Segmented Tire RFID Antenna for Precise Resonance Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID tags for tires face challenges in precise resonance tuning due to limited tunability of linear-antenna transponders, especially when embedded in high dielectric materials, which affects their performance and can lead to material defects or damage.
Innovation Solution
The RFID antenna is constructed with multiple segments of different shapes and pitches, allowing for finer tunability by adjusting individual segments and total antenna length, while maintaining a minimal footprint to avoid damaging the tire during manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the antenna length is reduced to tune resonance frequency, then the resonance frequency can be adjusted, but the tunability is limited and frequency steps are large
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is divided into multiple segments along its length, where each segment can be independently adjusted in terms of length, position, or geometric configuration. This segmentation enables fine-grained control over the antenna's resonant frequency, allowing precise tuning without requiring large changes to the overall antenna length. The cumulative effect of adjusting multiple segments provides continuous frequency adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna structure incorporates adjustable elements that can be dynamically modified during or after the embedding process. This may include variable length segments, adjustable geometric parameters, or reconfigurable elements that allow the antenna to be tuned to different resonant frequencies based on the specific embedding conditions and dielectric environment.
2Reliability
If the transponder is embedded inside the tire to ensure permanent connection, then the tire identification is permanent, but it creates material defects and air enclosures that may damage the tire
Solution Approach 1:
The transponder is encapsulated in a flexible, thin-walled protective shell or capsule that can be embedded into the tire structure. This capsule design allows the transponder to be permanently integrated into the tire while minimizing disruption to the tire's material continuity. The flexible shell conforms to the tire structure and reduces the creation of air enclosures and material defects compared to rigid encapsulation methods.
3Measurement precision
If the antenna segments are made with different shapes and pitches to improve tuning, then the resonance precision is enhanced, but the antenna structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Different segments of the antenna are designed with locally optimized geometric properties such as varying diameters, lengths, or cross-sectional shapes. Each segment's geometry is tailored to contribute specifically to the overall resonant frequency tuning, allowing precise frequency control while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. The local geometric variations are concentrated in specific regions rather than distributed uniformly throughout the entire antenna.
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 approach enhances the resonance tuning precision and overall performance of RFID transponders embedded in tires, reducing the risk of material defects and ensuring seamless integration without compromising the tire's functionality or lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
Small reflections of the electro-magnetic signal arise at the transitions between the segments and influence the resonance frequency
Implementation Method 2
two radiators formed of a conductive material
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2(a)~2(b)
Figure 3(a)~3(b)
AI summary
Tuneable linear-antenna transponders and methods of making and using thereof are described herein. In some embodiments, the transponder includes two radiators formed of a conductive material, wherein the radiators may be identical or different. In some embodiments, the radiators are divided into a multitude of segments, wherein each segment is in the form of a linear segment or helical spring segment or cylindrical segment. In some embodiments, two of the consecutive segments are different in either shape and/or pitch of the helical spring. The distinct transmission line segments provide additional degrees of freedom, which enables finer/improved tunability of the antenna resonance.