Compact solution for metallic item detection in RFID systems by means of artificial magnetic conductor

The problem of detecting metallic items by UHF RFID systems is investigated. An existing artificial magnetic conductor solution (slitted decoupler) with the merits of low profile and simple structure is introduced. Theoretical analysis of the slitted decoupler is given. Based on the theoretical analysis, some principles are proposed for minimising the size of the decoupler and meanwhile improving its performance. Simulation and experiment are performed to verify these design principles.Zhonghao Hu, Peter H. Cole and Alfio Grass