Flexible Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) Tag Antenna for Sensor Applications

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Electromagnetics

Background:

• Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is crucial for automated identification and tracking.
• Developing low-cost, flexible, and mass-producible RFID tags for sensor applications remains a challenge.
• Ultra-high frequency (UHF) RFID offers advantages in read range and data transfer rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and investigate an inkjet-printed flexible RFID tag antenna for UHF sensor applications.
• To demonstrate a system-level solution for cost-effective and rapid mass production of RFID passive tag antennas.
• To evaluate the performance of the proposed tag antenna under various practical conditions.

Main Methods:

• Design of a modified meander line radiator with a semi-circular feed network.
• Inkjet printing of the antenna structure on photo paper using silver nanoparticle conductive ink.
• Simulation and experimental measurement of antenna performance, including radiation pattern and read range.

Main Results:

• The proposed tag antenna covers the universal UHF RFID band.
• Achieved an omnidirectional radiation pattern and a measured read range of 15 ft.
• Demonstrated consistent read range across different bending angles and over time, indicating good durability.

Conclusions:

• The inkjet-printed flexible RFID tag antenna is a viable solution for UHF sensor applications.
• The proposed design enables low-cost, high-volume manufacturing of robust RFID tags.
• The antenna's performance characteristics support its use in diverse and demanding environments.