RFID Reader/Writer Integrated Signalling Unit for PLC Wiring Simplification
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing RFID identification systems for access control are too bulky, complex in wiring, and consume excessive processing capacity in programmable logic controllers due to separate signalling units, which limits their applicability and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A compact radio frequency electronic tag reader/writer device with a processing unit, a two-wire communication interface, and an integrated signalling unit that can be controlled via a control frame from the programmable logic controller, reducing the processing load and simplifying wiring by using RS485 serial communication for data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate signalling unit is used in the RFID system, then the system can indicate operating statuses, but the system becomes bulky and complex in wiring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the signalling unit directly into the reader/writer device housing, combining previously separate components (reader/writer device, signalling unit, and PLC) into a unified structure. This eliminates the need for separate wiring connections and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to indicate operating statuses through integrated visual or audible signals.
2Reliability
If a separate signalling unit is used, then operating statuses can be indicated, but the processing capacity of the programmable logic controller is monopolized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the signalling unit control functionality from the programmable logic controller and relocates it to the reader/writer device. The reader/writer device now independently controls the signalling unit based on data exchanged with electronic tags, freeing up the PLC's processing capacity for other tasks while maintaining reliable operating status indication.
3Reliability
If traditional wiring architecture is used, then the system can function, but it is too bulky and restrictive
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the signalling unit into the reader/writer device housing and establishing direct communication between them, the patent eliminates restrictive wiring requirements. The integrated design allows for easier installation and more flexible positioning while maintaining full system functionality and reliable operating status indication.
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 solution results in a more compact, easier-to-wire identification system that reduces the processing load on programmable logic controllers, allowing for efficient management of signalling units and operating statuses without monopolizing specific outputs.
Implementation Method 1
A reader/writer device comprises an antenna generating a magnetic field for powering each electronic tag passing within its range and for interacting therewith according to a predefined communication protocol. The contactless exchange of data in RFID between the device and the electronic tag is performed by an inductive technology, which is based on the use of a medium frequency electromagnetic signal (carrier).
Data Source
AI summary
A radio frequency electronic tag reader/writer device including a housing, an antenna, a processing unit connected to the antenna and intended to exchange data with a radio frequency electronic tag presented within the range of the reader/writer device, at least one communication interface intended to be connected to a programmable logic controller and controlled by the processing unit for exchanging data with the programmable logic controller, a signalling unit for indicating one or more operating statuses, the signalling unit being connected to the processing unit, the processing unit being arranged for controlling the signalling unit on the basis of a control frame received from the programmable logic controller.