RFID Printer Integrated Data Collector and Feed Roller Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RFID printer systems are insecure, prone to data loss or corruption, and inefficient due to the use of external readers and personal computers, which affects inventory tracking and causes damage to RFID transponders during the printing process, and lack visual indications for mismatches between printed records and tracked transponders.
Innovation Solution
An RFID printer with an integrated data collector that records and associates RFID transponder information with barcodes, allowing for secure file transfer and quality assessment, featuring an under cut feed roller assembly to reduce transponder pressure and a knife assembly for defective record handling, enabling continuous web printing and quality determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external RFID readers and personal computers are used to store files, then the system can perform basic RFID reading functions, but data security is compromised and files are susceptible to loss or corruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the RFID reader, data collection capabilities, and secure storage system into a single unified device. The RFID printer now contains built-in memory for storing association files and transponder data, eliminating the need for separate external computers and readers while improving data security and reducing the risk of file loss or corruption.
2Measurement precision
If the printer momentarily stops to read RFID transponders, then accurate reading can be achieved, but overall throughput is reduced and job completion time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously reading RFID transponders as records pass through the printing mechanism without stopping. The RFID reader is positioned to read transponders during the normal printing process, and data is collected and associated with barcodes in real-time, eliminating the need for momentary stops while maintaining reading accuracy.
3Productivity
If top and bottom feed rollers exert pressure to move transponders along the web, then continuous feeding is achieved, but transponder damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - a support surface or cushioning layer - between the feed rollers and the RFID transponders. This intermediary element allows the rollers to exert the necessary force for continuous feeding while distributing the pressure to prevent damage to the delicate transponder components embedded in the records.
4Productivity
If no visual indication is provided for mismatches between printed records and tracked transponders, then the system operates continuously, but quality control is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism that continuously monitors and compares the number of printed records against the number of successfully read and associated RFID transponders. When a mismatch is detected, the system provides visual indications such as lights or display messages to alert operators, allowing continuous operation while maintaining quality control through real-time monitoring.
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 data security and printing efficiency by ensuring accurate inventory tracking, reducing transponder damage, and providing visual feedback on record quality, thereby improving overall throughput and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) class 0 transponders have been embedded in record members to track inventory. The data contained in the transponder is typically read by a stationary RFID read module
Implementation Method 2
an antenna configured to emit an RFID field. The antenna may also be coupled to and cooperate with the RFID reader to read at least one RFID transponder included in a record member
Data Source
AI summary
A RFID printer for printing and determining the quality of RFID record members having transponders is provided. The RFID printer may be used to print RFID record members utilizing a continuous moving web. In particular, a RFID printer includes an integrated RFID data collector such that identifying RFID transponder information may be recorded and associated with a barcode for inventory tracking purposes. An association file created by the RFID printer may be transferred to a manufacturer or retailer brand owner. The association file may be deleted from the RFID printer upon acknowledgment of receipt of the transmitted association file to the manufacturer or retail brand owner. The RFID printer provides methods for determining quality of RFID printed record members.