volume | PIER Journals

Abstract

A compact, flexible, ultra-high-frequency (UHF) radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag antenna is proposed for the long-range identification of non-metallic logistics objects with robust horizontal readability. The antenna consists of an open-frame meandered radiator, an upper transverse coupling path, a central interdigital coupling section, and a lower comb-shaped multi-branch section. Together, these coupled sections extend the effective current path, improve antenna-chip power transfer, and establish a distributed current response over the antenna. The fabricated tag measures 40 mm × 29.5 mm × 0.05 mm. Under an effective isotropic radiated power of 3.28 W, the maximum measured read range is 16.6 m at 919 MHz in free space, with a 0°-360° xoy-plane read range of 15.2-16.6 m. Attachment tolerance is evaluated on PP plastic, folded denim, cardboard, and wood, yielding maximum read ranges of 16.7, 13.2, 11.4, and 11.2 m, respectively. Across all five cases, the horizontal stability coefficient C_s = R_min/R_max is at least 0.895. The proposed coupled multi-section topology provides a distributed-current strategy for simultaneously improving angular readability and attachment robustness in flexible UHF RFID tags.

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Dr. Jie Wu

Dr. Wei Huang

Dr. Lei Ren

Professor Jiade Yuan