Smart Label

Smart Label, also called smart tags are ultra-thin passive RFID tags that are applied to a film with antenna ( Inlay). This film is wound on reels and can be further processed, such as paper. In particular, they can be laminated between paper layers and thus integrated into conventional labels ( hence the name). It is also the integration into smart cards. Other terms often used are disposable transponder, Intelligent paper.

In many processes, the logistics of the barcode has been established as an important auto-ID technology. Mostly he is either printed directly on the packaging of the objects ( such as retail ) or on a label, which is then glued to the object ( eg in the range identification). Radio Frequency Identification ( RFID) has properties that are in some respects superior to the barcode, such as non-contact reading. One obstacle, however, is their design, they have a relatively large volume and are relatively bulky and difficult to fix. Much easier it is a transponder into existing processes integrate if it has properties similar to the labels used. Based on this question, and in the course of the progressive miniaturization of components, the smart label have been developed.

New is not the technology of RFID, but the production process, so that the functionalities of the products and target markets represent the essentially new.

Smart Label is available for different frequency ranges (HF, UHF). They communicate via inductive or electromagnetic coupling with the reading device. A battery as a power supply is not required since the necessary energy from the field of the reader according to the principle of induction is similar to a transformer taken. The chip used is also low in mass production. Thus arise for the Smart Label attractive prizes at relatively good performance.

Smart labels can combine the two Auto-ID techniques barcode and RFID world. First, it can be similarly processed like paper labels and consequently also used anywhere, where previously labeled. Second, they can be produced at prices that allow applications in the mass range and, in particular disposable applications only.

The use of smart label should be in the future everywhere useful where combined solutions enable increased benefits, cost savings and / or system solutions. Combined solutions require thin transponder, which are printed in the application. Add to that that the transponder is flexible. If these requirements are met, it is possible to integrate the technology into existing processes.

• Identification technology