RFID Print Media Writing via Antenna Polarization Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face challenges in reliably writing tag information to RFID tags on print media due to high and low gain regions in the radiation region, leading to potential writing failures, and increasing the number of antennas is not preferred as it increases manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus adjusts the polarization direction of the radio waves emitted by a single antenna based on the type and position of the RFID tags on the print medium, using vertically or horizontally polarized waves to optimize interaction and reduce writing failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the number of antennas is increased to cover high gain and low gain regions, then the reliability of tag information writing is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the polarization parameter of the radio waves emitted by the antenna. By switching between horizontal and vertical polarization modes, the system can effectively communicate with RFID tags in both high gain and low gain regions using a single antenna, thereby improving writing reliability without increasing the number of antennas or manufacturing cost
2Ease of manufacture
If a single antenna is used to reduce manufacturing cost, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the reliability of tag information writing deteriorates due to high and low gain regions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic switching capability to the single antenna system. The antenna can dynamically change its polarization state (horizontal or vertical) based on the position and orientation of the RFID tag, allowing it to adapt to different gain regions and maintain reliable communication throughout the conveyance path
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 effectively reduces tag information writing failures without the need for multiple antennas, maintaining cost efficiency while ensuring reliable data transfer to RFID tags on various print media types.
Implementation Method 1
adjusts the polarization direction of the radio waves emitted by a single antenna based on the type and position of the RFID tags on the print medium, using vertically or horizontally polarized waves to optimize interaction
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes a sheet conveyance unit that is configured to transport a print medium along a conveyance path. An antenna is configured to emit radio waves towards a predetermined portion of the conveyance path. A controller is configured to control the antenna to emit the radio waves towards the predetermined portion with a polarization direction set according to a type of the print medium being transported by the sheet conveyance unit. The print medium may have, for example, one or more wireless tags thereon or therein.