Method and apparatus for tracking objects and people

An object locating, identifying, tracking, and surveillance system, denoted the Assets Locating, Tracking, and Surveillance System (ALTSS), is provided for managing physical objects and evidence in environments such as police departments, law offices, and the Courts. ALTSS employs radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, computer programming and database applications, networking technologies, and hardware elements. ALTSS may locate and track physical evidence, merchandise, information carriers like files, folders or individual pieces of paper, and people, under certain conditions, in near-real time. It may be configured as part of a local area network, a wide area network, or the Internet. ALTSS may employ exemplary components such as RFID transponders, scanners, strategically located antennas and computers to facilitate tracking of objects and people as needed. Any number of users having access privileges and connected to the network may access ALTSS directly or remotely via the Internet to locate and track evidence or objects.

Low loss quarter wave radio frequency relay switch apparatus and method

A low loss quarter wave Radio Frequency (RF) relay switch apparatus and method provides more efficient transmission of RF energy to downstream antenna switching elements in an antenna switching network. The antenna switching network may include multiple antenna multiplexer modules which are configured to operate in a local use configuration or a pass through configuration. The antenna multiplexer modules are designed for maximum efficiency in the pass through configuration acting virtually lossless when passing through RF energy.

READER ANTENNA AND RFID ELECTRONIC SHELF INCLUDING THE SAME

A reader antenna includes dipole antennas, the dipole antennas including: a horizontal dipole antenna having the characteristic of horizontal polarization; and a dipole antenna perpendicular to the horizontal dipole antenna and including a vertical dipole antenna having the characteristic of vertical polarization, wherein the horizontal dipole antenna and the vertical dipole antenna may both have the characteristic of circular polarization. The reader antenna can be easily stored in an electronic shelf because it is realized in an ultrathin structure using a single-layered dielectric substrate. 1. A reader antenna comprising dipole antennas , the dipole antennas comprising:a horizontal dipole antenna having the characteristic of horizontal polarization; anda dipole antenna perpendicular to the horizontal dipole antenna and comprising a vertical dipole antenna having the characteristic of vertical polarization,wherein the horizontal dipole antenna and the vertical dipole antenna both have the characteristic of circular polarization.2. The reader antenna of claim 1 , wherein the horizontal dipole antenna comprises:a dielectric layer;a first horizontal unipole antenna formed in a first direction on the top surface of the dielectric layer; anda second horizontal unipole antenna formed on the bottom surface of the dielectric layer and coupled to the first horizontal unipole antenna to form the dipole antennas.3. The reader antenna of claim 2 , wherein the horizontal dipole antenna further comprises:a first horizontal feed line formed on the top surface of the dielectric layer and connected to the first horizontal unipole antenna; anda second horizontal feed line formed on the bottom surface of the dielectric layer and connected to the second horizontal unipole antenna,wherein a first horizontal impedance matching slot is formed at a connecting portion of the first horizontal unipole antenna connected to the first horizontal feed line, anda second horizontal impedance ...

Rfid reader/writer and rfid tag system

An aspect of the present invention provides an RFID reader/writer in which a null point is not generated. The RFID reader/writer includes an RFID tag and an RFID reader/writer. The RFID reader/writer and the RFID tag conduct communication with each other while an antenna of the RFID reader/writer and an antenna of the RFID tag are slanted.

Display tag, display tag system having display tag, and method for writing display tag information

A display tag is provided. A display tag includes a sensing unit which captures an image displayed on a screen of an external tag writer, if a sensing unit is disposed opposite the screen; and a display unit which displays a captured image. Therefore, a user can visually recognize content related to tag information, and thus user convenience is enhanced.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SENSING ENVIRONMENT USING A WIRELESS PASSIVE SENSOR

A method for execution by a RFID tag includes receiving, from an RFID reader, an RF signal, where the RF signal has a carrier frequency of a plurality of carrier frequencies that span a broad frequency band. The method further includes adjusting input impedance of the RFID tag over a range of input impedances, where the input impedance of the RFID tag is based on one or more of impedance of the RFID tag's antenna and tank circuit. The method further includes monitoring power level of the received RF signal over the range of input impedances. The method further includes selecting the input impedance of the range of input impedances providing a substantially maximum power level of the received RF signal, where the substantially maximum power level corresponds to the carrier frequency being substantially equal to a resonant frequency of at least one of the antenna and the tank circuit. 1. A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag comprises:an antenna operable to receive a radio frequency (RF) signal, wherein the RF signal has a carrier frequency of a plurality of carrier frequencies, wherein the plurality of frequencies spans a broad frequency band;a tank circuit coupled to the antenna, wherein an input impedance of the RFID tag is based on one or more of impedance of the antenna and impedance of the tank circuit; anda tuning circuit operably coupled to adjust, in increments, the input impedance until a substantially maximum power level of the received RF signal is achieved, wherein the substantially maximum power level corresponds to the carrier frequency being substantially equal to a resonant frequency of at least one of the antenna and the tank circuit.2. The RFID tag of claim 1 , wherein the tuning circuit is further operable to adjust the input impedance by:providing a control signal to the tank circuit, wherein, based on the control signal, the tank circuit produces an adjusted tank circuit impedance;determining a most recent power level of the received RF ...

AUTHENTICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A system includes a first computing device having a first non-transitory machine-readable storage medium, first communication circuitry, and at least one first processor in communication with the first non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and the first communication circuitry. The at least one first processor is configured to execute instructions stored in the first non-transitory machine-readable storage medium to cause the first communication circuitry to receive a first signal from a first transmission medium, calculate a first authentication value for an object based on data included in the first signal, and cause the first communication circuitry to transmit a second signal to the first transmission medium. The second signal identifies whether the object is authentic based, at least in part, on the first authentication value. 1. A system , comprising: receive a first message from at least one of a second plurality of processing devices, the request including data concerning a transaction;', 'generate, in response to the first message, a first value, wherein the first value is based, at least in part, on data included in the first message;', 'perform a comparison of the first value to a second value stored in a respective database communicatively coupled to the processing device; and', 'transmit a second message to the at least one of the second plurality of processing devices, the second message including data indicative of an outcome of the comparison., 'a first plurality of processing devices communicatively coupled to one another by way of a network, each of the first plurality of processing devices configured to2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the transaction includes a purchase of an object claim 1 , and wherein the transaction is initiated by the at least one of the second plurality of processing devices.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the first value is an authentication value for determining whether the object is authentic.4. The system ...

INTELLIGENT SAFETY DEPOSIT, SAFETY CONTROL SYSTEM AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF

An intelligent safety deposit including a case, a card slot, and an antenna, the card slot is inside the case to receive a folder with a tag thereon, and the tag comprising a RFID antenna and a chip, the reader antenna is set correspondingly to the folder, information recorded in the chip with the tag is read and identified separately via transmitting data between the reader antenna and the RFID antenna. The reader antenna includes a RF connector, RF ground planes, a plurality of antenna traces with unequal widths and a plurality of load impedance, the RF connector is connected with the plurality of antenna traces via buried holes, the plurality of antenna traces with unequal widths are respectively connected with the plurality of load impedance by running through the buried holes, the antenna traces with unequal widths are connected without overlapping, and values of each load impedance are equal. 1. An intelligent safety deposit , comprising a case , a card slot , and an antenna , wherein , the card slot being set inside the case to receive a folder with a tag thereon , and said tag comprising a RFID antenna and a chip , said reader antenna being set correspondingly to the folder , information recorded in said chip with said tag being read and identified separately via transmitting data between said reader antenna and the RFID antenna , characterized in that , said reader antenna comprising a RF connector , RF ground planes , a plurality of antenna traces with unequal widths and a plurality of load impedance , wherein , said RF connector being connected with said plurality of antenna traces via buried holes , said plurality of antenna traces with unequal widths being respectively connected with the plurality of load impedance by running through said buried holes , said antenna traces with unequal widths being connected without overlapping , and value of each load impedance being equal.2. The intelligent safety deposit according to claim 1 , wherein said reader ...

MICROWAVE DIAGNOSTICS AND PASSIVE SENSORS FOR PIPELINE, WELL-BORE, AND BOILER-TUBE MONITORING

Materials, methods of making, and methods of using an integrated wireless detector for real time interrogating metallic tubular structures comprising: an RF patch antenna; a passive surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor; and data analytic methodologies. An embodiment relates to interrogating a metallic structure having a uniform cross section using an antenna which launches electromagnetic radiation. A sensor may be located within the structure is configured to re-emit electromagnetic radiation modified depending on parameters for which the sensor has been functionalized. An antenna may receive radiation as modified by the sensor, or may receive the transmitted or backscattered radiation directly, without use of a sensor. The antenna then communicates wirelessly with an interrogator providing data which may be used to understand the operational status of the structure in real-time. 1. An integrated wireless detector for interrogating one or more metallic tubular structures , said integrated wireless detector comprising:a metallic tubular structure, wherein the cross section of said metallic tubular structure is approximately uniform;an antenna, wherein said antenna is configured to operate in a radio or microwave frequency range, wherein said antenna propagates electromagnetic radiation within said metallic tubular structure;a detector at the interior of said metallic tubular structure wherein said detector is passive and wireless, wherein said electromagnetic radiation excites and interrogates said detector, wherein said detector re-emits electromagnetic radiation, wherein said antenna receives said re-emitted electromagnetic radiation; andan interrogator, wherein said interrogator receives data from said antenna, wherein said interrogator processes said data.2. The integrated wireless detector of claim 1 , wherein said detector comprises a sensor.3. The integrated wireless detector of claim 2 , wherein said sensor is a surface acoustic wave sensor.4. The integrated ...

Wireless sensor including an rf signal circuit

A wireless sensor includes an antenna structure, an RF signal circuit, a sensing element, memory and a processing module. In a calibration mode, the sensing element is exposed to a known condition and causes a first change of an operating characteristic of the antenna structure while receiving the RF signal. The processing module generates a first digital value based on the first change and writes it into the memory. In a sense mode, the sensing element is exposed to an unknown condition and causes a second change of an operating characteristic of the antenna structure while receiving the RF signal. The processing module generates a second digital value based on the second change and writes it into the memory.

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MONITORING AND COMMUNICATING DATA ASSOCIATED WITH A PRODUCT/ITEM

A condition monitoring system includes a radio frequency transponder module including an RFID chip having a first memory, and an antenna; at least one sensor module that monitors data related to the condition of an item and includes a second memory for storing the monitored data; and a communication interface that couples the at least one sensor module to the RFID chip of the radio frequency transponder module so that the sensor module is operative to communicate with the RFID chip by way of the communication interface and the RFID chip first memory is operative to store data related to the item. 1. A system comprising a radio-frequency (“RF”) condition monitoring device comprising:an RF transponder module comprising an RF transponder integrated circuit;at least one monitoring module for monitoring one or more sensors, said monitoring module comprising an electronic device;a first memory and a second memory communicatively coupled to said RF transponder module and said monitoring module, respectively; and wherein one or more memory addresses in said first memory are operative to store at least one of status and other data about a monitored item from said monitoring module and to receive at least one of data, addresses, and commands sent by an RF reader to said RF transponder integrated circuit for the monitoring module;', 'wherein said first memory is operative to store data sent to or received from said second memory by way of said two-way communication interface and said second memory is operative to store data sent to or received from said first memory by way of said two-way communication interface; and', 'wherein said first memory is operatively responsive to route at least one of data and commands from an RF reader to memory addresses in at least one of said first memory and second memory by way of said two-way communication interface., 'a two-way communication interface between said first memory and said second memory;'}2. The RF monitoring device according to ...

INVENTORY TRACKING

An inventory system is provided herein, comprising a first inventory system unit and a second inventory system unit. The first inventory system unit comprises at least a configuration transmitter to generate a configuration field inside a first field zone to configure one or more UHF RFID tags within said first field zone into a configured state deviating from a default state. The second inventory system unit therein comprises at least an interrogation transceiver to generate an interrogation field inside a second field zone that is at least partly outside said first field zone to subsequently interrogate a set of one or more UHF RFID tags that are within said second field zone and that are in the configured state as a result of being configured by the configuration transmitter. 1. An inventory system comprising:a first inventory system unit; anda second inventory system unit,wherein the first inventory system unit comprises at least a configuration transmitter configured to generate a configuration field inside a first field zone to configure one or more Ultra High Frequency (UHF) radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags within the first field zone into a configured state deviating from a default state, and within the second field zone, and', 'in the configured state., 'wherein the second inventory system unit comprises at least an interrogation transceiver configured to generate an interrogation field inside a second field zone that is at least partly outside the first field zone to subsequently interrogate a set of one or more UHF RFID tags that are both2. The inventory system according to claim 1 , wherein the configuration transmitter is configured to set to B a session N inventoried flag of at least one UHF RFID tag complying with Electronic Product Code (EPC) Ultra High Frequency Radio-Frequency Identity Protocols Generation-2 (EPC UHF Gen2) air interface standard claim 1 ,wherein the interrogation transceiver is configured to interrogate the UHF RFID tags ...

RFID SYSTEM PRINTER AND METHOD

In some embodiments, apparatuses and methods are provided herein useful to printing radio frequency identification tag on a sales receipt. In some embodiments, a system comprises a printer, wherein the printer is configured to produce at least a portion of circuitry required for the RFID tag and a control circuit communicatively coupled to the printer, the control circuit configured to identify items associated with a transaction, determine the at least the portion of the circuitry of the RFID tag to be printed, associated the RFID tag with one or more of the items, cause the printer to print the at least the portion of the circuitry required for the RFID tag on the receipt, receive, from an RFID reader, an indication of the RFID tag and indications of RFID tags associated with products, and compare the indications of the RFID tags associated with products and the one or more of the items associated with the RFID tag. 1. A system for printing a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag on a receipt for a commercial transaction at a retail facility for loss prevention purposes , the system comprising:a printer, wherein the printer is configured to produce at least a portion of circuitry required for the RFID tag, and wherein the printer is located at a point-of-sale (POS) terminal; and identify items associated with a transaction;', 'determine the at least a portion of the circuitry of the RFID tag to be printed;', 'associate the RFID tag with one or more of the items;', 'cause the printer to print the at least a portion of the circuitry required for the RFID tag on the receipt;', 'receive, from an RFID reader, an indication of the RFID tag and indications of RFID tags associated with products, wherein the RFID reader is located at an exit of the retail facility; and', 'compare the indications of the RFID tags associated with products and the one or more of the items associated with the RFID tag., 'a control circuit communicatively coupled to the printer, the control ...

RFID VIAL TRACKING WITH RFID INLAY

A RFID label for use on a lid of a container, and a method of using the RFID label. The RFID label comprises a substrate component, a RFID antenna formed on the substrate component, and a RFID chip for storing data coupled to the RFID antenna. The RFID label is positioned or configured on the lid so as to limit or avoid any interference between the RFID antenna and the RFID chip by any metal component of the container. The RFID label is particularly useful for containers that have small lids or metal components, such as vials, where conventional RFID usage is limited. 1. A RFID label for use with a container having a lid , the RFID label comprising:a substrate component;a RFID antenna formed on the substrate component; anda RFID chip coupled to the RFID antenna; andwherein the RFID label is attached to an external surface of the lid.2. The RFID label of claim 1 , wherein the RFID antenna comprises a conductor sheet and a slot formed into the conductor sheet.3. The RFID label of claim 2 , wherein the slot comprises a closed end and an open end.4. The RFID label of claim 1 , wherein the RFID antenna is a slotted-loop antenna.5. The RFID label of claim 1 , wherein the RFID antenna generates a top-side field.6. The RFID label of claim 1 , wherein the container is a vial.7. The RFID label of claim 1 , wherein the container is used to store medication claim 1 , biological samples claim 1 , liquids claim 1 , or powders.8. The RFID label of claim 1 , wherein the RFID chip is in electrical communication with the conductor sheet.9. The RFID label of claim 1 , wherein the RFID chip functions as a digital memory.10. The RFID label of claim 1 , wherein the RFID chip is encoded with information relating to a content of the container.11. The RFID label of claim 1 , wherein the RFID antenna is located spaced apart from any metal component of the container.12. The RFID label of claim 1 , wherein the RFID antenna generates a read range of greater than one inch.13. The RFID label of ...

DETECTION DEVICE AND DETECTION METHOD OF ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT DEVICE

An object of the present invention is to detect an electronic circuit device with small power. A detection device detects an electronic circuit device which has a unique resonance frequency and performs data communication by power obtained by resonance, and includes an antenna configured to emit a radio wave at the resonance frequency to the electronic circuit device an oscillation unit configured to output an oscillation signal at the resonance frequency to the antenna a resonance detection unit configured to detect a resonant state occurring between the antenna and the electronic circuit device a determination unit configured to determine existence of the electronic circuit device on the basis of the resonant state detected by the resonance detection unit 1. A detection device detecting an electronic circuit device which has a unique resonance frequency and performs data communication by power obtained by resonance , the detection device comprising:an antenna configured to emit a radio wave at the resonance frequency to the electronic circuit device;an oscillation unit configured to output an oscillation signal at the resonance frequency to the antenna;a resonance detection unit configured to detect a resonant state occurring between the antenna and the electronic circuit device; anda determination unit configured to determine existence of the electronic circuit device based on the resonant state detected by the resonance detection unit.2. The detection device according to claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , the oscillation unit includes a frequency changing unit which is configured to change the resonance frequency.3. The detection device according to claim 2 , wherein claim 2 , the frequency changing unit includes:single oscillation units which output oscillation signals at different resonance frequencies; anda connection switching unit which switches connection between the antenna and the single oscillation units.4. The detection device according to claim 1 , wherein ...

Optical Character Recognition Of Voter Selections For Cast Vote Records

An electronic voting system is described that utilizes printed vote records (PVRs) in which a voter's vote selections are recorded in voter readable characters. Optical character recognition (OCR) techniques may then be utilized to scan the PVR to record the voter's selections. The OCR data is then utilized to generate the cast vote record. Thus, the electronic voting system directly interprets the voter selections from the PVR just as the voter sees the data. In this manner “what you see is what you get” printed vote record data is provided for a voter's viewing and that same data is used to generate the cast vote record. 1. A method for electronic voting using printed vote records , comprising:recording a voter's vote selections;generating a printed vote record of the voter's vote selections, the printed vote record containing voter readable text indicating the voter's vote selections;scanning the printed vote record, the scanning including scanning the voter readable text;utilizing optical character recognition (OCR) on the scanned voter readable text to create a data set which identifies the voter's vote selections;generating a cast vote record from the data set so that voter selections in the cast vote record are based on the voter readable text; andproviding encoded data on the printed vote record, the encoded data including information indicative of the voter's vote selections,wherein the encoded data is scanned and utilized to confirm that results of the OCR match the voter's vote selections by comparing data in the encoded data to the data set created by the OCR.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the data in the encoded data is contained in a bar code.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the bar code is a one dimensional bar code.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the bar code is a two dimensional bar code.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the two dimensional bar code is a QR code bar code.6. The method of claim 1 , utilizing the data set and encoded data to ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THRUPASS SYSTEM FOR MULTI-SENSOR GATEWAY SYSTEM

A system and method that allows law enforcement agents and undercover officers to pass through a gateway screening system without setting off an alarm—provided that these personnel are “known” to the system. The system utilizes wireless technologies (i.e., RFID/NFC) that integrates with existing security screening system. The system reads a wireless tag (i.e., RFID/NFC) on his/her weapon and personal ID fob and authenticates them through a database. If the information is authenticated and verified, the system alarm is overridden and the officer can pass through. The Thrupass system can also be used to pass known larger items that would usually alert, such as trays or dollies in a hospital setting. 1. A gateway screening system enabling personnel to pass through without setting off an alarm comprising:a processor;a security system;a wireless module that integrates with the security system;a RFID card reader that scans a wireless tag of a weapon and ID of the personnel;a database storing records of credentials and activity of the personnel; andan alarm module integrated with the security system;wherein an alarm is triggered during a credentials check whereby there is no match in records and the alarm is not triggered if there is a record match;wherein the RFID reader is set to continuous read mode to detect nearby tags operating at UHF (Ultra High Frequency).2. The system of wherein the personnel is a security guard or user of the system.3. The system of wherein the wireless module is selected from a list consisting of RFID claim 1 , NFC® claim 1 , Bluetooth® or cellular connectivity.4. The system of wherein the wireless module supports a UHF antenna.5. The system of wherein the database is stored locally on a server or on a cloud server.6. The system of wherein the ID of the personnel is an ID fob claim 1 , ID card claim 1 , dongle or mobile application.7. A method of screening personnel using a gateway security system the method comprising the steps of:setting a ...

RFID SYSTEM

An RFID system includes an antenna of a reader/writer and an antenna of an RFID tag. Transmission and reception of a high-frequency signal of a UHF band is performed between the antenna of the reader/writer and the antenna of the RFID tag that are arranged so as to be adjacent to each other. A loop antenna including a loop conductor is used as the antenna of the reader/writer, and coil antennas including a plurality of laminated coil conductors are used as the antenna of an RFID tag. In addition, the conductor width of the loop conductor in the loop antenna is greater than the conductor widths of the coil conductors in the coil antennas. 1. (canceled)2: An RFID system comprising:a handheld reader/writer including an antenna; andan RFID tag including an antenna attached to an article; whereintransmission and/or reception of a high-frequency signal in a UHF band or an SHF band is performed between the antenna of the handheld reader/writer and the antenna of the RFID tag;the antenna of the handheld reader/writer is defined by an approximately one-turn loop antenna;the antenna of the RFID tag is defined by a coil antenna having an outside dimension that is less than or equal to about 1 cm× about 1 cm in planar view; andan area occupied by the one-turn loop antenna of the handheld reader/writer is equal to or greater than an area occupied by the coil antenna of the RFID tag, in planar view.3: The RFID system according to claim 2 , wherein the coil antenna is provided in a power feeding substrate including a plurality of laminated dielectric layers.4: The RFID system according to claim 2 , whereinthe coil antenna includes a first coil antenna and a second coil antenna; andthe first coil antenna and the second coil antenna are magnetically coupled to each other.5: The RFID system according to claim 2 , whereinthe one-turn loop antenna includes a loop conductor;the coil antenna includes a coil conductor; anda conductor width of the loop conductor is greater than a conductor ...

Device for Placement in a Package of RFID Tagged Items to Improve Readability and Related Method

A spacing device and related method for improving readability of a container of RFID tagged items that are in relatively close proximity to each other is disclosed. The spacing device is preferably a low dielectric constant spacing device, wherein the nature of the device can be varied to create different effects on the readability of the RFID tagged items by preventing them from occupying areas with a large amount of material between the RFID tagged items and the RF reader. The spacing device is added into the container as the RFID tagged items are loaded into the container, and is preferably positioned in the center of the container. The spacing device can have a number of different dielectric, conductive and physical structures, and may be designed to be disposable, recyclable or re-used as needed.

SENSOR WITH TAIL OR TRANSMISSION LINE FOR VEHICLE LEAK TESTING

A method includes sending, by a reader, a radio frequency (RF) signal to a wireless sensor that includes an antenna having a tail section and a head section. The tail section is for placement in an RF limited area for sensing moisture in a first location of a vehicle under test and wherein the head section is for placement in a non-RF limited area. The method further includes receiving, by the reader, an RF response to the RF signal from the wireless sensor. The first RF response includes an indication of adjustment of one or more RF characteristics of the wireless sensor, which corresponds to a variance of the one or more RF characteristics from a desired value, which, in turn, corresponds to a level of moisture at the first location. The method further includes outputting, by the reader, a message regarding the level of moisture at the first location. 1. A circuit for use with a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag comprises:a tank circuit, wherein, when the circuit is included in the RFID tag, the tank circuit is coupled to an antenna of the RFID tag, wherein the antenna operable to receive a radio frequency (RF) signal, wherein the RF signal has a carrier frequency of a plurality of carrier frequencies, wherein the plurality of frequencies spans a broad frequency band, wherein an input impedance of the RFID tag is based on one or more of impedance of the antenna and impedance of the tank circuit; anda tuning circuit operably coupled to adjust the input impedance until a substantially maximum power level of the received RF signal is achieved, wherein the substantially maximum power level corresponds to the carrier frequency being substantially equal to a resonant frequency of at least one of the antenna and the tank circuit.2. The circuit of claim 1 , wherein the tuning circuit is further operable to adjust the input impedance by:providing a control signal to the tank circuit, wherein, based on the control signal, the tank circuit produces an adjusted tank ...

WIRELESS SENSOR INCLUDING AN RF SIGNAL CIRCUIT

A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag includes an antenna structure, a tank circuit, and a processing module that includes a tuning circuit. The processing module requires a processing module power level to operate according to a protocol. The tuning circuit requires a tuning circuit power level to adjust input impedance. The processing module power level is greater than the tuning circuit level. The processing module measures a first power level from a received RF signal. When the first power level is greater than the tuning circuit power level but less than the processing module power level, the processing module adjusts the input impedance to increase efficiency of power measurement and measures a second power level from the received RF signal. When and the second power level is greater than the processing module power level, the processing module uses the second power level to operate according to the protocol. 1. A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag comprises:an antenna structure operable to receive a radio frequency (RF) signal;a tank circuit coupled to the antenna structure, wherein an input impedance of the RFID tag is based on one or more of impedance of the antenna and impedance of the tank circuit; and measure a first power level from a received RF signal;', adjust the input impedance to increase efficiency of power measurement; and', 'measure a second power level from the received RF signal at the adjusted input impedance; and, 'when the first power level is greater than the tuning circuit power level but less than the processing module power level, 'use the second power level to operate according to the protocol.', 'when the second power level is greater than the processing module power level], 'a processing module that includes a tuning circuit, wherein the tuning circuit is operably coupled to adjust the input impedance, wherein the processing module requires a processing module power level to operate according to a protocol, and wherein ...

TRANSPONDER WITH HIGH-FREQUENCY DEMODULATOR OPTIMIZED FOR ANALOG-DIGITAL MIXED OPERATION

The invention relates to a transponder that transmits measurement values that does not have an energy source of its own, which draws energy from a radio field and that includes a novel input circuit to demodulate the high frequency. The novel circuit facilitates using the transponder for digital identification and measurement purposes respectively with a high level of efficiency. Intelligent coupling of a conventional full wave diode rectifier with an inductivity and a switching element, advantageously a MOSFET providing power for a digital circuit is facilitated as well as providing power for an analog quartz sensor, herein the power is always conducted into the path where it is required. Additionally the quartz sensor arrangement is activated or deactivated at will by precisely one switching element and an increased output voltage for the digital circuit is generated by smart modulation of the high frequency feed signal using the inductivity. 1. A transponder with at least one full wave rectifier (D1 , D2) for supplying the transponder with energy from a received high frequency signal (HF) and for demodulating the high frequency signal (HF) , the full wave rectifier (D1 , D2) comprising:two current paths with different current directions including one output (V+, V−) per current path,the transponder further comprising a digital circuit portion (IDD1) for evaluating a received code,further comprising a circuit portion for operating a post pulse resonator or quartz or temperature measuring quartz (XT1) for analog determination and transmission of at least one measurement valve, characterized in that,a first output (V−) of the full wave rectifier (D1, D2) is DC voltage connected with ground through an inductivity (L1),a second output (V+) of the two way rectifier (D1, D2) from the current path that has a current direction that is opposite to the current direction of the current path of the first output is DC voltage connected to ground through a circuit element (V1), ...

UHF BAND RFID SYSTEM AND UHF BAND RFID TAG DETECTION METHOD

A UHF band RFID system according to the present invention includes a reader antenna that is composed of a matched-terminated open-type transmission line and is connected to a UHF band RFID reader, a first-type RFID tag installed, without being fixed to a managed object, in a managed object placement area in which the managed object is placed, and a second-type RFID tag that is fixed to the managed object and includes tag information for identifying the managed object. When the managed object is placed in the managed object placement area, the managed object is placed in a position where the reader antenna and an antenna of the first-type RFID tag are electric field coupled, and is also placed in a position where the reader antenna and an antenna of the second-type RFID tag are magnetic field coupled. 1. A UHF band RFID system comprising:a reader antenna that is composed of a matched-terminated open-type transmission line and is connected to an ultra-high frequency (UHF) band radio frequency identification (RFID) reader; anda first-type RFID tag installed, without being fixed to a managed object, in a managed object placement area in which the managed object is placed, whereina position of the managed object placed in the managed object placement area is a position where the reader antenna and an antenna of the first-type RFID tag are electric field coupled.2. The UHF band RFID system according to claim 1 , whereinan antenna of the first-type RFID tag is an electric-field antenna.3. The UHF band RFID system according to claim 1 , whereina distance between the managed object when placed in the managed object placement area and the first-type RFID tag, and a line-of-sight distance between the reader antenna and an antenna of the first-type RFID tag are less than or equal to a wavelength of a radio signal used in communication between the UHF band RFID reader and the first-type RFID tag.4. The UHF band RFID system according to claim 3 , whereina distance between the ...

Wireless sensing units, systems, methods, and media

Wireless sensing units, methods, systems, and processor-readable media for obtaining pressure data relating to one or more pressure locations of a surface area are described. A wireless sensing system includes a pressure monitoring device communicating with modular wireless smart floor tiles using RFID, either using an RFID reader or wireless network interface (e.g., 802.11). The tiles incorporate passive or active RFID tags. The tiles can be powered wirelessly, e.g. by a built-in piezoelectric power unit or by a wireless power source using magnetic resonance. A data capture circuit in each tile collects and saves the data for transmission to the floor pressure monitoring device. Various software applications can be enabled by the smart floor system, including fall detection and prediction, gesture input, intrusion detection, and user location tracking for smart home automation.

METHODS FOR SCANNING AND ENCODING A PLURALITY OF RFID TAGGED ITEMS

Methods are provided for scanning and/or encoding a plurality of RFID tagged items. Such methods may involve inserting a plurality of RFID tagged items into an interior of an enclosure. A scanning or encoding signal is emitted within the enclosure and reflected off of an internal surface of the enclosure to contact at least one of the RFID tagged items. If an encoding signal is emitted, an RFID reader may transmit encoding information to the signal source (which may be an antenna) prior to emitting the encoding signal. On the other hand, if a scanning signal is emitted, information regarding the RFID tagged items may be transmitted to the RFID reader after the items have been scanned. According to one method, the same system may be used to either scan or encode a plurality of RFID tagged items. 1. A method for scanning a plurality of RFID tagged items , comprising:inserting a plurality of RFID tagged items into an interior of an enclosure;emitting a scanning signal within the enclosure;reflecting the scanning signal off of an internal surface of the enclosure to contact at least one of said RFID tagged items; andtransmitting information regarding the RFID tagged items to an RFID reader.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said emitting a scanning signal within the enclosure includes emitting a scanning signal from a source positioned above the RFID tagged items.3. the method of claim 1 , wherein said emitting a scanning signal within the enclosure includes emitting a scanning signal from a dipole-type antenna.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein said emitting a scanning signal within the enclosure includes emitting scanning signals from a plurality of sources.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein said emitting a scanning signal within the enclosure includes emitting scanning signals from a plurality of dipole-type antennae oriented in a crossed configuration positioned above the RFID tagged items.6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising displaying information ...

FEEDER COIL, ANTENNA DEVICE, AND ELECTRONIC APPLIANCE

An antenna device includes first and second coil antennas with winding axis directions that are not perpendicular to each other, and a feeder coil including a winding axis that extends perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the winding axis of the first coil antenna. The feeder coil is located between the first and second coil antennas in the winding axis direction thereof. A first coil aperture is closer to a coil aperture of the first coil antenna than a second coil aperture. The second coil aperture is closer to a coil aperture of the second coil antenna than the first coil aperture. The first and second coil antennas are connected to each other in a polarity such that magnetic fluxes thereof with respect to the winding axis direction of the first coil antenna are in phase with each other. 1. An antenna device comprising:a first coil antenna and a second coil antenna, winding axis directions of which are not perpendicular to each other; anda feeder coil with a winding axis that extends in a direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the winding axis of the first coil antenna, including a first coil aperture and a second coil aperture, and being located between the first coil antenna and the second coil antenna in the winding axis direction of the first coil antenna; whereinthe first coil aperture is closer to a coil aperture of the first coil antenna than the second coil aperture in a plan view along the winding axis direction of the first coil antenna; andthe first coil antenna and the second coil antenna are connected to each other in a polarity such that magnetic fluxes thereof with respect to the winding axis direction of the first coil antenna are in phase with each other.2. The antenna device according to claim 1 , wherein the second coil aperture is closer to a coil aperture of the second coil antenna than the first coil aperture in a plan view along the winding axis direction of the second coil antenna.3. The antenna device ...

Antenna Module for a RFID Reader

An antenna module for a RFID reader is provided, the antenna module being configured for operation with a plurality of transceivers of different impedance. The RFID reader includes an antenna and at least two terminals, with the antenna being connectable via at least a first of the terminals along at least two different contact points. A switch may also be provided for enabling switching between the at least two contact points. A RFID reader and a method for assembling a RFID reader are also provided. The antenna module and associated RFID reader are advantageously configured for use with a number of different transceivers. 1. An antenna module for a RFID reader , wherein the antenna module is configured for operation with a plurality of transceivers of different impedance , and comprises:an antenna, implemented as a loop; andat least two terminals for a transceiver,wherein the antenna is contactable via at least a first terminal of the at least two terminals along at least two different contact points spaced apart from each other on the antenna along a conductor loop of the antenna, andwherein the transceiver is selectively connectable via the first terminal to one of the at least two contact points as a function of the impedance of the respective transceiver and/or the impedance of a RFID transponder to be read.2. The antenna module of claim 1 , further comprising:an impedance matching device connected on one side to the at least two terminals and connectable on another side to the transceiver.3. The antenna module of claim 2 , further comprising:a switch which enables switching between the at least two contact points.4. The antenna module of claim 3 , wherein all elements of the antenna module are arranged on a circuit board.5. The antenna module of claim 4 , wherein the circuit board further comprises a mounting site for the transceiver.6. The antenna module of claim 1 , further comprising:a switch which enables switching between the at least two contact points. ...

Transmission rfid test systems

An RFID test system is disclosed that establishes a minimum coupling between two ports without an RFID tag present and a higher coupling when the RFID tag is present. Furthermore, this controlled coupling in the presence of an RFID tag is used to read and identify tags. The RFID tag is read when it is in the coupling zone, as it receives maximum power and has the lowest loss path to the receiver. Adjacent tags do not couple efficiently, so they are isolated from the wanted device (i.e., RFID tag). Further, the coupling through the RFID tag can be frequency specific, and the peak frequency can be determined. This peak frequency and also the amount of coupling can give a good indication of a number of aspects of the tag assembly.

Device and method for writing a plurality of transponders

The present invention relates to a device and a method for writing a plurality of transponders. A rotatable member is designed to ensure a relative rotation between a load and a release device for packaging material. A reading device for reading object information during the rotation of the rotatable member is arranged on the rotatable member. Various antennae (e.g., linear polarized RFID antenna, omnidirectional antenna, dipole antenna, etc.) are provided for reading RFID's. The RFID tags are read while they rotate close to the fixed position of the RFID reading device.

Apparatus and respective method for communicating with a transponder and system for communicating

The invention relates to an apparatus for communicating with a transponder. The apparatus includes a transmit apparatus, a receive apparatus and an evaluation apparatus. The transmit apparatus transmits a transmit signal to the transponder. Based on a signal emitted by the transponder, the receive apparatus receives a receive signal. Based on the transmit signal and/or a signal portion, the evaluation apparatus evaluates the receive signal with respect to data errors. Further, the invention relates to a respective method as well as to a system for communicating.

Radio Frequency Identification Tagging

A RFID tag or label comprises a RFID tag module (comprising an electronic identification circuit and a coupling means) and an antenna structure coupled to the coupling means. The RFID tag module is separate from, separable or arranged to be severable from, the antenna structure. The tag module can be placed in or on an object and the antenna structure in or on packaging material for use with the object. A patch antenna type RFID tag antenna structure has a ground plane spaced from the patch antenna so as to increase the range of the tag. The ground plane is not substantially larger than, and electrically insulated from, the patch antenna. The ground plane is flexible, so the RFID tag structure can be worn by a human, and can be incorporated into a piece of clothing. A RFID antenna structure for use with a tag reader is made flat and robust so that it can be mounted on the ground to be walked upon or driven over. A bi-directional YAGI type RFID tag antenna structure has director elements on two opposite sides so that the YAGI antenna radiates in two opposite directions. An object includes a gain increasing metallic structure for increasing the gain of a RFID tag when placed near the object so as to form a RFID tag antenna structure.

Object detection system, object detection method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium storing object detection program

An object detection system includes a reader waveguide ( 101 ) formed as an open transmission line, an RFID tag ( 102 ) placed above the reader waveguide ( 101 ), a signal strength acquisition unit ( 103 ) that acquires signal strength of a read signal read from the RFID tag ( 102 ) by electromagnetic coupling through the reader waveguide ( 101 ), and an object detection unit ( 104 ) that detects physical characteristics of an object ( 105 ) corresponding to the acquired signal strength based on a relationship between a plurality of (three or more values of) signal strength of the read signal and physical characteristics of the object to be detected.

Optical Character Recognition Of Voter Selections For Cast Vote Records

An electronic voting system is described that utilizes printed vote records (PVRs) in which a voter's vote selections are recorded in voter readable characters. Optical character recognition (OCR) techniques may then be utilized to scan the PVR to record the voter's selections. The OCR data is then utilized to generate the cast vote record. Thus, the electronic voting system directly interprets the voter selections from the PVR just as the voter sees the data. In this manner “what you see is what you get” printed vote record data is provided for a voter's viewing and that same data is used to generate the cast vote record. 1. A method for electronic voting using printed vote records , comprising:generating a printed vote record of at least one vote selection of a voter;providing, on the printed vote record, voter readable text indicating the voter's at least one vote selection;providing, on the printed vote record, encoded data, the encoded data indicating the voter's at least one vote selection;electronically scanning the voter readable text on the printed vote record to create a first data set, the first data set indicating the voter's at least one vote selection;electronically scanning the encoded data on the printed vote record to create a second data set, the second data set indicating at least the voter's at least one vote selection;comparing the first data set and the second data set; andproviding a cast vote record indicating the voter's at least one vote selection, an accuracy of the cast vote record confirmed based at least in part on a comparison of the voter's at least one vote selection as indicated by the first data set and the voter's at least one vote selection as indicated by the second data set.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the encoded data includes at least one bar code.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the bar code is a one dimensional bar code.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the bar code is a two dimensional bar code.5. The method of ...

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 ...

ARRAY ANTENNA SYSTEM AND ALGORITHM APPLICABLE TO RFID READERS

Embodiments of the invention pertain to Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) method and system using an antenna array, an array controller, and control algorithms. Embodiments of the invention can induce strong radio-frequency (RF) excitation, for a given level of radiated RF power, at any point within an arbitrary inhomogeneous medium. For RFID applications, one typical inhomogeneous medium is an ensemble of cases on a pallet. Another typical medium is a warehouse environment having stored goods together with shelving and other material present. An embodiment of the invention is applicable to the process of reading battery-less, or “passive” RFID tags, which rely on incident RF electromagnetic fields established by RFID readers to power the electronic circuitry within the tags. 1. An antenna system , comprising:an RF input port, wherein the RF input port receives an input RF signal, wherein the input RF signal is suitable for reading at least one RFID tag;a plurality of antennas capable of producing RF fields in a region of interest;a means for producing a corresponding plurality of antenna input signals from the input RF signal, wherein each of the plurality of antenna input signals is suitable for reading the at least one RFID tag, wherein when the plurality of antenna input signals is inputted to the plurality of antennas a corresponding plurality of RF fields is produced in the region of interest;a state controller, wherein the state controller changes a state of the plurality of antennas by altering the plurality of RF fields, wherein the state controller produces a first state during a first period of time and produces a second state during a second period of time.2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the state controller alters the plurality RF fields by altering one or more of the following:a phase of a first at least one of the plurality of antenna input signals,a ratio of amplitudes of a second at least two of the plurality of antenna input ...

RFID TAG ISSUING DEVICE

An RFID tag issuing device includes a guide member extending in a first plane along which an RFID tag is guided, an antenna substrate having a surface forming a second plane that is not parallel to the first plane and an antenna disposed on the surface to emit a signal towards the RFID tag, and a signal processor configured to generate the signal to be emitted from the antenna.

SENSOR WITH TAIL OR TRANSMISSION LINE FOR VEHICLE LEAK TESTING

A method includes sending, by a reader, a radio frequency (RF) signal to a wireless sensor that includes an antenna having a tail section and a head section. The tail section is for placement in an RF limited area for sensing moisture in a first location of a vehicle under test and wherein the head section is for placement in a non-RF limited area. The method further includes receiving, by the reader, an RF response to the RF signal from the wireless sensor. The first RF response includes an indication of adjustment of one or more RF characteristics of the wireless sensor, which corresponds to a variance of the one or more RF characteristics from a desired value, which, in turn, corresponds to a level of moisture at the first location. The method further includes outputting, by the reader, a message regarding the level of moisture at the first location. 1. A Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag comprises: a power supply circuit operable to generate a supply signal from an RF signal;', 'a demodulation circuit operable to extract input data from the RF signal;', 'a modulation circuit operable to inject output data on the RF signal; and', 'an adjustment circuit operable to adjust impedance of the analog RF section based on environmental effects on performance of the analog RF section;, 'an analog radio frequency (RF) section coupled to an antenna, the analog RF section includesa digital control circuit operably coupled to the analog RF section, wherein the digital control circuit is operable to generate a digital value corresponding to an adjustment of the adjustment circuit; andmemory operably coupled to the digital control circuit, wherein the memory stores a digital value corresponding to the adjustment of the adjustment circuit.2. The RFID tag of further comprises:the analog RF section receiving the RF signal from a reader; andthe modulation circuit injecting the output data on the RF signal using backscattering, such that the reader receives the output data ...

METHOD, SYSTEM, AND APPARATUS FOR RFID LABEL FORMATION AND PLACEMENT

A method, system, and apparatus for forming and applying an RFID label may be shown and described herein. Exemplary embodiments can include a new type of RFID inlay that has a multi-element antenna design, allowing for an RFID label thus equipped to be coupled to a carton, for example, around an edge or a corner. Thus, even if part of the RFID label is blocked or obscured, for example by neighboring cartons, the label can still be read as desired. 1. A label comprising:a substrate comprising a top face and a bottom face, the substrate defining a plurality of portions joined together at one or more fold lines; andan RFID inlay disposed under the bottom face of the substrate, the RFID inlay comprising a multi-element antenna and an RFID chip located between and electrically connected to each element of the multi-element antenna.2. The label of claim 1 , where the plurality of portions comprises a first portion and a second portion.3. The label of claim 2 , where the first portion and the second portion are joined together at a first fold line.4. The label of claim 3 , where the plurality of portions further comprises a third portion.5. The label of claim 4 , where the first portion and the third portion are joined together at a second fold line.6. The label of claim 2 , where the multi-element antenna comprises a dual-element antenna such that a first antenna element is disposed adjacent to the bottom face of the substrate in the first portion and a second antenna element is disposed adjacent to the bottom face of the substrate in the second portion.7. The label of claim 6 , where the RFID chip is configured to be activated by one or both of the first antenna element and the second antenna element claim 6 , and each of the first antenna element and the second antenna element is configured to send RF signals to and receive RF signals from an RFID reader.8. The label of claim 4 , where the multi-element antenna comprises a three-element antenna such that a first antenna ...

Method and Apparatus for Sensing Environment Using a Wireless Passive Sensor

A method and apparatus for detecting RF field strength. A field strength reference generator develops a field strength reference current as a function of a field strength of a received RF signal; and a field strength quantizer develops a digital field-strength value indicative of the field strength reference current. In one embodiment, detected field strength is used to dynamically vary the impedance of a tank circuit whereby, over time, induced current is maximized. In another embodiment, the quantized field strength is used to sense changes to the environment to which the RFID tag is exposed. In yet another embodiment, dynamic variations of the quantized impedance of the tank circuit are used to sense changes in the environment. Several alternate antennas are specially adapted to facilitate sensing of environmental conditions using the RFID tag. 2. The system of claim 1 , wherein:the transmission line is adapted selectively to modify the antenna impedance as a function of an environmental condition; andthe first quantized value varies as a function of changes to the environmental condition.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein:the antenna comprises a antenna pole and an antenna anti-pole; andthe transmission line comprises a transmission line pole coupled to the antenna pole, and a transmission line anti-pole coupled to the antenna anti-pole, the transmission line pole and anti-pole each being substantially the same length and arranged generally in parallel.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein said antenna is further characterized as comprising a di-pole antenna.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein said antenna is further characterized as comprising a patch antenna.6. The system of further comprising:a reader adapted selectively to retrieve the first value, and to use the retrieved first value to sense the environmental condition.7. The system of further comprising:a reader adapted selectively to retrieve the first value, and to use a plurality of the retrieved first ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TRACKING OBJECTS AND PEOPLE

An object locating, identifying, tracking, and surveillance system, denoted the Assets Locating, Tracking, and Surveillance System (ALTSS), is provided for managing physical objects and evidence in environments such as police departments, law offices, and the Courts. ALTSS employs radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, computer programming and database applications, networking technologies, and hardware elements. ALTSS may locate and track physical evidence, merchandise, information carriers like files, folders or individual pieces of paper, and people, under certain conditions, in near-real time. It may be configured as part of a local area network, a wide area network, or the Internet. ALTSS may employ exemplary components such as RFID transponders, scanners, strategically located antennas and computers to facilitate tracking of objects and people as needed. Any number of users having access privileges and connected to the network may access ALTSS directly or remotely via the Internet to locate and track evidence or objects. 153-. (canceled)54. A radio frequency identification (RFID) system comprising:active or passive transponders each affixable to an object or person and transmitting raw transponder RFID data via radio frequency (RF) signals;a reader for receiving the raw transponder RFID data via the (RF) signals from the transponders:a plurality of antennas, each having, a coverage area for transmitting and receiving said RF signals to and from said reader and said transponders, wherein said antennas are strategically affixable within a facility;a processor configured to receive the ray transponder RFID data via said antennas via the RF signals and generate new detection information based on the received transponder data, the detection information comprising first sighting and last sighting of a first one of the transponders in a first one of the coverage areas; and to use the last sighting data of the first transponder to determine that the first ...

SENSOR WITH TAIL OR TRANSMISSION LINE FOR VEHICLE LEAK TESTING

A method includes sending, by a reader, a radio frequency (RF) signal to a wireless sensor that includes an antenna having a tail section and a head section. The tail section is for placement in an RF limited area for sensing moisture in a first location of a vehicle under test and wherein the head section is for placement in a non-RF limited area. The method further includes receiving, by the reader, an RF response to the RF signal from the wireless sensor. The first RF response includes an indication of adjustment of one or more RF characteristics of the wireless sensor, which corresponds to a variance of the one or more RF characteristics from a desired value, which, in turn, corresponds to a level of moisture at the first location. The method further includes outputting, by the reader, a message regarding the level of moisture at the first location. 1. A method comprises:sending, by a reader, a first radio frequency (RF) signal to a first wireless sensor that includes a first antenna having a first tail section and a first head section, wherein the first tail section is for placement in a radio frequency (RF) limited area for sensing moisture in a first location of a vehicle under test, and wherein the first head section is for placement in a non-RF limited area; andreceiving, by the reader, a first RF response to the first RF signal from the first wireless sensor, wherein the first RF response includes an indication of adjustment of one or more RF characteristics of the first wireless sensor, wherein the adjustment corresponds to a variance of the one or more RF characteristics from a desired value of the one or more RF characteristics, and wherein the variance corresponds to a level of moisture at the first location;outputting, by the reader, a message regarding the level of moisture at the first location.2. The method of further comprises:sending, by the reader, a second RF signal to a second wireless sensor that includes a second antenna having a second tail ...

Optical Character Recognition Of Voter Selections For Cast Vote Records

An electronic voting system is described that utilizes printed vote records (PVRs) in which a voter's vote selections are recorded in voter readable characters. Optical character recognition (OCR) techniques may then be utilized to scan the PVR to record the voter's selections. The OCR data is then utilized to generate the cast vote record. Thus, the electronic voting system directly interprets the voter selections from the PVR just as the voter sees the data. In this manner “what you see is what you get” printed vote record data is provided for a voter's viewing and that same data is used to generate the cast vote record.

SENSOR WITH TAIL OR TRANSMISSION LINE FOR VEHICLE LEAK TESTING

A method begins by detecting a variance of one or more RF characteristics of a wireless sensor from a desired value of the one or more RF characteristics, due to exposure to an environmental condition. The tuning circuit is operably coupled to an antenna that includes a tail section that is located in a radio frequency (RF) limited area, and a head section that is located in a non-RF limited area. The method continues by adjusting the tuning circuit in response to the detecting of the variance. The method continues by generating a message regarding the adjusting of the tuning circuit, wherein a level of the adjusting of the tuning circuit is representative of the variance of the one or more RF characteristics sensed by the tail section. The method continues by transmitting the message to one or more of an RF reader and a computing device. 1. A wireless sensor comprises:an antenna having a tail section and a head section, wherein the tail section is for placement in a radio frequency (RF) limited area for sensing an environmental condition, and wherein the head section is for placement in a non-RF limited area;a tuning circuit operably coupled to the antenna, wherein the head section, the tail section, and the tuning circuit collectively have one or more RF characteristics and wherein, when the tail section is exposed to the environmental condition, the tail section causes the one or more RF characteristics to vary; detect a variance of the one or more RF characteristics from a desired value of the one or more RF characteristics;', 'in response to the detecting of the variance, adjust the tuning circuit to substantially re-establish the desired value of the one or more RF characteristics; and', 'generate a message regarding the adjusting of the tuning circuit, wherein a level of the adjusting of the tuning circuit is representative of the variance of the one or more RF characteristics sensed by the tail section; and, 'a processing module operable toa transmitter ...

WIRELESS POWER SYSTEM

A wireless power system includes a primary device and a secondary device. The primary device includes a power conversion unit, a function module, and a transceiver. The peripheral device includes a wireless power receiver circuit, a peripheral transceiver, and a peripheral unit. The power conversion unit converts a power source into an electromagnetic signal. The functional module executes a function regarding peripheral information. The transceiver communicates information regarding the electromagnetic signal and the peripheral information. The wireless power receiver circuit converts the electromagnetic signal into a voltage. The peripheral transceiver communicates the information regarding the electromagnetic signal and the peripheral information. The peripheral unit processes the peripheral information. 1. A wireless power device comprising: 'wherein the wireless power transmitter circuit is configured to generate a wireless power field, wherein the wireless power field is configured to conduct wireless power and data transmissions to a wireless power receiver; and', 'a wireless power transmitter circuit,'} wherein the processing circuitry is configured to transmit, via the wireless power transmitter circuit, a message to the wireless power receiver using a control channel of the generated wireless power field,', 'wherein the message indicates a control channel protocol,', 'and wherein the processing circuit is configured to demodulate inbound data received on the control channel based on the control channel protocol., 'a processing circuit,'}2. The wireless power transmitter of claim 1 , wherein the wireless power transmitter circuit comprises an inductive coil coupled to a power regulator.3. The wireless power transmitter of claim 1 , wherein the inbound data is received as an amplitude modulation of the wireless power field.4. The wireless power transmitter of claim 1 , wherein the processing circuit is configured to transmit the message utilizing frequency ...

Systems and Methods using Single Antenna for Multiple Resonant Frequency Ranges

A radio frequency device utilizing an antenna having a single antenna structure resonant on multiple resonant frequency ranges. The antenna can be configured to operate within multiple frequency ranges for communication according to respective protocols associated with the respective frequency ranges. 1. A system , comprising: a memory configured to store at least one identification number of the device;', 'an antenna system having a first resonant frequency and a second resonant frequency;', 'a transceiver coupled to the antenna system and configured to receive signals transmitted in the first frequency and signals transmitted in the second frequency; and', 'a processor coupled with the memory and the transceiver and configured to provide the identification number of the device; and, 'a device havinga first communication apparatus configured to interrogate the device using the first frequency; anda second communication apparatus, separate from the first communication apparatus, configured to interrogate the device using the second frequency.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the device is configured to perform a first function in communications with the first communication apparatus and perform a second function claim 1 , different from the first function claim 1 , in communications with the second communication apparatus.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the first communication apparatus is configured to identify a hospital patient; and the second communication apparatus is configured to monitor patient data or reports patient status.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first communication apparatus is configured to interrogate the device using a first communication protocol; and the second communication apparatus is configured to interrogate the device using a second communication protocol different from the first communication protocol.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the first communication apparatus and the second communication apparatus interrogate the ...

RADIOFREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION DATA SYSTEM OPERATING WITHIN A TOOL CABINET

A UHF radiofrequency identification (RFID) system comprising a UHF RFID reader and at least one UHF RFID antenna for enabling communication of the UHF RFID reader with UHF RFID tags affixed on articles within a cabinet having electrically conductive walls and at least one door, the UHF RFID antennas being positioned within the cabinet and the UHF RFID system further comprises at least one conductive surface (e.g., a brewer, brasseur, or cross-connector) enclosed in a compartment positioned within the cabinet and comprising a conductive surface set in movement by a motor. 1. A UHF radiofrequency identification (RFID) system comprising a UHF RFID reader and at least one UHF RFID antenna communicatively coupled to the UHF RFID reader to enable communication of said UHF RFID reader with UHF RFID tags affixed on articles within a cabinet having electrically conductive walls and at least one door , wherein said at least one UHF RFID antenna is positioned within said cabinet and in that said UHF RFID system further comprises at least one conductive surface positioned within said cabinet , and at least one motor drivingly coupled to set the at least one conductive surface in motion.2. The UHF RFID system according to claim 1 , wherein said conductive surface has minimal dimensions of 20 cm in a first direction and of 10 cm in a second direction perpendicular to said first direction.3. The UHF RFID system according to claim 1 , wherein said conductive surface has a planar rectangular shape.4. The UHF RFID system according to claim 3 , wherein said conductive surface comprises an axis of symmetry claim 3 , which is aligned with a direction of a longest dimension of said conductive surface and which forms a rotation axis for said at least one conductive surface.5. The UHF RFID system according to claim 1 , wherein said conductive surface is made of aluminium or of a material covered or coated with an electrically conductive material.6. An electrically conductive closed cavity ...

Authentication Systems and Methods

A system includes a first computing device having a first non-transitory machine-readable storage medium, first communication circuitry, and at least one first processor in communication with the first non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and the first communication circuitry. The at least one first processor is configured to execute instructions stored in the first non-transitory machine-readable storage medium to cause the first communication circuitry to receive a first signal from a first transmission medium, calculate a first authentication value for an object based on data included in the first signal, and cause the first communication circuitry to transmit a second signal to the first transmission medium. The second signal identifies whether the object is authentic based, at least in part, on the first authentication value. 1. A system for validating the authenticity of a physical , non-human object , the system comprising: receive a first message over the network from a second computing device, the first message containing first data based on at least two sensed non-biometric characteristics of the object;', 'match the first data against a database communicatively coupled to the first computing device to retrieve authentication information from the database;', 'determine a likelihood of authenticity of the object, based, at least in part, on the authentication information;', 'update the database based on information in the first data and on the likelihood of authenticity; and', 'send a second message over the network to the second computing device, the second message including second data indicative of the likelihood of authenticity of the object., 'a first computing device, communicatively coupled to a network, the first computing device configured to2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first computing device is configured to match the first data against the database by calculating an authentication value claim 1 , based at least in part the ...

INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS AND METHODS

In one embodiment, a system includes a radio-frequency identification (RFID) reader configured to read data stored on an RFID tag associated with a user and to generate a first signal indicative of the data and indicative of a location of the RFID tag, a sensor system configured to detect a user interaction with an interactive element and to generate a second signal indicative of the user interaction, and a processor configured to match the user to the user interaction based on the first signal and the second signal and to update a user database to reflect that the user is matched to the user interaction. 1. A system , comprising:a radio-frequency identification (RFID) reader configured to read data stored on an RFID tag associated with a user and to generate a first signal indicative of the data and indicative of a location of the RFID tag;a sensor system configured to detect a user interaction with an interactive element and to generate a second signal indicative of the user interaction; anda processor configured to match the user to the user interaction based on the first signal and the second signal and to update a user database to reflect that the user is matched to the user interaction.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the interactive element comprises an image claim 1 , and the processor is configured to render another image for display in response to matching the user to the user interaction.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the RFID reader is an ultra-high frequency RFID reader.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the RFID reader is configured to generate a third signal indicative of a strength of an RFID signal transmitted from the RFID tag to the RFID reader claim 1 , and the processor is configured to match the user to the user interaction based on the third signal.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the sensor system comprises one or more optical detectors.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the sensor system comprises multiple optical detectors ...

Antenna for an RFID Reading Apparatus and Method for Transmitting and/or Receiving RFID Signals

An antenna () for an RFID reading apparatus having a plurality of single antennas () of the inverted-F type, wherein the single antennas () are arranged in a plane and are arranged tilted with respect to one another within the plane, and having a feed circuit () that is connected to the single antennas () to control the single antennas () to generate a circular polarization having a mutual phase offset corresponding to the tilt is provided. The antenna () in this respect has at least four single antennas (-), the single antennas (-) are arranged in a direction of rotation, and the antenna () has a common ground plane () in parallel with the plane. 1. An antenna for an RFID reading apparatus , the antenna comprising:a plurality of single antennas of the inverted-F type, wherein the single antennas are arranged in a plane and are arranged tilted with respect to one another within the plane, anda feed circuit that is connected to the single antennas to control the single antennas to generate a circular polarization having a mutual phase offset corresponding to the tilt,wherein the antenna has at least four single antennas; wherein the single antennas are aligned in a direction of rotation; and wherein the antenna has a common ground plane in parallel with the plane.2. The antenna in accordance with claim 1 ,wherein the single antennas are of F shape, with the perpendicular line forming a monopole antenna, but with an additional short-circuit as the upper bar beside a feed point at the lower bar.3. The antenna in accordance with claim 1 ,wherein the single antennas are PIFA antennas.4. The antenna in accordance with claim 1 ,wherein the antenna has four single antennas in a quadratic arrangement.5. The antenna in accordance with claim 4 ,wherein the single antennas each extend over a corner of the quadratic arrangement.6. The antenna in accordance with claim 1 ,wherein the single antennas have a widened end region.7. The antenna in accordance with claim 1 ,wherein at ...

READING APPARATUS

A reading apparatus is configured to communicate with a wireless tag attached to an object. The reading apparatus includes a container having a plurality of side walls and an opening such that the object can be placed through the opening, an antenna at a bottom of the container, configured to transmit and receive radio waves to and from the wireless tag, and a plurality of reflective elements arranged in the side walls so that the radio waves radiated from the antenna and reflected by the reflective elements do not leak through the opening to the outside. 1. A reading apparatus configured to communicate with a wireless tag attached to an object , the reading apparatus comprising:a container having a plurality of side walls and an opening such that the object can be placed through the opening;an antenna at a bottom of the container, configured to transmit and receive radio waves to and from the wireless tag; anda plurality of reflective elements arranged in the side walls so that the radio waves radiated from the antenna and reflected by the reflective elements do not leak through the opening to the outside.2. The reading apparatus according to claim 1 , whereineach side wall is made of a conductor, and each reflective element is electrically connected to the side wall via a switch.3. The reading apparatus according to claim 1 , whereineach side wall is made of a conductor, and each reflective element is electrically connected to the side wall via a capacitor.4. The reading apparatus according to claim 1 , whereinthe reflective elements are electrically connected to each other via a switch.5. The reading apparatus according to claim 1 , whereinthe reflection elements are electrically connected to each other via a capacitor.6. The reading apparatus according to claim 1 , whereinthe container has a bottom wall at the bottom of the container, andeach side wall and the bottom wall include an inner surface and an outer surface.7. The reading apparatus according to claim 6 ...

Encoding Module, Associated Encoding Element, Connector, Printer-Encoder and Access Control System

An encoding module and related systems and components are provided. The encoding module includes a plurality of encoding elements arranged in an array of columns and rows and one or more switching elements configured to selectively connect the encoding elements to a reader. The connection of the encoding elements may be based on the location of a targeted transponder disposed among multiple adjacent transponders to ensure the selective communication with the targeted transponder only. The module is configured for various types and locations transponders to be used within a system, such as a printer-encoder. Each encoding element may include a loaded conductive strip comprising a loop shape portion and a shield that corresponds to the loop shape portion. In another embodiment, an access control system having an encoding module with the plurality of couplers and an access card having a plurality of transponders corresponding to the couplers is provided. 1. (canceled)2. A method to calibrate an encoder for media units on a web passing through an encoding region , the method comprising:activating a first encoding element to encode a transponder;determining if the transponder was encoded by the first encoding element; andin response to encoding the transponder, determining that using the first encoding element was unsuccessful, activating a second encoding element to encode the transponder.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising altering a near-field property of the first encoding element using a switch.4. The method of claim 2 , further comprising:when the transponder is determined to not be encoded, determining whether a length of a media unit is less than a threshold media unit length; andwhen the length of the media unit is less than the threshold media unit length, ejecting the media unit.5. The method of claim 2 , wherein activating the first encoding element to encode the transponder is repeated a first number of attempts.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein ...

Antenna for an RFID Reader and Method for Identifying a Roll

An antenna ( 10 ) for an RFID reader, the antenna ( 10 ) comprising at least two linearly polarized individual antennas ( 24 a - b ) and a feed circuit ( 26 ) which is connected to the individual antennas ( 24 a - b ), wherein the individual antennas ( 24 a - b ) are arranged relative to one another with a tilt of an internal angle and together form a circularly polarized antenna, and wherein the antenna ( 10 ) has a free space ( 30 ) in a region of the internal angle.

RFID SYSTEM

An RFID system includes an antenna of a reader/writer and an antenna of an RFID tag. Transmission and reception of a high-frequency signal of a UHF band is performed between the antenna of the reader/writer and the antenna of the RFID tag that are arranged so as to be adjacent to each other. A loop antenna including a loop conductor is used as the antenna of the reader/writer, and coil antennas including a plurality of laminated coil conductors are used as the antenna of an RFID tag. In addition, the conductor width of the loop conductor in the loop antenna is greater than the conductor widths of the coil conductors in the coil antennas. 1. (canceled)2. An RFID tag attached to a surface of an article comprising:an RFIC chip disposed on a power feeding substrate; anda coil antenna provided in the power feeding substrate that includes a plurality of laminated dielectric layers; whereinthe RFIC chip is provided closer to the surface of the article than the coil antenna.3. The RFID tag according to claim 2 , whereinthe coil antenna is defined by a three-dimensional-shaped coil antenna including a plurality of single loop coil conductors provided in or on different layers of the plurality of laminated dielectric layers;the plurality of single loop coil conductors includes a first opening and a second opening defined in the different layers; andthe second opening is provided closer to the surface of the article than the first opening, and the first opening has greater size to the second opening.4. An RFID system comprising:a handheld reader/writer including an antenna; andan RFID tag including an antenna attached to an article; whereintransmission and/or reception of a high-frequency signal in a UHF band or an SHF band is performed between the antenna of the handheld reader/writer and the antenna of the RFID tag;the antenna of the handheld reader/writer is defined by an approximately one-turn loop antenna; and an RFIC chip disposed on a power feeding substrate; and', 'a ...

RFID System with Distributed Read Structure

A radio frequency identification (RFID) system includes a portable RFID reader, and a read infrastructure that includes a distributed read structure, which may be part of a display (such as a shelf) for holding objects. The read structure is used to couple the RFID reader to RFID devices (tabs and/or labels) on or near the structure. The RFID reader and the read structure communicate in a near field or proximity region communication, without any use of a direct ohmic electrical connection. The RFID reader may have an antenna that is configured for near field or proximity communication with a coupler of the read infrastructure. The RFID reader may also have a separate antenna for use in far field communication. The RFID reader may be able to obtain information more efficiently in the near field or proximity mode, allowing information to be received faster and with greater reliability. 1. A read infrastructure for radio frequency identification (RFID) devices comprising:a distributed read structure for proximity coupling with RFID devices within one wavelength of radiation emitted by the read structure; anda coupler, electrically connected to the read structure, for proximity coupling to an RFID reader wherein the reader includes a first antenna and a second antenna such that either the first or second antenna is used for proximity coupling and the other of the first and second antenna is not used for proximity coupling is used for far field coupling.2. The read infrastructure of claim 1 , wherein the coupler includes a central active patch or plane of conductive material claim 1 , flanked by a pair of outer ground patches or planes of conductive material claim 1 , the central active patch is coupled to a central conductor of the coaxial cable and the ground patches are coupled to an outer claim 1 , ground conductor of the coaxial cable.3. The read infrastructure of claim 1 , as part of a RFID system in combination with the RFID reader operatively coupled to the ...

ELECTRICAL ACTIVITY SENSOR DEVICE FOR DETECTING ELECTRICAL ACTIVITY AND ELECTRICAL ACTIVITY MONITORING APPARATUS

An electrical activity sensor attachable to a power cable of an electrical device for detecting an impulse generated in the power cable in response to a change in electrical power state of the electrical device, the electrical activity sensor comprising an antenna assembly comprising an antenna element operable to magnetically couple with an electrical pulse generated in the power cable to induce an electrical signal in response to a change in electrical power state of the electrical device; and at least one dipole type antenna configured operate as a half wave dipole in the operating frequency range of the antenna element and to magnetically couple to the antenna element wherein the dipole type conductor is operable to wirelessly transmit data representative of the power state change of the electrical device to a remote reader. 1. An electrical activity sensor attachable to a power cable of an electrical device and comprising an antenna assembly includingan antenna element operable to magnetically couple with an electrical pulse generated in the power cable to induce an electrical signal in response to a change in electrical power state of the electrical device; andat least one dipole type antenna configured operate as a half wave dipole in the operating frequency range of the antenna and to magnetically couple to the antenna element wherein the dipole type conductor is operable to wirelessly transmit data representative of the power state change of the electrical device from the antenna to a remote radio frequency data reader.2. An electrical activity sensor according to wherein the antenna element is a loop antenna.3. An electrical activity sensor according to wherein the antenna element is provided with a radio frequency identification circuit comprising memory.4. An electrical activity sensor according to wherein the antenna element is coupled to the dipole type antenna at a coupling distance x from one end of the dipole type antenna claim 3 , the coupling ...

Integrated RFID Antenna Fabrication Method and Apparatus for Transponder Assembly

This invention presents an improved RFID method, system or apparatus which includes integrating one or more RFID elements or devices in an object, placing one or more RFID elements or devices on an object, and providing a smart placer which determines and places the RFID in the most efficient location in respect to interference, attenuation or frequency shifts that may exist, to improve the performance or efficiency of the RFID transponder and reader system ability. 1. A method comprising of: 'a RFID far-field antenna is integrated in the object,', 'providing an object, whereinproviding a RFID placement device, and 'the RFID IC with near-field antenna interacts with the RFID far-field antenna.', 'placing a RFID IC with near-field antenna on the object with the RFID placement device, wherein2. A method as in claim 1 , wherein prior to providing the object:the RFID far-field antenna is manufactured with the object as to become apart of the object itself.3. A method as in claim 1 , wherein:the RFID placement device is handheld.4. A method as in claim 1 , wherein:the RFID placement device is integrated into an existing processing or manufacturing machine, wherein the machine is able to perform the function of the RFID placement device, in addition to the existing processing or manufacturing capability.5. A method as in claim 1 , wherein prior to placing the RFIC IC with near-field antenna claim 1 , 'determining the RFID far-field antenna position and location.', 'scanning for the RFID far-field antenna integrated in the object, and'}, 'scans for RFID elements, specifically, 'the RFID placement device6. A method as in claim 5 , wherein:the RFID placement device additionally reads or measures field attenuation or frequency shift caused by the object and determines an optimum position and location to place the RFID IC with near-field antenna for proper performance and interaction.7. A method as in claim 6 , wherein:the RFID placement device indicates to a user the optimum ...

WIRELESS POWER SYSTEM

A wireless power system includes a primary device and a secondary device. The primary device includes a power conversion unit, a function module, and a transceiver. The peripheral device includes a wireless power receiver circuit, a peripheral transceiver, and a peripheral unit. The power conversion unit converts a power source into an electromagnetic signal. The functional module executes a function regarding peripheral information. The transceiver communicates information regarding the electromagnetic signal and the peripheral information. The wireless power receiver circuit converts the electromagnetic signal into a voltage. The peripheral transceiver communicates the information regarding the electromagnetic signal and the peripheral information. The peripheral unit processes the peripheral information. 1. A wireless power system comprises: a power conversion unit operable to convert a power source into an electromagnetic signal;', 'a functional module operable to execute a function regarding peripheral information;', communicate information regarding the electromagnetic signal; and', 'communicate the peripheral information;, 'a transceiver operable to], 'a primary device that includes a wireless power receiver circuit operable to convert the electromagnetic signal into a voltage;', communicate the information regarding the electromagnetic signal;', 'communicate the peripheral information; and, 'a peripheral transceiver operable to, 'a peripheral unit to process the peripheral information., 'a peripheral device that includes2. The wireless power system of claim 1 , wherein the power conversion unit comprises:a power supply operable to convert the power source into an output DC voltage, wherein the power source is an AC voltage or an input DC voltage; anda wireless power transmitter circuit operable to convert the output DC voltage into the electromagnetic signal.3. The wireless power system of claim 1 , wherein the power conversion unit comprises:a wireless ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SENSING ENVIRONMENT USING A WIRELESS PASSIVE SENSOR

A method begins with a first reader sending a first radio frequency (RF) signal prior to exposing a vehicle to moisture testing. The method continues with a second reader send a second RF signal after exposing the vehicle to moisture testing. The method continues by a first RF sensor tag receiving the first RF signal and adjusting a tank circuit in response to the first RF signal to produce a first impedance change. The method continues by the first RF sensor tag generating a first digital representation of the first impedance change. The method continues by the first RF sensor tag receiving the second RF signal, adjusting the tank circuit in response to the second RF signal to produce a second impedance change, and generating a second digital representation of the second impedance change. 1. A method comprising:sending by a first reader, a first radio frequency (RF) signal prior to exposing a vehicle to moisture testing;sending by a second reader, a second RF signal after exposing the vehicle to moisture testing;receiving, by a first RF sensor tag of a plurality of RF sensor tags, the first RF signal, wherein the first RF sensor tag includes an antenna, a transmission line, a tank circuit, a tuning circuit and a transmitter, wherein the transmission line is positioned in a first area of a plurality of areas of the vehicle;adjusting, by the first RF sensor tag, the tank circuit in response to the first RF signal to produce a first impedance change;generating, by the first RF sensor tag, a first digital representation of the first impedance change;receiving, by the first RF sensor tag, the second RF signal;adjusting, by the first RF sensor tag, the tank circuit in response to the second RF signal to produce a second impedance change; andgenerating, by the first RF sensor tag, a second digital representation of the second impedance change, wherein a difference between the first digital representation and the second digital representation represent a level of moisture ...

DETACHABLE RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION SWITCH TAG

A radio frequency identification (RFID) switch tag is disclosed. This RFID switch tag includes a base component having an ultra-high frequency (UHF) booster, and a detachable component having at least one UHF RFID module and a high frequency (HF) RFID module. In some embodiments, the detachable component is positioned in close proximity to the base component in a first configuration of the RFID switch tag such that the at least one UHF RFID module is sufficiently coupled to the UHF booster in the base component to form an UHF RFID system having a desired performance. The detachable component can also be separated from the base component to obtain a second configuration of the RFID switch tag, and the HF RFID module remains functional within the detached detachable component so that the detachable component can be used as a standalone HF RFID tag. 1. A radio frequency identification (RFID) switch tag , comprising:a base component including an ultra-high frequency (UHF) booster; and at least one UHF RFID module configured to couple with the UHF booster,', 'a high frequency (HF) RFID module, and', 'a switching mechanism configured to switch between the at least one UHF module and the high frequency module., 'a detachable component, the detachable component including2. The RFID switch tag of claim 1 , wherein the detachable component is positioned in close proximity to the base component in a first configuration of the RFID switch tag such that the at least one UHF RFID module is sufficiently coupled to the UHF booster in the base component to form an UHF RFID system having a desired performance.3. The RFID switch tag of claim 2 , wherein the at least one UHF RFID module further includes an UHF coupling antenna claim 2 , and the at least one UHF RFID module is coupled to the base component through inductive coupling between the UHF coupling antenna and the UHF booster.4. The RFID switch tag of claim 2 , wherein the detachable component is positioned substantially in the ...

Integrated Sensing Tag-Based Wireless Sensing Within Electronic Devices

The present disclosure relates generally to electronic devices, and more particularly, to electronic devices that utilize electromagnetic signals (e.g., radio frequency (RF) signals), transmitters, and receivers in various processes, such as cellular and wireless device processes in a at least partially metal enclosure. The present disclosure describes devices that may be used to wirelessly transmit and/or receive electromagnetic signals between processing components and sensing components, for example, by improving sensing device design and thus forming an integrated sensing tag that leverages passive RF technology, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. 1. An electronic device , comprising:a physical layer configured to form a portion of a circuit to be sensed;an antenna configured to generate an electromagnetic signal in response to receiving a voltage or current signal;processing circuitry configured to generate the voltage or current signal, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to couple to the antenna; and a tag antenna configured to receive the electromagnetic signal from the antenna as part of a wireless transmission; and', perform a sensing operation in response to the tag antenna receiving the electromagnetic signal, the sensing operation configured to sense a property of associated with the circuit;', 'generate sensing data as part of the sensing operation; and', 'transmit the sensing data to the antenna via the tag antenna., 'a tag chip coupled to the tag antenna and configured to], 'an integrated sensing tag at least partially embedded within the physical layer that comprises2. The electronic device of claim 1 , comprising an antenna array that comprises the antenna and additional antennas claim 1 , wherein the processing circuitry adjusts the voltage or current signal based at least in part on a beamforming operation configured to generate an electromagnetic signal to power-on the integrated sensing tag without powering-on an ...

AERIAL INVENTORY ANTENNA

The present invention teaches a frequency-scalable high-gain dual-polarization radio beam application platform for private, public, government, or military radio applications such as RFID (radio frequency identification), aerial and robotic inventory scanning, radio communications, telemetry, telecommand, aeronautical radionavigation, radiolocation, earth exploration, space research for terrestrial, air-to-ground, space-to-earth, or space-to-space uses. 1) A dual polarization antenna comprising:a hollow central core wherein the outer skin is electrically conductive;a two-port radio module wherein the module is located within the hollow central core with a first and a second antenna feed point extending through the surface of the skin;a toroidal reflector loop located below the hollow central core;a first helical exciter element located above the reflector loop wherein the proximal end of the exciter curls inward to connect with the first antenna feed point;a second helical exciter element located above the first helical exciter element wherein the proximal end of the exciter curls inward to connect with the second antenna feed point; anda toroidal director loop located above the second helical exciter element.2) The antenna of further comprising a first non-conductive helical support member and a second non-conductive helical support member located above the first non-conductive helical support member.3) The antenna of claim 2 , wherein the first exciter element is supported at two points by the first helical support member and the second exciter element is supported at two points by the second helical support member4) The antenna of claim 3 , wherein the first helical support member supports the distal end of the second exciter.5) The antenna of claim 3 , wherein the second helical support member supports the distal end of the first exciter.6) The antenna of claim 1 , wherein the reflector claim 1 , exciters claim 1 , and director elements are made of half hard ...

Optical Character Recognition Of Voter Selections For Cast Vote Records

An electronic voting system is described that utilizes printed vote records (PVRs) in which a voter's vote selections are recorded in voter readable characters. Optical character recognition (OCR) techniques may then be utilized to scan the PVR to record the voter's selections. The OCR data is then utilized to generate the cast vote record. Thus, the electronic voting system directly interprets the voter selections from the PVR just as the voter sees the data. In this manner “what you see is what you get” printed vote record data is provided for a voter's viewing and that same data is used to generate the cast vote record. 1. A method for electronic voting using printed vote records , comprising:generating a printed vote record of at least one vote selection of a voter;providing, on the printed vote record, voter readable text indicating the voter's at least one vote selection;providing, on the printed vote record, encoded data, the encoded data indicating the voter's at least one vote selection;electronically scanning the voter readable text on the printed vote record to create a first data set, the first data set indicating at least the voter's at least one vote selection;electronically scanning the encoded data on the printed vote record to create a second data set, the second data set indicating at least the voter's at least one vote selection;comparing the first data set and the second data set; andproviding a cast vote record indicating the voter's at least one vote selection as determined by the first data set.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the encoded data includes at least one bar code.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the bar code is a QR code bar code.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising confirming an integrity of the printed vote record based at least in part on a comparison of the first data set and the second data set5. The method of claim 4 , wherein confirming the integrity of the printed vote record comprises comparing the first data ...

RADIO-FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION TAG

The radio-frequency identification tag comprises: 1. A radio-frequency identification tag adapted to indicate to a reader , via a wireless connection , that a physical quantity has reached a predetermined threshold , said physical quantity being selected from the group consisting of a temperature of the radio-frequency identification tag and a magnetic field in which the radio-frequency identification tag is immersed , this radio-frequency identification tag comprising:an electrically insulating substrate,an antenna for establishing the wireless connection with the reader, this antenna being placed entirely on and secured to the insulating substrate without any degree of freedom,a floating ground plane made of an electrically conductive material and electrically insulated from the antenna, said ground plane being mobile relative to the antenna between a first position wherein the impedance of the antenna is equal to a first value and a second position wherein the impedance of the antenna is equal to a second value different from the first value, andan actuator made of a transducer material adapted to convert a variation in the physical quantity into a mechanical displacement of the ground plane between its first and second positions when said variation leads the physical quantity to cross the predetermined threshold to indicate said predetermined threshold being crossed to the reader, the transducer material being selected from a group consisting of a thermal shape-memory material, a magnetostrictive material and a magnetic shape-memory material, wherein:the transducer material is also an electrically conductive material, andthe ground plane and the actuator are both formed by a single strip made of this transducer material and a mobile portion of which moves relative to the antenna between the first and second positions when the physical quantity crosses the predetermined threshold.2. The radio-frequency identification tag according to claim 1 , wherein the strip ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS USING SINGLE ANTENNA FOR MULTIPLE RESONANT FREQUENCY RANGES

A radio frequency device utilizing an antenna having a single antenna structure resonant on multiple resonant frequency ranges. The antenna can be configured to operate within multiple frequency ranges for communication according to respective protocols associated with the respective frequency ranges. 1. A system , comprising: a memory storing at least one identification number of the device;', 'an antenna system having a first resonant frequency and a second resonant frequency;', 'a transceiver coupled to the antenna system to receive signals transmitted in the first frequency and signals transmitted in the second frequency; and', 'a processor coupled with the memory and the transceiver to provide the identification number of the device; and, 'a radio frequency device havinga first communication apparatus configured to interrogate the radio frequency device using the first frequency; anda second communication apparatus, separate from the first communication apparatus, configured to interrogate the radio frequency device using the second frequency concurrently with the first communication apparatus interrogating the radio frequency device using the first frequency.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first communication apparatus interrogates the radio frequency device using a first communication protocol; and the second communication apparatus interrogates the radio frequency device using a second communication protocol different from the first communication protocol.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the first communication protocol is in accordance with an EPC UHF class 1 protocol; and the second communication protocol is in accordance with an EPC HF class 1 protocol.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the radio frequency device performs different functions in communications with the first communication apparatus and the communication apparatus.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first communication apparatus identifies a hospital patient; and the second ...

METHOD FOR TRACKING SANITARY MATERIALS AND GOODS WITH RFID IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM; CONTAINMENT AREA AND/OR STRUCTURE ACTUATING SAID METHOD

Method for tracking sanitary materials and goods with a RFId identification system; the materials and goods provided with at least one label containing a microchip containing data of the material or good and an antenna; the materials and goods placeable in a storage area provided with a plurality of transceiving radio frequency identification antennae and associated connectivity devices; the plurality of antennae and connectivity devices placed so as to receive and exchange information via RFId technology inside the set area, so as to automatically record and detect the loading and/or collecting of the labeled materials and goods and exchange information relative to the identified objects; the method includes: a) carrying out the exchange of tag-antenna information in a range of radiofrequencies comprised between 850 and 960 MHz (UHF); and b) restricting the range of radiofrequencies (UHF) through the shielding of the area arranged for storage of the materials and goods. 1. Method for tracking sanitary materials and goods with RFId identification system; said sanitary materials and goods provided with at least one label containing a microchip containing the data of the material or good and an antenna; said sanitary materials and goods placeable in an area arranged for storage; said area being provided with a plurality (P) of transceiving radio frequency identification antennae and associated connectivity devices; said plurality of antennae and connectivity devices placed in a manner so as to receive and exchange information by means of RFId technology inside the set area , so as to automatically record and detect the loading and/or collecting of the labeled materials and goods and exchange information relative to the identified objects; characterized in that it provides for:a. carrying out the exchange of tag-antenna information in a range of radiofrequencies comprised between 850 and 960 MHz (UHF)b. restricting the range of radiofrequencies (UHF) through the ...

Method for optimizing a yagi-uda antenna for a rfid inlay or integrated circuit

An RFID tag and a method for optimizing a Yagi-Uda antenna for a RFID inlay or integrated circuit is provided. The method has steps comprise: 1) selecting an electrically conductively first element; 2) generating an electrically conductive second element by taking a mirror image of the electrically conductive first element and trimming the second element; 3) generating a third element” along a line of axis of symmetry of the first two elements and on the opposite side of the first element as the electrically conductive second element; 4) adjusting the distance between the first three elements for optimum performance using E t (x)=EXP[a−x·b]+E ∞ ; and 5) optionally, if the electrically conductive first element does not contain an IC (integrated circuit) or RFID inlay, then adding an IC or RFID inlay adjacent to/or physically touching the electrically conductive first element along the line of symmetry.

SYSTEM FOR THE DYNAMIC READING OF DATA FROM TRANSPONDERS

A system is provided for dynamically reading data from a tire transponder that includes a linear-polarization antenna. The system includes one ore more system antennas and one or more readers. Each system antenna is able to receive data transmitted by the tire transponder. Each reader is able to couple to the one or more antennas to read and store the data from the tire transponder. Each system antenna is a linear-polarization antenna with a vertical electric field. 19-. (canceled)10: A system for the dynamic reading data from a transponder of a tire of a vehicle , in which the transponder includes a linear-polarization antenna , the system comprising:at least one system antenna able to receive data transmitted by the transponder; andat least one reader able to couple to the at least one system antenna to read and store the data from the transponder,wherein each system antenna is a linear-polarization antenna with a vertical electric field.11: The reading system according to claim 10 , wherein each system antenna has a gain equal to or less than 6 dBi.12: The reading system according to claim 11 , wherein claim 11 , a maximum power that may be conducted through each system antenna is 30 dBm.13: The reading system according to claim 10 , further comprising at least two linear-polarization antennas with a vertical electric field claim 10 , the at least two linear-polarization antennas being offset relative to one another in a direction of rolling of the tire by a distance of less than 1.20 m.14: The reading system according to claim 13 , wherein the at least two linear-polarization antennas are disposed substantially at a height of an axis of rotation of the tire.15: The reading system according to claim 13 , wherein the two linear-polarization antennas are operated alternately.16: The reading system according to claim 13 , wherein the two linear-polarization antennas are linked to a same reader.17: The reading system according to claim 10 , wherein the transponder is ...

Systems and Methods using Single Antenna for Multiple Resonant Frequency Ranges

A radio frequency device utilizing an antenna having a single antenna structure resonant on multiple resonant frequency ranges. The antenna can be configured to operate within multiple frequency ranges for communication according to respective protocols associated with the respective frequency ranges. 1. A system , comprising: a memory configured to store at least one identification number of the device;', 'an antenna system having a first resonant frequency and a second resonant frequency;', 'a transceiver coupled to the antenna system and configured to receive signals transmitted in the first frequency and signals transmitted in the second frequency; and', 'a processor coupled with the memory and the transceiver and configured to provide the identification number of the device; and, 'a device havinga first communication apparatus configured to interrogate the device using the first frequency; anda second communication apparatus, separate from the first communication apparatus, configured to interrogate the device using the second frequency.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the device is configured to perform a first function in communications with the first communication apparatus and perform a second function claim 1 , different from the first function claim 1 , in communications with the second communication apparatus.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the first communication apparatus is configured to identify a hospital patient; and the second communication apparatus is configured to monitor patient data or reports patient status.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first communication apparatus is configured to interrogate the device using a first communication protocol; and the second communication apparatus is configured to interrogate the device using a second communication protocol different from the first communication protocol.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the first communication apparatus and the second communication apparatus interrogate the ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SENSING ENVIRONMENT USING A WIRELESS PASSIVE SENSOR

A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag includes an antenna, a power circuit, a tuning circuit, a receiver, and a backscatter transmitter. The power circuit is operably coupled to convert a radio frequency (RF) signal received via the antenna from an RFID reader into one or more power supply voltages. The tuning circuit is operably coupled to the antenna and to adjust an RF characteristic of the antenna and/or the tuning circuit based on a difference between a resonant frequency of the RFID tag and a carrier frequency of the RF signal. The receiver is operably coupled to receive a command signal from the RFID reader. The backscatter transmitter is operably coupled to transmit a response signal to the RFID reader via the antenna. 1. A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag comprises:an antenna;a power circuit operably coupled to convert a radio frequency (RF) signal received via the antenna from an RFID reader into one or more power supply voltages;a tuning circuit operably coupled to the antenna, wherein the tuning circuit, when enabled, adjusts an RF characteristic of at least one of the antenna and the tuning circuit based on a difference between a resonant frequency of the RFID tag and a carrier frequency of the RF signal;a receiver operably coupled to receive a command signal from the RFID reader, wherein the command signal is contained within a portion of the RF signal; anda backscatter transmitter operably coupled to transmit a response signal to the RFID reader via the antenna.2. The RFID tag of claim 1 , wherein the tuning circuit is further operable to:adjust the RF characteristic to tune power harvesting from the RF signal.3. The RFID tag of claim 1 , wherein the tuning circuit is further operable to:adjust the RF characteristic to detect an impedance change of the antenna due to an environmental condition affecting the antenna.4. The RFID tag of further comprises:the RF signal includes a continuous wave component, wherein the command signal is ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A RECONFIGURABLE ANTENNA

Systems and methods for a reconfigurable antenna are provided. One system includes a device having a plurality of antenna elements configured to read a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag and a switch having an input configured to receive a control signal from an RFID reader via a communication line to select one antenna of the plurality of antenna elements. The device further include a controller configured to control a state of the switch, wherein the switch is configured to be switched between states when the controller receives the RFID control signal comprising an address unique to the switch, thereby allowing the RFID reader to send an interrogation signal to and receive a response from the RFID tag in response to receiving the RFID control signal. 1. A device comprising:a plurality of antenna elements configured to read a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag;a switch having an input configured to receive an RFID control signal from an RFID reader via a communication line to select one antenna of the plurality of antenna elements; anda controller configured to control a state of the switch,wherein the switch is configured to be switched between states when the controller receives the RFID control signal comprising an address unique to the controller, thereby allowing the RFID reader to send an interrogation signal to and receive a response from the RFID tag in response to receiving the RFID control signal.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the switch is configured to be switched between antenna states to change an antenna characteristic for communicating with the RFID tag.3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the antenna characteristic is one of a polarization or a resonant frequency band or a far-field radiation pattern or a near-field radiation pattern.4. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a coupler and wherein the switch is a radio-frequency (RF) switch and the controller is an RFID integrated-circuit (IC) claim 1 , an input of the device is ...

Wireless sensor including an rf signal circuit

A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag includes an antenna structure operable to receive a radio frequency (RF) signal, an RF signal circuit operable to, when enabled, produce the RF signal, a sensing element operably coupled to the antenna structure, a memory, and a processing module. When in a calibration mode, the processing module adjusts the input impedance until a measured power level is substantially equal to the desired input power level, and generates a first digital value based on the amount of the adjustment a power difference between a measured first input power level and a desired power level, and stores the first digital value in the memory, where the first digital value is representative of a known condition. In a sense mode, the processing module adjusts the input impedance until a second measured power level is substantially equal to the desired input power level, and generates a second digital value based on the amount of the adjustment a power difference between a measured first input power level and a desired power level, and the desired power level, and stores the second digital value in the memory, where the second digital value is representative of an unknown condition.

Interrogation and remote control device; process for operating and using said device

Said device (AFG) comprises two separate partial devices (A, B) interacting through antenna arrangements (1, 11). The first partial device (A) includes a high-frequency generator (4) for producing a carrier frequency, a high-frequency line (3) leading to the antenna (101) and a high-frequency demodulator (56). The latter includes a directional coupler (5) and a detector diode (6), both connected upstream from a discriminator and signal-processing unit (8). Power is supplied to said partial device (A) by a supply unit (58). The second partial device (B) includes a high-frequency direct current converter (14), a voltage-controlled resistance (16), a modulator (62) and a signal transmitter (19). Four-wire networks (102, 112) make the antenna arrangements (1, 11) self-resonant as regards carrier frequency; said arrangements are located in each other's near fields. The carrier frequency emitted by the first antenna (101) is received by the second antenna (111) and converted to direct current (i). The signal (S) produced by the signal transmitter (19) modulates the direct current (i) by means of a corresponding subcarrier frequency (f), resulting in an absorption modulation which retroacts on the first antenna (101) and on the high-frequency demodulator (56). The latter delivers the corresponding subcarrier frequency (f), from which the discriminator and signal-processing unit (8) derives an output signal (SS) corresponding to the signal (S) emitted by the signal transmitter (19). Said device can be used wherever signal transmitters which cannot be accessed by direct transmission, in particular measuring probes, are to be interrogated, for example in the case of signal transmitters implanted in living organisms.

Patent CH676164A5

Said device (AFG) comprises two separate partial devices (A, B) interacting through antenna arrangements (1, 11). The first partial device (A) includes a high-frequency generator (4) for producing a carrier frequency, a high-frequency line (3) leading to the antenna (101) and a high-frequency demodulator (56). The latter includes a directional coupler (5) and a detector diode (6), both connected upstream from a discriminator and signal-processing unit (8). Power is supplied to said partial device (A) by a supply unit (58). The second partial device (B) includes a high-frequency direct current converter (14), a voltage-controlled resistance (16), a modulator (62) and a signal transmitter (19). Four-wire networks (102, 112) make the antenna arrangements (1, 11) self-resonant as regards carrier frequency; said arrangements are located in each other's near fields. The carrier frequency emitted by the first antenna (101) is received by the second antenna (111) and converted to direct current (i). The signal (S) produced by the signal transmitter (19) modulates the direct current (i) by means of a corresponding subcarrier frequency (f), resulting in an absorption modulation which retroacts on the first antenna (101) and on the high-frequency demodulator (56). The latter delivers the corresponding subcarrier frequency (f), from which the discriminator and signal-processing unit (8) derives an output signal (SS) corresponding to the signal (S) emitted by the signal transmitter (19). Said device can be used wherever signal transmitters which cannot be accessed by direct transmission, in particular measuring probes, are to be interrogated, for example in the case of signal transmitters implanted in living organisms.

Handheld mobile credit card reader

A handheld mobile credit card reader includes a handy housing having a clamping space for holding a mobile electronic device, a card reader module mounted in a compartment in the housing and having a card slot set in alignment with a card-sliding slot at the front side of the housing for allowing a person to slide an electronic card therethrough and a card reader unit adapted for reading data from the electronic card being moved through the card slot, and a signal transmission device set in the front side of the housing for the connection of the attached mobile electronic device and electrically connected with the card reader unit for transmitting fetched data from the cad reader unit to the attached mobile electronic device for enabling the attached mobile electronic device to transmit the data to a remove remote credit card transaction processing center wirelessly to make a payment.

Enhanced identification system

本发明公开了一种用于一个阅读器(10)和多个转发器(1,2,3)之间的通信的方法和一种识别系统。阅读器(10)有一个用于发送信号的发射机(11),而每个转发器(1,2,3)包括一个用于接收阅读器信号的接收机和一个用于产生转发器信号的发射机。当阅读器(10)察觉到发自一个转发器(1)的转发器信号时,就立即发出一个静默指令,让其他的所有工作的转发器(2,3)保持静默,并且把控制权交给上述转发器(1),不需要在规定的时间内确认上述的控制转发器(1)。阅读器(10)还可以发出一个禁止/叫醒指令,禁止控制转发器(1)向阅读器(10)返回控制信号,并且重新起动所有静默(但是没有被禁止)的转发器(2,3)。

Communication system for communicating with tags

A communication system for identifying, locating, tracking and communicating for other purposes with large numbers of tags in a time and energy efficient manner. The tags are associated with items located in a communication region that is interrogated by an interrogator on a one-to-many basis using broadcast commands, on a one-to-one basis using directed commands or on a combination basis using both methods. Identification occurs through organized transmission and reception of signals between the tags and the interrogator. A batch collection protocol uses a combined one-to-many and one-to-one communication system that effectively resolves communication contentions. The batch collection protocol employs a plurality of collection periods which communicate with large or unknown numbers of portable tags.

Method and apparatus for locating and tracking documents and other objects

An apparatus and method are described for a radio frequency document control system that enables the location of documents, such as office files, to be automatically and rapidly identified. A host transceiver, controlled via a PC, transmits a coded RF signal, at a first frequency, to individually addressable, low cost, local exciters/transceivers located on shelves and/or in drawers. The local exciters, which may be sequentially addressed, retransmit the coded RF signal at a second frequency via an antenna. A passive radio frequency identification tag, containing the same code as that transmitted by the local exciter and attached to a document, such as a file folder, when in the vicinity of the antenna of the local exciter, is energized by the RF field and modulates the second frequency signal from the local exciter. The second frequency signal modulated by the energized tag is then directly received by the host transceiver. A PC, coupled to the host transceiver, enables the system to automatically and rapidly identify, down to a specific shelf or drawer, the location of tagged documents in an office environment.

Improved identification system

Изобретение относится к способу идентификации множества ответчиков. Технический результат заключается в обеспечении простоты системы идентификации и повышении скорости идентификации множества ответчиков. Система идентификации содержит считывающее устройство с передатчиком для передачи сигнала и множество ответчиков с приемниками сигнала считывающего устройства. При распознавании считывающим устройством сигнала ответчика от одного из ответчиков оно немедленно передает команду приглушения на все другие активные ответчики и передает управление указанному ответчику без необходимости хронирования подтверждения. Считывающее устройство может передавать команду блокировки/активизации, блокируя работу управляющего ответчика, возвращая управление считывающему устройству и реактивируя приглушенные, но не блокированные ответчики. 4 н. и 20 з. п. ф-лы, 9 ил. 898$ сс ПЧ сэ (19) (51) МПК? ВОИ "” 2 238 585 ^^ С2 С О6К 7/08 РОССИЙСКОЕ АГЕНТСТВО ПО ПАТЕНТАМ И ТОВАРНЫМ ЗНАКАМ 12) ОПИСАНИЕ ИЗОБРЕТЕНИЯ К ПАТЕНТУ РОССИЙСКОЙ ФЕДЕРАЦИИ (21), (22) Заявка: 99126440/09, 14.05.1998 (24) Дата начала действия патента: 14.05.199811.1, 2, 4-8, 10-14, 22-24 16-20, (30) Приоритет: 14.05.1997 СВ 9709741.411.3, 9, 15, 21 14.11.1997 СВ 9724185.5 (43) Дата публикации заявки: 27.09.2001 (45) Дата публикации: 20.10.2004 (56) Ссылки: ЕР 0405695 А, 02.01.1991. КУ 94001074 А1, 10.01.1996. ЕР 689151 А, 27.12.1995. МЕ 8802718 А, 01.06.1990. ОЕ 19544054 А, 28.05.1997. ЕР 0585132 А, 02.03.1994. (85) Дата перевода заявки РСТ на национальную фазу: 14.12.1999 (86) Заявка РСТ: СВ 98/01385 (14.05.1998) (87) Публикация РСТ: М/О 98/52142 (19.11.1998) (98) Адрес для переписки: 129010, Москва, ул. Б. Спасская, 25, стр.3, ООО "Юридическая фирма Городисский и Партнеры", пат.пов. Ю.Д.Кузнецову, рег.№ 595 (72) Изобретатель: ЭТКИНС Рэймонд Кэтералл (ГА), МЭРИАС Марио Альфонсо (ГА), ВАН ЗИЛ СМИТ Хендрик (7А) (73) Патентообладатель: БИ ТИ ДЖИ ИНТЕРНЭШНЛ ЛИМИТЕД (СВ) (74) Патентный поверенный: Кузнецов Юрий Дмитриевич (54) ...

Radio Frequency Identification system using circular polarized antennas

본 발명은 원형편파 안테나를 이용한 RFID 시스템에 관한 것으로서 근접센서로 고객의 근접 여부를 검출하고, 고객의 근접이 검출될 경우에 리더가 리더 안테나를 통해 전자기파를 방사하여 태그를 인식 및 태그에 저장된 고객 정보를 독출하며, 리더 안테나는 키오스크 본체와, 키오스크를 사용하는 고객이 서 있는 바닥면의 후방 인접 위치에 설치하며, 바닥면의 후방 인접 위치에 설치하는 리더 안테나는 키오스크의 방향으로 원형편파를 방사하도록 하여 고객이 태그를 어느 곳에 휴대하더라도 태그를 정확하게 인식할 수 있도록 한다. The present invention relates to an RFID system using a circular polarization antenna, and detects proximity of a customer with a proximity sensor, and when a proximity of the customer is detected, a reader recognizes a tag by radiating electromagnetic waves through a reader antenna and stores the tag in the customer. The reader antenna is installed at the rear adjacent position of the kiosk main body and the floor where the customer using the kiosk stands, and the reader antenna installed at the rear adjacent position of the bottom radiates circular polarization in the direction of the kiosk. This ensures that the customer can recognize the tag exactly wherever he carries it. RFID, 원형편파, 키오스크, 태그, 원형편파 안테나, 고객정보, 부가서비스 RFID, Circularly Polarized, Kiosk, Tag, Circularly Polarized Antenna, Customer Information, Additional Services

Rfid reader with multiple interfaces

A pocket-size RFID reader apparatus (100, 150) having a contactless interface (212) and a slot (106) for insertion of a contactless smart card fob (116, 166), and having a biometric sensor (110), thereby providing two levels of personalization. The apparatus may have a wireless interface (218); and a slot (107) for insertion of a wireless SD I/O device (117,167). The apparatus may have a slot (108) for insertion of an external memory device (118). The apparatus may have a mechanical connection (contact) interface (104). The apparatus may also have an RF interface (234) for reading an electronic immobilizer (134) within the apparatus.

Method and system for reading objects having radio frequency identification (RFID) tags inside enclosures

An automatic data collection system reads data encoded in data carriers located inside enclosed environments, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) tags attached to objects located in enclosures, such as buildings, shipping containers, transportation vehicles such as airplanes, and other enclosures. The enclosures have dimensions that normally exceed the read range of the RFID tags, and/or the enclosures are composed of a material (such as metal) that impede communication of signals with external RFID readers. Therefore, internal antenna systems are provided inside of the enclosures to relay interrogation signals from RFID readers to the RFID tags, and to relay response signals from the RFID tags back to the RFID readers.

Article tracking system and method

A system and method are useful for tracking an article at a plurality of stations. A smart tag is associated with each article to be tracked, e.g., by being attached to the article either directly or indirectly, e.g., to a container containing the article. The smart tag includes at least an electronic memory coupled to an antenna by which information from the memory may be transmitted and/or information may be received and stored in the memory. Smart tag control units and antenna at the stations communicate with the smart tags and communicate directly or indirectly with one or more processors that process the information.

Rfid reader and rfid system

本发明提供了一种具有发射天线(102)和接收天线(104)的RFID阅读器，其中，发射天线与接收天线之间的距离为第一间距，该发射天线具有位于第一平面(108)的发射天线线圈(106)；接收天线具有位于第二平面(112)的接收天线线圈(110)；该RFID阅读器还具有将RFID文件定位在定位位置的定位工具(130、132)，该定位位置与发射天线的距离为第二间距(148)；其中，发射天线位于接收天线和定位位置之间。

Patch antenna

패치 도체(3)측의 동축 선로(5)의 중심 도체(8)의 단부와 전기적으로 접속되고, 패치 도체(3)측의 관통공(7)의 주연부로 방사상으로 연장된 복수의 접속 보조수단(12)을 설치한다. 접속 보조수단(12)과 관통공(7)의 주연부를 감합 또는 도전성 접착제로 전기적으로 접속한다. A plurality of connection auxiliary means electrically connected to an end portion of the center conductor 8 of the coaxial line 5 on the patch conductor 3 side and extending radially to the periphery of the through hole 7 on the patch conductor 3 side. Install (12). The peripheral part of the connection assistance means 12 and the through hole 7 is electrically connected with a fitting or a conductive adhesive.

RF ID tag reader utlizing a scanning antenna system and method

An RF ID card reader, comprising, RF ID circuitry to generate an RF ID signal, a transceiver in communication with the RF ID circuitry, and an antenna associated with the transceiver for scanning an area for at least one tag and establishing communication with the at least one tag, the antenna capable of creating a plurality of field focuses. Further, the RF ID card reader of the present invention may provide that the plurality of field focuses may be a near field focus and a far field focuse. Also, the field focuses may be created by a scanning antenna array. An embodiment of the present invention may also include at least one conducting curtain associated with the card reader, wherein the at least one conducting curtain may be capable of enhancing reception of the RF signals by reflecting RF signals in the area. An embodiment may also provide for at least one element and at least one phase shifter in the scanning antenna array be capable of being used as a multiple input and multiple output (MIMO) system to maximize information extracted from the RF signals.

Methods and apparatuses to identify devices

An apparatus and method to identify devices including a first set of commands to identify devices in a first state and a second set of commands to identify devices in a second state, wherein devices identified in the first state are placed in the second state and devices identified in the second state are placed in the first state.

RFID system

An RFID system includes an antenna of a reader/writer and an antenna of an RFID tag. Transmission and reception of a high-frequency signal of a UHF band is performed between the antenna of the reader/writer and the antenna of the RFID tag that are arranged so as to be adjacent to each other. A loop antenna including a loop conductor is used as the antenna of the reader/writer, and coil antennas including a plurality of laminated coil conductors are used as the antenna of an RFID tag. In addition, the conductor width of the loop conductor in the loop antenna is greater than the conductor widths of the coil conductors in the coil antennas.

Memory on a container for a consumable substance used to designate recycle information and method

Embodiments of the present invention comprise containers for consumable substances having electronic memory components programmed with coded information designating recycle information. The electronic memory components may be read-only-memories (ROMs); programmable read-only-memories (PROMs); electrically erasable programmable read-only-memories (EEPROMs); non-volatile random-access-memories (NVRAMs); volatile random-access-memories (RAMs) with a battery; or any other type of electronic memory. The electrical interfaces to the memory components preferably comprise serial data links, which may be either hard-wired data links through electrical connectors, or wireless data links.

Converting between different radio frequencies

The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for converting between different radio frequencies. In some implementations, a method includes receiving a request from a Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) reader configured to communicate with a first type of RFID tag. Independent of digital signal processing, the received request is automatically converted to a request compatible with a second type of RFID tag different from the first type of RFID tag. The converted request is transmitted to an RFID tag of the second type of RFID tag.

Storage system

A storage system has one or more supports, for example, shelves 1 and, one or more sensors 3 which are arranged to detect the presence of transponders 6 associated with items 7 to be stored on the shelves. Information can thus be from the transponders, and transmitted to, for example, a data processing unit.

Non-contact identification system, non-contact identification method, and antenna coil

Antenna selector

RFID system using circularly polarized antenna

Audio broadcasting device and portable device using the same

FAULT-TOLERANT MOBILE PASSAGE DETECTION DEVICE

RADIO SYSTEM FOR TRANSMITTING DATA TO A PASSIVE END

OBJECT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM ON A MOVING CONVEYOR

The invention concerns a system for automatically identifying objects being transported on a moving conveyor (20) comprising a detection member, each object being provided with an electronic label. The invention is characterised in that the detection member consists of a rotary field antenna (110) consisting of two loops (B>1<, B>2<) located in the same plane and coupled in phase quadrature over an overlapping zone, the antenna (10) being generally rectangular in shape and located in a plane parallel to the conveyor (20). In another embodiment, the antenna (10) can further be oriented such that its axis of symmetry (105) forms an angle ( alpha ) with the displacement axis (25) of the conveyor (20).

Frequency selective surface aids to the operation of rfid products

The present invention is directed to systems that use frequency selective surfaces (FSS) to aid in the operation of radio frequency identification (RFID) devices and products. In one embodiment, a system for interrogating radio frequency identification (RFID) tags includes a conveyor belt and a RFID reader. The conveyor belt has a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is configured to receive an item in which an RFID tag is affixed and the second surface is configured to slide on a metal slide plate. The RFID reader is configured to transmit instructions embodied in a radio frequency (RF) signal to the RFID tag, wherein the metal slide plate is positioned between the RFID reader and the RFID tag and comprises a frequency selective surface that is substantially transparent to the RF signal.

Portable card allowing memory storage and processing of digital data, and the associated reader

The invention relates to a portable memory card having multiple applications such as a credit card or personal identification card, able to contain digital data and allowing internal processing of the said data. This device also allows maintenance tracking and/or programming of a machine tool in an environment which is unfavourable for magnetic recording media or memory cards fitted with contacts. The present invention describes a card requiring no electrical contact with its reader and no cell or battery for memory storage of the data. Figure 1 shows the basic composition of the component elements of the card (1) and its reader (2). The card (1) contains an energy supply means (3), a microprocessor (4), electronic input and output means for the information (5) and a memory (6) for storage of the information. The reader (2) contains a transmitter (7) for transmitting magnetic power to the card, the transducer (9) allowing dialogue with the card, a data processor circuit (10) and an optical means (11) for detecting the presence of the card.

IMPROVED METHOD FOR MANAGING COLLISIONS IN A CONTACTLESS DATA EXCHANGE SYSTEM