Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of methods, systems, and apparatus for integrating a bottom-of-basket (BOB) item detector with a data reader. In some embodiments, the BOB item detector may be integrated with a barcode scanner of a point-of-sale (POS) terminal without need for modification of the POS system software. Some embodiments may also provide for a visual and/or audible indication or confirmation of the presence of a bottom-of-basket item.

Abstract: A data reading system is mountable onto a material transport device having a first section, a primary power supply and a second section movable with respect to the first section. The data reading system comprises a data reader disposed on the second section of the material transport device, the data reader comprising a power source and an induction power receiving unit. The data reading system also comprises an induction power transmission unit disposed on the first section of the material transport device and connected to the primary power supply of the material transport device. The induction power receiving unit is located proximate the induction power transmission unit when the second section is disposed in a given position with respect to the first section, whereby the induction power transmission unit transmits power to the induction power receiving unit for charging the power source of the data reader.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment is directed to a method of RFID power ramping for tag singulation that includes activating the trigger control of an RFID reader for engaging power to begin reading RFID tags. A user may take a first reading at a low power level of a volume around the RFID reader establishing a first read volume. If the user does not detect a particular RFID tag, the user may then increase the transmitting power from the RFID reader to a second higher power level obtaining a second reading of RFID tags in a second read volume. The user may once again increase the transmitting power from the RFID reader to a third higher power level obtaining a third reading of RFID tags in a third reading volume. Increasing the RFID transmitting power is repeated until there is a final read volume where the operator reads and recognizes the detected RFID tag. The final step includes deactivating the trigger control of the RFID reader after reading the desired RFID tag.

Abstract: There is provided a system for transmission of power and/or information between a first location external of a living body and a second position internal of the living body which comprises: (a) a primary controller (2) comprising a power source and a transmitter locatable at the first locations; and (b) an antenna (12) based device (10) locatable at the second position to receive an output from the transmitter, wherein the power source is adapted to emit high frequency electromagnetic radiation between 0.5 to 5 GHz. A medical appliance comprising a spring-based stent incorporating a monitoring device wherein the spring of the stent acts as the aerial for the monitoring device and wherein the medical appliance is capable of receiving electromagnetic radiation with a frequency between 0.5 to 5 GHz.