Wake Up (all Call) Patents (Class 340/10.33)
  • Patent number: 8326226
    Abstract: A method for communicating to a recipient transceiver from a plurality of transceivers located within the broadcast range of the recipient transceiver includes: transmitting a communication at a first power level such that only a first group of transceivers receive the broadcast, the communication including a command causing each of the first group of transceivers not to respond to a subsequent broadcast; and subsequent thereto, transmitting a communication at a second power level greater than the first power level such that a second group of transceivers greater than and including the first group of transceivers receive the broadcast, but such that only a limited number of transceivers of the second group respond to the broadcast, the limited number of transceivers excluding the first group of transceivers. Each of the plurality of transceivers is associated with a respective sensor for acquiring data and transmitting the data to the recipient transceiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Twitchell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8314685
    Abstract: A method of detecting a signal in radio frequency identification (RFID) transponder (FIG. 1) is disclosed. The method includes receiving a signal (FIG. 7) having a first time in a first logic state (high) and having a second time in a second logic state (low). A weight (700, 702) is determined in response to the first time and the second time. An output signal (from A2D) is produced in response to the weight and one of the first and second logic states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Ganesh Balachandran, Raymond Barnett
  • Patent number: 8310344
    Abstract: A method, apparatus and system for radio frequency identification provides an on-off keyed amplitude-modulated illumination signal containing a sequence of bits configured to illuminate a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, The illumination signal is received at the RFID tag, rectified to generate a wake signal for waking a processor which is subsequently powered by a battery. The received illumination signal is sampled and subjected to a thresholding process. Mobile telephone band interference is countered by correlating the sampled illumination signal to determine its bit sequence and then correlating the bit sequence against a predetermined key. An identification signal from the RFID tag is sent in response to a match.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: FP Wireless, LLC
    Inventors: Theodore D. Geiszler, Paul G. Saldin, Eric W. Lofstad
  • Patent number: 8305195
    Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) communication system and method is provided to resolve the power-consuming problems of an active RFID tag while operating at a receiving mode in a long duration. A designated channel is established between the reader and the RFID tag, and also the reader sends a designated message so that the actuated active RFID tag can receive the designated messages and dynamically enter into a receiving mode. Therefore, normal communications may be conducted between the reader and the RFID and the usage period or technical performance can be improved as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Getac Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Shin-Yao Perng, Ta-Yung Lee, Chih-Wen Cheng, Yuan-Ning Hsieh
  • Patent number: 8299899
    Abstract: A system is provided for identifying implanted medical devices, leads and systems, as well as objects in close proximity to a patient having an implanted medical device (IMD), using a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag having retrievable information relating to the IMD, lead system and/or patient. An RFID tag communicator includes a circuit for limiting the total continuous transmit time of an interrogation signal, and a time-out circuit for delaying a second and any subsequent interrogation of the RFID tag. An external IMD programmer incorporating a multi-functional RFID reader is capable of identifying and communicating with various types of implanted medical devices, even if such devices are made by different manufacturers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Greatbatch Ltd.
    Inventors: Christine A. Frysz, Robert A. Stevenson, Geddes Frank Tyers
  • Patent number: 8294579
    Abstract: In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for a Radio Frequency ID (RFID) tag that contains multiple Radio Frequency (RF) network nodes that provide enhanced memory capabilities, redundant functionality, and multiple frequency capabilities to the RFID tag using an inter-RF network node communication connection. The inter-RF network node communication may allow the coordination of RFID tag memory and functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Tego Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy P. Butler, Javier Berrios
  • Patent number: 8289138
    Abstract: A wireless network communications unit is operable to transmit and receive data for a host device. The wireless network communications unit includes a wireless network communications interface configured to transmit and receive data using a wireless network protocol when a host device having the wireless network communications unit is turned on. The wireless communications unit also includes a tag component detecting when the host device is turned off. In response to detecting the host device being turned off, the unit enters a tag operational mode wherein the tag component is configured to transmit data identifying the host device via the wireless network interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Guillaume Oget
  • Patent number: 8284741
    Abstract: A method of forming ad hoc RSI hierarchical communication networks among pluralities of wireless transceivers includes assigning to each of the transceivers one or more common designations. A network organization routine of the transceivers operates to establish hierarchical networks based on the transceivers' common designations, resulting in a logical network organization that provides efficiencies for acquiring information from particular transceivers that share a common designation. Each transceiver's common designation is used by a digital processor of the transceiver to selectively receive data packets that are intended for receipt by transceivers sharing the particular common designation. Such a “common designation” network reduces power consumption and signal interference thereby increasing battery life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Twitchell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8284055
    Abstract: In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for a Radio Frequency ID (RFID) tag that contains multiple Radio Frequency (RF) network nodes that provide enhanced memory capabilities, redundant functionality, and multiple frequency capabilities to the RFID tag using an inter-RF network node communication connection. The inter-RF network node communication may allow the coordination of RFID tag memory and functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Tego Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy P. Butler, Javier Berrios
  • Publication number: 20120249322
    Abstract: A portable information detection and processing device includes an information detection unit, for detecting information recorded by at least one functional element; a memory unit, for recording recognition data of the at least one functional element and information detected by the functional element; a display unit, for displaying the recognition data of the functional element and the information recorded by the functional element; and an information processing unit, connected to the information detection unit, the memory unit and the display unit, for processing the recognition data of the functional element and the information detected by the functional element, and controlling the information detection unit, the memory unit and the display unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventor: Min-Chih HSUAN
  • Patent number: 8279065
    Abstract: In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for a Radio Frequency ID (RFID) tag that contains multiple Radio Frequency (RF) network nodes that may include memory storage for the RFID tag, the memory storage may include one time programmable (OTP) memory and many time programmable (MTP) memory and the storage of the information may be within the OTP and MTP memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Tego Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy P. Butler, Javier Berrios, Steve Beckhardt, Robert W. Hamlin, Larry Moore, David Puleston, Leonid Mats
  • Patent number: 8274367
    Abstract: In an RFID system comprising a detection unit for detecting an RFID tag and a control unit for exercising the control concerning the RFID tag, a determination unit determines whether to access a second area of an RFID tag comprising storage area, comprising of a first area for storing ID information and the second area for storing command information. An extraction unit extracts command information from the second area when it is determined to access the second area. An execution unit performs a process corresponding to the command information extracted by the extraction unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Tomohiko Maeda, Kazuo Sato, Yoshitaka Muraoka, Hidehiko Fuchida, Shuko Saito
  • Publication number: 20120223817
    Abstract: A tag reader system, method and timing system for determining a time of detection of a passive RFID tag relative to a detection line located along a route traveled by the RFID tag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2011
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: INNOVATIVE TIMING SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventor: Kurt S. Hansen
  • Publication number: 20120218086
    Abstract: This disclosure provides systems and methods for detecting a change in environmental conditions utilizing sampling circuitry configured to sample an environmental sensor while a processor remains in a low-power state or a sleep state. According to some embodiments, a pre-filter performs a simplified analysis of the sensor samples to determine if the processor should wake and perform additional analysis on stored sensor samples. Specific examples are provided for detecting motion using passive infrared detectors. Accordingly, systems and methods for reducing the power consumption of a motion detection system are provided herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: CONEXANT SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Mark E. Miller, Guy Rahamim
  • Patent number: 8248242
    Abstract: A wireless tracking system and method for real-time location tracking of a extreme-temperature sterilizable object is disclosed herein. The system and method utilize a tag attached to the extreme-temperature sterilizable object which includes a housing, a processor, a temperature sensor and a transceiver. If an internal temperature of the tag is detected by the temperature sensor, the tag enters a sleep mode. The temperature sensor periodically activates to determine if the internal temperature of the tag is within an acceptable operating range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Awarepoint Corporation
    Inventors: Dyami Caliri, Derek Smith
  • Patent number: 8248239
    Abstract: In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for a Radio Frequency ID (RFID) tag that contains multiple Radio Frequency (RF) network nodes that provide enhanced memory capabilities, redundant functionality, and multiple frequency capabilities to the RFID tag using an inter-RF network node communication connection. The inter-RF network node communication may allow the coordination of RFID tag memory and functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Tego Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy P. Butler, Javier Berrios
  • Patent number: 8237561
    Abstract: An improved radio frequency identification (RFID) tag and related reader system and process are provided, wherein the RFID tag includes an on-board battery for enhanced signal transmission range, relatively rapid signal transmission speed, and optimized completion of a data transaction between the tag and a reader. The RFID tag further includes a power management system for activating the tag battery on an as-needed basis, and for thereupon enabling limited portions of the tag circuitry as required for a specific communication protocol, thereby conserving battery power and prolonging battery service life. In one preferred form, the battery is integrated with an antenna structure of single or dual mode with respect to frequency or type. This combination battery-antenna may be designed for recharging from a source of ambient energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Precision Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Michael L. Beigel, John R. Tuttle
  • Publication number: 20120194322
    Abstract: A Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes an RFID device having a memory; and an electronic device in electrical communication with the RFID device via a direct physical connection; wherein data received by the RFID device from a remote device is stored in the memory of the RFID device, the data being communicated to the electronic device via the direct physical connection. An RFID system according to another embodiment of the present invention includes an RFID device having a memory; and an electronic device in electrical communication with the RFID device via a direct physical connection; wherein data initiating with the electronic device is stored in the memory of the RFID device for subsequent transmission to a remote device. Methods are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: Naresh Batra
  • Patent number: 8228173
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for interrogating radio frequency tags. In some implementations, a method includes A method includes successively polling, for a specified number of inventory cycles, a plurality of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags in a first state. At least a first subset of the plurality of RFID tags transitions from the first state to a second state in response to the poll. After the specified number of inventory cycles, a command is transmitted to update at least a second subset of the plurality of RFID tags from the second state to first state. The plurality of RFID tags are subsequently polled after transmitting the update command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Sirit Inc.
    Inventors: David Ross Missimer, Thomas J. Frederick, George D. Cruickshanks, Steven C. Lin
  • Patent number: 8222993
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention, a lock actuating device for a lock mechanism of a lock has a transceiver capable of interaction with a wireless key device, a controller coupled to the transceiver and capable of generating a control signal, and a lock actuator adapted for actuation of the lock mechanism upon receipt of the control signal from the controller. The controller has a sleep mode and an operational mode. The lock actuating device also has a wake-up arrangement including a sensor and associated circuitry. The sensor is positioned to detect the presence of a user in a vicinity of the lock actuating device. The circuitry is adapted to generate a wake-up control signal to the controller upon detection of the user, so as to cause the controller to switch from sleep mode to operational mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Phoniro AB
    Inventors: Olle Bliding, Johan Hörberg
  • Patent number: 8222999
    Abstract: A commodity display position alert system includes commodity display shelves set in a selling floor space of a store, an RFID reader provided in each of the commodity display shelves, and a server as a system control unit. The RFID reader reads a commodity code from an RFID tag attached to a commodity. A server compares the commodity code of the commodity and display permission information stored in a database functioning as a shelf-rule storing unit and determines whether the read commodity code is a commodity code of a commodity that should be displayed on the commodity display shelf. When the server determines that a commodity other than the commodity that should be displayed on the commodity display shelf is displayed on the commodity display shelf, the server performs control for outputting a reporting signal for causing the PDA terminal to perform reporting operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Toshiba Tec Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kenya Hiramatsu, Akio Hiruma, Kenji Shimizu
  • Patent number: 8222998
    Abstract: In an arrangement and the associated method for the acquisition of data between at least one detection unit E1, E2, En and at least one means RFID1, RFID2, . . . RFIDn arranged in the electromagnetic alternating field EMF1, EMF2, . . . EMFn of the detection unit E1, E2, . . . En, for example an electronic data carrier, the means RFID1, RFID2, . . . RFIDn only submits data of a field intensity threshold value Emax of the electromagnetic alternating field EMF1, EMF2, . . . EMFn is exceeded. The data is received by the detection unit E1, E2, . . . E3. The field intensity of the electromagnetic alternating field EMF1, EMF2, . . . EMFn is designed such that within a predetermined unit of volume VE the field intensity threshold value Emax is exceeded for a predetermined amount of time t.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Nikolaus Fuchs, Peter Hagl
  • Patent number: 8217782
    Abstract: A field device for use in monitoring or controlling an industrial process includes two wire process control loop electrical connections. Digital communications monitoring circuitry coupled to the electrical connections and is configured to control power to the field device electrical circuitry in response to a digital signal on the two wire process control loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Rosemount Inc.
    Inventors: Richard L. Nelson, Eric R. Lovegren, James A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8198985
    Abstract: A multi-mode, preferably dual mode, radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is adapted for automatic detection of whether a RFID reader located within communication range of the RFID tag is transmitting a continuous wave (CW) or modulated wave types of RF signal, and accordingly, mandating a response from the tag in read-only (RO) mode or read/write (R/W) mode, respectively. The tag includes means for designating one of the RO and R/W operating modes as a default mode of the tag, and for switching the tag from its default mode to its other operating mode, and vice versa, according to a rule for determining the frequency of occurrence of a selected event related to signal type of the reader. A device-implemented method of this automatic detection, and a method of fabricating the tag, are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Amtech Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Robert W. Tiernay, Dale L. Scott, Charles A. Johnson, Filip Weytjens, Matthew K. Burnett, Kelly Gravelle
  • Patent number: 8199915
    Abstract: A wireless system realizes a WOL by including layers for switching security systems with a security level enhanced. The wireless system for activating a terminal through a radio base station from a remote area includes: a monitor device for monitoring the status of power supply of the terminal; and a security switch device for switching the security system of the terminal based on the status by switching to a fixed key security system when the status is changed to power-off and switching to a dynamic key security system when the status is changed to power-on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Fujitsu Frontech Limited
    Inventor: Tomoki Shibasaki
  • Patent number: 8193915
    Abstract: A vehicle transceiver module is provided for use in a synchronous communication system including the vehicle transceiver module and one or more key fobs, each of the key fobs including a key fob transceiver for transmitting and receiving signals. The vehicle transceiver module includes transceiver circuitry, a controller, a storage device and power control circuitry. The transceiver circuitry receives the signal transmitted by the key fob transceiver and provides it to the controller. The controller is coupled to the transceiver for determining an offset value associated with one of the key fobs in response to an offset time duration between a reception time of the signal from the key fob and a first expected reception time of the signal from the key fob. The storage device is coupled to the controller for receiving the offset value associated with the key fob from the controller and stores the offset value along with information identifying the key fob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Clark E. McCall, David T. Proefke, William A. Biondo
  • Patent number: 8193912
    Abstract: RFID tags are configured to adjust their clock frequency in order to meet predefined limits for reply frequencies to conserve tag power. A deviation of computed tag reply frequency from a reader commanded reply frequency is used to determine an adjustment to the tag clock frequency. The tag clock frequency may be adjusted during backscatter and restored once backscattering is completed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Impinj, Inc.
    Inventors: Vadim Gutnik, Scott A. Cooper, John D. Hyde
  • Patent number: 8188841
    Abstract: A new Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), tracking, powering apparatus/system and method using coded Ultra-wideband (UWB) signaling is introduced. The proposed hardware and techniques disclosed herein utilize a plurality of passive UWB transponders in a field of an RFID-radar system. The radar system itself enables multiple passive tags to be remotely powered (activated) at about the same time frame via predetermined frequency UWB pulsed formats. Once such tags are in an activated state, an UWB radar transmits specific “interrogating codes” to put predetermined tags in an awakened status. Such predetermined tags can then communicate by a unique “response code” so as to be detected by an UWB system using radar methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC
    Inventors: Farid U. Dowla, Faranak Nekoogar, David M. Benzel, Gregory E. Dallum, Alex Spiridon
  • Patent number: 8183985
    Abstract: A method and a device for power-saving operation of RFID data carriers, whereby the RFID data carrier has a transmission and reception antenna, by way of which data are sent to or received from a transmission/read unit, by means of a radio signal, within a transmission field, whereby the data carrier is configured for a power-saving sleep mode, and switches over to the reception mode by means of a wake-up signal. With the transmission of the wake-up signal, at the same time, a time datum is transmitted to the data carrier, whereby the time datum shows the time that indicates how much time must still elapse until transmission of a command. The data carrier configured with the sleep mode switches over to a reception mode by means of a wake-up signal, whereby the wake-up signal additionally has a time datum that forms a countdown time, and switches the data carrier into the reception mode briefly, after this time has elapsed, thereby causing the data carrier to receive a command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Identec Solutions AG
    Inventors: Reinhold Gantner, Karl-Heinz Feierle
  • Patent number: 8183984
    Abstract: A method and a device for power-saving operation of a plurality of RFID data carriers, whereby the RFID data carrier has a transmission and reception antenna, by way of which data are sent to and received from a read/write unit, by means of a radio signal, and the data carrier is configured for reception of an energy-saving signal that puts the data carrier into a so-called sleep mode. The read/write unit sends a so-called conditional sleep command to all the RFID data carriers, and the RFID data carriers receiving these data in the transmission field compare the transmitted condition with a status/data detected in the RFID data carrier, whereby the condition detected in the RFID data carrier depends on a sensor input that is connected with the RFID data carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Identec Solutions AG
    Inventor: Reinhold Gantner
  • Patent number: 8176340
    Abstract: A method and system for managing communications between sub-systems of a communication device. The sub-systems include a Radio Frequency Integrated Circuit (RFIC) and a Baseband Integrated Circuit (BBIC). The BBIC includes a processing engine, a state machine module and an interface module. The method includes initializing a Digital Radio Frequency Third Generation (DigRF3G) interface between the RFIC and the BBIC. The processing engine is kept functionally inactive during the initialization process of the DigRF3G interface. Further, the method includes exchanging one or more packets between the RFIC and the BBIC.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.
    Inventors: Nandan Tripathi, Rahul Garg, Vivek Goel, Rajan Kapoor, Sachin Prakash
  • Patent number: 8169298
    Abstract: The invention relates to a battery-operated electric hand tool device (2) comprising control electronics (14), a wirelessly and contactlessly responding transceiver (12), and a storage unit (16) in which an authorization code is stored, a locked mode of operation and a released mode of operation being distinguishable. In order to improve theft protection, a wire-bound or wireless interface (22) is provided from the control electronics (14) of the electric hand tool device to a battery pack (4) such that locking data can be transmitted from the control electronics (14) of the electric hand tool device (2) to the battery pack (4), be stored in a storage device (24) of the battery pack (4), and be read out of the storage device (24) again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Metabowerke GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Wiesner, Jochen Graeber
  • Patent number: 8134452
    Abstract: Methods and systems of receiving data payload of RFID tags. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are methods comprising selecting (by each of a plurality of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags) a time window within which to transmit (the selecting to create respective time windows), sending a start signal from a RFID reader to the plurality of RFID tags (the start signal indicative of the start of a first time window), and transmitting a signal by each of the plurality of RFID tags in the respective time windows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Round Rock Research, LLC
    Inventor: John R Tuttle
  • Patent number: 8130590
    Abstract: To test at least one unit of a subterranean survey system, the unit detects presence of wireless signaling of a mobile device. After the detecting, a wireless connection is established between the unit and the mobile device. A test at the unit is performed in response to a test command from the mobile device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.
    Inventor: Daniel H. Golparian
  • Patent number: 8130080
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a switching device for generating a switch signal, a reading device with the switching device and a method for the communication between a reading device and a transponder (T). The switching device includes an antenna (4), which with the help of an adapter circuit (AN) is adapted to a given resistance, and a measuring bridge (1), which includes two voltage dividers connected in parallel. The resistance acts in one of the voltage dividers and in the case of a change of the resistance the measuring bridge (1) generates the switch signal. This means when a transponder reaches the detection range of a reading device having the switching device, an additional impedance is coupled in, which acts on the measuring bridge (1). This change is recognized and leads to the generation of the switch signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Giesecke & Devrient GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Finkenzeller
  • Patent number: 8120487
    Abstract: A power-saving wireless input device and an associated system are included. The wireless input device comprises an antenna, an RFID transponder, an energy-storing unit, and a sensing unit. The RFID transponder receives an AC signal via the antenna, and converts the AC signal into a DC signal. The energy-storing unit receives the DC signal for charging. The sensing unit, which is powered by the energy-storing unit, generates an input signal to the RFID transponder. The RFID transponder demodulates the AC signal to generate a request signal, and performs load modulation according to the input signal to generate a reply signal in response to the request signal. The reply signal is then transmitted via the antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: MStar Semiconductor, Inc.
    Inventors: Wei Chang, Chien-Sheng Chen
  • Patent number: 8115595
    Abstract: An RFID reader control system and method is provided. A protocol for controlling an RFID reader and an RFID reader control unit of a mobile phone is defined. Messages, information, commands, responses, and notification are constructed and transmitted between the RFID reader and the RFID reader control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Seung Hyup Ryoo, Jin Tae Kim, Sang Cheol Min, Hee Seung Kim, Jae Joon Park, Dong Hyun Lee, Yong Sam Kim
  • Patent number: 8115597
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a power rectifier for a Radio Frequency Identification tag circuit. The rectifier is constructed from a pair of complementary MOS transistors. Gates of the transistors have predetermined voltages applied to them. The applied voltages bias the transistors to near their active operating region. During the same time additional control signals are applied to the gates of the transistors, the control signals are synchronous, but out of phase, with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Impinj, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald A. Oliver, John D. Hyde, Charles J. T. Peach
  • Patent number: 8115596
    Abstract: A method and system for controlling distant equipment. A passive radio frequency identification (RFID) tag within a Programmable Secure Remote Controller (PSRC) receives a radio frequency (RF) signal from a transmitter integrated in the distant equipment. The distant equipment is external to and remote from the PSRC. The PRSC does not include an internal source of energy and requires energy from an external source to operate. The PSRC is configured to distribute sufficient energy from the RF signal to components of the PSRC to enable the components to operate. The RFID tag is activated to generate information and the information is decoded to identify the distant equipment. A request to perform an operation that controls the distant equipment is received. After the request is received, a first predefined scenario is activated for performing the operation that controls the distant equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Intermational Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Arnaud Lund
  • Patent number: 8102244
    Abstract: An apparatus and method to identify devices including a first set of commands to identify devices in a first state and a second set of commands to identify devices in a second state, wherein devices identified in the first state are placed in the second state and devices identified in the second state are placed in the first state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Alien Technology Corporation
    Inventor: John Stephen Smith
  • Patent number: 8098139
    Abstract: There is disclosed a test head device for testing the functionality of a large number of RFID chips arranged in smart labels (17) within a smart label production apparatus by means of a data reading and/or data writing process, wherein the smart labels (17), each comprising a first antenna (10a-10e), are placed next to and behind one another on a common continuously moving strip, wherein the test head device comprises a plurality of test systems which function independently of one another, each of said test systems consisting of a write and/or read unit (12a-e), a second antenna (3, 11a-e; 18) connected thereto which is in each case assigned to one of the first antennas (10a-10e) for simultaneously transmitting read and/or write data between the first and second antennas (10a-10e; 3; 11a-e; 18) by means of ultrahigh frequency waves, and a common table unit which can be displaced at least in the height direction, wherein the second antennas (3; 11a-e; 18) are arranged on a common antenna carrier plate (2) orie
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Muehlbauer AG
    Inventor: Henrik Bufe
  • Patent number: 8090365
    Abstract: A method to remotely control a wireless unit, includes receiving an activation/deactivation request from a user. It is determined if the user is authorized to activate/deactivate the wireless unit. If the user is authorized to activate/deactivate the wireless unit, a signal is sent to the wireless unit causing the wireless unit to power-on/power-off in response to the signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.
    Inventors: Michael L. Bishop, James Carlton Bedingfield, Sr., Hong Thi Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20110316676
    Abstract: A method of interrogating a set of tags with an interrogator is provided. The method includes defining a duration of a wake-up superframe that matches that of a wake-up cycle of the tags; defining an integer number of time periods within the duration of the wake-up superframe such that each time that one of the set of tags wakes is within one of the time periods of the wake-up superframe, the tags waking within a particular time period defining a group of tags; providing a first wake-up signal in a first time period to wake a first group of the tags; and providing a second wake-up signal in a second time period wake a second group of the tags.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: Savi Technology
    Inventors: Zeljko BAJIC, Nikola Cargonja
  • Publication number: 20110304442
    Abstract: A method for localizing tire sensors includes determining a wake up field power, transmitting an LF wake up field having the wake up field power from an LF antenna on the vehicle, receiving an identification signal from each tire sensor awakened by the transmitted LF wake up field, and determining whether a desired number of tire sensors have woken up in response to the transmitted LF wake up field based on the received identification signals. When the desired number of tire sensors have woken up, the method can further include recording the identification signals received from the awakened tire sensors and the respective antennas that awoke the respective tire sensors. The method further includes determining whether a desired number of antennas have transmitted a respective LF wake up field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Brian K. Lickfelt, Nicky Strock
  • Publication number: 20110298591
    Abstract: A transponder that may be used as an RFID tag includes a passive circuit to eliminate the need for an “always on” active RF receiving element to anticipate a wake-up signal for the balance of the transponder electronics. This solution allows the entire active transponder to have all circuit elements in a sleep (standby) state, thus drastically extending battery life or other charge storage device life. Also, a wake-up solution that reduces total energy consumption of an active transponder system by allowing all non-addressed transponders to remain in a sleep (standby) state, thereby reducing total system or collection energy. Also, the transponder and wake-up solution are employed in an asset tracking system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: University of Pittsburgh-Of The Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventors: Marlin H. Mickle, Alex K. Jones, James T. Cain, Peter J. Hawrylak, Frank Marx, Raymond R. Hoare
  • Patent number: 8072329
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides examples of a voltage regulator for a Radio Frequency Identification tag circuit. The voltage regulator includes a pair of native transistors. A first native transistor is coupled to a reference voltage and biased to saturation. A resistive element coupled between the gate and the drain of the transistor ensures a sufficient voltage difference between the source and the drain of the first native transistor. The second native transistor, with a gate coupled to the gate of the first native transistor, outputs a regulated voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Impinj, Inc.
    Inventors: Shailendra Srinivas, Jay A. Kuhn
  • Publication number: 20110248833
    Abstract: An RFID system comprising: an RFID tag, an exciter, and an RFID reader. The RFID tag is an active RFID tag operating at an UHF band and being connected to an energy source for energizing the RFID tag, the RFID tag further comprising at least one tag antenna for wireless communication at an UHF band with the RFID reader, wherein the RFID tag is configured to have a semi-passive state and a ready state, the semi-passive state being arranged to change into the ready state by an UHF (Ultra High Frequency) wake-up signal received by the tag antenna, and said RFID reader comprising at least one antenna for wireless communication with the tag antenna, the exciter being arranged to generate and send the UHF wake up signal for changing the RFID tag from the semi-passive state to the ready state, and the RFID reader sending and/or receiving data with the RFID tag in the ready state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Applicant: Confidex Oy
    Inventor: Matti Ritamäki
  • Patent number: 8035483
    Abstract: An oscillator tuning system and an oscillator tuning method are provided. The system includes a determination unit which determines whether a power which is used in an RFID tag having an RFID oscillator is greater than a reference value; and a frequency tuner which tunes a driving frequency of the RFID oscillator according to a result of the determination. The method includes determining whether a power which is used in an RFID tag having an RFID oscillator is greater than a reference value; and tuning a driving frequency of the RFID oscillator according to a result of the determination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Il-jong Song, Young-hoon Min, Chol-su Yoon
  • Patent number: 8035488
    Abstract: An information access system comprises a reader/writer for continually transmitting an ID request signal at a first frequency and being continuously ready to receive an RF signal at a second frequency, and an active contactless information storage device having a receiver for sensing a carrier of an RF signal at the first frequency, and a transmitter for transmitting a response signal at the second frequency when the ID request signal is received. When the receiver senses a carrier of an RF signal at the first frequency in a particular predetermined period, the receiver receives further the ID request signal, and, in response to the ID request signal, the transmitter transmits a response signal at the second frequency carrying an ID of the storage device stored. In the carrier sensing, the controller causes the receiver to be in an active state and the transmitter to be in an inactive state in the predetermined periods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Shinichi Shiotsu, Isamu Yamada, Satoshi Inano, Kouichi Yasaki, Akira Itasaki, Atsushi Sakai, Masahiko Takenaka, Takanao Ochiai
  • Patent number: 8022826
    Abstract: A transponder that may be used as an RFID tag includes a passive circuit to eliminate the need for an “always on” active RF receiving element to anticipate a wake-up signal for the balance of the transponder electronics. This solution allows the entire active transponder to have all circuit elements in a sleep (standby) state, thus drastically extending battery life or other charge storage device life. Also, a wake-up solution that reduces total energy consumption of an active transponder system by allowing all non-addressed transponders to remain in a sleep (standby) state, thereby reducing total system or collection energy. Also, the transponder and wake-up solution are employed in an asset tracking system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: University of Pittsburgh-Of The Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventors: Marlin H. Mickle, Alex K. Jones, James T. Cain, Peter J. Hawrylak, Frank Marx, Raymond R. Hoare