Abstract: A communication processing device includes a control unit for, when receiving an address update request signal including a segment identifier for identifying a segment address of a recording unit from a reader/writer, holding the segment identifier in a RAM, and when receiving a readout request signal including an offset address having the segment as a reference from the reader/writer, transmitting to the reader/writer data recorded in a region specified by an address having the offset address contained in the readout request signal as offset with the segment address identified in the segment identifier as a reference of the regions of the recording unit.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag access method and a circuit applied to an RFID tag to determine whether to respond to a command sent by a reader are provided. According to the access method, an extra reference value is used for adjusting a parameter or a count value, so as to increase or decrease the probability of generating a condition matching with a command sent by the reader. Therefore, the probability of the tag being accessed is adjusted, and the tag carrying urgent information shall be accessed prior to the tag without urgent information.

Abstract: Provided are a terminal having a radio frequency identification (RFID) function and a method of processing information of the terminal for allowing intuitive interaction between a screen manipulation and an RFID manipulation with respect to using an RFID related service. The method of processing the information of the terminal including a screen and an RFID recognition unit, includes detecting a screen area corresponding to a position of the RFID recognition unit disposed at a predetermined position of the screen; displaying an RFID icon at a position of the detected screen area; recording information in an RFID tag based on the RFID tag contacting the RFID icon, and recognizing the information from the RFID tag the RFID tag contacting the RFID icon.

Abstract: An asset tracking system that optimizes the value per ping by tying the ping to a pattern of movements of the asset. The asset tracking device will send a ping to a remote host (i.e., receiver) when predetermined qualified event is detected by the device. In such a manner, the value per ping is optimized, leading to increased battery life and decreased operational cost. To satisfy these conditions, the asset tracking device is equipped with appropriate sensors, actuators, and trigger mechanism(s). A four-phase methodology or algorithm used to detect and determine when detected motions and movements warrant triggering the data ping.

Abstract: A method of providing a service at a remote terminal including receiving information broadcast by a commercial radio station in a broadcast radio channel; discriminating an identifier of an application within the received broadcast information; initiating an authentication process for authenticating broadcast information received via the broadcast channel; and in response to a positive authentication, enabling use of information received via the broadcast radio channel by the identified application.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and system for radio frequency identification provides a modulated illumination signal containing a sequence of bits configured to illuminate a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, The illumination signal is received at the RFID tag, rectified to generate a wake signal for waking a processor which is subsequently powered by a battery. The received illumination signal is sampled and subjected to a thresholding process. Mobile telephone band interference is countered by correlating the sampled illumination signal to determine its bit sequence and then correlating the bit sequence against a predetermined key. An identification signal from the RFID tag is sent in response to a match.

Abstract: A system includes a processor configured to receive requests from a wireless device in wireless communication with the processor, the requests corresponding to one or more aspects of a refueling process. The processor is also configured to collect vehicle data corresponding to the one or more aspects of the refueling process and respond to the requests by sending the data relating to the one or more aspects of the refueling process.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to acquisition of data from RFID devices (132-136), such as sensor data. Prior art systems of active RFID devices have a problem of high average power consumption, and therefore, the energy source of the RFID devices needs to be replaced or charged frequently. The present invention provides a new solution wherein the RFID device has a power saving mode in which the receiver of the RFID device has a decreased ability to receive/detect RF signals. The RFID device may include a timer which is functional during the power saving mode, and the receiver of the RFID device will turn into active mode at a point of time based on the time value of the timer. Signal strength of an RF channel is indicated with a receiver, and transmission of data is dependent on the indication of the signal strength.

Abstract: A dual mode interrogation is carried out by sending narrow band radio frequency interrogation (RFID) signal for narrow band RFID communication units, the narrow band signal comprising substantially continuous periods, and by sending a high data rate RFID interrogation signal during the substantially continuous periods of the narrow band RFID signal so that two different types of RFID communication units are interrogated substantially simultaneously.

Abstract: A reader and method for adjusting the transmission time of a continuous wave (CW), wherein the method comprises setting an initial value for a response waiting time, sending the CW to a tag after sending a command to the tag and waiting for a response from the tag, judging whether the response from the tag is received within the response waiting time. If the response from the tag is received within the response waiting time, then sending of the CW is stopped and the response waiting time is adjusted. If the response from the tag is still not received beyond the response waiting time, then sending of the CW is stopped. The time for the reader to wait for a response from the tag is far less than 20 ms. Consequently, a command failure can be found early, so as to improve the processing efficiency of an RFID system.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for providing a standby activation of a device. A method for providing standby activation of a device can include coupling a tag to a computing device. Furthermore, a method for providing standby activation of a device can include activating the tag utilizing a tag reader, wherein activating the tag provides access to the computing device.

Abstract: A portable device (10, 20) includes at least a control element (14, 24, 34) for receiving command signals and a reader (12, 22, 32). A detection element (18, 28, 38) is connected with the control element (14, 24, 34) and they communicate with each other. Operation of the reader (12, 22, 32) in relation to the object to be identified is controlled through command signals so that at least one of the command signals received by the control element (14, 24, 34) is based on information indicating movement or position received from the detection element (18, 28, 38). The reader (12, 22, 32) is easy to use and quick to operate in its operating environment as no separate actions are required of the user in order to initiate operations.

Abstract: A wireless sensor module for use in a wireless sensor network. The sensor module collects sensor data in a periodic manner with a first time period. The sensor data is logged in a non-volatile ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM) within the sensor module. The sensor module is placed in a reduced power idle mode between sensor data collection periods, wherein the logged sensor data is preserved by the FRAM during the idle mode. A representation of the logged sensor data is transmitted over a radio channel to a remote receiver in a periodic manner with a second time period, wherein the second time period is longer than the first time period.

Abstract: RFID tags, ICs for RFID tags, and methods are provided. In some embodiments, an RFID tag includes a memory with multiple sections, and a processing block. The processing block may map one of these sections, or another of these sections, for purposes of responding to a first command from an RFID reader. As such, an RFID tag can operate according to the data stored in the section mapped at the time. In some embodiments, a tag can even transition from mapping one of the sections to mapping another of the sections. This can amount to the tag exhibiting alternative behaviors, and permits hiding data on the tag.

Abstract: Systems and/or Methods are disclosed for acquiring data from a transceiver responsive to one or more signals that are received at the transceiver from one or more devices. In one embodiment, a transceiver is configured to transmit a signal responsive to having received a first signal from a first device, wherein the signal that is transmitted by the transceiver is configured to trigger a second device to transmit a second signal. The transceiver is further configured to transmit data responsive to having received the second signal that is transmitted by the second device. In other embodiments, a transceiver is configured to receive a signal from a first device over frequencies of a predetermined frequency band that the first device is authorized to use, to receive a signal from a second device over frequencies of the predetermined frequency band and to transmit data responsive to having received both the signal from the first device and the signal from the second device.

Abstract: A reading device for contactless communication with a transponder unit includes a first antenna for generating a reading device field in the form of an alternating magnetic field. The reading device further contains one or more second antennas configured, and arranged in relation to the first antenna, such that during a contactless communication of the reading device with a transponder unit which generates communication signals by means of load modulation, a predetermined change of a detection signal is captured on the second antenna or antennas if the transponder unit is located in a predetermined zone around the reading device.

Abstract: A contactless device having an energy antenna configured to transmit/receive an energy signal; and a data antenna configured to transmit a data signal. Also, a method for transmitting a contactless signal including transmitting/receiving an energy signal from an energy antenna of a contactless device; and transmitting a data signal from a data antenna of the contactless device.

Abstract: A personal digital key (e.g., which can be carried by a human) contains a memory having different service blocks. Each service block is accessible by a corresponding service block access key. As the personal digital key (PDK) moves around, it is detected by sensors. The sensors report position data, thus enabling location tracking of the PDK. The sensors also provide a data path to various applications. An application that has access to a service block access key can therefore access the corresponding service block on the PDK. The sensors themselves may also contain service block access keys.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for multiplexing radio frequency signals. In some implementations, a system includes a host coupling module, a plurality of antennas, and a processing module. The host coupling module is configured to receive and transmit RF signals through a wired connection. The plurality of antennas are configured to wirelessly transmit RF signals and receive RF signals from RFID tags. The processing module is configured to selectively switch between the plurality of antennas for communication with the RFID tags using the host coupling module and backscatter at least a portion of the received RF signals through the wired connection to communicate information independent of an internal power supply.

Abstract: A security method that includes defining rules specifying permitted movements of passengers in a transportation terminal. Passengers entering the terminal may be issued a boarding pass having a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag attached thereto. The location of the RFID tag may be measured and responsive to the measured location of the RFID tag, a violation of at least one of the rules by the passenger may be detected. An action with respect to the detected violation may be taken. The rules may define a region that is forbidden for access, a region in which the passengers are expected to be in motion, a region in which the passengers are expected not to be stationary for more than a given time period, etc.

Abstract: A system includes a controller that executes a method for determining failure of the door latch sensor using both the door latch sensor and a door lock sensor. If the door latch sensor is faulty, the controller adjusts an automatic feature of the vehicle based on a door lock signal instead of a door state signal. The controller is also configured to mark the door latch signal as faulty if the door latch system is not functioning properly by using a fault counter that tracks the door lock sensor.

Abstract: A computer implemented method to locate an object is described. A first transmission is obtained from a transmitter. The first transmission received at a first receiver. Tuning instructions are determined for a second receiver based at least in part on frequency information of the first transmission. The second is instructed to tune into a second transmission from the transmitter according to the tuning instructions. Arrival information for the arrival of the second transmission is obtained at each of the first receiver and the second receiver. A location of the transmitter is determined based on the arrival information.

Abstract: An approach for defending radio frequency identification (RFID) tags and other contactless cards against ghost-and-leech (a.k.a. proxying, relay, or man-in-the-middle) attacks incorporates gesture recognition techniques directly implemented with the RFID tags or contactless cards. These tags or cards will only engage in wireless communications when they internally detect “secret handshakes.” A secret handshake recognition system is implemented on a passive WISP RFID tag having a built-in accelerometer. This approach is backward compatible with existing deployments of RFID tag and contactless card readers and is also designed to minimize the changes to the existing usage model of certain classes of RFID and contactless cards, such as access cards that are kept in a wallet or purse, by enabling execution of secret handshakes without removing the card. This novel approach can also improve the security and privacy properties in other uses of RFID tags, e.g., contactless payment cards.

Abstract: In a data carrier (1) for contactless communication with a base station (2) across an electromagnetic field (HF) generated by the base station (2), coil voltage control means (16) are arranged for controlling the unmodulated coil voltage (US) of the received signal (ES), the coil voltage control means (16) being arranged for control in response to an essentially decreasing coil voltage (US) when the field strength of the electromagnetic field (HF) increases.

Abstract: A monitoring network system includes: a plurality of monitoring apparatuses; and a remote monitoring apparatus, connected to the plurality of monitoring apparatuses. At least one of the monitoring apparatuses is configured to acquire biological signals from a patient and includes: a first holder, configured to hold a first ID; and a transmitter, configured to transmit the biological signal to the remote monitoring apparatus.

Abstract: A method for data communication between a base station and at least one transponder by a high-frequency electromagnetic carrier signal is disclosed, onto which information packets are modulated, whereby each information packet has a header section, a middle section, and an end section and whereby the middle section has a data field for the transmission of data and/or address information and a protection field placed thereafter for the correction of errors in the transmission of the data and/or address information, whereby after the data field the base station inserts at least one control field, by which the protection field following the inserted control field can be changed in such a way that the duration of an information packet is set variably. The invention relates further to a base station for carrying out this method, to a data communication system containing a base station and at least one transponder in communicative wireless contact with the base station.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for minimizing potential security problems and battery power usage in a tracking device used in tracking an associated product while being transported along a route wherein wireless communication may be nonexistent or intermittent. This is accomplished in part by having an accessible database of signal quality and strength at a large plurality of locations along given transportation routes whereby adjustments can be made as to the times for the tracking device to obtain GPS location information as well as for times to report any location and or product status data to a remotely located central station. The ability to predict when, along a transportation route communication problems may occur provides the opportunity to notify appropriate authorities in advance of arriving at the communication gap zones whereby arrangements can be made to alleviate potential problems during transportation through wireless communication “gap or dead” zones.

Abstract: An item positioning system is provided. The item positioning system comprises a plurality of tag readers and a control device. The plurality of tag readers generate access signals respectively and receive a response signal from a target tag. The control device adjusts transmitting power of the access signals of the tag readers, and determines a position of the target item according to whether the tag readers receive the response signal.

Abstract: Apparatus for harvesting and using power in a near field communications mode, includes a host device with operating components. A first near field communication (NFC) device is contained in the host device and is configured to be selectively coupled to one of the operating components. The first NFC device harvests energy from a second NFC device and converts the harvested energy to electrical power. The first NFC device receives information from the second NFC device and power on the operating component as a function of the information received from the second NFC device. The first NFC device transfers data to or from the operating component when the operating component is powered on. The first NFC device powers off the operating component when the transfer of data between the first NFC device and the operating component has been completed.

Abstract: Systems and methods are operable to initiate a pairing process and a de-pairing process between a controlled device and a radio frequency (RF) remote control. An exemplary embodiment detects presence of a radio frequency identifier (RFID) tag in an interrogation zone established by an RFID tag reader, automatically initiates a pairing process in response to detecting the presence of the RFID tag in the interrogation zone, and completes the pairing process between the RF remote control and the controlled device, wherein the pairing process identifies a unique identifier associated with the RF remote control. A subsequently received RF signal emitted by the RF remote control includes at least one command configured to control operation of the controlled device and includes the unique identifier.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for a Personal Digital Asset Manager are disclosed. One embodiment of the present invention is a miniature electronic device, which functions as a fully-powered personal computer, which stores digital files and content, and which communicates wirelessly with external input and output devices and a network such as the Internet. In one embodiment, the present invention may be carried in a pocket or purse, clipped on a belt or incorporated into a pair of glasses.

Abstract: Systems and methods for use in detecting the presence of an RFID device are provided. One RFID detection system includes a detection circuit that includes an oscillating circuit. The detection circuit is configured to hold the RFID detection system in a low power mode in which the RFID detection system is configured to not actively attempt to communicate with nearby RFID devices. The detection circuit is further configured to monitor one or more parameters of a signal of the oscillating circuit and compare the one or more monitored parameters to one or more reference parameters. The detection circuit is further configured to, based on the comparison, determine whether to transition the RFID detection system from the low power mode into an active communication mode in which the RFID detection system is configured to actively attempt to communicate with nearby RFID devices.

Abstract: Systems and methods for use in detecting the presence of an RFID device are provided. One RFID detection system includes a detection circuit that includes an oscillating circuit. The detection circuit is configured to hold the RFID detection system in a low power mode in which the RFID detection system is configured to not actively attempt to communicate with nearby RFID devices. The detection circuit is further configured to monitor one or more parameters of a signal of the oscillating circuit and compare the one or more monitored parameters to one or more reference parameters. The detection circuit is further configured to, based on the comparison, determine whether to transition the RFID detection system from the low power mode into an active communication mode in which the RFID detection system is configured to actively attempt to communicate with nearby RFID devices.

Abstract: In one example embodiment, an end device includes a memory configured to store function information regarding at least one predefined function and tag information regarding at least one electronic tag that is associated with the at least one predefined function; a reader configured to read tag identification information received from a detected electronic tag located within a predetermined range of the end device; and a processor configured to select a predefined function from among the at least one predefined function based on the stored tag information and the read tag identification information and perform the selected predefined function.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) reader for, and method of, reading an RFID tag to obtain data in both handheld and hands-free modes of operation, include all RFID module supported by the reader and including an antenna for propagating an electromagnetic field over a range, and a controller for varying the range of the antenna to be different in each mode. The antenna has a full range, preferably by default, in the handheld mode, and the controller is operative, preferably automatically, for decreasing the full range to a restricted range in the hands-free mode.

Abstract: A communication system includes a first information processing device, a plurality of processing portions, a storage portion, and a second information processing device. The first information processing device includes a processing command transmission portion that transmits to the second information processing device, by non-contact communication, a processing command that includes one of a plurality of identification information items. Each of the processing portions is uniquely associated with one of the identification information items. The storage portion stores a correspondence information item that indicates a correspondence between one of the identification information items and one of the processing portions.

Abstract: Logic is included in a piece of active storage furniture such that the active storage furniture integrates articles stored thereby into a representation of information about those articles. The logic includes (i) sensors to identify individual articles stored by the furniture and respective locations of the articles and (ii) display elements capable of incorporating selected individual ones of the articles as separate and individual components of a collective representation of information about the selected articles. In response to queries about the articles, the articles themselves are integrated into a representation of information about the articles. For example, a wine rack includes RFID and LEDs in each of a number of storage cells or cubbies and illuminates each cubby according to information about the wine stored in the cubby in response to a query for such information (e.g., show me all wine color-coded by region).

Abstract: A RFID transponder includes a resonant circuit for providing a clock signal at a predetermined clock frequency, a self-calibration stage for calibrating the resonant circuit's current clock frequency towards the predetermined clock frequency. The self-calibration stage is adapted to compare a first clock frequency of the resonant circuit determined during an interrogation period, during which the resonant circuit is excited by an external RF signal, with a second clock frequency determined during a frequency maintenance period, during which the resonant circuit is excited internally through an oscillation maintenance circuit of the RFID transponder and to calibrate the resonant circuit towards the predetermined clock frequency based on the comparison result.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for monitoring a plurality of RFID tags. A receiver selection signal is sent along a receive path that includes a plurality of serially connected receivers. A receiver relays the receiver selection signal, listens for an RFID response signal, or operates in a standby mode based on the receiver selection signal. A transmitter selection signal is sent along a transmit path that includes a plurality of serially connected transmitters. A transmitter relays the transmitter selection signal, transmits an identification impulses, or operates in a standby mode based on the transmitter selection signal. The identification impulse is transmitted from the selected transmitter and an RFID response signal is received at the selected receiver.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for modifying the effective reading range of an radio frequency identification tag. The tag, a chip-based tag, includes an antenna and a chip in communication with the antenna. The chip includes circuitry including field effect transistors that can modify the effective reading range of the tag by modifying characteristics of the tag including the modulation depth of the backscatter signal, the impedance characteristics of the tag front end electronics, the power consumption characteristics and the threshold power-on voltage of the tag. These characteristics are change either temporarily or permanently in response to commands communicated to the tag from a radio frequency identification reader.

Abstract: A control/monitor signal transmission system in which simple communication control can be performed without a control unit, and a wiring allowable distance is larger than a conventional system. A plurality of slave stations which are installed corresponding to the plurality of actuating apparatuses and are connected through a common data signal line, and a mediation station which is connected to the data signal line are equipped, and the data signal line includes a plurality of independent groups which are consolidated to the mediation station. The plurality of actuating apparatuses are divided into one or plural sets including at least two, and the actuating apparatuses which belong to the same set and are different in group of the connected data signal line have a correspondence relationship.

Abstract: The wireless information and safety system for mines of the present invention enables continuously tracking and monitoring underground miners and moveable equipment in underground mines using ZigBee-enabled active RFID devices forming a wireless network among them and other static and mobile ZigBee devices placed at strategic locations. The present invention provides a wireless information and safety system for mines comprises in combination of ZigBee-compliant devices (programmable to operate as end devices, routers and coordinators by hardware specific embedded software) and wireless sensor network (WSN) software having various application modules both for underground and opencast mines. Use of the system of the present invention would help in identifying the miners entering in underground mine to keep the track of the miners and maintain computerized attendance. This would help in monitoring equipment locations and their operation to improve productivity and reduce fatal collision accident.

Abstract: RFID reader systems, readers, components, software and methods cause RFID tags to backscatter a combination made from at least portions of a first code and a second code, without transmitting any commands in the interim. The first and/or second codes may include a tag response to a reader challenge. In a number of embodiments, a separate command does not have to be sent for reading the second code along with the first code, thereby saving time in inventorying the tags. Plus, the combination can enable reading tag codes during tag manufacturing that are not otherwise readily available to read in the field. In some embodiments, the combination may further include one or more error-checking codes.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in an RFID data collection system includes an antenna portion for wirelessly exchanging signals and a memory portion for storing RFID data. A signal processing portion is coupled among the antenna portion and the memory portion. The signal processing portion is configured to receive RFID data and to at least encode or decode the received RFID data via at least two orthogonal modulation signals. Other configurations are also disclosed.

Abstract: A wall switch motion sensor detects motion using a lens and an infrared detector, and in response performs a function (for example, turns on a light). The motion sensor is also adapted to respond to IR remote control signals of the type customarily used to control electronic consumer devices in the home. In one example, a user uses an ordinary remote control device to transmit a sequence of IR control signals and dead times toward the motion sensor. The detector in the motion sensor detects each IR control signal as an increased amount of IR energy, whereas it detects a dead time as a period of less IR energy. If the periodicity of the sequence is appropriate, then the wall switch motion sensor determines that the sequence is an instruction. In one example, the instruction is to turn on/off the light controlled by the wall switch motion sensor.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to method and apparatus for wireless management of articles. The method is implemented by a master RFID tag. The method includes transmitting at least one first RFID read signal to a plurality of RFID tags local to the master RFID tag and receiving a first RFID response signal from each of the plurality of RFID tags in response to the at least one first RFID read signal. Each of the first RFID response signals comprises an identifier associated with an article. The method further includes maintaining an article record indicating at least one expected article that is to be managed by the master RFID tag and comparing each of the identifiers with the article record in an attempt to compile contextual information associated with the article record. Finally, the method further includes transmitting a master signal comprising the contextual information associated with the article record.

Abstract: Systems for identifying and categorizing distributed devices, e.g., lighting fixtures and thermostats, is disclosed. In an embodiment, a user (200) sends a low power discovery message to devices (201) using a portable programming tool (100). The devices (201) within range respond with identification information. The portable programming tool (100) organizes the responses by proximity and sends a “flash” message to the device with the closest perceived proximity. That device responds with a visual or audible signal (202), allowing the user (200) to determine whether that device is the one intended for selection. If so, the user initiates a store routine in which identification information, including category information, is stored in one or more locations, such as, the selected device (201), the portable programming tool (100), and/or a central or local controller (1100). The identification and categorization can, for example, be used to automate load shedding and to reduce energy consumption.

Abstract: An RFID-based data collection, correlation and transmission system and method carried out thereby is provided. The system, which comprises one or more RFID-readers, a radio frequency identification (RFID) recognition and control component. a storage device interface, a portable and/or internal data storage device in communication with the storage device interface, one or more antennas, and a configuration and command component, is operable to collect data of interest from detected RFID tags, and detect and identify system participants and data related thereto. In addition, the system is operable to correlate potential data of interest, such as product advertising information, to the detected system participants, and transmit the data of interest to the system participants via numerous methods of communication. Thus, the system provides a means of highly targeted information distribution, as well as providing user reports valuable in future planning.

Abstract: In a method of operating an electronic system (1) a first device (3) of the electronic system (1) sends a message to a second device (6) of the electronic system (1). The second device (6) receives the message, generates a first value utilizing a first function based on at least parts of the history of at least parts of messages previously received at the second device (6), and stores the first value in a memory (8) of the second device (6). The first value is compared 5 with a second value generated at the first device (3), wherein the second value utilizes a second function based on at least parts of the history of at least parts of messages previously sent from the first device (3) to the second device (6). The first and second values are evaluated, and a signal is generated if the evaluating of the first and second values indicates that the history—of the messages previously received at the second device (6) differs from the 10 history of messages previously sent from the first device (3).

Abstract: A system includes a remote control and a processing device. The processing device includes an RFID tag. An identification code is stored in the RFID tag. The remote control includes an RFID reader and a transmitter. The RFID reader transmits an interrogation signal. The RFID tag receives the interrogation signal and transmits the identification code in response to the interrogation signal. The RFID reader receives the identification code and the transmitter transmits control signals to control the processing device including a control code associated with the identification code.