Patented RFID solution for seamless content recording in refrigerators

RAIN RFID technology is experiencing an exciting innovation for use in refrigerators and freezers: Kathrein has developed a patent for an innovative RFID system with electronically changeable walls that enables reliable and seamless content detection. This innovation not only brings convenience to households, but also revolutionizes commercial applications such as self-service, vending machines and intelligent inventory management systems.

The problem: reading holes due to standing waves

Conventional refrigerators reach their limits when it comes to automatically and precisely reading their contents: the metal walls reflect electromagnetic waves and generate standing waves. This creates so-called "reading holes" that are periodically distributed throughout the room.

Due to the lack of electric field strength in these areas, no RFID transponders are detected. They remain invisible in these areas, regardless of the reader performance. This makes a complete inventory impossible and leads to unreliable stocktaking - a problem for households and commercial applications alike.

The solution: The RAIN RFID refrigerator with electronically adjustable walls

Kathrein Solutions has developed a patented solution that makes this challenge a thing of the past. The concept aims to shift the position of the read holes in a targeted manner using electrically conductive structures inside the refrigerator so that an even field distribution is achieved in the refrigerator.

This means that no more products go unnoticed. The result: up to 100 % reliable detection of all RFID-equipped products.

Advantages at a glance:

• Real-time inventory: Automatic recording of all contents - even when the door is closed. Ideal for smart homes or vending machines.

• Commercial use: Precise accounting of withdrawn products through stocktaking before and after removal from vending machines.

• Smart Home: Monitor best-before dates, create shopping lists or suggest suitable recipes - all available online.

• Sustainability: Avoiding food waste through timely information and optimized refilling processes.

Pioneering technology

The technology is flexible and can be adapted to different areas of application. It is not only suitable for household appliances, but also for intelligent vending machines, catering refrigeration systems and industrial applications. The system enables forward-looking warehousing and optimizes repeat orders, thereby increasing efficiency throughout the entire delivery process.

With this innovation, Kathrein Solutions is not only making the refrigerator smarter, but also more sustainable and efficient. Welcome to the future of smart household appliances!