Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of tracking and monitoring objects in accordance with pre-selected and stored policies that are generated by the owner of the object. These policies define the parameters for determining when an object is lost, for reporting a lost object, and for searching for a lost object. When combined with a network tracking system, the policies can also set parameters for permissible areas in which the objects can be disposed and for tracking of the objects across the network.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of tracking and monitoring objects in accordance with pre-selected and stored policies that are generated by the owner of the object. These policies define the parameters for determining when an object is lost, for reporting a lost object, and for searching for a lost object. When combined with a network tracking system, the policies can also set parameters for permissible areas in which the objects can be disposed and for tracking of the objects across the network.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system that uses a plurality of monitors in combination with a plurality of identification tags attached to objects in order to track and monitor those objects. The monitors inductively couple to the identification tags to obtain identification information therefrom. In addition, each monitor is in communication with a network containing at least one database to leverage existing network capacity for increased tracking volume. The network is preferably a peer-to-peer type network to permit direct communication and data sharing among the monitors.