RFID Tag Power Signal Interaction for Dynamic Object Responses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID technologies in playsets are limited by static information programmed into passive RFID tags, restricting interactive capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A system is provided with an RFID platform and objects equipped with additional circuitry to enable dynamic interactions, using modulated RF power signals to transmit coded commands for audio and visual responses, and a microcontroller to decode and execute these commands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a passive RFID tag is used to identify objects in a playset, then the RFID tag can be powered by harvested energy from the transmitted signal, but the interaction with the object is limited by the static information programmed into the passive RFID tag
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static RFID tag system into a dynamic one by enabling the passive RFID tag to execute commands received through modulated power signals. The tag can now change its behavior and responses based on real-time inputs from the RFID reader, allowing interactive play scenarios rather than static identification only.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the RFID tag by modulating the power signal to embed coded commands. This allows the tag to interpret different signal modulations as different instructions, expanding its functionality beyond simple identification to include various interactive responses such as audio outputs, visual indicators, or triggering actions in the playset.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional circuitry is added to objects to enable dynamic interactions, then interactive play is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the passive RFID tag multi-functional by enabling it to not only identify objects but also execute commands, process modulated signals, and trigger various outputs. This universal approach allows a single component (the RFID tag) to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require separate circuits, thereby reducing overall system complexity while enhancing interactivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the command processing, signal modulation detection, and action triggering functions into the existing passive RFID tag structure. By combining these functions within the tag rather than adding separate dedicated circuits in each object, the patent reduces the overall device complexity while achieving dynamic interaction capabilities.
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
Enhances interactive play by enabling dynamic data exchange and responsive actions between RFID-enabled objects, allowing for more engaging and imaginative play experiences.
Implementation Method 1
An RFID reader transmits some power to a receiver, i.e., a passive RFID tag. The passive RFID tag harvests energy from the transmitted signal to power the tag
Implementation Method 2
The RFID platform may be configured to transmit an RF power signal to the object. The RF power signal may be modulated by a coded command corresponding to an action to be performed by the object
Data Source
AI summary
A method conducted using a system having a first object with a first data processor, an RFID tag reader, and a first output device electrically coupled to the first data processor, and a second object with a second data processor, an RFID tag, and a second output device electrically coupled to the second data processor includes: transmitting, by the RFID tag reader to the RFID tag, a power signal with embedded input data; receiving, by the RFID tag, the power signal with the embedded input data. The embedded input data is extracted from the power signal and provided to the second data processor, and causes the second data processor to initiate an action. Responsive to receiving the power signal with the embedded input data, transmitting, by the RFID tag, response data to the RFID tag reader, wherein the first data processor processes the response data.