RFID Antenna and Container Tag Layout for Modular Product Changeover
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing processing systems are static and require extensive mechanical, electrical, and software modifications to produce different products, limiting their configurability and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An RFID system with modular components, including RFID tag assemblies and antenna assemblies, allows for the dynamic configuration of product modules to facilitate the production of various products by enabling seamless integration and identification of ingredients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If processing systems are made static with dedicated components for specific products, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but adaptability and versatility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements RFID technology to enable a single processing system to identify and work with multiple types of containers and products. The RFID readers can detect container types, and the system can automatically adjust parameters to process different products through the same mechanical components, eliminating the need for dedicated hardware for each product type while maintaining manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses RFID data to identify product types and dynamically changes processing parameters such as flow rates, temperatures, and timing settings. This allows the same physical equipment to adapt its operational parameters for different products without mechanical reconfiguration, resolving the contradiction between reliability for specific products and adaptability for product variety.
2Adaptability or versatility
If processing systems are reconfigured to generate different products, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and modification requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical reconfiguration requirements with RFID-based identification and software parameter adjustment. Instead of physically modifying valves, lines, or mechanical components to create new products, the system uses RFID readers to identify container types and software-controlled parameter changes to adapt processing, significantly reducing device complexity while improving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of product information through RFID tags, which contain all necessary identification and specification data. This digital copying approach allows the system to store and access product parameters without physical duplication of components, enabling flexible reconfiguration through data rather than mechanical changes.
3Measurement precision
If RFID tags are positioned on product containers, then measurement precision and identification accuracy are improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by attaching RFID tags directly to product containers, allowing the containers themselves to carry their own identification information. This eliminates the need for separate complex identification systems and reduces overall device complexity, as the RFID infrastructure only requires readers at processing points rather than comprehensive tracking systems throughout the supply chain.
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 flexible and efficient production of diverse products by simplifying the reconfiguration process, reducing the need for extensive modifications and enhancing system adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
an RFID antenna assembly configured to be positioned on a product module assembly of a processing system... A first RFID tag assembly is configured to be positioned on the at least one product container
Data Source
AI summary
An RFID system includes an RFID antenna assembly configured to be positioned on a product module assembly of a processing system. The product module assembly is configured to releasably engage at least one product container. A first RFID tag assembly configured to be positioned on the at least one product container. The at least one product container is configured to position the first RFID tag assembly within a detection zone of the RFID antenna assembly whenever the product module assembly releasably engages the at least one product container.