Multi-State Logging Freeze Detection Passive RFID Tags

In this paper, the design and measurement of a passive UHF RFID smart tag suitable for monitoring and recording critical temperature violations in cold chain management are presented. The tag uses moving parts to detect and log different temperate states without the requirement for transceivers, memory, and batteries. A simple mechanical method is proposed whereby a moving metallic plate is trapped in one of four possible positions by specific environmental temperatures whereby inducing a permanent state-based change in the passive RFID tag response. The latched product critical temperature violations can be monitored via the read power required to turn on the tag transponder chip, which differs in each state.