RFID Tag Backscatter Mechanism for Multi-Code Inventory
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Solution Overview
Problem
RFID systems face inefficiencies in reading multiple codes from tags, especially when there are many tags or when items are moving, due to the need for separate commands and limited time for reading.
Innovation Solution
RFID tags and integrated circuits that store a first and second code, capable of backscattering a combination of these codes without receiving intermediate commands, allowing for simultaneous reading of both codes during a single transaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate commands are used to read multiple codes from each tag, then data accuracy is improved, but reading time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple code reading operations into a single transaction. The reader sends one command that triggers the tag to backscatter multiple codes (first code, second code, and optionally third code) in sequence without requiring intermediate commands. This merging of operations maintains data accuracy while dramatically reducing the time required for inventorying multiple tags.
Solution Approach 2:
The tag continuously backscatters multiple codes in an unbroken sequence during a single transaction, eliminating the interruptions that would occur with separate commands. This continuous transmission of useful data (multiple codes) maximizes the efficiency of each reader-tag interaction, especially important when items are moving or time is limited.
2Reliability
If multiple separate transactions are used to read different codes, then code retrieval reliability is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple code retrieval operations into a single reliable transaction. By designing the tag to store and backscatter multiple codes (first code in memory, second code in buffer, optionally third code) within one transaction, the system achieves both high reliability (all codes retrieved in one go) and high productivity (no repeated transactions needed), resolving the contradiction between these two parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The tag prepares multiple codes for transmission in advance by storing the first code in memory and pre-loading the second code into the buffer before the transaction begins. This preliminary preparation ensures that all codes are ready for immediate backscatter when the single command is received, maintaining reliability while accelerating the overall process.
3Device complexity
If traditional RFID reading methods are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but the ability to read codes during manufacturing is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the RFID tag universal by enabling it to provide multiple types of codes (first code for identification, second code for authentication, third code for manufacturing data) through a single reading operation. This multi-functionality allows the same tag hardware to serve both manufacturing purposes (reading all codes including buffer and additional memory codes) and field deployment purposes (reading identification codes), without increasing device complexity.
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 approach reduces the time required for inventorying tags and enables reading of codes during manufacturing that may not be readily available in the field, improving the speed and efficiency of data retrieval.
Implementation Method 1
The tag generates the transmitted back RF wave either originally, or by reflecting back a portion of the interrogating RF wave in a process known as backscatter.
Data Source
AI summary
RFID reader systems, readers, components, software and methods cause RFID tags to backscatter a combination made from at least portions of a first code and a second code, without transmitting any commands in the interim. The first and/or second codes may include a tag response to a reader challenge. In a number of embodiments, a separate command does not have to be sent for reading the second code along with the first code, thereby saving time in inventorying the tags. Plus, the combination can enable reading tag codes during tag manufacturing that are not otherwise readily available to read in the field. In some embodiments, the combination may further include one or more error-checking codes.