Abstract: A positioning controlling apparatus includes: a current speed calculator that calculates a current speed of a conveyor belt from a detected moving distance; a position determining unit that determines the position of a conveyor belt for determining its stop position also from the detected moving distance; a gain switch having a plurality of gains; a target speed calculator that inputs a gain obtained by switching, and calculates a target speed of the conveyor belt; a speed error calculator that calculates an error between a calculated target speed and a calculated current speed; and an automatic controller that controls a drive motor by using a speed error. When the position determining unit determines that the conveyor belt is in the positioning area, the gain switch performs positioning while switching plural gains and outputting it.

Abstract: A reader/writer is provided which is capable of speedily recognizing a correspondence between one end and the other end of a fiber-optic cable when a plurality of fiber-optic cables is laid. The reader/writer according to the present invention reads, on receiving through the fiber-optic cable a signal that is an instruction to read data from a RF tag mounted to an end of the fiber-optic cable, data from the RF tag through radio communication, and transmits the read data through the fiber-optic cable. Also, on receiving through the fiber-optic cable a signal that is an instruction to write data into the RF tag and a signal indicating the write data, the reader/writer writes the write instruction and the write data into the RF tag through radio communication.

Abstract: This disclosure provides for a method and system for operating a hybrid card reader that is operable to read magnetic stripe cards and that, upon the receipt of one or more signals, becomes operable to read integrated circuit cards. The hybrid card reader receives one or more signals from one or more remote devices. Such signals may be transmitted wirelessly or over one or more communication lines. When the one or more signals reach the hybrid card reader, they are used to enable a latching mechanism and an integrated circuit card reading function. This permits an integrated circuit card that is inserted into the hybrid card reader to be latched into place so that the data on the card can be read by the integrated circuit card reading function.

Abstract: An information reading apparatus includes: a transfer path for transferring an information recording medium (a passport); an image sensor which is placed in a frame constructing the transfer path and optically reads information recorded in the information recording medium (the passport); and non-contact communication antennas which send and receive information to/from an antenna or an antenna embedded in the information recording medium (the passport), through electromagnetic induction. The plurality of non-contact communication antennas are laid out in the frame constructing the transfer path.

Abstract: A sensing device for sensing a product item provided in a sensing region, wherein the product item includes an interface surface having disposed thereon at least one of: (a) coded data which includes, at a plurality of locations on the interface surface, a corresponding plurality of coded data portions, each coded data portion being indicative of an identity of the product item; and, (b) a barcode which encodes an identifier; ?the sensing device including: (i) a coded data sensor for sensing at least one coded data portion; (ii) a barcode sensor for sensing the barcode; (iii) a processor for generating identity data indicative of the identity of the product item using at least one of: (1) the at least one sensed coded data portion; and, (2) the barcode; (c) a communicator for transferring the indicating data to a computer system.

Abstract: There is disclosed is a mobile device for detecting, tracking, and translating motion into an image that can be rendered on a mobile device display. A motion sensor contained within the mobile device and coupled with a processor can detect and track motion in a two-dimensional plane. A motion selector button is disposed on the housing of the mobile device and coupled with the processor. The motion selector button actuates and de-actuates the motion sensor such that motion is only detected and motion data forwarded to the processor while the motion selector button is actuated. The mobile device further includes a display for rendering an image corresponding to the detected motion. The processor translates the captured motion data into a scaled two-dimensional image that is completely rendered on the mobile device display.

Abstract: The invention discloses a card discriminating system used for identifying whether a card is authentic or not. The card has a surface, and N sensing marks are formed on the surface of the card. The card discriminating system includes a position-based pulse generation module, at least one sensor, and a micro-controller unit. The micro-controller unit is respectively coupled with the position-based pulse generating module and each of the sensors. When the card actuates and passes through the position-based pulse generating module, the position-based pulse generating module will generate a reference position-based pulse. When one of the N sensing marks of the card passes through one of the sensors, the sensor will generate a corresponding sensing position-based pulse. The micro-controller unit is used for comparing the sensing position-based pulse with the reference position-based pulse, so as to identify whether the card is authentic or not.

Abstract: To enables realization of an image data collection function, a bank switch function and the like at low cost in a juxtaposedly placed type sensor system for handling an image, such as a visual sensor or a displacement sensor, by introduction of the minimum required number of new units into an existing system. A first operation of storing image data acquired by a sensor controller from a sensor head and/or measurement data obtained by processing the image data, into a non-volatile record medium of a data storage unit, and/or a second operation of writing the setting data having been stored into the non-volatile record medium of the data storage unit, on a bank memory inside the sensor controller unit, are made possible.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatuses for reconstitution of data for failed radio frequency identification (RFID) tags are described. The tag's information is segmented, optionally compressed, and encoded into a plurality of optical representations. Alternatively, or in addition, a portion or all of the tag's information is stored in a non-optical format. Upon failure of a tag read for any reason (e.g., tag failure, reader failure, operator error, environmental reasons, etc.), the data is reconstituted from the optical representations. Alternatively, or in addition, the reconstitution includes incorporating the information stored in a non-optical format.

Abstract: An imaging system for acquiring images of multiple indicia, such as symbols and non-symbols, on a target, such as a label, comprises a solid-state imager having an array of image sensors for capturing light from the indicia on the target over a field of view, and a controller having a stored template that identifies details of the indicia on the target, for controlling the imager to capture the light from the indicia based on the details identified by the template.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a solution for protection of optically encoded content using one or more Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags embedded within one or more optical medias. The solution can include an RFID tag embedded within an optical media that can manage the use of the optically encoded content on the optical media. Protection can include access control of optically encoded media by an optical media drive, progressive content based protection, selective content access and the like. In one embodiment the embedded RFID tag can act independently or in concert with hardware/software security mechanisms associated with an optical media drive to provide security.

Abstract: A bar code is added to a printed medium having one or more images visible to the human eye. The bar code is printed with ink invisible to the human eye. The bar code as printed on the printed medium with ink invisible to the human eye is then detected, such as by a computing device like a mobile phone-type device. Information relating to the images on the printed medium is decoded from the bar code and transmitted to an electronic service. In return, electronically encoded information relating to the images on the printed medium is received from the electronic service and displayed.

Abstract: An apparatus for collecting and transmitting a retail data comprising a barcode data of the products purchased over each transaction. The apparatus comprises a terminal device that has loaded onto it a retail information collection application that receives, stores, processes, and transmits the retail data. Financial data such as credit card numbers and personal identification numbers are removed from the retail data before it is encrypted and transmitted over a network to a retail database. Clients including but not limited to goods suppliers and goods manufacturers may view retail data, including sales history and sales performance, on one or more products.

Abstract: A portable sign system utilizing lights and sounds to enhance the message or image displayed of signs provided with the system or pre-existing signs and increase their usefulness beyond daylight hours. The sign system provides an adjustable frame capable of accommodating a plurality of sign dimensions. The adjustable frame is capable of housing the lights utilized to illuminate and enhance the sign as well as accommodate the source of auditory enhancement. A means of attachment and a means of providing power which is appropriate to the location in which the sign will be utilized is provided. In another embodiment the portable sign system affixes the lights, means of power, means of attachment, means of auditory enhancement, directly to the sign without the use of a frame.

Abstract: A hybrid tag interface system and an interfacing method therefor are provided. First codes for an object from a wireless recognition tag containing the first codes are received through wireless communication, a second code for the object from an image tag expressing the second code by using a 1- or 2-dimensional image is read through optical contact, and then information on the object is calculated from the first codes and the second code based on their correlation. By doing so, automatic recognition and visibility can be maximized using the hybrid tag combining a wireless recognition tag and an image tag.

Abstract: System and method for recording temperature on an RFID tag. A first RFID tag is attached to a container. The first RFID tag includes a temperature sensor. The container contains a multiplicity of packages. A multiplicity of second RFID tags are attached to the multiplicity of packages, respectively. The first RFID tag transmits temperature information to the multiplicity of second RFID tags. In response, the multiplicity of second RFID tags record the temperature information. Consequently, there is no need for expensive temperature sensors on the multiplicity of RFID tags on the packages. According to features of the present invention, the first RFID tag is an active RFID tag, and the multiplicity of second RFID tags are passive RFID tags. The first RFID tag also transmits other information to the multiplicity of second RFID tags to enable the second RFID tags to authenticate the temperature information.

Abstract: There is described a decodable indicia reading terminal which in one embodiment can capture and process a certain (e.g., a first) and a subsequent (e.g., a second) frame of image data, wherein the certain and the subsequent frames have different imaging attributes. In one embodiment the attributes between certain and subsequent frames are differentiated in that the certain frame represents light incident on pixels of a first image sensor and the subsequent frame of image data represents light incident on pixels of a second image sensor spaced apart from the first image sensor. Additionally, or in the alternative, the attributes between certain and subsequent frames can be differentiated in that the first frame represents light incident on an image sensor under a first illumination profile and the subsequent frame represents light incident on pixels of an image sensor under a second illumination profile.

Abstract: Described is a method including the steps of receiving one of a first input and a second input and enabling a functionality corresponding to the one of the received first and the second input. The method further includes the steps of starting a timer upon receipt of the one of the first input and the second input, determining if one of a predetermined action of the functionality has occurred and the timer has reached a predetermined value, and disabling the functionality when the one of the predetermined action occurring and the timer reaching the predetermined value has been determined.

Abstract: A card system of a magnetic card which reduces investment costs for switching over a card infrastructure and transmits/receives a data of a contactless smart card and information representing the state of the contactless smart card only by changing software is provided. Based on the communication result with the contactless smart card 17 through a communication part 2, the information of the contactless smart card 17 or the information representing the state of the contactless smart card 17 are output with different formats or different timing charts, respectively, and are output through an I/F part 3 with a specification equal to that of an output signal of a magnetic card reader.

Abstract: An apparatus for locating an item includes a mesh network communication device, a global positioning satellite chipset, a cellular telecommunications modem, a digital memory that stores a unique identification and a processor. The processor is programmed to determine the location of the item based on an input from the global positioning satellite chipset. If a mesh network connection is available, then processor transmits the unique identification and the location of the item to a requester via the mesh network, otherwise the processor registers with a wireless communication network with the cellular telecommunications modem and transmits the unique identification and the location of the item to a requester via the wireless communication network.

Abstract: A directional object counter uses two or more light sources to generate pulses of light, which travel on two light paths across a passageway. Light from both sources illuminates two sensors, after the light has traversed the passageway, and a processor connected to the sensors determines, based on the pulsed nature of the sources, which source(s) is/are illuminating which sensor(s), and counts movement of objects through the light paths in an identified direction. The pulsed nature of the light permits low-power operation of the directional object counter with a battery. Furthermore, the independence of the pulse discrimination from the pulse generation, enables the light sources and light sensors to be positioned on opposite sides of a passageway without wiring connecting them across the passageway.

Abstract: A multiple card reading apparatus for reading at least two different types of information cards that may be used in a handheld point of sale device with printing capability. The multiple card reading apparatus has a housing containing at least two card reading devices and defining slots that receive the cards and position them for reading by the card reading devices. In one aspect, the slots overlap facilitating a compact arrangement of the card reading apparatus. Preferably, the common portions of the slots are an entrance portion so that only a single slot marks the outside of the housing. For instance, the slots may originate in the same position but diverge at different angles from each other. In this manner, different types of cards can be inserted through the same opening portion but at different angles to reach different card reading devices capable of reading its respective type of card.

Abstract: The invention provides a system and method of monitoring at least one operating characteristic of a hand power tool. In one embodiment, a hand power tool includes a housing, a motor within the housing and a tag mounted on the housing. The tag includes a first antenna for harvesting energy from an electromagnetic field associated with the motor, a microprocessor configured to operate using the harvested energy, a memory including stored commands which, when executed by the microprocessor, cause data associated with a sensed condition of the hand power tool to be stored within the memory, and a second antenna for coupling with a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader and for transmitting the data stored within the memory to the RFID reader.

Abstract: A scanner with a two dimensional array of sensors generates an aiming pattern that is concurrently used as illumination for a segment of the array. In this manner, one-dimensional and simple two-dimensional barcodes can be quickly processed by loading and decoding only the segment of the array.

Abstract: The invention concerns a device for measuring a radiofrequency magnetic field, characterised in that it comprises on a common support (10): a coil forming a primary reception antenna; a voltage-controlled oscillator, monitored so that its output frequency depends on the amplitude of the magnetic field received on the coil forming primary antenna; an absorption modulation load connected to the oscillator output; a secondary antenna (22) sensitive to the magnetic field influenced by the absorption modulation resulting from the power supply load by the voltage-controlled oscillator, and means (30) for operating the available signal on the secondary antenna (22).

Abstract: Detecting information relating to a medium in an interactive media device. The device includes a surface able to receive the medium and a sensor network embedded within the surface. The sensor network includes a configuration able to detect medium information. The device has a processor able to issue signals to the sensor network and to receive signals indicating capacitance change caused by proximity of a region of the medium to the sensor network. Thus, the processor is able to detect medium information based on the capacitance change.

Abstract: Article can be managed relatively inexpensively without using an expensive database or communication infrastructure. An RFID tag communicating apparatus has an antenna that transmits/receives a signal by wireless communication with RFID circuit elements provided at the tag labels provided at a bookshelf on which books are placed and an operator, respectively, a radio frequency circuit, a barcode reader that optically detects information of a barcode provided at a book; and a control circuit. The control circuit has a function to write various work information of the book in an IC circuit part of the RFID circuit element provided for management of the book via the antenna and the radio frequency circuit in accordance with a detection result of the barcode information by the barcode reader.

Abstract: A system for sensing a physical property allocated to scanning positions (P1-P5, P11-P44, Pijk) comprises sensors (A1-A5, B) adapted to sense the physical property within sensing regions (AR1-AR5, BR1-BR2, C1-C3, D1-D3, E1-E3, F1-F4, G1-G3, H1-H4), wherein the sensing regions (AR1-AR5, BR1-BR2, C1-C3, D1-D3, E1-E3, F1-F4, G1-G3, H1-H4) are arranged such that each of them sweeps at least one scanning position (P1-P5, P11-P44, Pijk) and sensing regions (AR1-AR5, BR1-BR2, C1-C3, D1-D3, E1-E3, F1-F4, G1-G3, H1-H4) are superposed on one another at least at one scanning position (P1-P5, P11-P44, Pijk), so that each scanning position is swept by a unique pattern of sensing regions (AR1-AR5, BR1-BR2, C1-C3, D1-D3, E1-E3, F1-F4, G1-G3, H1-H4), wherein the following condition is fulfilled: log2(n)?i<x·n1/x with i . . . number of sensing regions n . . . number of scanning positions x . . . number of spatial dimensions in which the arrangement of scanning positions extend.

Abstract: A multi-mode ring scanner (MMRS) has a ring unit for wearing on a finger. The MMRS optionally has a wrist unit coupled to the ring unit, such as via a cable. The MMRS optionally communicates wirelessly with a computing device. The ring unit has one or more scanners (such as an optical scanner or an RFID tag reader). The ring unit optionally has two paddle switches for activation by inward pressure from fingers adjacent to the finger. The two switches enable specifying operation of the MMRS in a plurality of modes and/or to communicate a plurality of information codes to the computing device. The computing device is optionally enabled to assign a function to each combination of activation of the two switches. A scanning system including the MMRS optionally provides feedback to a user based on feedback from a host processor.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention disclose an efficient and inexpensive method for detecting tampered products utilizing current off the shelf components. Features of some embodiments provide for a RFID labeling system that uses multiple RFID components attached to a single product unit being embedded in the product's label and one or more tamper labels. Such RFID labels usually comprise an adhesive label containing an RFID component, a destructible conducting path that acts as an antenna and a unique encryption. The RFID labels transmit the encryption when irradiated by an RF scanner. A complete inventory of multiple associated encryptions reported during an RFID scan of a product package provide positive indication that product has not been tampered with. A missing encryption indicates a faulty product seal or an event of tampering.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for better assessing risk associated with cashing second-party checks and other negotiable instruments by using biometric information obtained from an individual who presents a check or other negotiable instrument in a check-cashing transaction. In various embodiments, the obtained biometric information may be compared with stored biometric information in order to enhance confidence in the accurate identification of the check presenter. In various embodiments, a gradated biometric risk score, based at least in part on the comparison, may be generated for the check-cashing transaction. In various embodiments, the biometric risk score may be combined with risk scores that are descriptive of other aspects of the check-cashing transaction to calculate a risk score for the transaction as a whole. In some embodiments, the risk scores may be used to generate an accept/decline recommendation for the transaction as a whole.

Abstract: A free-standing bulk depositor includes wheels or other mechanical contrivances that enable the unit to be moved from place to place, for example to different tables on the floor of a casino, and includes various currency and/or document processing devices, including a transport mechanism that feeds a stack of documents past at least one sensing/imaging device, a logic unit that sends the documents to appropriate cassettes or drop boxes depending on the type of document and whether the document can be authenticated, and an escrow spool that holds suspect documents while images of the suspect documents are being reviewed in case the logic unit cannot determine whether a document is authentic. The documents may be banknotes, tickets, vouchers, coupons, or other documents having an identifiable value.

Abstract: A process for laundering, sorting and delivering garments is enhanced by incorporating a radio frequency identification RFID) tag into each garment. An RFID reader antenna includes left and right interleaved parallel and vertically aligned pluralities of orthogonal ferrite horseshoes to shape the sensing magnetic fields. An encryption scheme gives anonymity to the wearer of the garment.

Abstract: A card reader with multiple slots to convert data stored in electronic cards in different format into the interface format of Express Card™ and to output the converted data to a computer includes an insulation casing, two slots, one Express Card™ connector, and data relay unit to convert the data storage format of an electronic card into the interface format of Express Card™ and to output the converted data through the Express Card™ connector; each slot being divided into multiple terminal sets to respectively connect to multiple electronic cards for reducing the space of the card reader, facilitating portability, and better adapting to expansion medium used by mobile commerce or traveler.

Abstract: Disclosed is an automated condition evaluator that conducts an evaluation of an item placed into a sensor chamber to identify the item and determine characteristics about that item that can assist a party in making a decision about the item. More specifically, an item is placed into a sensor chamber and various sensors are actuated in an effort to identify the item. Extrinsic information may also be introduced into the identification process. Once the item is identified, a rigorous evaluation of the item is conducted to determine any flaws, characteristics, or changes from the standard are present in the item. The sensors evaluate the item in 3 dimensional space and the results are compared against expected results. Any variations are classified for evaluation. When the item being evaluated is a vehicle, the classifications of the differences include scratches, dents, holes and other problems that are characteristic of vehicle flaws.

Abstract: A multiple card reading modules apparatus includes a first card reading module and a second card reading module. The first card reading module includes a card receiving structure. The first card reading module reads a first card signal based on a control signal through the card receiving structure. The second card reading module is combined with the first card reading module through a combination device for sharing the card receiving structure to read a second card signal and generate the control signal based on the content of the second card signal.

Abstract: System and method for recording temperature on an RFID tag. A first RFID tag is attached to a container. The first RFID tag includes a temperature sensor. The container contains a multiplicity of packages. A multiplicity of second RFID tags are attached to the multiplicity of packages, respectively. The first RFID tag transmits temperature information to the multiplicity of second RFID tags. In response, the multiplicity of second RFID tags record the temperature information. Consequently, there is no need for expensive temperature sensors on the multiplicity of RFID tags on the packages. According to features of the present invention, the first RFID tag is an active RFID tag, and the multiplicity of second RFID tags are passive RFID tags. The first RFID tag also transmits other information to the multiplicity of second RFID tags to enable the second RFID tags to authenticate the temperature information.

Abstract: A booking station, comprising: a front, a back, a top, a bottom, a right side, and a left side, said front having a large front door that is hingedly connected to said front, said front also having a small front door that is hingedly connected to said front; a keyboard tray is substantially horizontally slidably mounted to a frame within the booking station upwardly from said large front door, said keyboard tray slidably mounted to said frame; a short front drawer is substantially horizontally slidably mounted to a frame within the booking station upwardly from said small front door, said top and said front having a scanner cut-out that is disposed upwardly from said short front drawer; and a substantially horizontally oriented scanner ledge is disposed upwardly from said short front drawer and begins substantially at the front extending rearwardly.

Abstract: A universal card reader is disclosed. The universal car reader includes a housing having a card slot and a dynamic input area for a memory card provided in the card slot. A controller chip is connected to the dynamic input area for the reading and/or writing of data on the memory card.

Abstract: A card reading device having both contact and contactless card reading functions includes a communication interface for transmitting and receiving signals, an antenna for electromagnetically inducing a contactless card, a protocol processor for exchanging data with the contactless card through the antenna according to a predetermined communication protocol, a card slot for embedding a contact card, an identification module for identifying the contact card, and a microcontroller for processing data stored in the contactless card induced by the antenna through the protocol processor, and exchanging data with a backend device through the communication interface when a result of the identification module represents that the contact card conforms to a predetermined authentication.

Abstract: The present invention is a card reader that can read cards wherein the information contained on the cards is in different formats. This eliminates the need for different card readers for each card having a different format for information storage thereon. The card reader also has a biometric identification input and a keypad for input of additional information by a user of the device. The card reader further includes a data module connectable to the card reader.

Abstract: An efficient filter circuit and method for filtering a loss of receiver signal prevents false signals caused by glitches. The short glitches that happen at the positive edge of the clock signal may be prevented from affecting the whole clock cycle. The false signal removal circuitry is effective against both false active high and false active low signals. A selectable majority determination block also measures the number of glitches or average signal strength to determine that a valid signal is present. A mininum pulse width of a glitch is settable.

Abstract: Card reader/writer devices and methods for reading/writing both M-cards, PICCs, and/or S-cards, wherein such devices can comprise a magnetic head (which can have multiple tracks), an A/D converter, a gated buffer module associated with the A/D converter, an F2F decoder associated with the gated buffer module for enabling the integration of multiple discrete M-card reader formats with decoder functions, and an integral PICC data processor, which can perform the functions of a PCD, for reading/writing a PICC along with the M-card. An internal RF analog antenna circuit can be provided for receiving signals from the PICC, or an external PCD antenna can be connectable to the RF circuit. The F2F decoder can be integrated with the PICC data processor, and the A/D converter can process analog data from both the magnetic head and the RF antenna circuit. A contact module could also be provided to read/write an S-card.

Abstract: A chip card receives and processes what-ever combination of contact data and contact-less data is available to allow multiple functionalities for the chip card. A micro-computer of the chip card is adapted to simultaneously receive and process contact data from a contact interface and contact-less data from a contact-less interface. In addition, the chip card includes a power voltage selector for selecting a contact bias to supply power to the micro-computer when-ever the contact bias voltage is available since the contact bias voltage is more stable than a contact-less bias voltage.

Abstract: A combined barcode scanner and radio frequency identification reader includes a microprocessor control unit, an RFID module, a barcode scanner module, a host interface, and user interface(s). The microprocessor control unit utilizes a Field Interpretation Array to parse data into discrete fields that can be input into a host as if typed on a keyboard. The host interface permits the exchange of information between the apparatus and a host computer, and may take the form of an RS-232 connector, a USB connector, or a PS/2 keyboard connector. The user interface(s) may have one or more of a trigger, an LED light, and/or a beeper. When the trigger is in an undepressed state, the apparatus is in program mode. When the trigger is depressed the apparatus can enter one of multiple trigger modes. The trigger mode activates one or both of the RFID module and/or barcode scanner module.

Abstract: A system and method is described which utilizes a dual function reader device, which may be a hand-held inventory control device, which first performs an optical read of an optical bar code on a carrier unit, then based on the identification or other information obtained from the optical read a RF read is made of a RF tag attached to, or within, the carrier unit. An indicator light on the carrier unit illuminates when the optical read is completed, which allows an operator to visually verify that the optical read has transpired for the desired carrier unit. The RF tag provides data regarding the inventory of the goods stored within, or on, the carrier unit, the temperature of the goods, the shelf-life of the goods, the source and/or destination of the carrier unit and/or the goods, or other information. Data can also be written to the RF tag by the reader.

Abstract: A laser scanning unit to form an electrostatic latent image according to an image signal by projecting a light onto a photosensitive medium. The laser scanning unit has a light source having a cylindrical shape of a predetermined length; a reflective member surrounding the light source to focus the light from the light source; a micro-mirror array to reflect the light focused by the reflective member toward the photosensitive medium; a driving control unit to drive the micro-mirror array according to the image signal; and a micro-lens array disposed in an optical path between the micro-mirror array and the photosensitive medium, to focus the light reflected from the micro-mirror array onto the surface of the photosensitive medium.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a printing ink comprising at least one film forming binder and plurality of at least one type of electrically conductive micro-wires wherein the mean length of said type of micro-wires is in a range of between 3 ?m to 250 ?m.

Abstract: A product and document fulfilment system for merging together discrete articles and specific documentation which pertains to each discrete article, and for packaging and labelling the same. The system comprises an article conveyor on which discrete articles are carried seriatim, a first machine code reader for reading the unique machine readable code on each discrete article, a printer for printing a specific document pertaining to the article, instruction control means governing the delivery of the appropriate document to be merged with the article, a merging station where the specific document and the article are merged, a second machine code reader for reading the machine readable code on the specific document, first memory and counter means for recognizing the identity of the discrete article at the merging station, and accept/reject means to accept the merged article and specific document when a match occurs, or reject the item when no match occurs.

Abstract: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags and an antenna grid are used for automatic determination of cable connections. An RF antenna grid is advantageously employed on a device having a plurality of device ports (e.g., cable connection points) which may, for example, be physically organized in a two-dimensional arrangement. Then, when RFID tags are fixed to one or more cable ends, it can advantageously be determined which of the one or more cables are connected to which of the ports on the device. The RF antenna grid may comprise a plurality of individual antennas which are advantageously multiplexed such that a single RFID reader can handle the sensing for all antennas. Also, opposing ends of a given cable may be advantageously provided with RFID tags having related ID codes such that connections which exist between two connected ports of the device may be easily and efficiently determined.