Abstract: This invention provides an RFID-equipped retainer for hearing aids. In one embodiment, the retainer consists of a hollow string or tube. Located at one end of the retainer is a clasp that can attach to a hearing aid, and at the other end is a clip or similar fastener for optionally attaching the retainer to the clothing of the wearer. Also provided are the designs for passive and battery-assisted-passive, ultra high frequency, far-field RFID tags that can be embedded within this retainer. The tags consist of an RFID microchip with an impedance matching circuit mounted on a substrate and an antenna connected to the microchip. In another embodiment, the retainer consists of an RFID tag enclosed in a package or case that sits behind the wearer's ear and is physically connected to the hearing aid in the ear. The RFID microchip can be optionally programmed with an identification number that can be associated with information about the hearing aid to which it is attached.

Abstract: This invention provides an RFID-equipped retainer for hearing aids. In one embodiment, the retainer consists of a hollow string or tube. Located at one end of the retainer is a clasp that can attach to a hearing aid, and at the other end is a clip or similar fastener for optionally attaching the retainer to the clothing of the wearer. Also provided are the designs for passive and battery-assisted-passive, ultra high frequency, far-field RFID tags that can be embedded within this retainer. The tags consist of an RFID microchip with an impedance matching circuit mounted on a substrate and an antenna connected to the microchip. In another embodiment, the retainer consists of an RFID tag enclosed in a package or case that sits behind the wearer's ear and is physically connected to the hearing aid in the ear. The RFID microchip can be optionally programmed with an identification number that can be associated with information about the hearing aid to which it is attached.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) system for detecting and identifying lost dentures in a facility, includes readers deployed in fixed locations in the facility. Each of the readers is configured to transmit a first signal and to detect from a distance a second signal, which is generated at an RFID transponder embedded in a denture in response to receiving the first signal by backscattering a part of the first signal. The second signal contains information related to the denture, including an identification of the denture owner. The RFID system also includes a first server located within the facility. The first server is configured to communicate with the readers over a network in the facility and to control operations of the readers. Each of the readers sends the information related to the denture to the first server when it detects the second signal from the RFID transponder.