Weight-Sensing RFID Tags for Container Fill-Level Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RFID-based inventory management systems fail to effectively monitor the internal contents and fill levels of product containers, leading to delays and increased replacement costs due to inadequate tracking of consumable products.
Innovation Solution
A product management system utilizing a weight-sensing RFID tag with an integrated antenna, circuit, and flexible structure within a container, which changes its physical state in response to the weight of the product, transmitting this information to an RFID reader for accurate quantity determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional RFID tags are used for inventory tracking, then product identification is achieved, but internal contents and fill level monitoring is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines RFID tag functionality with weight sensing capabilities into a single integrated device. The RFID tag includes an antenna, integrated circuit, and weight sensing element that work together to provide both identification and quantity monitoring functions, eliminating the need for separate sensing devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag is designed to perform multiple functions: product identification through RFID communication and quantity monitoring through weight sensing. This multi-functional approach allows a single device to replace traditional single-purpose RFID tags and separate weight measurement systems.
2Measurement precision
If weight sensing RFID tag is implemented, then product quantity monitoring is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The weight sensing element utilizes flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) technology with thin film structures. The antenna and sensing elements are fabricated on flexible substrates using standard FPCB manufacturing processes, enabling precise weight measurement while maintaining ease of production through established manufacturing techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag integrates multiple materials and components including flexible circuit board material, conductive traces for the antenna, and weight sensing elements. This composite structure combines the properties of different materials to achieve both measurement precision and manufacturability through standardized fabrication processes.
3Ease of operation
If RFID reader is placed at a distance from container, then system convenience is improved, but signal transmission reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag incorporates a locally optimized antenna design with enhanced signal characteristics. The antenna geometry and impedance matching are specifically tailored to maximize signal strength and transmission efficiency, enabling reliable communication even when the reader is positioned at a distance or in less than ideal locations.
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 precise monitoring of product quantities within containers, reducing replacement delays and costs by providing real-time data on remaining products, suitable for everyday packaging and consumer use.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic structure separating the at least two layers or films, the at least two layers of films and elastic structure cooperating to determine the weight of product in the container by the elastic structure physically changing the at least two layers of film relative to the weight of product in the container
Implementation Method 2
a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader located a distance from the container; an antenna, an integrated circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A system of managing product at a location in which a weight-sensing RFID tag is utilized to determine the weight or pressure applied to a substrate and then this information is read by an RFID reader and then transmitted to a data storage repository and processing program for further handling of the data. The data storage repository and processing program may be near the RFID reader or may be remotely located with respect to the RFID reader.