RFID Tag Management Device for Frequency Band Transition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing RFID tag management systems do not efficiently transfer information from an old RFID tag to a new one when the frequency band changes, requiring manual effort and potential data loss.

Innovation Solution

A tag management device and method that includes a signal detection unit to read data from both old and new RFID tags and a write unit to transfer data from the old tag to the new tag, utilizing a CPU, RFID module, and user interface to facilitate seamless frequency switching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If RFID tags are exchanged due to frequency band changes, then compatibility with new frequency bands is improved, but data transfer efficiency and ease of operation deteriorate due to manual intervention requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency band compatibilityVSAvoiddata transfer operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables automatic data transfer between old and new RFID tags without requiring manual intervention. The management device automatically detects both tags, reads data from the old tag, and writes it to the new tag, allowing the system to serve itself during the frequency transition process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The management device detects and identifies both the old and new RFID tags before executing the data transfer. This preliminary detection and identification ensures that the correct tags are selected for the transition, preventing errors during the frequency band change.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If manual data transfer is performed during frequency changes, then data consistency can be maintained, but productivity and time efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata consistencyVSAvoidtag exchange efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The management device automatically detects the presence of both old and new RFID tags, reads their data, and performs the transfer without requiring manual verification. This automated feedback loop ensures data consistency while significantly improving transfer efficiency compared to manual processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated electronic detection and data transfer. The management device uses electronic signal detection to identify tags and automatically executes data transfer, eliminating the need for manual intervention and improving both reliability and productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If automatic data detection and transfer is implemented, then ease of operation and productivity are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer operationVSAvoidsignal detection and processing system
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The management device is designed to handle multiple functions: detecting old tags, detecting new tags, reading data from old tags, and writing data to new tags. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional device, the system achieves ease of operation without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The management device acts as an intermediary between the old RFID tags and new RFID tags. It automatically detects both tag types, reads data from the old tags, and transfers it to the new tags, simplifying the overall process while managing the technical complexity through a dedicated intermediary system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 easy and accurate transfer of information from an old RFID tag to a new one, reducing administrative effort and ensuring data consistency across frequency changes.

Implementation Method 1

The frequency at which the RFID tag and the reader/writer device communicate with each other is determined to some extent

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10997378B2Tag management device, tag management method, and program
Publication Date: 2021.05.04 NEC CORP
  • US10997378B2 patent drawing
  • US10997378B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A tag management device includes: a signal detection unit that detects a signal which is transmitted from a first tag and which includes data stored in the first tag, and detects a signal which is transmitted from a second tag and which includes data stored in the second tag, the second tag being different from the first tag; and a write unit that writes, in the second tag, data based on the data stored in the first tag.