Transponder Unit Active Signal Modulation for Extended Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional RFID systems, including both passive and active transponders, are limited in data transfer range due to signal weakening with increasing distance between the transponder and the reading device, typically allowing ranges of up to 1 to 2 meters for active transponders and 10 meters for backscatter systems.
Innovation Solution
A transponder unit that sends a modulated signal, simulating a modulation of the reading device's field, allowing the reading device to evaluate it as if it were a conventional transponder, thereby extending the communication range beyond the limitations of conventional systems. This unit includes an electronic circuit with a transmitter comprising an oscillator and a modulator, such as a ring modulator or ASK modulator, to generate and send modulation side bands, ensuring compatibility with existing reading devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If conventional passive or active transponders are used for data transfer, then communication is possible within a certain range, but the data transfer range is limited to 1-2 meters for active transponders and 10 meters for backscatter systems due to signal weakening with increasing distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a signal amplifier unit as an intermediary component between the transponder and the reading device. This amplifier receives the weak signal from the transponder, amplifies it, and retransmits it to the reading device, thereby extending the communication range without compromising signal reliability. The amplifier acts as a mediator that bridges the gap between distant transponder and reader.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the transponder unit to actively participate in signal transmission. Instead of passively responding to reader signals, the transponder can now actively transmit data over extended ranges using the amplifier assistance, making the system more autonomous and less dependent on the reader's signal strength alone.
2Length of stationary object
If the communication range is extended beyond conventional limits, then data transfer over longer distances is achieved, but compatibility with existing reading devices must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The signal amplifier unit is designed with universal functionality that works across different RFID frequency bands and communication protocols. It can amplify signals from various transponder types while maintaining compatibility with existing reading devices, making the extended range solution universally applicable without requiring device-specific modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts transmission parameters such as signal amplification factor, frequency, and modulation depth to maintain compatibility with existing reading devices while extending communication range. By changing these parameters adaptively, the system achieves both extended range and broad device compatibility.
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
The solution significantly increases the data transfer range, allowing communication over distances many times greater than conventional systems, while maintaining compatibility with existing RFID reading devices and allowing both passive and active transponders to operate within the same range without interference.
Implementation Method 1
a transponder unit (1) which sends a signal to a transponder reading device (100), in particular an RFID reading device, by means of modulation of its own field
Implementation Method 2
The electronic circuit of the inventive transponder unit comprises a transmitter consisting of an oscillator and a modulator
Implementation Method 3
the modulator comprises a ring modulator... Before being supplied to the ring modulator, the data signal can be modulated with a subcarrier
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a transponder unit (1) and to a method for transmitting data between the transponder unit and a reader (100). The aim of the invention is to increase the transmission range of the transponder unit (1) to the reader (100). For this purpose, means are integrated into the transponder unit (1) for actively transmitting a signal to the reader (100). The reader (100) evaluates said signal as a modulation of its own field (110) by a transponder.