Coupling Processor to RFID Tag via Parallel Interfaces

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current RFID technologies lack the capability to effectively integrate a processor with RFID tags, limiting their application beyond basic identification functions.

Innovation Solution

A device and method that couple a processor to an RFID tag in parallel with the antenna, enabling dual communication interfaces - a standard wireless interface and a wired interface, allowing for the processing and storage of information, as well as execution of special purpose software.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a processor is coupled to an RFID tag, then functionality beyond basic identification is enabled, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the communication interface into separate functional components: a first interface for wireless communication with readers and a second interface for wired communication with a processor. This segmentation allows the RFID tag to maintain its simple wireless identification function while adding processing capabilities through a separate, dedicated interface, thereby reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The RFID tag is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both wireless communication capability (for identification) and wired communication capability (for data processing and storage). This universal design allows the same device to perform multiple functions - basic RFID identification plus advanced processing tasks - without requiring separate devices, thus improving adaptability while managing complexity through integration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a wired interface is added to the RFID tag, then data processing and storage capabilities are enabled, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata processing capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The communication interfaces are segmented into distinct first and second interfaces with separate communication protocols. The first interface handles wireless RFID communication while the second interface manages wired processor communication. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing by allowing each interface to be designed and tested independently, reducing the overall manufacturing complexity despite adding data processing capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If dual communication interfaces are implemented, then application versatility is improved, but signal interference may occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication capabilityVSAvoidsignal interference

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements separate first and second communication interfaces with distinct signal paths and protocols. The first interface uses wireless RF signals for RFID communication while the second interface uses wired signals for processor communication. This segmentation physically separates the signal paths, preventing interference between the two communication modes while maintaining both communication capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each communication interface is designed with localized signal handling characteristics appropriate to its function. The wireless interface is optimized for RF signal transmission while the wired interface is optimized for digital signal processing. This local optimization of signal quality for each interface type minimizes mutual interference and maintains reliable communication for both functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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

Enables enhanced functionality beyond basic identification, such as data storage, sensor integration, and control functions, expanding RFID applications in various fields like security, communication, and inventory management.

Implementation Method 1

an antenna coupled to the RFID tag

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

receiving modulation in a second modulated signal from the RFID tag through a detector by the processor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSignal detection and demodulation:

Data Source

PatentUS8681002B2Device and method of coupling a processor to an RFID tag

Publication Date: 2014.03.25 NCR VOYIX CORP

AI summary

An integrated scanner, scale and touchscreen display (“integrated touchscreen scanner”) is addressed. In one alternative, the integrated touchscreen scanner further includes a printer for printing receipts, coupons and the like. The integrated touchscreen scanner is designed for flush mounting in a checkout or self-checkout stand. Keystrokes, icon selection and the like may be suitably sensed employing weigh cells in the scale of the integrated touchscreen scanner. Additionally, the display may be partitioned into a customer portion and a checker portion. This partitioning may be fixed or dynamically adjusted in response to the state of the transaction.