Abstract: A system for managing a structured cabling system, together with the attached equipment and devices, utilises a hand-held scanner to record moves, adds and changes by scanning machine-readable identifiers (such as bar-code labels) attached to structured cabling components, including but not limited to active and passive communications equipment, cross-connects, patch cords, backbone connections and peripheral equipment. The system records or audits cross-connects by scanning the label of each port and cable in a cross-connect and correlating the cable identifiers to infer the connections. Complete end-to-end connections (‘channels’) can be inferred in the same way, and the system provides a mechanism to filter the display of channels to provide the most relevant details, including display of only frequently changed components, incomplete channels and permanent patches (‘patch by exception’).

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 solid-state imager is mounted at a point-of-transaction workstation for capturing images of diverse targets useful for customer identification, customer payment validation, and operator surveillance. The imager is manually or automatically triggered and is operated at high speed to resist image blurring due to relative movement between the target and the imager.

Abstract: Present invention is a voice recording and playback apparatus with random and sequential addressing, comprising: a processor for all information operation of the apparatus; a record/playback unit for receiving outside sounds and replaying the sounds; a storage unit for storing the outside sound data received by the record/playback unit; an output unit for assigning the outside sound data with a serial number (S/N) and outputting into an S/N bar code; a sensor for sensing the S/N bar code or a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and picking up the sound data for the S/N or RFID and replaying the sound data by the record/playback unit; and a power supplier for the apparatus. Accordingly, after the sensor senses the S/N bar code or the RFID, the sound data for the S/N or RFID can be found in a random addressing style to rapidly find the sound data stored in the storage unit.

Abstract: An integrated data reader and electronic article surveillance (EAS) system, and methods of operation. In one configuration, a data reader such as a bar code scanner is equipped with an EAS deactivation module disposed behind the scanner surface preferably downstream and/or upstream of the scanner window. The system may be configured such that the EAS deactivation module is interchangeable from the right side of the scanner housing (which is preferred for left-to-right scanning motion) to the left side of the scanner housing (which is preferred for right-to-left scanning motion). In other configurations, the deactivation module may be disposed in the housing adjacent to the window and oriented longitudinally and parallel to the sweep direction of the item. The EAS deactivation modules have various configurations such as simple planar coils, a magnetically active core with coil windings, or two part L-shape construction.

Abstract: Codes, such as those representing dates (324), barcodes (326) and incrementing values (325) are applied onto packaged consumer products by a coder (410). The coder receives instructions from a processing system (406) composite data (405) representing information to be coded onto the packaging is received by the processing system (406). Coder instructions for a coder processing subsystem (411) are generated by processing system (406) with reference to coder capabilities (409). In response to these coder capabilities, the processing system (406) either instructs the coder to generate a graphical representation in response to said instructions or assists the coder to generate a graphical representation before supplying lower level instructions to the coder.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for heat-treating a thermal-direct-printed bar code label, upon which a bar code has been pre-printed by previously exposing predetermined portions of the thermal-direct-printed bar code label to a predetermined temperature level, to a similar temperature level whereby the entire expanse of the bar code label becomes blackened thereby effectively rendering the bar code illegible and unreadable. Packaging containers, having the bar code labels affixed thereon, can therefore be heat-treated and then reused by having a new bar code label affixed thereto.

Abstract: Collecting a label in an item delivery system (100) comprises reading a label on a unit load when the unit load is terminated, defacing the label if the quality of the label meets a predefined quality level, depositing the label in a read bin holder if the quality of the label meets a predetermined quality level, and depositing the label in a no-read bin holder if the quality of the label does not meet a predefined quality level. The item delivery system includes a network (160) facilitating communication between an information system (110), a label collection system (120), legacy systems (130), customer systems (140), and delivery systems (150).

Abstract: According to the present invention, individual two-dimensional barcodes 30, 91 and 173 are provided for individual chips 31 arrayed on a wafer 50, individual lead fames 93 to each of which chips 92 are bonded and individual packaged products 171 constituted of resin sealed semiconductor chips based upon chip ID information to enable information management to be implemented separately for individual chips 31, individual frames 93 and individual chip products 171. Thus, a higher degree of efficiency and a higher degree of accuracy in the information management for semiconductor devices are achieved in all processes of semiconductor production including the individual manufacturing processes, the physical distribution process, the shipping process and the claim handling process.

Abstract: A compact display assembly includes a flexible display screen such as a passive LCD screen or an OLED display screen. Printed circuit boards including driving circuitry for the display screen are mounted at its rear in a configuration defining a longitudinal region of the screen about which it may be folded or curved over on itself to a compact configuration. The assembly may be included in electronic computational devices such as laptop computers, electronic books and the like.

Abstract: A bar code addressing audio playing device mainly has a microprocessor, a bar code scanner and an audio playing unit. The memory store information is generated by a bar code addressing method and the information has many bar code data of bar codes and multiple sections of each serial audio signal. The bar code scanner is connected to the microprocessor to provide bar code data of the bar code to the microprocessor. The audio playing unit is connected to the microprocessor. The microprocessor controls the audio playing unit to play a specific section according to the bar code data from the bar code scanner. Therefore, the user can easily and quickly repeat one section of a serial audio signal.

Abstract: An RFID encoder is used in conjunction with a barcode print and apply system. The RFID encoder utilizes information obtained from a data stream from a host computer, from a corresponding barcode label, or other source to program an RFID label. The programmed label can then be applied with an integrated applicator or an external applicator. The RFID encoder can also verify that an RFID tag or label has been properly encoded and has the same content as the corresponding barcode label. The RFID can further verify that the barcode has been properly printed. If both barcode and RFID tag contain the correct data, both types of labels are attached to a package, enabling the package to be read optically and with radio frequency signals.

Abstract: An RFID print system includes an RFID printer and reader, a host computer that transmits a data stream containing instructions or commands to the RFID printer for encoding an RFID tag, and a data manager that receives EPC data or other data from the encoded tag. The data manager transmits the data to the host computer, which can then compare what was encoded to what was intended to be encoded. The host computer can then transmit signals to other devices in the system for appropriate action, such as when the encoded tag is defective.

Abstract: A system and method for integrating point of sale (POS) data with electronic article surveillance (EAS) data, comprising a general-purpose computer for receiving and processing POS and EAS data is disclosed. The system and method preferable comprise reporting analyzed and collated data to a user.

Abstract: The inventory processing unit reads by the barcode reader barcode labels of medium cartridges by scanning a plurality of times per one label as the carrier robot is moved in a predetermined cell array direction in the medium storage and notifies of stored medium information the high-order device. The cause of error specification processing unit extracts the error data from the scanning data obtained at the completion of the inventory process to determine the presence or absence of a barcode label and if it is determined that a barcode label exists, the predetermined retry process is executed, otherwise, notifies of the determination result the high-order device without executing the retry process.

Abstract: A multilayer tubular structure for products with an identification device is disclosed. In one embodiment, a resiliently flexible band is biased with respect to the tubular structure, and the identification device, such as a radio frequency identification device, is interposed therebetween.

Abstract: Embodiments of a method and/or apparatus for automatically detecting a test result of a probe zone of a test strip are provided.

Abstract: An image processing and printing apparatus includes a processor that is configured to process image data to apply effects to the image data. Image data input circuitry receives image data for processing. A card reader reads a card having a two-dimensional code printed on one side of the card. The reader generates data representing executable code upon reading the card. The reader is connected to the processor to write the data to the processor, which executes the code and performs an image processing operation on the image data according to the code. A printhead interface is connected to the processor to receive processed image data from the processor and to generate print data. A printhead is connected to the printhead interface to print processed images.

Abstract: The invention includes a system for projecting a display onto an item or parcel using an acquisition device to capture indicia on each parcel, a tracking system, a controller or computer to select the display based on the indicia, and one or more display projectors. In one embodiment the display includes or connotes a handling instruction. The system in one embodiment includes a laser projection system to paint the selected display directly onto a selected exterior surface of the corresponding parcel, for multiple parcels simultaneously. The system may be configured to move each display in order follow each moving parcel so that each display remains legible to a viewer in a display zone where handling takes place.

Abstract: Drawing, writing or pointing device (1) for use with data presentations, computer supported work or other interactive use of a computer. The device (1) comprises one or more code patterns (3). Each code pattern (3) is adapted to be detected by a camera and recognition system (13). A camera and recognition system (13) adapted to cooperate with the device (1) records one or more images (31). At least one image contains one or more code patterns (3) from the device(s). Drawing, writing and pointing devices (1) are used in a system (40) and in a method for drawing, writing and pointing at data presentations, computer supported work and other interactive use of a computer where the position and orientation of the device (1) is determined and transferred to a computer. The drawing, writing and pointing device (1) is also used in a method for continuously recording the position and orientation of one or more marked objects, where the marking comprises one or more code patterns (3).

Abstract: A compact transactional document-scanning terminal that conveniently capture an electronic image of most forms of printed documents at distributed locations, to capture either automatically from the scanned document or manually by operator interactivity all necessary process parameters or codes, to perform an electronic transaction in order to forward all the information to a remote computer or alternatively for local storage within the terminal, and to produce an electronic receipt and/or a paper receipt as a proof that the scan and store transaction has been successful and for later retrieval of information associated with the scanned document. The compact transactional document-scanning terminal may be configured to respond to various customer specifications.

Abstract: A visual tag having an imprinted image, a processor for calculating a response string corresponding to the content of the imprinted image and a challenge string, and a changeable screen to display the response string in machine-readable symbols. An authentication device reads the displayed symbols, and authenticates the displayed contents corresponding to the challenge string. The challenge string is generated either according to a random generator within the authentication device, or according to a real-time clock. A plurality of tags or objects can be authenticated and spotted within an image. The tag can also authenticate inputted messages and credentials.

Abstract: A handheld combined electronic article surveillance (EAS) and barcode scanner device. The device may be configured for wireless communication with a point of sale network so that is entirely portable within a protected area. The device may include a capacitor disposed in handle at a proximal end of the device and an antenna may be disposed at a distal end of the device. A base station may be provided for receiving the device.

Abstract: A bar code reader has an arrangement to communicate with a host apparatus. The bar code reader includes a read unit that reads a bar code attached to an article, and outputs bar code information corresponding to the read bar code; a term information acquisition unit that acquires term information included in the bar code information; and a term expiration check unit that checks whether the term of the article has expired based on the term information. A notification unit notifies that the term of the article has expired upon determination by the term expiration check unit that the term of the article has expired.

Abstract: A method of requesting further information regarding goods or services advertised in a printed advertisement is provided. The method comprises the steps of: (i) providing a printed interactive sheet, the interactive sheet comprising user information from a publisher, an advertisement from an advertiser and coded data indicative of an identity of the sheet and of a plurality of mapped locations on the sheet; (ii) interacting with the advertisement using a sensing device; (iii) receiving, in a computer system, indicating data from the sensing device regarding the identity of the sheet and the position of the sensing device relative to the sheet, the sensing device, when placed in an operative position relative to the advertisement, generating the indicating data using at least some of the coded data; and (iv) identifying in the computer system, using the indicating data, the requested further information and a payment from the advertiser to the publisher.

Abstract: A console for the input and display of consumer product information such as pricing, etc. The console may be built into the handle of the shopping cart or as a retrofit application on existing handles. The console has a product information input device for numerical values such as product pricing, cost per unit, etc. The apparatus has a calculator and output display for such data. Some space on the console will likely be dedicated to a display panel for advertising. The console may be equipped with a bar code scanner as an alternate means of inputting such consumer data. The console should have an output display, such as a monitor, and/or a readout in order to display the product information such as: cost per unit. A video monitor may be used in connection with the console in order to provide advertising information related to products.

Abstract: A checkout device including an element for shifting a scan pattern to an effective location for scanning. In addition to the optical element, the checkout device includes a bar code reader. The bar code reader includes a housing having an aperture for emitting scanning light beams. The checkout device further includes a security system in the housing and adjacent the aperture for deactivating security labels on scanned items.

Abstract: A reader identifies tags without requiring or determining whether a response to an interrogation was a single response from a single tag or multiple responses from multiple tags. A method is performed by a tag in an identification system, and the method includes receiving a first data from a reader, and correlating the first data with a first corresponding portion of the tag's identification code, and specifying a match if the first data matches the first corresponding portion, and receiving second data which, combined with the first data, is correlated with a second corresponding portion of th tag's identification code.

Abstract: A solid-state imager is mounted at a point-of-transaction workstation for capturing images of diverse targets useful for customer identification, customer payment validation, and operator surveillance. The imager is manually or automatically triggered and is operated at high speed to resist image blurring due to relative movement between the target and the imager.

Abstract: A compact assembly for electro-optically scanning indicia includes an oscillatable component operative for focusing, and for sweeping, a light beam across the indicia and, optionally, for correcting for scan aberration. A laser diode for emitting the beam is inserted into a central opening surrounded by an electromagnetic coil to conserve space. A magnet on the component interacts with the coil to effect oscillation. A floating flexure returns the component to an equilibrium position.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for verification of the identity of a patient undergoing treatment administered by a medical treatment practitioner in a treatment room. An identifying element such as patient chart or patient photograph is provided for the patient which includes a patient identifier, e.g., a barcode, capable of being read by a reader device located within the treatment room. In use, the patient identifier is read by the reader device in the treatment room and a characteristic audio signal, previously assigned to the patient and known to the patient, is generated in response to the reading of the identifying element when there is a match between the patient identifier and a stored identifier for the patient. Treatment of the patient is at least temporarily withheld if any audio signal generated in response to reading of the patient identifier by the reader device is not the characteristic audio signal assigned to the patient. A special patient chart with a removable identifier can be used.

Abstract: A checkout device with a barcode reader, scale, and electronic article surveillance (EAS) system. The checkout device includes a scale assembly including a base portion and a weigh scale over the base portion. The weigh plate includes an aperture. A barcode reader is between the base portion and the weight scale and reads a barcode through the aperture in the weigh plate. A security label deactivation system is between the base portion and the weigh plate.

Abstract: A method of packaging print media in combination with a printing device enables the printing device to automatically determine the type of media, and its characteristics and attributes, loaded in a media input tray. The print media package includes a pre-cut or perforated line which allows the removal of one end of the package forming a partial package exposing one end of sheets of the print media and encasing the print media. The print media is loaded in the media input tray encased in the partial package with the exposed ends of the print media sheets accessible to the printing device feed roller. The print media package includes an identifying code imprinted on an outside surface of the package located on the remaining portion of the package when the package end has been removed. The media input tray includes a sensor mounted in a location accessible to the identifying code when the print media encased in the partial package is loaded in the media input tray.

Abstract: A method of and system for identifying an individual drug delivery device and tracing its ownership. An individual drug delivery device, such as a patch, is coded with a unique identifier. Such coding is performed by using a bar code or by storing the identifier in a memory device in the drug delivery device. A database contains a record of the identifier, representing the drug delivery device. The identifier is read upon a transfer of the drug delivery device and the database is updated to include information such as the date of the transfer, the identity of the transferee and the prescribing physician. The ability to retrieve such information regarding specific drug delivery devices can result in the prevention of abuse of controlled substances contained therein.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for capturing video images of elements in a videographic survey, e.g. a thermograph video survey. According to the invention a barcode label having a bar pattern representing a unique identifying name of each element of the survey is associated with each survey element. A video camera system, with a barcode scanner associated therewith, is provided for scanning a barcode associated with a selected element. The selected element is thereby identified to the video camera system. The video camera system recalls data, including the element name, relating to the selected element and displays the data on a display device associated with the video camera system. An operator may review the displayed data and capture a video image of the element with the video camera system. The video image of the selected element may then be stored in a camera memory with the element name associated therewith.

Abstract: A handbeld color measurement instrument capable of reading both barcodes and sample colors. The instrument includes a single color measurement engine connected to a control capable of detecting and reading barcodes. When a barcode is detected, the control updates program and/or configuration information in accordance with information contained in the barcode. When a barcode is not detected, the control operates to read sample colors.

Abstract: Systems and methods analyze the performance of a mechanical system having two identical rotating members therein. Light is directed from two identical light sources to intercept encoded portions of the rotating members. A portion of the light is reflected from the encoded portions of each rotating member. The reflected portion of the light can be then detected to recover performance data maintained therein, wherein the performance data contains performance characteristics of the mechanical system. A reflected portion of the light can be detected to recover performance data. The light sources can be configured as Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers (VCSEL). The encoded portions of rotating members thereof can include a bar code. Images from a first encoded surface may interact with an image from a second encoded surface after the light beams are reflected off the first and second rotating surfaces to produce Moirè fringes.

Abstract: The invention relates to preparations, a component tape and a component tape reel for marking printed circuit boards with respective unique identification codes. Carriers with respective unique identification codes printed thereon are packaged and provided in such way that the carriers can be mounted on respective circuit boards by an automated component mounting process. Thus, the invention enables a surface mount placement system to pick the carriers for placement on respective circuit boards, thereby marking the circuit boards with respective unique identification codes in a fully automated manner.

Abstract: An apparatus for reading and storing barcodes on a smart card comprising, a housing unit containing therein; activation means for turning the unit on; barcode reading means for reading a barcode into the unit; means for storing the barcodes; and means for writing the barcodes so stored in the unit onto a smart card.

Abstract: An improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indica such as bar codes on a side surface of an inserted card. The device is electrically powered and features a double scanning method using an electronic imaging element and processor which turns off unnecessary power when not required. This is accomplished through the use of a processor and software to determine if a complete image of the bar code on the inserted card has been captured and allowing immediate extracting of data from the bar code and immediate removal of the card. Should the image of the bar code be incomplete, a second scan is conducted of the bar code as it is removed and if complete, data is extracted and if incomplete a complete image formed from the two individual scans. The device also employs a magnetic strip data reader to extract magnetically encoded data.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for identifying a characteristic of a bulk flowable material. An identification marker is inserted into a bulk flowable material. The identification marker carries information identifying a specified property or properties of the material. A marker dispenser can be located at one or more handling sites of the bulk flowable material. The identification markers can be pre-prepared or property-related information can be added to the marker prior to or subsequent to dispensing. The identification markers can be paper-like labels, for example, or more complex devices. The system can be used to track the lifespan of a material or to indicate a property of the material to others, such as whether the material is a genetically modified organism (GMO). A pre-printed marker source containing a single continuous bar code is also disclosed.

Abstract: A wireless system for self-service shopping is described that includes a customer identification device with an optically readable code, a portable terminal that includes an optical code reader, a local area radio, a terminal controller, and a locking mechanism, a master station, consisting of a master controller and a master radio, and a receiving rack for the portable terminals to which the scanners may be locked using the locking mechanism. A customer presents his or her identification device to a terminal which reads the code, the code is transferred by radio to the master controller which checks the identification and, if valid, sends an authorized signal by radio to the terminal to unlock the scanner. In addition, several locking mechanisms are described that are controlled by the terminal controller. An additional feature provides a shopping cart with a receiving cradle for a portable terminal that allows the customer to lock the scanner onto the cart for hands-free shopping.

Abstract: Tracking electronic devices that are equipped with tracking tags and that are stored in designated locations. Reading devices are distributed in locations that are recorded and that correspond to the designated locations of the electronic devices. The reading devices are activated to interrogate the tracking tags. Identification data from the tracking tags is collected to enable determining the presence and location of the electronic devices, based on the recorded location of the reading devices.

Abstract: The present invention related to lottery game tickets and methods for making the same. In one embodiment, a wavelength-sensitive addition is incorporated in game ticket play area. In another embodiment, reflectance characteristics of a game ticket play area are controlled.

Abstract: A resource constrained device is disclosed which includes a tag reader, e.g., an RFID or barcode reader, a communication unit that can communicate information read from the tags to an information interface, and a controller. The controller is arranged to send the information to the information interface via the communication unit. The information interface returns a response, e.g., comprising an XML document. The response is used by the controller to adjust operational parameters which modify the performance of an operational unit, e.g., a washing machine.

Abstract: Tracking electronic devices that are equipped with tracking tags and that are stored in designated locations. The position of a reading device is monitored as it traverses the designated locations of the electronic devices and is activated to interrogate the tracking tags of the electronic devices. Identification data from the tracking tags is collected to enable determining the presence and location of the electronic devices, based on the monitored position of the reading devices.

Abstract: Tracking electronic devices that are equipped with tracking tags and that are stored in designated locations. Reading devices are distributed in locations that are recorded and that correspond to the designated locations of the electronic devices. The reading devices are activated to interrogate the tracking tags. Identification data from the tracking tags is collected to enable determining the presence and location of the electronic devices, based on the recorded location of the reading devices.

Abstract: A device for the sensitization/desensitization of magnetic security strips/EAS markers, the device comprising an electromagnetic transducer that operates alternately on AC/DC power to provide a small zone of electromagnetic flux that will sensitize/desensitize such strips or markers without damage to videos, audios, other equipment and operators.

Abstract: An integrated data reader and electronic article surveillance (EAS) system, and methods of operation. In one configuration, a data reader such as a bar code scanner is equipped with an EAS deactivation module disposed behind the scanner surface preferably downstream and/or upstream of the scanner window. The system may be configured such that the EAS deactivation module is interchangeable from the right side of the scanner housing (which is preferred for left-to-right scanning motion) to the left side of the scanner housing (which is preferred for right-to-left scanning motion). In other configurations, the deactivation module may be disposed in the housing adjacent to the window and oriented longitudinally and parallel to the sweep direction of the item. The EAS deactivation modules have various configurations such as simple planar coils, a magnetically active core with coil windings, or two part L-shape construction.

Abstract: Wireless data communications using a master/slave protocol are easily established between a master radio module which is part of a POS terminal and a slave radio module which is part of a portable bar code scanning device. A bar code identifying the portable bar code scanning device is provided on the outside of the housing of the portable device. By scanning this bar code with a scanner associated with the POS terminal, such as a fixed scanner built onto a counter, the master/slave radio communications link can be automatically implemented.