Wearable RFID Tag Range Extension for Priority Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable wireless communication systems, such as those using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), have limited operational lifetimes due to reliance on commercial off-the-shelf active wireless protocols, which are not suitable for long-term monitoring in environments like the International Space Station (ISS).
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing RFID tags with a range extension mode and priority handling to manage power consumption, allowing high-priority data transmission over a longer range and switching to a standard mode for low-power operation when necessary, using a store-and-forward protocol for data collection and transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If active wireless protocols like BLE are used for wearable sensors, then wireless communication capability is achieved, but operational lifetime is limited to a few days due to high power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag dynamically switches between two communication modes: range extension mode for high-priority data transmission and range standard mode for normal operation. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize power consumption by using high-power mode only when necessary, thereby extending operational lifetime while maintaining communication capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes communication parameters by switching between different power draw levels and communication ranges based on data priority. When high-priority samples are detected, the tag transitions to range extension mode with higher power draw and extended range; otherwise, it operates in standard mode with lower power consumption, directly addressing the energy-lifetime tradeoff.
2Length of stationary object
If range extension mode is activated to transmit high priority samples, then communication range is extended, but power draw increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic monitoring of data priority levels and switches between communication modes accordingly. Range extension mode is activated periodically only when high-priority samples are present, and deactivated when only low-priority samples remain, creating a rhythmic pattern of high and low power states that balances communication needs with energy conservation.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag preliminarily determines the priority level of samples before initiating transmission. By identifying high-priority data in advance, the system can proactively switch to range extension mode only when necessary, avoiding unnecessary high-power operation and thereby reducing overall power draw while ensuring communication range is available when needed.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple samples are stored in memory, then data collection capability is improved, but data transmission efficiency decreases due to lack of priority handling
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments stored samples into distinct priority categories: high-priority samples and low-priority samples. This segmentation allows the RFID tag to selectively transmit high-priority data first when in range extension mode, improving transmission efficiency by ensuring critical data is delivered promptly while non-critical data can be transmitted later or with lower priority.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback through priority level determination, where the RFID tag continuously assesses the priority of stored samples and adjusts transmission behavior accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that transmission efficiency is optimized by always prioritizing the most important data for transmission when communication opportunities arise.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes acquiring one or more samples using a sensor of an RFID tag. The method also includes storing the one or more samples in a memory of the RFID tag. The method also includes determining a priority level for each of the one or more samples in the memory. Each of the one or more samples is either a high priority sample with the high priority level or a low priority sample with the low priority level. The method also includes switching the RFID tag from a range standard mode to a range extension mode in response to determining that the one or more samples stored in the memory includes the high priority sample with the high priority level. The method also includes transferring custody of the high priority sample with the high priority level to the RFID reader while the range extension mode is activated.