Wearable RFID Tag for Robust Communication and Energy Harvesting
ID# 2015-4301
Technology Summary
The disclosed design is a low-profile, small form-factor, and lightweight solution for wearable ultra high frequency RFID tags. Previous tag antennas have failed to overcome the problem of the human body loading effect: when the antenna is located in close proximity to the body the input impedance and radiation gain are significantly affected. In this novel design, however, when the body is in close proximity to the tag antenna, the real part of the impedance increases without affecting the reactance, thereby leading to an increased power transmission of about 70%. For a 30×35 sq. mm and 5mm thick tag antenna, a read range of about 8-10m can be achieved. In addition, the tag antenna can also be designed to match to 50 Ohm load, which would allow operation in both an energy harvesting and a communication mode.
Application & Market Utility
The tracking using RFID technology has been found to be of great interest for a wide variety of applications including patient monitoring, remote healthcare, fire fighter rescue, and indoor/outdoor access. In contrast to conventional RFID technology, the presence of the human body does not adversely affect performance, leading to increased operational range. Further, this RFID antenna has higher gain than competing designs, allowing for more efficient operation.
Next Steps
Covered by U.S. Patent 9,710,746. Seeking licensing opportunities.