RFID Tag Programming Verification in Printers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Field service personnel face difficulties in determining whether an RFID tag has been successfully programmed in an RFID-enabled printing device, as defects may not be visibly apparent, making it challenging to verify proper programming.

Innovation Solution

A printing system and method that includes a processor to forward programming data in a first print job to an identifier, read data from the identifier in a second print job, and compare it with the programming data, generating an error or approval signal based on the comparison, allowing for evaluation of the RFID tag's programming status.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If RFID tags are embedded in print media for individualized processing, then the functionality and data storage capability are improved, but the ability to visually verify programming status deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindividualized processing capabilityVSAvoidprogramming verification difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies visual indicators that change color or appearance based on programming status. Specifically, the system uses a visual indicator (such as an LED or color-changing element) that displays different colors or states to indicate whether the RFID tag has been successfully programmed, making verification straightforward and eliminating the need for specialized equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

2Difficulty of detecting and measuring

If print defects are made visible for easy detection, then the ease of detecting defects is improved, but the ability to detect RFID programming status remains limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprint defect detectabilityVSAvoidRFID programming status information

Core Design Contradiction:

Difficulty of detecting and measuringVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary visual indicator system that bridges the gap between the invisible RFID programming status and human observation. This intermediary component (such as an LED indicator or color-changing element) translates the internal RFID programming state into visible signals, allowing technicians to assess programming status without needing specialized RFID reading equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of repair

If field service personnel can easily verify print defects, then the ease of repair is improved, but the ability to troubleshoot RFID programming issues deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprint defect repair easeVSAvoidRFID programming verification ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of repairVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables the RFID verification system to serve itself by incorporating self-diagnostic capabilities. The visual indicators automatically display programming status without requiring external RFID readers or complex testing procedures. The system performs self-verification and communicates results through intuitive visual signals, allowing field service personnel to troubleshoot RFID issues as easily as print defects.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8107101B2Apparatus and method for evaluating RFID programming

Publication Date: 2012.01.31 LEXMARK INTERNATIONAL INC

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a printing system or method for evaluating the programming of an identifier, such as an RFID tag. The method may be implemented in a printing device which is capable of programming an identifier and reading data from the identifier and comparing such information to evaluate the programming operation.