RFID Syringe Nest Localization Using ML Read Parameters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mass reading methods for RFID-tagged syringes in nests fail to accurately determine the exact position of each syringe within the nest, impacting processing efficiency during filling operations.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing a conveyor, RFID antennas, and a machine learning model to analyze read-related parameters and tag sensitivity of RFID tags, enabling precise localization of syringes within a nest by determining their column and seat positions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If mass reading method is used to read RFID tags of syringes in nest, then reading efficiency is improved, but location precision of each syringe deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereading efficiencyVSAvoidlocation precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the mass reading process into individual syringe-level readings by positioning the RFID reader to read syringes one at a time as they pass through the reading zone on the conveyor, while still maintaining high throughput. This allows precise location identification (which chimney/seat each syringe occupies) without sacrificing overall reading efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If RFID tags are integrated into syringes for traceability, then traceability capability is improved, but device complexity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraceability capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The RFID tag serves multiple functions: it provides unique identification for traceability, enables location identification within the nest through read parameter analysis, and facilitates automated tracking throughout the manufacturing process. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate tracking systems, ultimately simplifying the overall system despite the added RFID component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If exact position of each syringe is determined, then processing efficiency is improved, but system complexity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with an RFID-based detection system. Instead of using mechanical sensors or cameras to locate each syringe, the system uses RFID read parameters (signal strength, phase, etc.) to determine which chimney/seat each syringe occupies, significantly reducing system complexity while maintaining precise location identification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Accurately registers the location of each RFID-tagged syringe within a nest, enhancing processing efficiency and facilitating controlled filling operations.

Implementation Method 1

a RFID reader operably connected with the one or more RFID antennas and configured to perform a mass reading of the device RFID tags and a reading of the nest RFID tag

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP4679316A1System and method for RFID-based localization of medical injection devices in a nest using machine learning modeling
Publication Date: 2026.01.14 BECTON DICKINSON & CO
  • EP4679316A1 patent drawingFigure 1A
  • EP4679316A1 patent drawingFigure 1B
  • EP4679316A1 patent drawingFigure 1C

AI summary

Provided herein is a system for localizing RFID-tagged medical injection devices in a nest. The system includes a conveyor that conveys nests along a conveying path, each of the nests retaining RFID-tagged medical injection devices. RFID coupling elements and a RFID reader are positioned at a reading location along the conveying path, to read the RFID-tagged medical injection devices via a mass reading and to read the RFID-tagged nest when passing the reading location, including reading identifiers associated with the devices and the nest, as well as read-related parameters of the devices. A ML model receives a model input from the mass reading comprising the UDIs and read-related parameters of the device RFID tags and determines a location of each of the RFID-tagged medical injection devices within the nest based on analysis of the read-related parameters by the ML model.