Virtual RFID Read Zone for Non-Enabled Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RFID technologies are limited in their ability to read data from RFID tags in environments where a non-RFID enabled device is present, as they lack the capability to simulate an RFID read zone, restricting their application beyond storage and inventory management.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that enable a non-RFID enabled device to determine a virtual read zone using its location and orientation, allowing data from RFID tags to be read and transmitted using a fixed RFID reader device, which can be activated through various user interfaces or mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a non-RFID enabled device is used, then device accessibility and versatility are improved, but the ability to read RFID tag data is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary between the non-RFID enabled device and the RFID tag. The server receives location information from the mobile device, identifies appropriate fixed RFID readers, and retrieves tag data on behalf of the mobile device, enabling RFID functionality without requiring the mobile device itself to be RFID-capable
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual read zone that replicates the functionality of a physical RFID read zone. By calculating virtual coordinates based on mobile device location and orientation, the system creates a digital representation of the RFID reading capability that can be accessed by non-RFID devices
2Reliability
If fixed RFID reader devices are deployed, then RFID tag data reading capability is improved, but system complexity and infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Fixed RFID reader devices are designed to serve multiple functions: they directly read RFID tags in their physical read zones and also serve virtual read zones created by mobile devices. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated infrastructure while maintaining comprehensive RFID coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables mobile devices to self-determine their virtual read zone coordinates based on their own location and orientation data, eliminating the need for complex centralized calculation systems. The mobile device independently generates the virtual zone parameters and communicates them to the server
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
Enables the reading and transmission of RFID tag data in virtual read zones, expanding the application of RFID systems beyond traditional storage and inventory management to other environments and devices.
Implementation Method 1
The tag receives the signal and responds by modulating the signal and then 'backscattering' an information response signal to the reader device
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for obtaining data of a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag in a virtual read zone of a non-RFID enabled device. The method comprises determining (505) a location of the non-RFID enabled device, determining (510) a virtual read zone of the non-RFID enabled device using at least the location of the non-RFID enabled device, identifying (515) at least one fixed reader device having an RFID read zone that at least partially includes the virtual read zone, reading (520) data of the RFID tag using the at least one fixed reader device, and transmitting (525) the data of the RFID tag from the at least one fixed reader device to the non-RFID enabled device.