Token Storage Antenna Stacking for RFID Read Precision

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Solution Overview

Problem

In casino environments, existing token storage devices face challenges in accurately reading IC tags for RFID due to the limitations of magnetic field range and interference, leading to reduced reading speed and incorrect identification of tokens.

Innovation Solution

A token storage device with magnetic field generating antennas disposed along the stacking direction of tokens, featuring coiled parts that face each other to optimize magnetic field distribution and minimize unnecessary field extension, along with an inclined storage bottom to facilitate natural stacking and reduce interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If the distance between the IC tag for use in RFID and the antenna is increased, then the scope in which the magnetic field covers can be expanded, but the reading precision deteriorates because IC tags in unwanted positions are also read out

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescope of magnetic field coverageVSAvoidreading precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from horizontal antenna arrangement to vertical stacking arrangement. Multiple antennas are disposed in the stacking direction (depth direction) of the storage part, allowing the magnetic field to cover tokens at different depths without expanding the horizontal coverage area. This dimensional change enables reading tokens away from the antenna while preventing unwanted reading of tokens in other horizontal positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different spatial arrangements to different reading needs. By disposing antennas in the stacking direction, the magnetic field coverage is concentrated vertically along the token stacking path, creating localized effective reading zones for each antenna that prevent interference with tokens in adjacent horizontal positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Area of stationary object

If multiple antennas are used to read IC tags, then the reading coverage can be increased, but the reading speed deteriorates due to repeated reading of the same IC tag by multiple antennas

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereading coverageVSAvoidreading speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent arranges multiple antennas in the stacking direction (depth) rather than horizontally. This vertical arrangement ensures that each antenna is responsible for reading tokens at specific depth positions, creating distinct reading zones along the stacking direction. Tokens at different horizontal positions are read by different antennas, eliminating repeated reading and improving reading speed while maintaining comprehensive coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Area of stationary object

If the strength of the electromagnetic wave outputted from the antenna is increased, then the scope in which the magnetic field covers can be expanded, but the energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescope of magnetic field coverageVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent expands magnetic field coverage by arranging multiple antennas in the stacking direction rather than increasing the strength of individual antennas. Each antenna operates at normal power levels, but the vertical arrangement ensures that the combined coverage encompasses all tokens in the storage part, achieving expanded coverage without increased energy consumption per antenna.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 configuration allows for accurate and efficient reading of IC tags without increasing the magnetic field magnitude, preventing unwanted token identification and enhancing reading speed by ensuring the magnetic field only drives intended tags.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic field generating antenna disposed along a direction in which the tokens are stacked so as to develop electromotive force by exerting a magnetic field on each of the feeder antennas

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8998088B2Token storage device
Publication Date: 2015.04.07 UNIVERSAL ENTERTAINMENT CORP
  • US8998088B2 patent drawing
  • US8998088B2 patent drawing
  • US8998088B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a chip tray which is capable of accurately reading out an IC tag for use in RFID without increasing a magnitude of a magnetic field generated by an antenna. A magnetic field generating antenna is disposed along a direction in which a plurality of tokens having embedded therein feeder antennas of IC tags for use in RFID are stacked.