RFID Virtual Memory Architecture for Fast Low-Cost Tag Data Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID systems face limitations due to small, unchangeable memory in RFID tags, leading to high costs and slow data processing in dynamic processes, limiting flexibility and scalability, especially in large-scale object identification and tracking applications.
Innovation Solution
An RFID system with a database that stores virtual images of RFID data carrier memories, allowing flexible and fast data access and management through a computer unit, expanding memory capacity virtually without physical expansion and enabling real-time data processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If RFID tags with small memory are used to keep costs low, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but data storage capacity and flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a virtual memory dimension by storing data in a database on a reader/write unit rather than relying solely on the physical memory of the RFID tag. This dimensional shift from physical tag memory to external database storage resolves the contradiction by providing virtually unlimited storage capacity while keeping tags simple and inexpensive.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a database as an intermediary between the RFID tag and the read/write unit. The database mediates data storage and retrieval operations, allowing the system to access large amounts of data without requiring the RFID tag itself to have large memory capacity. This intermediary resolves the contradiction by decoupling storage capacity from tag complexity.
2Quantity of substance
If larger memory is provided in RFID tags, then data storage capacity is increased, but data transfer time increases due to low transmission rates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-loading data into the database on the reader/write unit before RFID tags need to be read. Data can be prepared and organized in advance in the database, so when tags are processed, the system can quickly retrieve and transfer only the necessary information, reducing actual data transfer time during dynamic processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the data storage function from the RFID tag itself and places it in an external database. This extraction allows the RFID tags to remain simple with minimal memory, while the bulk data storage and processing occurs in the external database where higher data transfer rates are achievable, thus reducing time loss.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional user memory is added to RFID tags, then data flexibility is improved, but IC cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the memory functionality by implementing a database that mirrors and extends the capabilities of the physical RFID tag memory. Instead of adding physical memory to expensive tags, the system copies memory functions to an external database, providing the same data flexibility and adaptability at much lower cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the reader/write unit universal by equipping it with a database that can store and manage data for multiple RFID tags simultaneously. This multi-functional approach allows the system to provide flexible data storage and management capabilities that would otherwise require each individual tag to have expensive additional memory, thereby reducing per-tag costs while maintaining versatility.
4Reliability
If access to user memory is required after UID capture, then data security is improved, but access timing becomes problematic in fast dynamic processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by establishing database access permissions and preparing data structures before RFID tags are captured during dynamic processes. The database is pre-configured with access controls and data organization, allowing immediate access to stored data once tags are identified, thus maintaining security while enabling fast access timing critical for dynamic processes.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to an RFID system (1) comprising at least one RFID read/write unit (2) and at least one RFID data carrier (3). The at least one RFID read/write unit (2) is configured to read data from or write data to a memory of the at least one RFID data carrier (3). The at least one RFID read/write unit (2) is connected via a data channel (6) to a database (13) of a computer unit. The database (13) contains at least one virtual memory (14) which holds a virtual representation of the contents of the memory of the at least one RFID data carrier (3).