Abstract: An improved RFID tag reader is provided. More specifically, an RFID tag reader is provided that includes a plurality of antenna panels arranged to form a sensing volume in which RFID tags are read. Additionally, the RFID tag reader includes a novel switching mechanism that activates the antenna panels in sequence while minimizing cross coupling between the antenna panels. Furthermore, a novel antenna geometry also reduces antenna cross coupling.

Abstract: A wireless-enabled tightening system for fasteners is disclosed. The system includes a visual designator configured to project an indicator onto a workpiece. The system also includes a torque wrench comprising a wireless transmitter and a means for identifying whether the correct torque has been applied to a fastener on the workpiece and configured to provide a feedback for a user. The system also includes a camera configured to capture an image of the workpiece when an appropriate amount of torque has been applied to the fastener. The system further includes a microprocessor for determining sequence of the fastener and identifying the tightened fastener.

Abstract: An improved RFID tag reader is provided. More specifically, an RFID tag reader is provided that includes a plurality of antenna panels arranged to form a sensing volume in which RFID tags are read. Additionally, the RFID tag reader includes a novel switching mechanism that activates the antenna panels in sequence while minimizing cross coupling between the antenna panels. Furthermore, a novel antenna geometry also reduces antenna cross coupling.

Abstract: A system for a radio frequency identification tag of a radio frequency identification system, comprises an antenna mounted on a respective unit of equipment and a power supply electrically coupled to the antenna. The antenna is configured to energize a radio frequency identification tag without contact for enhancing read range of the radio frequency identification tag.

Abstract: Disclosed is a modular antenna panel including an antenna wire disposed in a panel substrate, and also including one or more electrical connectors and one or more mechanical connectors disposed at one or more edges of the modular antenna panel. The electrical connectors are configured for electrical connectivity with adjacent modular antenna panels and the mechanical connectors are configured to enable mechanical connections with adjacent modular antenna panels. Two or more modular antenna panels can be arranged to form an antenna assembly for a radio frequency identification system. Adjacent modular antenna panels are electrically connected to one another by engaging one or more of the electrical connectors disposed at one or more edges of the adjacent modular antenna panels, and are mechanically connected to one another by engaging one or more of the mechanical connectors disposed at one or more edges of the adjacent modular antenna panels.

Abstract: A wireless-enabled tightening system for fasteners is disclosed. The system includes a visual designator configured to project an indicator onto a workpiece. The system also includes a torque wrench comprising a wireless transmitter and a means for identifying whether the correct torque has been applied to a fastener on the workpiece and configured to provide a feedback for a user. The system also includes a camera configured to capture an image of the workpiece when an appropriate amount of torque has been applied to the fastener. The system further includes a microprocessor for determining sequence of the fastener and identifying the tightened fastener.

Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring the efficiency characteristics and performance statistics of an air compressor system, comprising, an air compressor system, an air compressor system monitoring module operable for receiving input data and sending results data, the monitoring module having an analyzer for analyzing input data relating to air compressor system operation and generating output data relating to air compressor system performance and efficiency, and a communications network operably coupled to the air compressor system and air compressor system monitoring module, the communications network operable for acquiring the air compressor system data and for communicating the air compressor system data to the air compressor system monitoring module.

Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring the efficiency characteristics and performance statistics of an air compressor system, comprising, an air compressor system, an air compressor system monitoring module operable for receiving input data and sending results data, the monitoring module having an analyzer for analyzing input data relating to air compressor system operation and generating output data relating to air compressor system performance and efficiency, and a communications network operably coupled to the air compressor system and air compressor system monitoring module, the communications network operable for acquiring the air compressor system data and for communicating the air compressor system data to the air compressor system monitoring module.

Abstract: An inventory management system automatically monitors inventory amounts, provides information concerning inventory, and decides if an order for replacement inventory should be placed. The system includes a storage for inventory, an indicator for monitoring and reporting the level of current inventory, and a controller for receiving information from different inventory suppliers and for integrating such information with information on current inventory amounts and estimated future use to decide if an order for replacing inventory should be made. An order is placed automatically to a supplier and the progress for the delivery of replacement inventory is automatically monitored. A method using this system for managing inventory includes the steps of automatic gathering information about the current inventory and deciding whether and when replacement inventory should be ordered.