RFID Tag Memory Segmentation for Lab Consumables
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing use of user memory on RFID tags for storing temporary data in laboratory instruments reduces memory capacity for permanent information, requires complex data management, and slows down workflows due to the need for multiple commands to access and link unique identifiers (UID) with temporary data, especially in large-scale reagent or sample processing systems.
Innovation Solution
Storing temporary data in the system memory of RFID tags associated with laboratory instruments, allowing for single-command access and transmission of UID and dynamic data, thereby accelerating the identification process and reducing communication time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If temporary data is stored in the user memory part of the RFID tag, then the data can be accessed, but the memory capacity for permanent information like reagent fluid content or expiration date is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the RFID tag memory into distinct functional areas: system memory (for permanent data like UID, AFI, EAS) and user memory (for temporary process data). This segmentation allows permanent information to be stored in the system memory while temporary data occupies only the necessary portion of user memory, preventing capacity reduction for critical permanent information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the temporary data storage function from the user memory and implements it in a dedicated manner within the memory structure. By allocating specific blocks in user memory for temporary process data while preserving the system memory for permanent information, the solution takes out the conflicting requirements and assigns them to appropriate memory regions.
2Productivity
If temporary data is stored in the user memory part of the RFID tag, then the data can be stored, but multiple reading commands are needed to link UID to temporary data, slowing down the workflow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the UID and temporary process data into a single accessible memory location within the user memory. By storing the temporary data in blocks that are directly associated with the UID in the same memory access context, the system can retrieve both the UID and the temporary data in a single reading command, eliminating the time loss from multiple sequential commands.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the user memory part is used for temporary data, then dynamic data can be stored, but the memory area needs to be defined and kept free during production, leading to huge effort in agreement between different departments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designating specific blocks within the user memory for temporary process data, while leaving other portions available for permanent information. This localized allocation allows the memory structure to accommodate both temporary and permanent data requirements without requiring extensive coordination during production, as the segmentation is clearly defined and standardized.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for storing temporary data in a memory (114) of a RFID tag (106) associated with a consumable (104) of a laboratory instrument (102) for processing a reagent or biological sample is disclosed. The method comprises providing the RFID tag (106) associated with the consumable (104), wherein the RFID tag (106) comprises a memory (114), wherein the memory (114) comprises a user memory (116), which is configured to store user data, and a system memory (118), which is configured to store system data, and the laboratory instrument (102) writing the temporary data into the system memory (118), wherein the temporary data are associated with a process to be carried out by the laboratory instrument (102). Further, a system (100) comprising a laboratory instrument (102) for processing a reagent or biological sample, a consumable (104) and a RFID tag (106) associated with the consumable (104) is disclosed. The laboratory instrument (102) is configured to carry out the method.