupling through an electric field to enable communication without damaging the PCB, and using an insulating means with upper and lower terminals to connect with the PCB patterns only during radio frequency operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate antenna is provided for the RFID tag, then the tag can communicate effectively, but the PCB requires additional space and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the RFID antenna function with existing PCB power supply patterns (VCC and GND). Instead of adding a separate antenna, the invention uses the power patterns that already exist on the PCB to serve dual purposes: power delivery and RFID communication. This eliminates the need for additional antenna structures while maintaining RFID functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply patterns on the PCB are made multi-functional by enabling them to serve both their original power delivery function and as RFID antenna elements. The VCC and GND patterns, which were previously used only for power supply, now also function as the RFID tag antenna, allowing a single structure to perform multiple functions.
2Device complexity
If the PCB patterns are used as antenna, then space is saved, but the patterns may be damaged by power supply interference
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces dynamic control through a control circuit that monitors the operational state and selectively activates or deactivates the RFID tag. The tag is activated only during RFID communication operations and deactivated during power supply operations, preventing interference and potential damage to the PCB patterns. This dynamic state management allows the same patterns to safely serve both purposes at different times.
Solution Approach 2:
A control circuit acts as an intermediary between the power supply system and the RFID tag. This intermediary manages the operational states, ensuring that the RFID tag is only activated when needed for communication and is deactivated when power is being supplied through the same patterns, thereby preventing harmful interference and damage.
3Loss of information
If barcode labels are used for management, then identification is possible, but processing time increases due to scanning delays
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical barcode scanning system with a wireless RFID system. Instead of using physical barcode labels that require line-of-sight scanning and manual intervention, the RFID tags enable contactless, automated identification through radio frequency communication, eliminating the time-consuming scanning process.
4Loss of information
If barcode labels are attached to small PCBs, then identification is possible, but the labels must be detached and reattached during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the identification function with the PCB itself by integrating the RFID tag directly into the PCB structure. The RFID tag becomes an intrinsic part of the PCB rather than a separate attachable label, eliminating the need to detach and reattach identification elements during assembly operations.
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 solution allows for rapid and efficient follow-up management of electronic product PCBs, eliminating the need for a dedicated antenna and reducing processing time, while maintaining the functionality of the PCB by operating only at radio frequencies.
Implementation Method 1
When a radio wave radiated from a reader-writer is received in the first and second patterns, reactive coupling through an electric field is created between the upper and lower terminals
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless identification (RFID) tag, an electronic product PCB having same, and an electronic product management system using the RFID tag. The RFID tag includes an insulating means, a pair of upper terminals provided on the upper surface of the insulating means, a tag chip connected to the upper terminals, and a pair of lower terminals provided on the lower surface of the insulating means so as to face the upper terminals. The lower terminals are connected to first and second patterns of an electronic product PCB. When a radio wave radiated from a reader-writer is received in the first and second patterns, reactive coupling through an electric field is created between the upper and lower terminals, which are then electrically connected to the upper terminals. Since the pattern already formed in the PCB is used as an antenna, there is no need to form a dedicated antenna pattern.