Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for reducing power consumption in a data collection device. The method includes providing a power detector in an interface component of the data collection device and sensing the power delivered to the scan engine component of the device using the power detector. The power delivered to at least a portion of the interface component is selectively reduced according to the sensed power delivered to the scan engine component.

Abstract: A portable, hand-held terminal processes products selected by a customer. A database of a host computer stores attribute data, such as price, of many products. The database is accessed by wireless transmission on a real-time basis to automatically retrieve the stored product attribute data. The retrieved data is printed by a printer and/or displayed on a display associated with the terminal.

Abstract: A method is described for the identification and localization of objects, where at least one transponder provided on the respective object is excited to emit transponder data stored in the transponder which characterize the respective object and where the transponder data emitted are detected. The object is additionally scanned by at least one optical sensor. Furthermore, the object is identified and its location determined from a combination of optical data detected by the optical sensor and the transponder data identified. Furthermore, a corresponding apparatus for the performance of the method is described.

Abstract: A wireless point of sale terminal including an operator interface, point of sale circuitry coupled to the operator interface, a printer coupled to the point of sale circuitry, a wireless transceiver coupled to the point of sale circuitry and a flexible antenna coupled to the wireless transceiver.

Abstract: An optical imager includes an image sensor, an objective lens having an optical axis for directing an image of a target onto the image sensor, at least one circuit board carrying circuitry connected to the image sensor for providing electronic signals corresponding to information for a target image, a reflective element incident to the optical axis for reflecting the target image onto the image sensor, and wherein the image sensor is arranged such that it is not incident to the optical axis. The imager is sufficiently compact such that it can be worn on a finger of a user.

Abstract: A fully automated package identification and measuring system in which an omni-directional holographic scanning tunnel is used to read bar codes on packages entering the tunnel, while a package dimensioning subsystem is used to capture information about the package prior to entry into the tunnel. Mathematical models are created on a real-time basis for the geometry of the package and the position of the laser scanning beam used to read the bar code symbol hereon. The mathematical models area analyzed to determine if collected and queued package identification data is spatially and/or temporally correlated with package measurement data using vector-based ray-tracing methods, homogenous transformations, and object-oriented decision logic so as to enable simultaneous tracking of multiple packages being transported through the scanning tunnel.

Abstract: A method and system for reading machine-readable label devices and searching resources bases responsive to the context in which the reading took place provides versatility and intelligence that insures users will obtain real value from their use. For example, the system may be used to obtain information about a product fitted with a transponder. The system goes beyond monolithic information-gathering and transaction automation by exploiting context information and flexible search engine technology and by using natural language parsing to make searching to make creation and maintenance of resource bases more economical.

Abstract: An arm-mounting mechanism affording users almost unlimited mobility, alternately adaptable to personal computers, digital assistants, cellular phones, cameras, audio recorders, barcode scanners, multimedia remote controls, MIDI controllers, gaming devices and others. One embodiment, utilized with speech recognition technology, provides monitor and/or keys on an arm-mounted first element movably attached to allow rotation, swiveling and/or tilting of this element relative to the arm. A second, optional element rests on projections from the arm-mounting mechanism, allowing interface with the hand of the device-bearing arm. Data processing, transmission, reception and storage equipment typically resides within the first element. The second element may be retractable to fit under sleeve. Another embodiment is a laptop PC reconfigurable for arm use. An alternative mechanism arm-mounts pre-existing devices.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a consumer interactive shopping and marketing system. The system includes a portable data terminal for communicating information over a communication network. The present system has aspects that may be used within a shopping establishment or at a user's home.

Abstract: A fully automated package identification and measuring system, in which an omni-directional laser scanning systems are used to read bar codes on packages entering the tunnel, while a package dimensioning subsystem is used to capture information about the package prior to entry into the tunnel. Mathematical models are created on a real-time basis for the geometry of the package and the position of the laser scanning beam used to read the bar code symbol thereon. The mathematical models are analyzed to determine if collected and queued package identification data is spatially and/or temporally correlated with package measurement data using vector-based ray-tracing methods, homogeneous transformations, and object-oriented decision logic so as to enable simultaneous tracking of multiple packages being transported through the scanning tunnel.

Abstract: A barcode scanning head includes a body portion having a first pathway for discharging light and a second pathway to receive light. The second pathway is disposed at an angle from the first pathway to form a fixed focal point position in front of the scanning head.

Abstract: A powered wireless link device powers a bar code scanner or other optical symbol reader and connects it with a remote computer terminal. The link device has a housing that contains a battery, a data-powered RF (or IR) interface unit, a serial data connector on the housing for connecting to a connector on the cord of the scanner, and a wiring assembly to connect data pins of the connector with corresponding pins of the interface unit, and leads that impose a dc voltage on selected pin or pins of the connector and the interface unit. The wiring arrangement may include a voltage regulator IC. The battery may be removable for replacement or recharging. The wireless link device can be belt worn, where the belt has holsters for the device and for the scanner. The link can be effective up to 500 feet or more, facilitating inventory control or similar functions. A link of over a mile is possible.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for scanning items with a compact scanner which is mountable onto and/or integral with a pointing instrument. The scanner module may be equipped with an aiming beam for additional help in directing the scan line toward the object to be read. The pointing instrument may be a pen or pencil or alternately a pen-based computer stylus for use with an integrated data terminal module operably connected to the scanner module. Security for preventing separation of the module may be provided by a wireless link.

Abstract: Food and beverage containers with attached or connected transponders. In one embodiment, relatively inexpensive passive transponders are used and are embedded or otherwise attached to the food and beverage containers. A transponder exciter is placed in or near the food or beverage dispenser for energizing the transponder on the food or beverage container, and for discerning information therefrom. Alternatively, active transponders can be used and an non-exciter reader can be used. The information from the containers can be used to track the containers and control the amount of consumable material with which the containers are filled, the number of times the containers are filled, and the type of material with which the containers are filled.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved portable shopping system. The system is provided with improved data presentation system for presenting customer desired data on a portable terminal. The portable terminal includes components for presenting audio as well as video information to the customer. The audio and/or video information corresponds to one or more of the customer's user preferences.

Abstract: An inventory control and management method provides a combination mobile device for communication and for reading labels (R&C). The R&C reads an inventory label affixed to an item of inventory in the stores. A data file is created corresponding to the label reading and includes a time stamp taken at the time of the reading. The data file is imported into a computer data processor. A network of fixed distributed communication nodes (transceivers) is positioned over the inventory store for receiving temporal cyclic signature pulses from the R&C. At least three of the communication nodes are used to perform a triangulation for locating the R&C, and the location and the corresponding time is recorded. By comparing the time of a given reading of the label with a corresponding time of the triangulation, it is possible to determine where any item is located within the stores.

Abstract: A caddy receivably retains a two-way messaging pager. The caddy has a connector for power and data transfer between the pager and caddy. The caddy is equipped with a magnetic strip card reader. This enables remote transactions using a magnetic strip card such as a credit card or debit card. The caddy has serial bus ports for attaching the caddy to peripheral devices such as printers and taxi fare meters.

Abstract: A computer system having an inventory scanner with an architecture comprising a plurality of mini-scanners to provide data regarding components in a computer system and a coordinator to gather data from the plurality of mini-scanners and report a data stream of the information from the plurality of mini-scanners.

Abstract: A fully automated package identification and measuring system, in which an omni-directional holographic scanning tunnel is used to read bar codes on packages entering the tunnel, while a package dimensioning subsystem is used to capture information about the package prior to entry into the tunnel. Mathematical models are created on a real-time basis for the geometry of the package and the position of the laser scanning beam used to read the bar code symbol thereon. The mathematical models are analyzed to determine if collected and queued package identification data is spatially and/or temporally correlated with package measurement data using vector-based ray-tracing methods, homogeneous transformations, and object-oriented decision logic so as to enable simultaneous tracking of multiple packages being transported through the scanning tunnel.

Abstract: A data reading system includes a dual ended cable for connecting an electronic article surveillance (EAS) antenna located on a data reader with a separate radio frequency identification (RFID) reading device. The dual ended cable has different termination impedances at either end, and has an impedance matching network at one end. The impedance matching network matches the impedance of the EAS antenna to the RFID reading device, thereby eliminating signal reflection and enabling the data reader to be used with the RFID reading equipment.

Abstract: A method for transferring data between at least one read/write device (RWD) and at least one mobile data memory (MDM) in an identification system, using at least one mobile data memory (MDM) that is attached to an object for recording object-related status and/or process data, e.g., in a dispatch, transport and/or manufacturing system for the individual items. According to the method, a time-slot structure for transferring data to the mobile data memory (MDM) is predetermined in the read/write device (RWD).

Abstract: A reader for contactless badges which includes a transmitter and receiver. The transmitter and receiver operate on the same carrier frequency, and are connected by a coupling circuit to an antenna. The reader further includes a management device for interacting with the transmitter and receiver for establishing a dialog with a badge. The coupling circuit to the antenna includes a delaying element, traversed by the connection between the transmitter and the antenna, while the receiver includes two channels, starting off on either side of the delaying element. The management device is then arranged to selectively operate the reception channels according to selected criterion.

Abstract: A data communications device includes a base unit having a first microprocessor and a data and communication module received by the base unit that includes a second microprocessor and a transceiver. The data and communication module is selected from a plurality of data and communication modules each having different types of transceivers. A program is stored in one of the base unit and the data and communication module to control communication of control signals and data between the first microprocessor and the second microprocessor according to a uniform data protocol that is understandable to the base unit.

Abstract: A measurement probe (1) for a machine tool has a housing (4/5) incorporating a window (6) which allows the optical transmission or receipt of signals from/to infrared transmitters (12) or receivers (13). To obviate the need to mount the transmitter and receiver components on an external surface of the housing, they are surface mounted to a circuit board (8′).

Abstract: A bidirectional barcode scanning device that retains the same functionality in terms of reading information encoded on a barcode label as a conventional barcode scanner but that is also able to transmit information through a barcode label to a receiving device. The barcode label is affixed to a transparent substrate so that light from the barcode scanning device may be transmitted through the barcode and the transparent substrate to the receiving device. The light from the barcode scanning device contains an information signal that is decoded by the barcode label receiving device.

Abstract: A method and system for reading machine-readable label devices and searching resources bases responsive to the context in which the reading took place provides versatility and intelligence that insures users will obtain real value from their use. For example, the system may be used to obtain information about a product fitted with a transponder. The system goes beyond monolithic information-gathering and transaction automation by exploiting context information and flexible search engine technology and by using natural language parsing to make searching to make creation and maintenance of resource bases more economical.

Abstract: A handheld device comprises a housing and an optical reader supported by the housing. The housing can include a corner portion at which the optical reader is accessible. Alternatively, the housing can define a major exterior surface at which the optical reader is accessible. The optical reader can include a scanning beam reader responsive to an orientation of the handheld device.

Abstract: An information storage and transmission device which captures handwritten and digital data relating to various financial transactions and stores the information when the transactions are made. The device can then wirelessly transmit this information to different terminal units, such as host PCs, ATMs, or terminal units used for point-of-sale transactions in order to facilitate the financial transaction and help a user track his financial transactions in an easier manner.

Abstract: A hand held terminal for optically scanning coded information has an electronic housing with a major axis, an intermediate axis and a minor axis. An optical scanning device is mounted at a first longitudinal end of the terminal with respect to the major axis. A multi-line information display is arranged on a top surface of the housing such that the display is facing in a direction corresponding to the minor axis. The terminal further has a handle with a handgrip extending outwardly from the housing at a second longitudinal end. The axis of the handle forms an angle of approximately 0 to 45 degrees from the major axis and is perpendicular to the intermediate axis. An operator control is arranged on said top surface adjacent the second end of said housing such that the control can be operated by the thumb on a hand grasping the device.

Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a main body having a storage section which stores a wireless communication unit and an antenna element for use in wireless communication. An antenna cable is formed between the storage section and the antenna element. The antenna cable has one end led to the storage section, and the one end of the antenna cable is connected to the wireless communication unit. A holding member is fixed in the storage section. The holding member is detachably caught by the one end of the antenna cable to hold the one end of the antenna cable in position in the storage section.

Abstract: An optical scanning system for reading indicia of differing light reflectivity has an optical scan module which is adapted to be mounted on a finger of a user. A first peripheral module, preferably in the form of a wrist watch, has a receiver which detects the reflected light. A second peripheral module, mounted on the other arm of the user, communicates with the first module by radio frequency transmission. According to other aspects of the invention, the light detector may be mounted in a housing which is separate and part from the optical scan module. According to another aspect, a laser pointer or scanner is mounted to a ring which is arranged to be worn on a single finger of the user.

Abstract: A handheld device comprises a housing and an optical reader supported by the housing. The housing can include a corner portion at which the optical reader is accessible. Alternatively, the housing can define a major exterior surface at which the optical reader is accessible. The optical reader can include a scanning beam reader responsive to an orientation of the handheld device.

Abstract: A scanning pen for use in an information management system having multiple modes adapted to scan and process different data types. The scanning pen has an optical scanning head, various user controls, and a wireless link to the information management system. The pen has several input modes of operation governing the interpretation of data received through the scanning head, and feedback on the current input mode is provided to the user through visual, audible, or tactile feedback.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved order fulfillment system. The system is provided with improved data entry system for selecting items for purchase by a customer, and an improved item collection terminal and order delivery system. The portable terminal to be used for collecting of items is provided with an audio as well as video presentation means which are used to provide assistance to the to terminal user.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a removable housing cover that is adapted to be detachably connectable to a mobile phone. The removable cover having a distinguishing identity means associated therewith, and the phone having a sensor for sensing the distinguishing identity means of the removable cover and a processor controlling the operating characteristics of the device. The arrangement being such that in use, the removable housing cover is mounted on the phone and the sensor senses the identity means and outputs a sensed parameter of the identity means to the processor; wherein, the processor is responsive to the sensed parameter to change selected ones of the operating characteristics of the phone. In this way, changing the phone cover causes a change in the internal operating characteristics of the phone.

Abstract: An electro-optical, retroreflective scanning module has a base, a first circuit board, and a second circuit board mounted orthogonal to the first circuit board. The base supports a light emitter for producing a scanning beam. The beam reflects off a generally planar scan mirror affixed to a stationary concave collection mirror, to a reflector mounted on a drive for oscillation. A detector included in the module senses light reflected from an indicia scanned by the beam. The reflected light is reflected off the reflector and directed to the collection mirror before reaching the detector. The beam and the field of view of the detector are simultaneously scanned.

Abstract: A signaling arrangement and method for use in a wireless local area network managed by a system manager include a reader for electro-optically reading bar code symbols. The system manager verifies that a symbol has been successfully read and sends an acknowledgment signal by wireless, radio frequency transmission to a remote indicator operative for generating an alert signal noticeable to a user.

Abstract: A portable, durable, easy-to-use, safety-oriented, long-life apparatus for reading radio frequency identification transponders is described. This apparatus is well-suited for use in connection with livestock data collection and management. The preferred embodiment includes a single wound radio frequency identification antenna coil; a radio frequency transmitter; a power control, system timing and driver including a low battery indicator, and an optical switch; a rechargeable battery; a main power switch; an infrared activation switch; a radio frequency link antenna, a receiver analog section, a micro controller, an exciter drive and a read switch; and audio feedback to confirm receipt of data.

Abstract: A data carrier reader includes an RFID tag reading section and a machine-readable symbol reading section, which can contain some common components. The reader is operable in an RFID tag reading mode and/or a symbol reading mode. The reader provides a consistent and intuitive user interface within, and between, the operating modes. The user interface can include visual, aural and tactile indicators. The visual indicators can include a pattern displayed by indicators on the reader, or projected onto or near the data carrier.

Abstract: A compact optical code reader is disclosed having multiple functions and a unique shape and configuration of actuators and indicators. A system including the reader also includes a cradle, interface and host terminal, capable of performing various data processing functions involving scanned data.

Abstract: A compact optical code reader is disclosed having multiple functions and a unique shape and configuration of actuators and indicators. A system including the reader also includes a cradle, interface and host terminal, capable of performing various data processing functions involving scanned data. The system includes user and supplier identifiers which are employed to facilitate sales transactions and allocate use-based tolls.

Abstract: A data carrier reader is capable of executing a number of different reading methods. One method performs an inclusive search, identifying all RFID tags having a characteristic data string that appears on a list of characteristic data strings, for example, stored in a buffer. Another method performs and exclusive search, identifying any RFID tags having a characteristic data string that does not appear on the list. In each method, the data carrier reader provides a consistent and intuitive output the user to identify the successful and unsuccessful operations such as locating a desired RFID tag on the list or missing from the list.

Abstract: A fully automated package identification and measuring system, in whic an omni-directional holographic scanning tunnel is used to read bar codes on packages entering the tunnel, while a package dimensioning subsystem is used to capture information about the package prior to entry into the tunnel. Mathamatical models are created on a real-time basis for the geometry of the package and the position of the laser scanning beam used to read the bar code symbol thereon. The mathamatical models are analyzed to determine if collected and queued package identification data is spatially and/or temporally correlated with package measurement data using vector-based ray-tracing methods, homogeneous transformations, and object-oriented decision logic so as to enable simultaneous tracking of multiple packages being transported through the scanning tunnel.

Abstract: A transaction apparatus (10) includes a multifunction card (12) and a portable terminal (14). The multifunction card includes a programmable memory (18) and a magnetic stripe (16) thereon. The programmable memory on the card is used to store indicia corresponding to account data which is input to the memory by reading with the terminal magnetic stripe data from a plurality of conventional magnetic stripe cards. The programmable memory further includes data representative of cash value as well as instructions, prompt messages and icons presented in conducting transactions. A user is enabled to operate the apparatus to select one of the accounts stored in memory, and to write account data corresponding to the selected account to the magnetic stripe of the card. The user is also enabled to use the apparatus to enter visible indicia such as bar codes and to selectively reproduce the bar codes on the display of the apparatus.

Abstract: A circuit that combines the functionality of a bar code scanner and an RFID circuit is provided. This circuit uses certain functional blocks for processing both the bar code signals and the RFID signals. As a result, the space and power consumed by the circuit are substantially reduced such that the circuit can be formed to fit a free-standing, hand-held reader device. The circuit also may use a single interface from a hand-held device to central processing unit to process digital signals from both the bar code scanner and the RFID circuit. In addition, in one embodiment, the circuit may also simultaneously process bar code signals and RFID signals.

Abstract: A bar code scanner for either fixed or hand-held disposition at a counter. The scanner includes a compact housing including a spherical head with a window and a downwardly protruding stem, and a sliding carriage attached to the base of the stem. The stem and sliding carriage cooperate with arcuate guide rails in the compact base for positioning the window via pivoting the head about a horizontal axis.

Abstract: A device for scanning a bar code symbol is adapted on a glove to be worn comfortably on an operator's bare or gloved hand. The glove includes a scan element on the back of the glove electrically connected to an activation switch disposed on a bottom finger tip of the glove. The activation switch triggers the scan element to scan a bar code by pressing the finger tip at a base of the bar code symbol to be read. Sliding the finger to turn on the scan element is a natural motion and does not interfere with normal use of the hand.

Abstract: Antique identifying electro-optical marker is associated with a base unit having a receiver. During a set-up mode of operation, an electro-optical reader reads the marker. During subsequent reading of indicia, the reader generates electrical signals which are transmitted to the receiver of the uniquely identified base unit.

Abstract: A modular printer that can be configured to provide different printing sizes, models, and features. The modular printer has a base module that includes base printing electronics, and a drive and print mechanism. Coupled to the base module are different communication modules that provide an interface for the operator of the printer. Different battery modules are designed to interface with the other modular sections.

Abstract: A method and system for a merchandise checkout system utilizes a remote scanning device, a shopping cart and bags for allowing a purchaser to buy merchandise unassisted by store personnel. The remote scanning device reads product identity information from coded levels on products chosen by the purchaser and sends the information to a central processor. The central processor has a memory, which indexes price information and weight for each product based on the product identity information. The central processor sends an accumulated price and weight transaction to the remote scanning device for the purchaser's use. The product identity information on the products further include a security tag device which is deactivated by the remote scanning device.