RFID Device Direct Electrical Voltage Level Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

RFID systems lack the ability to selectively set voltage or current levels on electronic devices to varying levels, limiting their functionality and adaptability in applications requiring different operational states.

Innovation Solution

An RFID device with an antenna, processor, and interface is used for direct electrical communication with electronic devices to selectively set voltage or current levels to one of at least three different levels, either based on received instructions or sensor readings, enabling flexible operation of electronic devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If RFID systems use traditional electromagnetic coupling for remote data storage and retrieval, then line of sight connection is precluded, but the ability to selectively set voltage or current levels on electronic devices is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote data accessVSAvoidvoltage level control
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines RFID electromagnetic coupling capability with direct electrical communication interface in a single device. The RFID device includes both antenna elements for wireless communication and electrical interface elements (pins, pads, or connectors) for direct electrical connection, allowing simultaneous achievement of remote data access and voltage level control functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The RFID device is designed to perform multiple functions: traditional RFID data storage and retrieval via electromagnetic coupling, plus the additional capability of selectively setting voltage or current levels on electronic devices through direct electrical communication. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction by making the device adaptable to both remote access and precise electrical control applications

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If RFID device establishes direct electrical communication with electronic device, then voltage or current level control is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational state controlVSAvoidcommunication interface
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the electrical communication interface directly into the RFID device structure, combining wireless RFID functionality with wired electrical control capability in a single unified device rather than requiring separate components, thereby managing complexity through integration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The electrical interface is designed to be universal, supporting multiple voltage levels (at least three different levels) and applicable to various electronic devices, which reduces the need for device-specific customization and manages complexity through standardized multi-functional design

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

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

This solution allows for the precise control of electronic devices, enhancing their functionality and adaptability by enabling different operational states, such as varying tone, intensity, or functionality based on set voltage or current levels, improving their performance and usability in diverse applications.

Implementation Method 1

As an RFID tag operates in the radio frequency (RF) portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, an electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling can occur between an RFID tag affixed to an item and an RFID tag reader.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

As an RFID tag operates in the radio frequency (RF) portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, an electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling can occur between an RFID tag affixed to an item and an RFID tag reader.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrostatic coupling: Electrostatics

Data Source

PatentUS8068012B2RFID device and system for setting a level on an electronic device
Publication Date: 2011.11.29 ZEST LABS INC
  • US8068012B2 patent drawing
  • US8068012B2 patent drawing
  • US8068012B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system in one embodiment includes an electronic device; and a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) device in direct electrical communication with the electronic device for selectively setting a voltage or current on the electronic device to one of at least three different levels. A Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) device in another embodiment includes an antenna; a processor in communication with the antenna; and an interface in communication with the processor, the interface being adapted for direct electrical communication with an electronic device for selectively setting a voltage or current on the electronic device to one of at least three different levels. Additional systems and methods are also presented.