Handheld Barcode RFID Reader Integrated Patch Antenna Ground Plane
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional handheld barcode scanners with integrated RFID capabilities are cumbersome due to a stacked design that is costly, time-consuming to manufacture, and adds weight and volume, making them less efficient for inventory control in retail environments.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained RFID module with a patch antenna and a shared ground plane on a single printed circuit board, reducing the size and weight of the device while improving RF performance by using the ground plane for both electronic circuitry and the antenna.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a stacked design is used to integrate RFID antenna and reader module onto separate PCBs, then RFID functionality is achieved, but device weight and volume increase making it cumbersome to carry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the RFID antenna and reader module onto a single PCB, eliminating the need for separate PCBs and stacking. The antenna is printed directly on the PCB using conductive ink or traces, while the reader module is mounted on the same board, integrating both functions into one unified structure that reduces overall device weight and volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The single PCB serves multiple functions: it acts as the substrate for the RFID antenna, the mounting platform for the reader module, and the circuit board for signal processing. This multi-functional integration eliminates redundant structural components and reduces the overall device footprint.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a stacked design is used to integrate RFID antenna and reader module onto separate PCBs, then RFID functionality is achieved, but manufacturing cost and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the antenna and reader module onto a single PCB, the patent reduces the number of assembly steps from stacking multiple PCBs to a single-board assembly process. This simplifies manufacturing, reduces assembly time, and lowers production costs while maintaining full RFID functionality.
3Reliability
If electronic circuitry and antenna are separated onto different PCBs, then signal interference is reduced, but device complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local separation of circuitry and antenna on the same PCB by using dedicated ground planes and strategic trace routing. The reader module is positioned away from the antenna region, with controlled impedance traces and shielding structures that prevent signal interference while maintaining integration on a single board.
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
The solution results in a compact, lightweight, and cost-effective handheld barcode/RFID reader with enhanced RF performance and reduced power loss, improving ease of assembly and usability.
Implementation Method 1
The patch antenna is electrically coupled to the RFID circuitry and mounted to the second side of the printed circuit board such that the ground plane of the printed circuit board provides a ground plane for the patch antenna
Data Source
AI summary
A handheld barcode/RFID reader includes a printed circuit board having a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The first side includes at least a portion of barcode/RFID electronic circuitry affixed thereto. The second side contains a ground plane for the electronic circuitry. The handheld barcode/RFID reader further includes a patch antenna, electrically coupled to the circuitry, and mounted on the second side of the printed circuit board such that the ground plane of the printed circuit board also provides a ground for the patch antenna.