RFID Tag With Integrated Optical Code Reader

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing RFID systems require an optical scanner to synchronize tag data from RFID tags with code data from optical codes, which is time-consuming and prone to mismatches, making it difficult to reuse RFID tags.

Innovation Solution

An RFID tag with a built-in sampling circuit that reads optical codes, such as UPC-A symbols, to obtain code data and associate it with tag data, eliminating the need for an optical scanner by using electrically conductive ink and pairs of sampling lines to determine bar and space widths, allowing the RFID tag to transmit both data sets wirelessly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If an optical scanner is used to synchronize tag data with code data, then data association can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and prone to mismatches

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata association accuracyVSAvoidsynchronization time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the RFID tag and optical code reader into a single integrated device. The RFID tag incorporates both radio frequency communication capabilities and optical code reading functionality, allowing simultaneous or sequential execution of both functions without requiring separate devices, thereby reducing time and improving reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The RFID tag performs self-association of tag data and code data through its integrated optical reader. The device automatically reads the optical code, extracts code data, and associates it with the tag data stored in the RFID tag's memory, eliminating the need for external synchronization equipment and manual intervention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If an optical scanner is used to read optical codes, then code data can be obtained, but additional equipment and complexity are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata reading capabilityVSAvoidsystem equipment

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The RFID tag is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a radio frequency identification device and an optical code reader. This universal device can perform wireless data transmission via RFID and optical code reading/scanning functions, eliminating the need for separate optical scanners and reducing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the functions of an RFID tag and an optical scanner into a single integrated unit. The device combines radio frequency transceiver circuitry with optical reading capabilities, allowing one device to perform multiple data acquisition functions that previously required separate equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If RFID tags are reused, then resource efficiency improves, but data synchronization becomes difficult without optical scanners

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetag reuse efficiencyVSAvoidsynchronization requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated RFID tag with built-in optical reader enables self-synchronization during reuse operations. When the tag is removed from one item and attached to another, it can automatically read the new item's optical code and update its associated data without requiring external synchronization equipment, facilitating easy reuse

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The RFID tag performs preliminary reading of the optical code before finalizing data association. This preliminary action ensures that the tag data is synchronized with the correct code data before the tag is fully activated or used, preventing mismatches during reuse operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables efficient and accurate synchronization of RFID tag data with optical code data without requiring an optical scanner, reducing time and effort, and allowing for easy reuse of RFID tags by embedding the sampling circuit during manufacture or deployment.

Implementation Method 1

optical scanners have been used, in both handheld and/or hands-free modes of operation, to electro-optically read optical codes, such as one- and/or two-dimensional bar code symbols, each bearing elements, e.g., bars and spaces, of different widths and reflectivities

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

The RFID tag responds to the interrogation signal by modulating the interrogation signal in accordance with its tag data

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRadio frequency electromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8836480B2Radio frequency identification tag and arrangement and method of associating tag data from the tag with code data from an optical code on the tag

Publication Date: 2014.09.16 SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES LLC

AI summary

A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag includes a substrate, and an optical code and an RFID assembly on the substrate. The optical code is encoded with code data. The RFID assembly contains tag data. The RFID assembly is operative for reading the optical code to obtain the code data, for associating the tag data with the code data, and for sending the associated tag data and the associated code data by radio frequency away from the RFID tag upon interrogation of the RFID tag by an RF interrogator.