Single RFID Reader Layout for Multi-Holder Tool Identification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing RFID-based systems for identifying production means in production machines require multiple readers to distinguish between similar production means, leading to increased component and design costs.

Innovation Solution

A single RFID reader is positioned between two production means holders to detect response signals, utilizing the Manchester protocol, and determines the type of production means based on signal amplitude, allowing identification without requiring multiple readers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple RFID readers are used to identify production means in multiple holders, then identification accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveidentification accuracyVSAvoidnumber of RFID readers
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple identification functions into a single RFID reader by positioning it to detect signals from multiple production means holders simultaneously. The reader evaluates signal characteristics (amplitude, phase, timing) to distinguish between different holders, eliminating the need for multiple separate readers while maintaining identification accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single RFID reader is designed to perform multiple identification functions across different production means holders. By utilizing signal characteristic analysis, the reader universally identifies production means in various holders without requiring holder-specific readers, reducing system complexity while preserving functionality.

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

2Device complexity

If a single RFID reader is used for multiple production means holders, then device complexity is reduced, but difficulty in detecting and measuring increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of RFID readersVSAvoidsignal differentiation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by analyzing specific signal characteristics (amplitude, phase, timing) that vary depending on which production means holder is being detected. Each holder position has distinct signal properties that the reader evaluates to differentiate between holders, transforming a complex measurement problem into manageable local signal analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system utilizes parameter changes in the RFID signal (amplitude, phase, timing) that occur naturally based on the position of the production means in different holders. By detecting these parameter variations, the single reader can distinguish between multiple holders without requiring complex additional hardware, reducing device complexity while solving the detection difficulty.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 reduces recognition effort and costs by enabling a single RFID reader to differentiate between production means in multiple holders, ensuring accurate identification and operation of the production machine.

Implementation Method 1

The RFID reader transmits an excitation signal in the form of a high-frequency electromagnetic field via a loop antenna, which the transponder receives using a receiver coil

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The received excitation signal is modulated according to identification information stored in the RFID transponder

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Modulation: Phase Modulation

Data Source

PatentUS20250390083A1Device and method for recognizing certain production means on a production machine
Publication Date: 2025.12.25 PEPPERL & FUCHS SE
  • US20250390083A1 patent drawing
  • US20250390083A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A production machine for manufacturing or further processing of a product using various types of production means includes at least two spaced-apart production means holders. Each holder is configured to receive a specific type of production means. A respective production means being one of a plurality of production means of the specific type. An RFID reader is arranged or configured between the production means holders so as to receive a response signal from an RFID transponder attached to the production means. The RFID reader being configured or arranged such that the response signal is received with a different amplitude depending on which of the production means holders the production means is arranged.