RFID Sensor Assembly for Steel Door Frame Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID access control systems face challenges in mounting RFID readers proximal to steel doors without being obtrusive, requiring wall mounts, and are difficult to retrofit due to RF signal interference from metal construction.
Innovation Solution
A sensor assembly with annular ribs that grips the steel door frame, allowing the RFID reader to be mounted in a bore, producing signals when the RFID card is presented and the door is closed, eliminating the need for wall mounts and simplifying installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If RFID reader is mounted on wall beside door, then it can be easily installed, but it becomes obtrusive and requires wall mounting
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID reader is nested within the door frame structure itself, utilizing the existing frame geometry and mounting bore. The reader unit fits into a cavity or bore in the frame, making the mounting system compact and eliminating the need for separate wall mounting brackets or external installations.
2Reliability
If RFID reader is mounted near steel door, then it can detect cards, but RF signal interference occurs due to metal construction
Solution Approach 1:
A non-conductive mounting structure or intermediary material is introduced between the RFID reader and the steel door frame. This intermediary serves as an RF shield or isolator, preventing the metal frame from interfering with the reader's electromagnetic field while still providing mechanical support for the reader installation.
3Ease of manufacture
If magnetic door contact mounting method is used, then retrofitting is simplified, but mounting location is limited to frame bores
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the RFID reader, utilizes existing frame bores for installation, and incorporates RF shielding capabilities. This multi-functional design allows the same mounting structure to achieve both ease of retrofitting and protection against RF interference.
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 unobtrusive, easy-to-install RFID reader mounting near steel doors, overcoming RF interference issues and allowing for retrofitting without specialized tools.
Implementation Method 1
sensor assembly which produces a first signal when the card is operatively presented thereto
Implementation Method 2
produces a second signal when the door is closed to bring the magnet adjacent the sensor assembly and into alignment with the bore
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is apparatus for use with an RFID proximity card and with a steel door and frame assembly. The door is of the type having a magnet and the frame is of the type having a bore, which, when the door is closed in the frame, presents towards the magnet. The bore is of the type provided to permit the mounting of a magnetic door contact in the frame. The apparatus comprises a sensor assembly which: in use, is received by the bore and grippingly engages said frame; produces a first signal when the card is operatively presented thereto; and produces a second signal when the door is closed to bring the magnet adjacent the sensor assembly and into alignment with the bore.