RFID Tag Backscatter Code Combination

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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 without the need for separate command transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If separate commands are transmitted to read multiple codes from RFID tags, then reading accuracy is maintained, but reading speed decreases and time consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereading speedVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple code reading operations into a single RFID communication session. The tag is configured to backscatter multiple codes (first code, second code, and third code) in response to one command from the reader, eliminating the need for separate commands for each code. This combining of reading operations directly increases reading speed and reduces time consumption while maintaining reading accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If multiple separate commands are sent to read different codes, then complete data retrieval is ensured, but productivity decreases due to repeated communication overhead

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinventorying speedVSAvoidnumber of commands transmitted
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple code retrieval operations into a single communication transaction. The RFID tag stores multiple codes (first code in first location, second code in second location, third code in third location) and backscatters them all in response to one reader command. This approach increases productivity by eliminating repeated communication overhead while ensuring complete data retrieval of all stored codes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the RFID tag with multiple codes stored in different locations before the reading operation. The tag is prepared in advance to backscatter these pre-stored codes simultaneously when triggered by a single command, thereby increasing productivity without requiring multiple separate commands during the actual reading process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If RFID tags backscatter multiple codes without intermediate commands, then reading efficiency improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereading efficiencyVSAvoidtag complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the tag's memory into distinct locations (first location, second location, third location), each storing a different code. This segmentation allows the tag to organize multiple codes systematically, enabling efficient simultaneous backscatter operation. The segmented structure manages device complexity through organized memory architecture while maintaining high reading efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 enhances reading speed by eliminating the need for separate command transmission, enabling faster inventorying and coding during manufacturing, and allowing for reading of codes not readily available in the field.

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.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBackscatter: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS8587411B1RFID readers causing RFID tags to backscatter more codes
Publication Date: 2013.11.19 IMPINJ
  • US8587411B1 patent drawing
  • US8587411B1 patent drawing
  • US8587411B1 patent drawing

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.