Embedding Integrated RFID Sensors Into Fiber Reinforced Plastics During The Manufacturing Process

Abstract

This research evaluates the impact of embedding a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag into the structure of a fiber reinforced polymer (FRP). The first portion of the research evaluates the mechanical impacts of embedding the tag through simulation of the stresses that the polymer will be exposed to and then comparing with compression and shear testing of the polymer parts. The second portion of the research evaluates the impact of the reinforcement materials on the transmission of radio frequency to and from the tag. The last portion of the research looks at how the costs of RFID compare to the current use of the FRP materials as well as other sensors that are used in industry. The expected outcome of this research is that the inclusion of the RFID tag adds to the value of the parts that it is included in. This is from the sensing capabilities that are possible, the identification capabilities to aide automation, and the design improvements that can be made to both products as well as manufacturing processes.