Photoacoustic Sensor Diffusion Membrane Attachment Structure

A photoacoustic detector includes a sensing region for receiving atmospheric samples of a gas. A permeable membrane overlays a gas input port of the sensing region. The membrane is mechanically clamped to the sensing region by a compression force. 1. A photoacoustic detector comprising:a sensing chamber having an ambient gas input port;a gas permeable membrane which closes the input port; anda mechanical clamping structure which attaches the membrane to the chamber.2. A detector as in where the structure includes a first element that clamps the member to a portion of the chamber claim 1 , and a second element which is connected to the first element and to the chamber.3. A detector as in where the first element comprises an annular plate.4. A detector as in where the second element comprises a shaft with an enlarged head where the head abuts the plate.5. A detector as in where the clamping structure includes a spring biased retainer.6. A detector as in where the retainer is carried at an end of the second element displaced from the first element.7. A detector as in where the retainer engages a portion of the sensing chamber.8. A detector as in where the first and second elements form a mushroom shaped clamp.9. A detector as in where the first element includes an annular gasket where the head claim 3 , the membrane and gasket form a multi-layer claim 3 , substantially planar assembly with the membrane sandwiched between the plate and the gasket.10. A detector as in which includes a spring biased retainer.11. A detector as in where the retainer is carried on one end of the second element claim 10 , displaced from the enlarged head.12. A detector as in which includes a housing which carries the sensing chamber and clamping structure along with control circuits.13. A detector as in which includes a source of radiant energy and a microphone all of which are carried by the housing and coupled to the control circuits.14. A detector as in where the control circuits determine ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVING RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION COVERAGE

A method and apparatus are disclosed for improving RFID coverage using an antenna array having an adaptive antenna beam. The apparatus includes an RFID reader including an antenna array having a plurality of antenna elements. Subsets of the plurality of antenna elements are selectively activating in order to direct an antenna beam to communicate with at least one RFID tag. The method includes transmitting an interrogation signal from an antenna array by activating one or more subsets of a plurality of antenna elements forming the antenna array. In this way, the interrogation signal is directed thereby improving antenna coverage. 1. A radio frequency identification (RFID) reader , comprising:an antenna array including a plurality of antenna elements;one or more transmit/receive modules coupled to the plurality of antenna elements; anda beam forming processor coupled to the one or more transmit/receive modules for selectively activating one or more subsets of the plurality of antenna elements,wherein the selectively activated subsets of the plurality of antenna elements direct a transmission beam capable of interrogating at least one RFID tag.2. The RFID reader of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of antenna elements are spaced approximately one-half wavelength apart.3. The RFID reader of claim 1 , which includes a controller coupled to the beam forming processor.4. The RFID reader of claim 1 , wherein the beam forming processor selectively activates the one or more subsets of the plurality of antenna elements to collectively activate all of the plurality of antenna elements.5. The RFID reader of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of antenna elements comprises one or more antenna types from the following group of antenna types: monopole claim 1 , dipole claim 1 , loop claim 1 , helical and patch.6. The RFID reader of claim 5 , wherein the plurality of antenna elements are polarized with one or more of the following group of antenna polarizations: vertical claim 5 , ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETECTING THE ACTIVATION OF A CALL BUTTON USING RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION

A call button attached to a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag may be activated to send an alert to appropriate personnel. Direct current voltage is received at an input of a RFID tag. Responsive to a query of an RFID reader, the RFID tag detects a state of the call button based on a level of the direct current voltage present at the input of the RFID tag. The RFID tag sends the detected state of the call button to the reader. A signal is sent from a server based on a reported state of the call button. 1. A method in a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag of detecting activation of a call button , the method comprising:receiving a direct current voltage at an input of the RFID tag;responsive to a query of an RFID reader, detecting a state of the call button based on a level of the direct current voltage present at the input of the RFID tag; andsending the detected state of the call button to the RFID reader, wherein a signal is sent based on a reported state of the call button.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the direct current voltage is fed to the input of the RFID tag from ambient radio frequency energy collected in an energy harvest circuit attached to the RFID tag.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein when the call button is activated claim 1 , the call button depletes energy stored in a connected energy harvest circuit and reduces the direct current voltage present at the input of the RFID tag claim 1 , wherein the detecting comprises detecting that the call button is activated based on a reduced amount of direct current voltage at the input of the RFID tag.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the detecting comprises detecting that the call button has not been activated based on an amount of direct current voltage at the input of the RFID tag.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the direct current voltage at the input of the RFID tag increases during a predefined time constant after an activated call button is deactivated.6. A method in a Radio ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OPERATING AN RFID READER

A method and apparatus for operating an RFID scanner is provided herein. During operation, an RFID scanner will utilize beamforming techniques to appropriately beamform an interrogation signal. A first beamforming scheme will be used for a first task (e.g., EAS, inventory management, point-of-sale mode scanning of a first area, . . . , etc.) and a second beamforming scheme will be used for a second task. 1. A method for operating an RFID reader , the method comprising the steps of:operating the RFID reader to perform a first task within a first area;the RFID reader determining that predetermined period of time has elapsed; andoperating the RFID reader to perform a second task within a second area.2. The method of :wherein the step of operating the RFID reader to perform the first task within a first area comprises the step of operating the RFID reader utilizing first antenna weights to perform the first task within the first area;and further comprising the step of the RFID reader adjusting antenna weights in response to the determination that a predetermined period of time has elapsed; andwherein the step of operating the RFID reader to perform the second task within the second area comprises the step using the adjusted antenna weights to perform using the second task within the second area.3. The method of :wherein the step of operating the RFID reader to perform the first task within a first area comprises the step of operating the RFID reader utilizing first operational parameter to perform the first task within the first area;and further comprising the step of the RFID reader adjusting the operational parameter in response to the determination that a predetermined period of time has elapsed; andwherein the step of operating the RFID reader to perform the second task within the second area comprises the step using the adjusted operational parameter to perform using the second task within the second area.4. The method of wherein the first area is scanned with a ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION (RFID) TAG BEARING ESTIMATION

A method of radio frequency identification (RFID) tag bearing estimation comprises: at an RFID tag reader having a plurality of antenna elements, emitting a primary transmit beam; receiving a response signal from an RFID tag via the antenna elements; generating a first set of signal measurements corresponding to a first set of receive beam characteristics, based on a first partition of the response signal; generating a second set of signal measurements corresponding to a second set of receive beam characteristics, based on a second partition of the response signal; and combining the first and second sets of signal measurements, for selection of an estimated tag bearing for the RFID tag from the first and second receive beam characteristics. 1. A method of radio frequency identification (RFID) tag bearing estimation , comprising:at an RFID tag reader having a plurality of antenna elements, emitting a primary transmit beam;receiving a response signal from an RFID tag via the antenna elements;generating a first set of signal measurements corresponding to a first set of receive beam characteristics, based on a first partition of the response signal;generating a second set of signal measurements corresponding to a second set of receive beam characteristics, based on a second partition of the response signal; andcombining the first and second sets of signal measurements, for selection of an estimated tag bearing for the RFID tag from the first and second receive beam characteristics.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first and second sets of signal measurements include a signal strength measurement for the respective partitions of the response signal.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first and second sets of receive beam characteristics include at least one of a receive beam angle and a receive beam polarization.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein receiving the response signal comprises receiving the response signal over a plurality of signal paths corresponding ...

SYSTEM FOR, AND METHOD OF, ACCURATELY AND RAPIDLY DETERMINING, IN REAL-TIME, TRUE BEARINGS OF RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION (RFID) TAGS ASSOCIATED WITH ITEMS IN A CONTROLLED AREA

A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag reading system and method accurately and rapidly determine, in real-time, true bearings of RFID tags associated with items in a controlled area. Primary transmit and receive beams are steered over the area, and multiple secondary receive beams are substantially simultaneously steered to a plurality of bearings in the area. The highest signal strength of secondary receive signals from the secondary receive beams determines an approximate tag bearing of each tag. Two secondary receive beams at opposite sides of the approximate tag bearing in elevation are selected to obtain a pair of elevation offset signals, and two secondary receive beams at opposite sides of the approximate tag bearing in azimuth are selected to obtain a pair of azimuth offset signals. The elevation offset signals and the azimuth offset signals are processed to determine a true bearing for each tag in real-time. 1. A radio frequency (RF) identification (RFID) tag reading system for accurately and rapidly determining , in real-time , true bearings of RFID tags associated with items in a controlled area , comprising:an RFID reader having an array of antenna elements and a plurality of RF transceivers; anda controller operatively connected to the transceivers, and the controller configured to control the transceivers by steering a primary transmit beam over the controlled area by transmitting a primary transmit signal via the antenna elements to each tag, and for steering a primary receive beam at a primary steering angle by receiving a primary receive signal via the antenna elements from each tag,the controller being further configured to control the transceivers by substantially simultaneously steering a plurality of secondary receive offset beams to a plurality of bearings in the controlled area at a plurality of different secondary steering angles that are offset from the primary steering angle by receiving a plurality of secondary receive offset signals ...

SYSTEM FOR AND METHOD OF LOCATING RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION (RFID) TAGS ASSOCIATED WITH ITEMS IN A CONTROLLED AREA

A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag reading system having a phased antenna array accurately locates RFID tags in a controlled area, by steering an interrogating beam over the controlled area to interrogate the tags and generate return modulated RF signals. A primary receiver steers a primary receive beam at a primary steering angle that is fixed during each tag interrogation. A primary demodulator demodulates and reconstructs the received return modulated signals. A secondary receiver, independently of the primary receiver, steers a secondary receive beam at a plurality of secondary steering angles. A secondary correlator/demodulator demodulates the combined return modulated signals, and utilizes the reconstructed signal reconstructed by the primary demodulator at each of the secondary steering angles. Both the primary and the secondary receivers cooperate to accurately locate the same tag. 1. A radio frequency (RF) identification (RFID) tag reading system for accurately locating RFID tags associated with items in a controlled area , comprising:a phased antenna array;an RF transmitter for steering an interrogating beam over the controlled area to interrogate the tags and generate return modulated RF signals from the tags by transmitting an RF interrogating signal over the phased antenna array to generate the interrogating beam;a primary RF receiver for steering a primary receive beam over the controlled area at a primary steering angle that is fixed during each tag interrogation, and for detecting the tags by receiving and combining the return modulated RF signals as the primary receive beam over the phased antenna array, the primary RF receiver including a primary demodulator for demodulating the combined return modulated RF signals from the primary RF receiver to detect each tag, for reconstructing the received return modulated RF signal for each tag, and for measuring a primary received signal strength for each tag; anda secondary RF receiver operative, ...

ANTENNA ARRAY WITH ASYMMETRIC ELEMENTS

An RFID reader is provided that includes an antenna array comprising multiple antenna elements circumferentially distributed around a longitudinal axis of the antenna array. Each antenna element includes multiple patch elements disposed above one or more underlying substrates, wherein the patch elements of each antenna element are disposed on an outer side of the antenna element. Further, one or more of the antenna elements is an asymmetric antenna element, wherein a first end of the asymmetric antenna element is wider than a second, opposite end of the asymmetric antenna element, wherein a first patch element disposed proximate to the first end of the asymmetric antenna element is larger than a second patch element disposed proximate to the second end of the asymmetric antenna element, and wherein a resonant frequency associated with the first patch element is approximately the same as a resonant frequency associated with the second patch element. 1. An antenna array comprising:a plurality of antenna elements circumferentially distributed around a longitudinal axis of the antenna array;wherein each antenna element of the plurality of antenna elements comprises a plurality of patch elements disposed above one or more underlying substrates and wherein the plurality of patch elements of each antenna element are disposed on an outer side of the antenna element; andwherein one or more of the plurality of antenna elements is an asymmetric antenna element, wherein a first end of the asymmetric antenna element is wider than a second, opposite end of the asymmetric antenna element, wherein a first patch element disposed proximate to the first end of the asymmetric antenna element is larger than a second patch element disposed proximate to the second end of the asymmetric antenna element, and wherein a resonant frequency associated with the first patch element of the asymmetric antenna element is approximately the same as a resonant frequency associated with the second patch ...

Cable retention apparatus for plug and jack connector systems

A jack housing ( 110 ) for a plug and jack connector system ( 120, 110 ) comprises a plurality of integrated cable retention hooks ( 114 ) about which to wrap a cable ( 124 ) of a cabled accessory ( 120 ). The integrated retention hooks ( 114 ) retain the cable ( 124 ) so as to avoid inadvertent disconnect of the plug ( 122 ) from the jack ( 116 ). The integrated retention hooks ( 114 ) can accommodate a variety of different diameter cables or multiple cables.

Antenna array with asymmetric antenna elements

An RFID reader is provided that includes an antenna array comprising multiple antenna elements circumferentially distributed around a longitudinal axis of the antenna array. Each antenna element includes multiple patch elements disposed above one or more underlying substrates, wherein the patch elements of each antenna element are disposed on an outer side of the antenna element. Further, one or more of the antenna elements is an asymmetric antenna element, wherein a first end of the asymmetric antenna element is wider than a second, opposite end of the asymmetric antenna element, wherein a first patch element disposed proximate to the first end of the asymmetric antenna element is larger than a second patch element disposed proximate to the second end of the asymmetric antenna element, and wherein a resonant frequency associated with the first patch element is approximately the same as a resonant frequency associated with the second patch element.

SYSTEM FOR AND METHOD OF ACCURATELY DETERMINING TRUE BEARINGS OF RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION (RFID) TAGS ASSOCIATED WITH ITEMS IN A CONTROLLED AREA

A radio frequency (RF) identification (RFID) tag reading system and method accurately determine true bearings of RFID tags associated with items in a controlled area. An RFID reader has an array of antenna elements and a plurality of RF transceivers. A controller controls the transceivers by steering a primary transmit beam over the controlled area by transmitting a primary transmit signal to each tag, and steering a primary receive beam at a primary steering angle by receiving a primary receive signal from each tag. The controller thereupon steers a plurality of secondary receive offset beams at different secondary steering angles that are offset from the primary steering angle by receiving secondary receive offset signals from each tag, and by processing the offset signals to determine a true bearing for each tag. 1. A radio frequency (RF) identification (RFID) tag reading system for accurately determining true bearings of RFID tags associated with items in a controlled area , comprising:an RFID reader having an array of antenna elements and a plurality of RF transceivers; anda controller operatively connected to the transceivers, and operative for controlling the transceivers by executing a tag processing module operative for steering a primary transmit beam over the controlled area by transmitting a primary transmit signal via the antenna elements to each tag, and for steering a primary receive beam at a primary steering angle by receiving a primary receive signal via the antenna elements from each tag, andthe controller being further operative for controlling the transceivers by executing a bearing processing module operative for steering a plurality of secondary receive offset beams at different secondary steering angles that are offset from the primary steering angle by receiving a plurality of secondary receive offset signals via the antenna elements from each tag, and by processing the secondary receive offset signals to determine a true bearing for each ...

DYNAMIC COMPENSATION OF A PHASED ARRAY RFID READER

Methods and devices for performing dynamic compensation of a phased array RFID reader are disclosed herein. An example method includes configuring an RFID reader having an antenna array to compensate for determined antenna element phase-shift errors. The method includes exciting a reference antenna element of the antenna array, emitting an emitted signal, receiving the emitted signal via a receiver antenna element of the antenna array, and generating a received signal. The method further includes determining, by a processor, a phase shift of the received signal relative to the emitted signal, and determining a phase-shift error. The method then includes configuring the RFID reader to compensate for the determined phase-shift error associated with the receiver antenna element in response to receiving an RFID tag signal. 1. A method for configuring an RFID reader having an antenna array , the method comprising:exciting, via a controller of the RFID reader, a reference antenna element of the antenna array;emitting, via the reference antenna element, an emitted signal, the emitted signal having an emitted signal amplitude, emitted signal frequency, and emitted signal phase;receiving the emitted signal via a receiver antenna element of the antenna array;generating, via the receiver antenna element, a received signal, the received signal having a received signal amplitude and a received signal phase;determining, via a processor, a phase shift of the received signal relative to the emitted signal;determining, via the processor, a phase-shift error, the phase-shift error being determined from a determined phase shift and an expected phase shift; andconfiguring the RFID reader to compensate for the phase-shift error associated with the receiver antenna element in response to receiving an RFID tag signal.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the reference antenna element is a radio frequency antenna element.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the receiver antenna element is a ...

SYSTEM FOR, AND METHOD OF, READING RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION TAGS IN A CONTROLLED AREA IN REAL TIME WITH AN ENHANCED PERFORMANCE

A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag reading system and method read RFID tags in a controlled area in real time with an enhanced performance. An RFID reader reads a mixed tag population of interesting RFID tags and of uninteresting RFID tags in the controlled area at a read rate. A controller dynamically and continuously monitors the read rate in real time, dynamically selects the interesting RFID tags, or deselects the uninteresting RFID tags, in real time when the read rate is below a reading threshold, and dynamically controls the RFID reader in real time to only read the interesting RFID tags when the read rate is below the reading threshold. 1. A radio frequency (RF) identification (RFID) tag reading system for reading RFID tags in a controlled area in real time with an enhanced performance , the system comprising:an RFID reader for reading a mixed tag population of interesting RFID tags, which are associated with items of interest, and of uninteresting RFID tags, which are associated with items of less interest, in the controlled area at a read rate; anda controller operatively connected to the RFID reader, and operative for dynamically monitoring the read rate in real time, for dynamically selecting the interesting RFID tags in real time when the read rate is below a reading threshold, and for dynamically controlling the RFID reader in real time to only read the interesting RFID tags when the read rate is below the reading threshold.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the RFID reader is mounted in an overhead location in the controlled area.3. The system of claim 1 , and additional RFID readers mounted in overhead locations in the controlled area claim 1 , and wherein the controller is operatively connected to all the RFID readers to dynamically control all the RFID readers in real time to only read the interesting RFID tags when the read rate is below the reading threshold.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to select the ...

INTEGRATED FLOW CHECK FOR WATER/COOLANT VALVES

A multi-port valve is provided. The multi-port valve includes a housing which defines an internal cavity. The housing further includes a plurality of ports. Each of the plurality of ports is in communication with the internal cavity. A valve member is rotatably disposed within the internal cavity. A seal member is also provided between the internal cavity and at least one of the ports. A check valve assembly is also provided in fluid communication with at least one of the ports to provide an additional checked flow therefrom or a checked flow therethrough. Temperature, pressure, and/or flow sensors may also be provided. 1. A multi-port valve , comprising:a housing defining an internal cavity, the housing further comprising a plurality of ports, wherein each of the plurality of ports is in communication with the internal cavity;a valve member rotatably disposed within the internal cavity;at least one seal member sealingly positioned between the valve member and at least one of the plurality of ports; anda check valve assembly in fluid communication with at least one of the plurality of ports to provide at least one of an additional checked flow therefrom or a checked flow therethrough.2. The multi-port valve of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of ports includes a first port claim 1 , a second port claim 1 , and a third port claim 1 , the first port claim 1 , second port claim 1 , and third ports of the plurality of ports are arranged relative to one another such that they are angularly spaced apart from one another in an angular direction and situated at a same axial height relative to a longitudinal axis of the housing.3. The multi-port valve of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of port bodies claim 1 , respectively received in the plurality of ports such that one port body of the plurality of port bodies is received in one port of the plurality of ports.4. The multi-port valve of claim 3 , wherein the at least one seal member includes a plurality of seal ...

METHODS AND SYSTEM FOR ENHANCED RFID DIRECTION FINDING

At least some embodiments of the present invention are directed to RFID reader systems configured to estimate a directional bearing of an RFID tag. In an embodiment, the present invention is an RFID system configured in a way that upon a detection of a variance in the direction of a maximum RSSI value for a given RFID tag in response to a plurality of interrogation signals transmitted by an RFID reader over a respective plurality of different directions, the RFID reader retransmits the plurality of interrogation signals over the respective plurality of different directions with successively lower power levels until the only response(s) being received no longer exhibit the previously detected variance. 1. A method of estimating a direction of a radio frequency (RF) identification (RFID) tag , comprising:transmitting, by an RFID reader, a first transmit signal in a first transmit direction;receiving, at the RFID reader, a first plurality of receive signals generated in response to the first transmit signal, each of the first plurality of receive signals having a respective first-receive-signal strength and being received from one of a plurality of receive directions;transmitting, by the RFID reader, a second transmit signal in a second transmit direction that is different from the first transmit direction;receiving, at the RFID reader, a second plurality of receive signals generated in response to the second transmit signal, each of the second plurality of receive signals having a respective second-receive-signal strength and being received from one of the plurality of receive directions;determining a first receive direction, the first receive direction being associated with one of the first plurality of receive signals having a maximum first-receive-signal strength;determining a second receive direction, the second receive direction being associated with one of the second plurality of receive signals having a maximum second-receive-signal strength;comparing the first ...

METHODS AND SYSTEM FOR ENHANCED RFID DIRECTION FINDING

At least some embodiments of the present invention are directed to RFID reader systems configured to estimate a directional bearing of an RFID tag. In an embodiment, the present invention is an RFID system configured in a way that upon a detection of a variance in the direction of a maximum RSSI value for a given RFID tag in response to a plurality of interrogation signals transmitted by an RFID reader over a respective plurality of different directions, the RFID reader retransmits the plurality of interrogation signals over the respective plurality of different directions with successively lower power levels until the only response(s) being received no longer exhibit the previously detected variance. 1. A method of estimating a direction of a radio frequency (RF) identification (RFID) tag , comprising:transmitting, by an RFID reader, a first transmit signal in a first transmit direction;receiving, at the RFID reader, a first plurality of receive signals generated in response to the first transmit signal, each of the first plurality of receive signals having a respective first-receive-signal strength and being received from one of a plurality of receive directions;transmitting, by the RFID reader, a second transmit signal in a second transmit direction that is different from the first transmit direction;receiving, at the RFID reader, a second plurality of receive signals generated in response to the second transmit signal, each of the second plurality of receive signals having a respective second-receive-signal strength and being received from one of the plurality of receive directions;determining a first receive direction, the first receive direction being associated with one of the first plurality of receive signals having a maximum first-receive-signal strength;determining a second receive direction, the second receive direction being associated with one of the second plurality of receive signals having a maximum second-receive-signal strength;comparing the first ...

METHODS AND SYSTEM FOR ENHANCED RFID DIRECTION FINDING

At least some embodiments of the present invention are directed to RFID reader systems, readers, and/or arrangements configured to estimate a directional bearing of an RFID tag. In an embodiment, the present invention is an RFID arrangement configured communicate with an RFID tag via a primary transmit and receive signals and to contemporaneously determine a plurality of RSSI levels of the RFID tag over a 360-degree azimuth range via a plurality of secondary receive signals. 1. An arrangement for estimating bearings of radio frequency (RF) identification (RFID) tags , the arrangement comprising:a housing;a transceiver assembly positioned at least partially within the housing, the transceiver assembly being communicatively coupled to a plurality of antenna elements; and [ transmit, via at least some of the plurality of antenna elements, a primary transmit signal;', 'to receive, via at least some of the plurality of antenna elements, a primary receive signal, a receipt of the primary receive signal at least partially overlapping in time with a transmission of the primary transmit signal; and', 'to receive, via at least some of the plurality of antenna elements, a plurality of secondary receive signals, a receipt of the plurality of secondary receive signals at least partially overlapping in time with the transmission of the primary transmit signal,', 'wherein the primary transmit signal and the primary receive signal are used to communicate with an RFID tag within a predetermined zone pursuant to a predetermined communication protocol, and', 'wherein the plurality of secondary receive signals are used to determine a plurality of signal strengths of a response from the RFID tag, each of the plurality of signal strengths being associated with one of the plurality of secondary receive signals; and, 'instruct the transceiver assembly to, 'estimate a bearing of the RFID tag based on at least some of the plurality of signal strengths of the response from the RFID tag., 'a ...

System for and method of rapidly determining true bearings of radio frequency identification (rfid) tags associated with items in a controlled area

An RFID tag reading system and method accurately and rapidly determine true bearings of RFID tags associated with items in a controlled area. An RFID reader has an array of antenna elements and a plurality of RF transceivers. A controller controls the transceivers by steering a primary transmit beam over the controlled area to each tag, by steering a primary receive beam at a primary steering angle from each tag, by steering a plurality of secondary receive beams at different secondary steering angles that are offset from the primary steering angle by receiving secondary receive signals from each tag, and by processing the secondary receive signals to determine a true bearing for each tag. Bidirectional communication between the reader and a tag is conducted over a single inventory round in which the tag is read a plurality of times by the primary and the secondary receive beams.

Method and Apparatus for Improving Radio Frequency Identification Coverage

A method and apparatus are disclosed for improving RFID coverage using an antenna array having an adaptive antenna beam. The apparatus includes an RFID reader including an antenna array having a plurality of antenna elements. Subsets of the plurality of antenna elements are selectively activating in order to direct an antenna beam to communicate with at least one RFID tag. The method includes transmitting an interrogation signal from an antenna array by activating one or more subsets of a plurality of antenna elements forming the antenna array. In this way, the interrogation signal is directed thereby improving antenna coverage. 1. A radio frequency identification (RFID) reader , comprising:an antenna array including a plurality of antenna elements;a transmit/receive module coupled to the plurality of antenna elements; anda beam forming processor coupled to the transmit/receive module and configured to selectively activate the plurality of antenna elements in a full set of antenna elements to generate a steerable transmission beam capable of interrogating at least one RFID tag by steering the steerable transmission beam towards a particular area within a monitored region, activate a first subset of antenna elements of the full set of antenna elements to transmit a first RFID interrogation signal to interrogate the at least one RFID tag;', 'receive, using a second subset of antenna elements of the full set of antenna elements, a first RFID response signal from the at least one RFID tag in response to the first RFID interrogation signal;', 'determine a signal quality of the first RFID response signal;', 'in response to determining the signal quality of the first RFID response signal: change the antenna elements in the second subset to a third subset of antenna elements of the full set of antenna elements; and', 'activate the third subset of antenna elements to transmit a second RFID interrogation signal to again interrogate the at least one RFID tag to receive a ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVING RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION COVERAGE

A method and apparatus are disclosed for improving RFID coverage using an antenna array having an adaptive antenna beam. The apparatus includes an RFID reader including an antenna array having a plurality of antenna elements. Subsets of the plurality of antenna elements are selectively activating in order to direct an antenna beam to communicate with at least one RFID tag. The method includes transmitting an interrogation signal from an antenna array by activating one or more subsets of a plurality of antenna elements forming the antenna array. In this way, the interrogation signal is directed thereby improving antenna coverage. 1. A radio frequency identification (RFID) reader , comprising:an antenna array including a plurality of antenna elements;a transmit/receive module coupled to the plurality of antenna elements; anda beam forming processor coupled to the transmit/receive module and configured to selectively activate the plurality of antenna elements in a full set of antenna elements to generate a steerable transmission beam capable of interrogating at least one RFID tag by steering the steerable transmission beam towards a particular area within a monitored region, activate a first subset of antenna elements of the full set of antenna elements to transmit a first RFID interrogation signal to interrogate the at least one RFID tag;', 'receive, using a second subset of antenna elements of the full set of antenna elements, a first RFID response signal from the at least one RFID tag in response to the first RFID interrogation signal;', 'determine a signal quality of the first RFID response signal;', 'in response to determining the signal quality of the first RFID response signal: change the antenna elements in the second subset to a third subset of antenna elements of the full set of antenna elements to change a beam center, with the beam center being a geographic center of the antenna elements in the second subset; and,', 'activate the third subset of antenna ...

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CALIBRATING RFID READERS AND RELATED RFID LOCATIONING SYSTEMS

A radio frequency (RF) identification (RFID) reader calibration system for use with a venue includes an RFID reader having a primary identifier and a plurality of secondary identifiers. The primary identifier and each of the plurality of secondary identifiers having a respective unobstructed line of sight to a point on the floor of the venue. The RFID reader calibration system also includes a data capture device configured to be aimed at the primary identifier and the plurality of secondary identifiers and to capture respective coordinates of the primary identifier and each of the plurality of secondary identifiers. The RFID reader calibration system also includes a controller configured to determine: a location of the RFID reader based on the coordinates of the primary identifier; and an orientation of the RFID reader based on the respective coordinates of the primary identifier and each of the plurality of secondary identifiers. 1. A radio frequency (RF) identification (RFID) reader calibration system for use with a venue , comprising: a first surface facing a downward direction away from the ceiling and toward a floor of the venue;', 'a second surface facing an upward direction toward the ceiling; and', 'a sidewall extending between the first surface and the second surface;, 'an RFID reader, the RFID reader suspended from a ceiling, the RFID reader having a housing, the housing havingthe RFID reader further having a primary identifier and a plurality of secondary identifiers, the primary identifier positioned on the first surface and the plurality of secondary identifiers positioned on at least one of the second surface and the sidewall, the primary identifier and each of the plurality of secondary identifiers having a respective unobstructed line of sight to a point on the floor of the venue;a data capture device, the data capture device configured to be aimed at the primary identifier and the plurality of secondary identifiers and to capture respective ...

System for and method of accurately determining true bearings of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags associated with items in a controlled area

A radio frequency (RF) identification (RFID) tag reading system and method accurately determine true bearings of RFID tags associated with items in a controlled area. An RFID reader has an array of antenna elements and a plurality of RF transceivers. A controller controls the transceivers by steering a primary transmit beam over the controlled area by transmitting a primary transmit signal to each tag, and steering a primary receive beam at a primary steering angle by receiving a primary receive signal from each tag. The controller thereupon steers a plurality of secondary receive offset beams at different secondary steering angles that are offset from the primary steering angle by receiving secondary receive offset signals from each tag, and by processing the offset signals to determine a true bearing for each tag.

System for, and method of, accurately and rapidly determining, in real-time, true bearings of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags associated with items in a controlled area

A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag reading system and method accurately and rapidly determine, in real-time, true bearings of RFID tags associated with items in a controlled area. Primary transmit and receive beams are steered over the area, and multiple secondary receive beams are substantially simultaneously steered to a plurality of bearings in the area. The highest signal strength of secondary receive signals from the secondary receive beams determines an approximate tag bearing of each tag. Two secondary receive beams at opposite sides of the approximate tag bearing in elevation are selected to obtain a pair of elevation offset signals, and two secondary receive beams at opposite sides of the approximate tag bearing in azimuth are selected to obtain a pair of azimuth offset signals. The elevation offset signals and the azimuth offset signals are processed to determine a true bearing for each tag in real-time.

Method and apparatus for radio frequency identification (RFID) tag bearing estimation

A method of radio frequency identification (RFID) tag bearing estimation comprises: at an RFID tag reader having a plurality of antenna elements, emitting a primary transmit beam; receiving a response signal from an RFID tag via the antenna elements; generating a first set of signal measurements corresponding to a first set of receive beam characteristics, based on a first partition of the response signal; generating a second set of signal measurements corresponding to a second set of receive beam characteristics, based on a second partition of the response signal; and combining the first and second sets of signal measurements, for selection of an estimated tag bearing for the RFID tag from the first and second receive beam characteristics.

System for and method of locating radio frequency identification (rfid) tags associated with items in a controlled area

A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag reading system having a phased antenna array accurately locates RFID tags in a controlled area, by steering an interrogating beam over the controlled area to interrogate the tags and generate return modulated RF signals. A primary receiver steers a primary receive beam at a primary steering angle that is fixed during each tag interrogation. A primary demodulator demodulates and reconstructs the received return modulated signals. A secondary receiver, independently of the primary receiver, steers a secondary receive beam at a plurality of secondary steering angles. A secondary correlator/demodulator demodulates the combined return modulated signals, and utilizes the reconstructed signal reconstructed by the primary demodulator at each of the secondary steering angles. Both the primary and the secondary receivers cooperate to accurately locate the same tag.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PRECISION AND RAPID REAL-TIME DETERMINATION OF REAL ESTABLISHMENTS OF RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION LABELS (RFID) ASSOCIATED WITH ARTICLES IN A CONTROLLED AREA

Un système (10) de lecture d'étiquette d'identification radiofréquence (RFID) et un procédé de détermination avec précision et rapidement, en temps réel, des gisements vrais d'étiquettes RFID associées à des articles dans une zone contrôlée. Les faisceaux d'émission et de réception principaux sont orientés sur la zone, et de multiples faisceaux de réception secondaires sont orientés sensiblement simultanément vers une pluralité de gisements dans la zone. L'intensité de signal la plus élevée des signaux de réception secondaires provenant des faisceaux de réception secondaires détermine un gisement d'étiquette approximatif de chaque étiquette. Deux faisceaux de réception secondaires des côtés opposés du gisement d'étiquette approximatif en élévation sont sélectionnés pour obtenir une paire de signaux décalés d'élévation, et deux faisceaux de réception secondaires des côtés opposés du gisement d'étiquette approximatif en azimut sont sélectionnés pour obtenir une paire de signaux décalés d'azimut. Les signaux décalés d'élévation et les signaux décalés d'azimut sont traités pour déterminer un gisement vrai pour chaque étiquette en temps réel. A radio frequency identification tag (RFID) reading system (10) and a method for accurately and rapidly real-time determination of true deposits of RFID tags associated with articles in a controlled area. The main transmit and receive beams are oriented on the area, and multiple secondary receive beams are oriented substantially simultaneously to a plurality of pools in the area. The highest signal strength of the secondary receive signals from the secondary receive beams determines an approximate tag field of each tag. Two secondary receiving beams on opposite sides of the approximate label-in-elevation array are selected to obtain a pair of offset elevation signals, and two secondary receiving beams of opposite sides of the approximate azimuth label array are selected to obtain a ...

METHODS AND SYSTEM FOR IMPROVED RFID TAG DIRECTION SEARCH

P rocédés et système pour la recherche de direction d'étiquette RFID améliorée Au moins certains modes de réalisation de la présente invention concernent des systèmes de lecteur RFID configurés pour estimer un relèvement directionnel d'une étiquette RFID. Dans un mode de réalisation, la présente invention est un système RFID configuré de manière à ce que, lors d'une détection d'une variance dans la direction d'une valeur de RSSI maximum pour une étiquette RFID donnée en réponse à une pluralité de signaux d'interrogation transmis par un lecteur RFID (20) dans une pluralité respective de directions différentes, le lecteur RFID (20) retransmette la pluralité de signaux d'interrogation dans la pluralité respective de directions différentes avec des niveaux de puissance successivement inférieurs jusqu'à ce que la seule réponse reçue ne présente plus la variance détectée précédemment. Figure pour l’abrégé : Fig. 1. M odes and System for Improved RFID Tag Direction Finding At least some embodiments of the present invention relate to RFID reader systems configured to estimate a directional bearing of an RFID tag. In one embodiment, the present invention is an RFID system configured such that upon detection of a variance in the direction of a maximum RSSI value for a given RFID tag in response to a plurality of interrogation signals transmitted by an RFID reader (20) in a respective plurality of different directions, the RFID reader (20) retransmits the plurality of interrogation signals in the respective plurality of different directions with successively lower power levels until the only response received no longer exhibits the previously detected variance. Figure for abstract: Fig. 1.

METHODS AND SYSTEM FOR ENHANCED RFID TAG DIRECTION SEARCH

P rocédés et système pour la recherche de direction d'étiquette RFID améliorée Au moins certains modes de réalisation de la présente invention concernent des systèmes de lecteur RFID configurés pour estimer un relèvement directionnel d'une étiquette RFID. Dans un mode de réalisation, la présente invention est un système RFID configuré de manière à ce que, lors d'une détection d'une variance dans la direction d'une valeur de RSSI maximum pour une étiquette RFID donnée en réponse à une pluralité de signaux d'interrogation transmis par un lecteur RFID (20) dans une pluralité respective de directions différentes, le lecteur RFID (20) retransmette la pluralité de signaux d'interrogation dans la pluralité respective de directions différentes avec des niveaux de puissance successivement inférieurs jusqu'à ce que la seule réponse reçue ne présente plus la variance détectée précédemment. Figure pour l’abrégé : Fig. 1. M odes and System for Improved RFID Tag Direction Finding At least some embodiments of the present invention relate to RFID reader systems configured to estimate a directional bearing of an RFID tag. In one embodiment, the present invention is an RFID system configured such that upon detection of a variance in the direction of a maximum RSSI value for a given RFID tag in response to a plurality of interrogation signals transmitted by an RFID reader (20) in a respective plurality of different directions, the RFID reader (20) retransmits the plurality of interrogation signals in the respective plurality of different directions with successively lower power levels until the only response received no longer exhibits the previously detected variance. Figure for abstract: Fig. 1.

METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR RADIO FREQUENCY ECHO CANCELLATION

Procédé, système et appareil pour une annulation d'écho radiofréquence Un ensemble d'annulation d'écho RFID comprend : un circulateur (248) définissant un trajet de transmission d'un module de transmission à un module d'antenne, et un trajet de réception du module d'antenne à un module de réception ; un combineur (252) sur le trajet de réception entre le circulateur (248) et le module de réception ; un réflecteur variable (254) pour appliquer un signal d'annulation au combineur (252) ; un contrôleur (212) pour établir un paramètre de fonctionnement au niveau du réflecteur variable (254) conformément à un attribut d'un signal transmis provenant du module de transmission ; et un coupleur (260) définissant un segment du trajet de transmission entre le module de transmission et le circulateur (248), et un trajet d'annulation entre le réflecteur variable (254) et le combineur (252). Le coupleur (260) couple une partie du signal transmis au réflecteur variable (254), sur quoi le réflecteur variable (254) génère le signal d'annulation sur la base du paramètre de fonctionnement, pour une transmission au combineur (252) par l'intermédiaire du trajet de signal d'annulation. Figure pour l’abrégé : Fig. 1. Method, system and apparatus for radio frequency echo cancellation An RFID echo cancellation assembly includes: a circulator (248) defining a transmission path from a transmit module to an antenna module, and a reception from the antenna module to a reception module; a combiner (252) in the receive path between the circulator (248) and the receive module; a variable reflector (254) for applying a cancellation signal to the combiner (252); a controller (212) for setting an operating parameter at the variable reflector (254) in accordance with an attribute of a transmitted signal from the transmitting module; and a coupler (260) defining a segment of the transmission path between the transmission module and the circulator (248), ...

System for, and method of, accurately and rapidly determining, in real-time, true bearings of radio frequency identification (rfid) tags associated with items in a controlled area

Sistema y procedimiento para la determinación precisa y rápida, en tiempo real, de las orientaciones verdaderas de las etiquetas de identificación por radiofrecuencia (RFID) asociadas con artículos en una zona controlada. Sistema y procedimiento de lectura de etiquetas de identificación por radiofrecuencia (RFID) para determinar de manera exacta y rápida, en tiempo real, las orientaciones verdaderas de etiquetas con RFID asociadas con artículos en una zona controlada. Los haces principales de transmisión y recepción son direccionados sobre la zona, y múltiples haces secundarios de recepción son direccionados de manera sustancialmente simultánea hacia una pluralidad de orientaciones en la zona. La intensidad de señal más alta de las señales secundarias de recepción de los haces secundarios de recepción determina una orientación aproximada de etiqueta de cada etiqueta.

METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR RADIO FREQUENCY ECHO CANCELLATION

Procédé, système et appareil pour une annulation d'écho radiofréquence Un ensemble d'annulation d'écho RFID comprend : un circulateur (248) définissant un trajet de transmission d'un module de transmission à un module d'antenne, et un trajet de réception du module d'antenne à un module de réception ; un combineur (252) sur le trajet de réception entre le circulateur (248) et le module de réception ; un réflecteur variable (254) pour appliquer un signal d'annulation au combineur (252) ; un contrôleur (212) pour établir un paramètre de fonctionnement au niveau du réflecteur variable (254) conformément à un attribut d'un signal transmis provenant du module de transmission ; et un coupleur (260) définissant un segment du trajet de transmission entre le module de transmission et le circulateur (248), et un trajet d'annulation entre le réflecteur variable (254) et le combineur (252). Le coupleur (260) couple une partie du signal transmis au réflecteur variable (254), sur quoi le réflecteur variable (254) génère le signal d'annulation sur la base du paramètre de fonctionnement, pour une transmission au combineur (252) par l'intermédiaire du trajet de signal d'annulation. Figure pour l’abrégé : Fig. 1. Method, system and apparatus for radio frequency echo cancellation An RFID echo cancellation assembly includes: a circulator (248) defining a transmission path from a transmit module to an antenna module, and a reception from the antenna module to a reception module; a combiner (252) in the receive path between the circulator (248) and the receive module; a variable reflector (254) for applying a cancellation signal to the combiner (252); a controller (212) for setting an operating parameter at the variable reflector (254) in accordance with an attribute of a transmitted signal from the transmitting module; and a coupler (260) defining a segment of the transmission path between the transmission module and the circulator (248), ...

Methods and system for enhanced RFID direction finding

At least some embodiments of the present invention are directed to RFID reader systems, readers, and/or arrangements configured to estimate a directional bearing of an RFID tag. In an embodiment, the present invention is an RFID arrangement configured communicate with an RFID tag via a primary transmit and receive signals and to contemporaneously determine a plurality of RSSI levels of the RFID tag over a 360-degree azimuth range via a plurality of secondary receive signals.

Method and apparatus for improving radio frequency identification coverage

A method and apparatus are disclosed for improving RFID coverage using an antenna array having an adaptive antenna beam. The apparatus includes an RFID reader including an antenna array having a plurality of antenna elements. Subsets of the plurality of antenna elements are selectively activating in order to direct an antenna beam to communicate with at least one RFID tag. The method includes transmitting an interrogation signal from an antenna array by activating one or more subsets of a plurality of antenna elements forming the antenna array. In this way, the interrogation signal is directed thereby improving antenna coverage.

Systems and methods for enhanced directionality in RFID portal systems

Systems and methods for enhanced directionality for portal detector stations are provided. The systems include a portal detector station, an overhead detector station, a controller operatively coupled thereto. In embodiments, the controller analyzes read events detected by the portal detector station to determine a set of RFID tags included in a pallet of objects. The controller also analyzes read events detected by the overhead detector station to determine a direction of travel for the RFID tags included in the set of RFID tags and/or to detect stray read events that resulted in RFID tags being erroneously included in the set of RFID tags.

Systems and Methods for Enhanced Directionality in RFID Portal Systems

Systems and methods for enhanced directionality for portal detector stations are provided. The systems include a portal detector station, an overhead detector station, a controller operatively coupled thereto. In embodiments, the controller analyzes read events detected by the portal detector station to determine a set of RFID tags included in a pallet of objects. The controller also analyzes read events detected by the overhead detector station to determine a direction of travel for the RFID tags included in the set of RFID tags and/or to detect stray read events that resulted in RFID tags being erroneously included in the set of RFID tags.

Multi-port multi-mode valve

Embodiments of a multi-port multi-mode valve are provided. The multi-port multi-plane valve includes a housing which defines an internal cavity. The housing further includes a plurality of ports, including two inlet ports and four outlet ports. Each of the plurality of ports is in communication with the internal cavity. A shell body is rotatably disposed within the internal cavity and provides selectable fluid communications between the ports. A seal member is also provided which has a plurality of openings and surrounds the shell body. Six modes of operation are provided by rotation of the shell body.

Systems and methods for enhanced directionality in rfid portal systems

Systems and methods for enhanced directionality for portal detector stations are provided. The systems include a portal detector station, an overhead detector station, a controller operatively coupled thereto. In embodiments, the controller analyzes read events detected by the portal detector station to determine a set of RFID tags included in a pallet of objects. The controller also analyzes read events detected by the overhead detector station to determine a direction of travel for the RFID tags included in the set of RFID tags and/or to detect stray read events that resulted in RFID tags being erroneously included in the set of RFID tags.

Dynamische compensatie van een phased-array-rfid-lezer

Werkwijzen en inrichtingen voor het uitvoeren van dynamische compensatie van een phased-array-RFID-lezer worden hierin geopenbaard. Een voorbeeldwerkwijze omvat het configureren van een RFID-lezer met een antennearray om te compenseren voor bepaalde antenne-elementfaseverschuivingsfouten. De werkwijze omvat het exciteren van een referentieantenne-element van de antennearray, het uitzenden van een uitgezonden signaal, het ontvangen van het uitgezonden signaal via een ontvangerantenne-element van de antennearray, en het genereren van een ontvangen signaal. De werkwijze omvat verder het bepalen, door een processor, van een faseverschuiving van het ontvangen signaal ten opzichte van het uitgezonden signaal, en het bepalen van een faseverschuivingsfout. De werkwijze omvat dan het configureren van de RFID-lezer om te compenseren voor de bepaalde faseverschuivingsfout geassocieerd met het ontvangerantenne-element in reactie op het ontvangen van een RFID-tagsignaal.

Dynamische compensatie van een phased-array-rfid-lezer

Werkwijzen en inrichtingen voor het uitvoeren van dynamische compensatie van een phased-array-RFID-lezer worden hierin geopenbaard. Een voorbeeldwerkwijze omvat het configureren van een RFID-lezer met een antennearray om te compenseren voor bepaalde antenne-elementfaseverschuivingsfouten. De werkwijze omvat het exciteren van een referentieantenne-element van de antennearray, het uitzenden van een uitgezonden signaal, het ontvangen van het uitgezonden signaal via een ontvangerantenne-element van de antennearray, en het genereren van een ontvangen signaal. De werkwijze omvat verder het bepalen, door een processor, van een faseverschuiving van het ontvangen signaal ten opzichte van het uitgezonden signaal, en het bepalen van een faseverschuivingsfout. De werkwijze omvat dan het configureren van de RFID-lezer om te compenseren voor de bepaalde faseverschuivingsfout geassocieerd met het ontvangerantenne-element in reactie op het ontvangen van een RFID-tagsignaal.

Dynamic compensation of a phased array RFID reader

Dynamische compensatie van een phased-array-rfid-lezer

Werkwijzen en inrichtingen voor het uitvoeren van dynamische compensatie van een phased-array-RFID-lezer worden hierin geopenbaard. Een voorbeeldwerkwijze omvat het configureren van een RFID-lezer met een antennearray om te compenseren voor bepaalde antenne-elementfaseverschuivingsfouten. De werkwijze omvat het exciteren van een referentieantenne-element van de antennearray, het uitzenden van een uitgezonden signaal, het ontvangen van het uitgezonden signaal via een ontvangerantenne-element van de antennearray, en het genereren van een ontvangen signaal. De werkwijze omvat verder het bepalen, door een processor, van een faseverschuiving van het ontvangen signaal ten opzichte van het uitgezonden signaal, en het bepalen van een faseverschuivingsfout. De werkwijze omvat dan het configureren van de RFID-lezer om te compenseren voor de bepaalde faseverschuivingsfout geassocieerd met het ontvangerantenne-element in reactie op het ontvangen van een RFID-tagsignaal.

Dynamische kompensation eines phasengesteuerten rfid-lesegeräts

Verfahren und Vorrichtungen zur Durchführung einer dynamischen Kompensation eines phasengesteuerten RFID-Lesegeräts werden hier offenbart. Ein beispielhaftes Verfahren beinhaltet die Konfiguration eines RFID-Lesegeräts mit einer Antennenanordnung zur Kompensation von bestimmten Antennenelement-Phasenverschiebungsfehlern. Das Verfahren umfasst das Anregen eines Referenzantennenelements der Antennenanordnung, das Aussenden eines Sendesignals, den Empfang des Sendesignals über ein Empfängerantennenelement der Antennenanordnung und das Erzeugen eines Empfangssignals. Das Verfahren umfasst ferner das Bestimmen einer Phasenverschiebung des Empfangssignals relativ zum Sendesignal durch einen Prozessor und das Bestimmen eines Phasenverschiebungsfehlers. Das Verfahren umfasst dann das Konfigurieren des RFID-Lesegeräts zur Kompensation des bestimmten Phasenverschiebungsfehlers, der dem Empfängerantennenelement assoziiert ist, als Reaktion auf das Empfangen eines RFID-Etikett-Signals.

System and methods for enhancing portal directionality determination

The disclosure is a system comprising a transceiver array, containing at least a first pair of transceivers and a second pair of transceivers, the first pair of transceivers containing a transceiver that is included in the second pair of transceivers. Each transceiver in a pair is configured to monitor a plurality of zones for RFID tags, transmit information related to the monitoring of a portion the plurality of zones for RFID tags to the other transceiver in the pair, and determine a location of a monitored RFID tag based on the information acquired through the monitoring of the plurality of zones and the information received from the other transceiver in the first or second pair.

System and Methods for Enhancing Portal Directionality Determination

The disclosure is a system comprising a transceiver array, containing at least a first pair of transceivers and a second pair of transceivers, the first pair of transceivers containing a transceiver that is included in the second pair of transceivers. Each transceiver in a pair is configured to monitor a plurality of zones for RFID tags, transmit information related to the monitoring of a portion the plurality of zones for RFID tags to the other transceiver in the pair, and determine a location of a monitored RFID tag based on the information acquired through the monitoring of the plurality of zones and the information received from the other transceiver in the first or second pair.

Systems and methods for enhanced fault tolerance for RFID phased array antennas

Systems and methods for enhanced fault tolerance for a radio frequency identification (RFID) phased array antenna are provided. The systems include a RFID reader that includes (i) a phased array antenna having N antenna elements; and (ii) a controller operatively connected to the phased array antenna. The controller is configured to (1) monitor a characteristic for each antenna element of a set of the N antenna elements; (2) based on the characteristic, detect a fault of a faulty antenna element of the set of the N antenna elements; and (3) responsive to detecting the fault of the faulty antenna element of the set of the N antenna elements, adjust a parameter of at least one other antenna element of the N antenna elements, wherein the parameter is a weight applied to a signal that is transmitted to or received at an antenna element.

System and methods for enhancing portal directionality determination

The disclosure is a system comprising a transceiver array, containing at least a first pair of transceivers and a second pair of transceivers, the first pair of transceivers containing a transceiver that is included in the second pair of transceivers. Each transceiver in a pair is configured to monitor a plurality of zones for RFID tags, transmit information related to the monitoring of a portion the plurality of zones for RFID tags to the other transceiver in the pair, and determine a location of a monitored RFID tag based on the information acquired through the monitoring of the plurality of zones and the information received from the other transceiver in the first or second pair.

System for and method of rapidly determining true bearings of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags associated with items in a controlled area

An RFID tag reading system and method accurately and rapidly determine true bearings of RFID tags associated with items in a controlled area. An RFID reader has an array of antenna elements and a plurality of RF transceivers. A controller controls the transceivers by steering a primary transmit beam over the controlled area to each tag, by steering a primary receive beam at a primary steering angle from each tag, by steering a plurality of secondary receive beams at different secondary steering angles that are offset from the primary steering angle by receiving secondary receive signals from each tag, and by processing the secondary receive signals to determine a true bearing for each tag. Bidirectional communication between the reader and a tag is conducted over a single inventory round in which the tag is read a plurality of times by the primary and the secondary receive beams.

Antenna array with asymmetric antenna elements

An RFID reader is provided that includes an antenna array comprising multiple antenna elements circumferentially distributed around a longitudinal axis of the antenna array. Each antenna element includes multiple patch elements disposed above one or more underlying substrates, wherein the patch elements of each antenna element are disposed on an outer side of the antenna element. Further, one or more of the antenna elements is an asymmetric antenna element, wherein a first end of the asymmetric antenna element is wider than a second, opposite end of the asymmetric antenna element, wherein a first patch element disposed proximate to the first end of the asymmetric antenna element is larger than a second patch element disposed proximate to the second end of the asymmetric antenna element, and wherein a resonant frequency associated with the first patch element is approximately the same as a resonant frequency associated with the second patch element.