RFID Reader Encapsulating Commands for Parallel Tag Execution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RFID systems are inefficient in allowing a reader to simultaneously execute instruction sequences across multiple tags, requiring serial singulation and command transmission, which is time-consuming and impractical for tags moving past the reader or with limited power sources.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of encapsulating commands that allow tags to execute instructions stored in memory or received from the reader, enabling parallel execution and modification based on parameters, with the ability to store results for later use or trigger events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If serial singulation and command transmission is used, then command execution is reliable, but execution speed and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by enabling tags to store instruction sequences in their memory before execution is needed. Tags can receive and store multiple commands in advance during inventory rounds, then execute them later without requiring repeated reader-tag communication cycles. This pre-storing of instructions dramatically reduces the time required for command transmission and execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the command execution process into two distinct phases: (1) instruction storage phase where tags receive and store command sequences in memory, and (2) execution phase where tags autonomously execute stored instructions. This segmentation allows the reader to efficiently transmit multiple commands in one go rather than executing them sequentially, thereby improving productivity while maintaining reliability.
2Productivity
If parallel execution across multiple tags is enabled, then productivity improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements the nested doll principle by embedding complete instruction sequences within the data field of encapsulating commands. The encapsulating command structure contains nested elements including command codes, data fields with instruction sequences, and memory bank specifications. This nested structure allows complex parallel execution functionality to be achieved through a relatively simple extension of the existing command protocol, minimizing the increase in system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves universality by designing a multi-functional encapsulating command structure that can serve multiple purposes: storing instruction sequences, specifying memory banks, indicating execution timing, and supporting both parallel and sequential execution modes. This universal command structure handles diverse operational requirements without requiring separate specialized commands for each function, thereby improving productivity while controlling complexity.
3Speed
If tags store and execute instructions autonomously, then execution speed improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by enabling tags to execute stored instruction sequences at specific intervals or trigger events rather than continuously. The encapsulating commands can include timing parameters that specify when execution should occur (e.g., after a certain number of inventory rounds, upon detecting a trigger condition). This periodic execution approach allows tags to maintain stored instructions in memory without continuously processing them, thereby improving execution speed when needed while managing energy consumption during idle periods.
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 enables faster execution of instruction sequences across multiple tags, allowing for more efficient inventory rounds and dynamic behavior modification based on executed results, improving the speed and practicality of RFID operations.
Implementation Method 1
The tag generates the transmitted back RF wave either originally, or by reflecting back a portion of the interrogating RF wave in a process known as backscatter.
Data Source
AI summary
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) readers may transmit one or more encapsulated commands within the payload of an encapsulating command. An encapsulated command includes at least a command code and an instruction. A reader may instruct a tag to store the encapsulated command(s) or instruction(s) for later execution. A sequence of encapsulated commands may be contained within one encapsulating command or spread across multiple encapsulating commands. The sequence of encapsulated commands, or the sequence of instructions associated with the encapsulated commands, may form a program. The reader may cause the tag to execute the instructions or program upon receipt, upon a trigger event, serially or in parallel, and/or may cause the tag to modify the instructions or program by adjusting parameters. The reader may later instruct a tag to execute the instructions or program via another command which, in some cases, may be sent prior to tag singulation.