RFID Tag Flag Mounting for Cable Bundle Signal Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID tag devices are sub-optimal for environments with high cable density, such as vehicle wiring looms, as they are difficult to read and write due to the proximity of metal cables, which can detune the RFID signal and cause movement-related reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
A combined RFID tag and label device that includes a plastic flag with an encapsulated RFID tag and a tie mount, allowing the device to be securely fastened to elongate objects like cables or pipes, while maintaining a slight proud position to minimize signal interference from metal objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the RFID tag is attached close to the cable bundle, then the physical association is strong and visibility is good, but the metal cables detune the RFID signal and reduce reading reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a non-metallic mounting structure (plastic flag with tie mount) as an intermediary between the RFID tag and the metal cable bundle. This mediator physically attaches the tag to the cables while electrically isolating it from metal interference, allowing close proximity without signal detuning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a simple plastic flag with tie mount instead of complex metallic mounting structures. This inexpensive non-metallic solution effectively isolates the RFID tag from metal cables without requiring expensive shielding or complex attachment mechanisms.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the flag is positioned proud from the cable bundle, then signal interference is reduced, but the physical association and stability during reading may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic positioning system where the flag can be adjusted to achieve optimal positioning - close enough for stability and visibility, but proud enough to reduce metal interference. The tie mount allows the flag to be secured at the appropriate distance from the cable bundle.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of positioning the flag only in the radial direction (close to or far from cables), the patent uses the longitudinal dimension (proud position along the cable length) to achieve signal isolation while maintaining physical association through the tie mount attachment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a separate label and RFID tag are used, then functionality is comprehensive, but the device complexity and installation steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the label function (visual identification on the flag) and RFID tag function (electronic data storage) into a single integrated device. The plastic flag serves as both the visible label and the mounting structure for the RFID tag, eliminating the need for separate label and tag components.
Solution Approach 2:
The plastic flag performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides visual identification through printed labels, serves as a mounting structure for the RFID tag, and acts as a stabilizing element when positioned proud from the cable bundle. This multi-functional design reduces overall 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
The device provides reliable and efficient data storage and retrieval for cable bundles and pipes by ensuring close physical association with the object, reducing signal interference, and maintaining stability during reading and writing processes.
Implementation Method 1
The flag includes an RFID tag configured to provide remote-readable RFID data to an RFID reader
Data Source
AI summary
A combined RFID tag and label device for attaching an elongate object such as a cable, cable bundle, or pipe. The device comprises a plastic flag having a display surface to carry a visible identification code or label for the device and includes an encapsulated RFID tag configured to provide remote-readable RFID data to an RFID reader. The device includes a device tie and a tie mount which are configured such that, after fastening, the flag has a central longitudinal axis which lies above, and is aligned parallel to, a longitudinal axis of the elongate object where the device is fastened.