Multi-Port RFID Strap Assembly for UHF Tamper Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing RFID tags lack efficient multi-port configurations for tamper detection, particularly in applications where a secondary port is needed to determine the open or closed circuit state, which is not efficiently coupled via UHF frequencies.

Innovation Solution

A multi-port strap device with an RFID antenna and a secondary port configured for anti-tamper functionality, where the secondary port changes state (open or short circuit) upon being cut, torn, or broken, allowing detection of tampering.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a secondary port is added to the RFID chip for tamper detection, then the functionality for determining open or closed circuit state is improved, but the coupling efficiency at UHF frequencies deteriorates because low frequency pulses do not couple efficiently via the capacitance that couples the UHF connection to the antenna

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-port functionalityVSAvoidcoupling efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The strap is divided into separate functional regions: a first region with pads for UHF antenna coupling and a second region with extended pads for the secondary port. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized for its specific function - the first region for efficient UHF coupling and the second region for tamper detection, resolving the conflict between multi-port functionality and coupling efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different areas of the strap are given different properties - the first region has pad geometry optimized for UHF frequency coupling while the second region has extended pads configured for low-frequency pulse detection. This local differentiation allows each area to perform its specialized function effectively without compromising the other

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Ease of operation

If the strap is attached to a garment for RFID functionality, then the utility of the RFID tag is improved, but the strap may be cut, torn, or broken which compromises the anti-tamper detection capability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment to garmentVSAvoidtamper detection integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The anti-tamper circuit is pre-configured in a closed state before the garment is cut or altered. The extended pads in the second region create a continuous conductive path that will be interrupted if the garment is tampered with, allowing detection of cutting or tearing actions that occur after attachment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The design anticipates potential damage to the strap by providing a redundant detection mechanism through the secondary port. Even if the main UHF antenna connection is compromised, the anti-tamper circuit can still detect and report the tampering event, cushioning against the loss of primary functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Reliability

If the secondary port pads are extended to prevent damage to the UHF antenna, then the protection of the antenna is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveantenna protectionVSAvoidstrap structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The anti-tamper functionality is merged into the existing strap structure by extending the pads in the second region rather than adding a separate protection mechanism. This integration achieves antenna protection and tamper detection without significantly increasing overall device complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The extended pads in the second region serve multiple functions: they provide the secondary port for tamper detection, extend the protective coverage over the UHF antenna, and maintain the conductive path for low-frequency pulse detection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 reliable tamper detection by ensuring the secondary port maintains functionality even when the strap is attached to a garment, preventing damage to the UHF antenna and maintaining remote readability.

Implementation Method 1

RFID tags or integrated circuits include a microprocessor, also known as a microchip, electrically connected to an antenna

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

determination of the connection state of the secondary port is determined by a low frequency pulse, which does not couple efficiently via the capacitance that couples the UHF connection to the antenna

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCapacitive coupling: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentEP3350751B1RFID tag with Anti-tamper assembly

Publication Date: 2025.10.29 AVERY DENNISON RETAIL INFORMATION SERVICES LLC

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AI summary

The present invention discloses a multi-port strap device having multiple pads that can combine a connection to an RFID antenna and a sensing function, such as an open or closed circuit state, into the same structure.