RFID Tag for Print Consumable Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional label printers face challenges in authenticating consumables, detecting counterfeit rolls, accurately counting labels, and providing real-time information on consumable capacity.
Innovation Solution
The integration of an RFID tag with a print consumable, which includes a rotatable core and a roll of dispensable print substrate, allows for authentication, type detection, and residual life counting through a radio-frequency identification system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical features (holes, tabs) are used to secure and authenticate consumables, then consumable authentication is provided, but these features can be replicated by unauthorized parties leading to counterfeit consumables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical authentication features (holes, tabs) with an RFID tag system that uses radio frequency identification. The RFID tag contains a unique identifier that cannot be easily replicated, providing secure authentication. The printer includes an RFID reader that verifies the authenticity of the consumable by reading the RFID tag, thereby preventing counterfeit consumables from being used.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag acts as an intermediary between the consumable and the printer's authentication system. Instead of direct mechanical verification, the RFID tag mediates the authentication process by providing a unique identifier that the printer's RFID reader can verify, creating a secure link that prevents unauthorized replication.
2Reliability
If electronic features (conducting pins, circuits) are used for authentication, then limited authentication information is provided, but accurate label count detection is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag system performs multiple functions: it provides authentication through a unique identifier, detects the label count through a counter stored in the tag's memory, and can provide information about the consumable type. This multi-functional approach replaces the limited electronic authentication features with a comprehensive system that handles both authentication and precise measurement of label quantity.
3Reliability
If RFID tags are integrated into consumables, then authentication, label counting, and capacity information are provided, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag contains a self-updating counter that automatically tracks the number of labels used. The tag serves itself by maintaining accurate count information without requiring complex external tracking systems. This reduces the overall system complexity because the consumable itself provides the counting function rather than requiring a separate complex measurement system in the printer.
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 solution effectively authenticates consumables, accurately counts labels, and provides real-time capacity information, thereby enhancing the security and operational efficiency of label printing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The RFID tag is secured to the core and configured to rotate about the core axis. The RFID tag includes an RFID antenna coupled to an RFID chip.
Data Source
AI summary
A print consumable may include a rotatable core, a roll of dispensable print substrate, and a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag. The roll of the dispensable print substrate may be dispensably secured to the core. The RFID tag may be secured to the core and configured to rotate about a core axis. The RFID tag includes an RFID antenna coupled to an RFID chip. The RFID chip may include a print counter, a stock-keeping unit (SKU) code, and a consumable authentication code. A print system may include a housing, a holder to hold the print consumable, a print head, a transceiver, a trace antenna for reading an RFID tag of the print consumable, and a controller. The controller may be configured to receive a signal from the transceiver indicative of one or more of the print counter, the SKU code, and the consumable authentication code received from the RFID antenna.