Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide for RFID systems that employ a plurality of battery assisted semi-passive and semi-active RFID tags with optimized system operation. The RFID tags feature receivers operating with multiple dynamic range states with square law mode for improved sensitivity, and part time active transmit in the tag to supplement its backscatter transmitter and thus support system operation taking full advantage of the sensitivity of the tag. In certain embodiments of the invention, tag sensitivity and reliability are further enhanced by the use pseudo-random sequence based receiver training and frame synchronizing.

Abstract: Techniques are described for using radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags to track patient specimens throughout the collection and analysis of patient specimens. A series of RFID tags may be used to track the specimens starting with the collection of a patient's tissue specimen at a surgery or examination room, through the process of preparing the specimens at a laboratory, to a specialist's office where the specimens are analyzed, and eventually into storage where the left-over specimen materials may be archived. A database may be used to capture unique identifiers for the RFID tags and other information throughout the process.

Abstract: Systems and/or Methods are disclosed for acquiring data from a transceiver responsive to one or more signals that are received at the transceiver from one or more devices. In one embodiment, a transceiver is configured to transmit a signal responsive to having received a first signal from a first device, wherein the signal that is transmitted by the transceiver is configured to trigger a second device to transmit a second signal. The transceiver is further configured to transmit data responsive to having received the second signal that is transmitted by the second device. In other embodiments, a transceiver is configured to receive a signal from a first device over frequencies of a predetermined frequency band that the first device is authorized to use, to receive a signal from a second device over frequencies of the predetermined frequency band and to transmit data responsive to having received both the signal from the first device and the signal from the second device.

Abstract: A system and method for RFID privacy-preserving authentication is disclosed. The method first has a reader sending a request and a first random number to a tag. The tag then generates a second random number. A plurality of hash values are then computed at the tag. Each hash value uses the first random number, the second random number and at least one part of a key of the tag as inputs. The second random number and the computed hash values are then sent to the reader. Lastly, the reader identifies a validity of the tag from the received values. The hash values are all generated in parallel and are independent to each other.

Abstract: In an electronic key system for a vehicle which includes a control apparatus mounted on an actual vehicle and an electronic key for transmitting a response signal in response to receiving of a request signal transmitted from the control apparatus through a transmitting antenna, the transmitting antenna is installed on an instrument panel of the actual vehicle. In particular, the instrument panel has various instruments (a speedometer, a direction indicator (left), another direction indicator (right), and so forth) and a board for securing the instruments thereto. Accordingly, the transmitting antenna is installed at a position on the board rather near to a seat (a position of front side of the user when the user is seated on the seat).

Abstract: Embodiments include systems and methods of accessing multimedia content. One embodiment includes a system for accessing multimedia data. The system includes a tangible object comprising at least one proximity device embedded within the tangible object. The tangible object is configured to provide identification information of the tangible object. The system further includes a reader configured to wirelessly detect the tangible object based upon the proximity device and receive the identification information. The system further includes a device configured to receive a signal from the reader in response to detecting the tangible object and configured to access multimedia data based upon the provided identification information.

Abstract: A dispensing system responds to reading data stored on a container by determining a dose for a chemical stored in that container. Then each time that the chemical is to be fed into a cleaning machine, the dispensing system operates a flow control device to deliver the designated dose. Thus the dispensing system is automatically reconfigured when different concentrations of the chemical are supplied to the dispensing system. Various mechanisms for storing the data on and reading the data from the container are described.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for unifying multiple radio frequency identifications (RFIDs) are provided. The apparatus includes: a data arithmetic operator collecting RFIDs, storing the collected RFIDs, and repeatedly performing the collection and storage when a time out event occurs; a hash arithmetic operator concatenating the RFIDs, hashing the concatenated RFIDs, and outputting a hashed single value; a random number generator generating a random number used as an encryption factor to public-key-encrypt the single value; an RFID tag processor controlling locking/unlocking of the RFID tags; a public key arithmetic operator public-key-encrypting the single value using a predetermined public key and the random number as encryption factors and outputting a cipher text; and a radio frequency communicator converting the cipher text into a radio signal and sending the radio signal to a radio section. Information transmitted to a radio section is a cipher text obtained by public-key-encrypting the single value.

Abstract: This disclosure discloses an apparatus for reading with a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag comprising: a plurality of information creation devices, capable of generating a plurality of types of command signals for making an access to an RFID tag circuit element having an IC circuit part storing information and a tag antenna that transmits and receives information; a plurality of apparatus antennas connected to the plurality of information creation devices, respectively, and configured to transmit the plurality of types of command signals to the RFID tag circuit element via radio communication substantially at the same timing; and a single information processing device configured to obtain reading information by means of receiving processing of a response signal transmitted from the RFID tag circuit element according to the command signal transmitted from the apparatus antenna and received by the apparatus antenna.

Abstract: Print media (28) having a plurality of radio frequency data storage devices (88) passes through a print media pathway (110) of a printer assembly (14). The devices (88) can be programmed using groups (142, 144) of antennas which are arranged about the print media pathway (110) such the simultaneous programming of multiple devices (88) can be achieved. A data programming device (94) consisting of multiple reader/programmers (94a, 94b, 94c) can be utilized in combination with one or more RF multiplexers (152, 154) to reduce the time necessary to program the devices (88) separately.

Abstract: Cooperative Vehicular Identification Systems and Methods, capable of monitoring and recording vehicular law violations, with the assistance and cooperation of the vehicles in violation, are disclosed. Real-time information from vehicular sensors is communicated to a Central Processing Unit (CPU). Strategically located Interrogator devices, on roads/highways, at intersections, in and around school zones, integrated with traffic lights, etc., issue inquiries/interrogations to passing-by vehicles. Vehicles proximate to such Interrogators respond with unique identifying information and with parameter lists provided by their vehicular sensors. Each Interrogator inquiry can provide data, including the lawful parameter limits (i.e. speed limit) associated with its location. In response to having successfully decoded an inquiry, and in response to the state of its vehicular sensors, a vehicular Transponder may transmit information to the specific Interrogator that has issued an inquiry.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for triggering interrogation of RFID tags by an RFID system in different interrogation spaces in response to detection of the presence and/or motion of an object using a machine vision system. One embodiment of the invention includes an RFID exciter configured to communicate with a master controller, where the master controller is configured to control activation of the RFID exciter and a video camera connected to an application server, where the application server is configured to communicate with the master controller.

Abstract: The present invention provides a radio frequency identification (RFID) monitoring method, a reader located in a region to receive a tag ID code from a RFID tag, wherein the method comprises the steps of: (a) sending out a first reading signal from the reader; (b) determining whether the tag ID code is received by the reader; (c) recording a position of the RFID tag in a plane when the tag ID code is received by the reader; (d) rotating the reader a second angle toward a direction perpendicular to the plane; (e) sending out a second reading signal from the reader; (f) determining whether the tag ID code is received by the reader; and (g) recording a position of the RFID tag in the direction when the tag ID code is received by the reader.

Abstract: A wireless system suitable for use as a radio frequency (RF) locationing or presence detection system includes at least one wireless access device and at least wireless device, such as an active RF tag, corresponding to an item or asset of interest. A method of managing RF transmissions by the wireless devices is provided. The method involves the wireless device receiving keep-alive beacons during a first period of time. During this first period of time, the wireless device is operated in a transmit mode. During a second period of time that follows the first period of time, the wireless device receives no keep-alive beacons. During this second period of time, the wireless device is operated in a standby mode such that RF transmissions are disabled.

Abstract: In a communication network or system, cables that interconnect systems or subsystems are provided with RFID tags embedded or affixed at least at one endpoint of each cable. An installed or portable RFID reader in the proximity of an RFID tag of a given cable enables a unique cable endpoint identifier contained in the RFID tag to be read. The identifier is combined with a unique port identifier of the port to which the cable endpoint is attached at the message is sent to a far-end system or subsystem connected to the other end of the cable. That system reads the message and the information contained therein along with a unique port identifier of its own port connected to the given cable, enables positive confirmation of the communicative connection between the two ports and also the cable providing the connection. It also enables communication of the physical routing information to an operations support system for cable management.

Abstract: An object identification system includes a monitor and a plurality of transceivers that communicate over a common medium. The monitor includes a first transmitter, a first receiver, and a processor. Each transceiver includes a resonant circuit, a transmitter, a receiver, and an antenna coupled to the resonant circuit. The processor performs a method for performing transceiver communication that includes the steps of: (a) transmitting from the first transmitter a first frequency for a first duration; (b) after lapse of the first duration, receiving via the first receiver a response signal from at least one of the resonant circuits; (c) determining a second frequency from the received response signal; and (d) performing transceiver communication using the second frequency.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for implementing an RFID network, comprising the following steps: each read-write station transmits at least one test signal; each read-write station (1, 2, 3, 11, N0-N17) receives the (receivable) test signals of neighbouring read-write stations (1, 2, 3, 11, N0-N17), said signals comprising a station address, a frequency channel number and a measured signal intensity of each receivable neighbouring read-write station (1, 2, 3, 11, N0-N17); a network structure (110) comprising structure data and a co-ordination plan comprising co-ordination data are calculated using a number of time slots (21, 31, 41) and a number of frequency channels (20, 30, 40), a service frequency channel (reader service channel, RSK) and/or a service time slot (reader service time, RST) being defined and used by the read-write stations (1, 2, 3, 11, N0-N17) for service purposes; and at least corresponding structure data and co-ordination data for an organised, synchronous network operation is transmitt

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing discreet messaging are provided. Based on an identification of a customer and/or a product to be purchased, a message is selectively produced and provided in a discreet manner to the customer. The message can be visible and/or audible. The customer can be identified using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags. The product to be purchased can be identified using scanned bar code information and/or RFID tags.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a wireless transmitter modulating a carrier wave by transmission data and wirelessly communicating a signal, a wireless receiver mixing the wireless transmitter signal and a carrier wave and receiving the transmission data, a power carrier wave clock generator provided on one of the wireless transmitter and receiver generating a power carrier wave clock, a non-contact power transmitter transmitting power between the wireless transmitter and receiver through electromagnetic induction from the power carrier wave clock, a carrier wave generator mounted on the one of the wireless transmitter or receiver, and generating a carrier wave based on the power carrier wave clock, and a carrier wave reproducer mounted on the other of the wireless transmitter or receiver, and reproducing a carrier wave having the same frequency as the carrier wave based on a clock having the same frequency as the power carrier wave clock.

Abstract: An RFID system and method for communicating between a host computer, one or more interrogators connected to the host computer, and a large body of transponders distributed within an area covered by the interrogators. Each transponder originally has a common identification code, and upon initialization by the host computer internally generates a unique identification code based upon an internally generated random number. The host, through the interrogators, reads each of the identification codes associated with each transponder by iteratively transmitting a read identification code command along with a controlled variable. Each transponder compares the received controlled variable to an internally generated random number, and selectively transmits its identification code based upon the outcome of this comparison. After the completion of each read identification code iteration, the host adjusts the controlled variable based upon the responses received in the previous iteration.

Abstract: An RFID device utilizing a single antenna for multiple resonant frequency ranges. RFID device that can include an RFID circuit, and a single antenna coupled to the RFID circuit. The antenna can be configured to operate within multiple frequency ranges for communicating with at least one RFID interrogator according to respective protocols associated with each respective frequency range.

Abstract: A transmission circuit for an RF inductive link, particularly for an implanted device such as a cochlear implant. In a preferred form, the transmission circuit 1 includes a transmitter coil 24 and a damping device, including an auxiliary coil 4 and switch 6. The switch is operated to close the coil circuit when data zeros are transmitted. This has the advantage of improving modulation depth without placing stress on the RF driver output switches.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for multiplexing radio frequency signals. In some implementations, a system includes a host coupling module, a plurality of antennas, and a processing module. The host coupling module is configured to receive and transmit RF signals through a wired connection. The plurality of antennas are configured to wirelessly transmit RF signals and receive RF signals from RFID tags. The processing module is configured to selectively switch between the plurality of antennas for communication with the RFID tags using the host coupling module and backscatter at least a portion of the received RF signals through the wired connection to communicate information independent of an internal power supply.

Abstract: A Write Broadcast system and method uses a base station to write sent data to all or some selected number (sub group) of tags in a base station field simultaneously. By unselecting the tags that have been successfully written to, and requesting a response from the remaining tags in the field (or sub group), the system determines, by receiving a response to the request, that there are tags in the field (sub group) that were unsuccessfully written to. Another Write Broadcast signal is sent to these tags. The system is useful for quickly (simultaneously) “stamping” information on the tag memory of a large number of tags in the field of the base station.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, for a computer with a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader. A system includes a processor, a store of codes representing goods and services cross-referenced to supplemental information, a radio frequency identification (RFID) interrogator, an input/output tag (IO), and a memory including a process that matches a received code from the RFID interrogator to a code in the store of codes and to display supplemental information of a good or service on the IO tag.

Abstract: Each of a portable device and an in-vehicle unit is provided with respective GPS receivers to determine a portable device position and a vehicle position. The portable device transmits a response signal including the portable device position in response to a request signal of the in-vehicle unit. The in-vehicle unit, only in a case where it is determined that the portable device position included in the response signal is within a predetermined area around the vehicle position, performs control of a lock/unlock state of a vehicle door in accordance with the identification result of the ID code included in the response signal. Accordingly, it is surely prevented that the door is remotely controlled by the portable device at far distances from the vehicle.

Abstract: A system and method for selectively activating a device based on an activate command. A circuit, in low power mode, listens for an activate command. The activate command includes a preamplifer centering sequence, an interrupt signal, and an activate code. The circuit receives a signal that may or may not be an activate command, self-biases the signal based on the preamplifer centering in the preamp/gain control, then determines whether the interrupt signal is of the proper length in the interrupt circuit. If the interrupt is not the proper length, the process stops. If it is the proper length, the command is recognized as an activate command, and a data slicer compares the activate code to a prestored value. If the activate code matches the prestored value, the device is powered up. If they do not match, the device is not initiated.

Abstract: A reflected electromagnetic wave received, for example, from a wireless identification IC tag through an antenna (105) is processed not by a complicated circuit, but by capacitors (107, 100) and diodes (108, 109). By the combination of the capacitors (107, 100) and the diodes (108, 109), a voltage of the reflected electromagnetic wave is integrated. The reflected electromagnetic wave becomes different in voltage depending on a signal “0” and a signal “1” from the wireless identification IC tag. As a result, since an integrated value outputted to a reception signal line (113) becomes also different, it is possible to discriminate the signal “0” and the signal “1” in the reader for wireless identification IC tag. Since integration is utilized, even a week signal can be discriminated.

Abstract: A system and method for a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader for use in an RFID detection system. The reader has an RF source for generating RF signals. An antenna is coupled to the RF source. The antenna transmits interrogation RF signals to one or more RFID markers within an interrogation zone and receives communication signals from one or more items within the interrogation zone. The communication signals include Doppler signals indicating movement of an item within the interrogation zone. A receiver receives the communication signals and motion detection circuitry detects the Doppler signals.

Abstract: A method and apparatus includes at least one transponder or sensor to transmit useful data in an asynchronous mode to at least one reader. Before the start of the useful data transmission, the reader transmits a return link header to the transponder or sensor, which contains at least one bit length reference symbol as a reference time to define the bit length in the return link.

Abstract: A network system is provided with a cable set having a nonvolatile memory module mounted thereon, and a printer connected by the cable set. The printer is provided with a set information read means for reading set information for performing initial setting of itself from a nonvolatile memory module of the connected cable set, and an initial setting means for performing initial setting based on the read set information.

Abstract: A communication processing device includes a control unit for, when receiving an address update request signal including a segment identifier for identifying a segment address of a recording unit from a reader/writer, holding the segment identifier in a RAM, and when receiving a readout request signal including an offset address having the segment as a reference from the reader/writer, transmitting to the reader/writer data recorded in a region specified by an address having the offset address contained in the readout request signal as offset with the segment address identified in the segment identifier as a reference of the regions of the recording unit.

Abstract: A wearable electronic device is configured to control and command a variety of wireless devices within its proximity. The wearable device dynamically generates a user interface corresponding to the services of a particular wireless device. Through the user interface, the wireless device surface content to a user and allows a user select interactions with the wireless devices using the wearable device.

Abstract: A contactless data carrier has a measurement port receiving an external signal to be compared, a threshold generator that generates different threshold values, a comparator that compares the external signal with the threshold values, and a controller that controls the variable threshold generator on command from an interrogator and returns the comparison results to the interrogator. The comparison results returned to the interrogator may be the results of the individual comparisons, or information derived from a threshold value at which the comparison result changes. The contactless data carrier is small, lightweight, and inexpensive, and can be used to perform an essentially unlimited variety of measurements by connecting suitable sensors to the measurement port.

Abstract: The disclosed inventions relate to a method and apparatus for creating one-sided interrogation zones. The disclosed inventions further relate to a method and apparatus for determining the direction of movement of tagged items that pass by an RFID reader. The disclosed inventions also relate to a method and apparatus for combining one-sided interrogation zones of two or more antenna arrays to create an interrogation zone that maintains its width over a large range of distances.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a communications system in which a transponder having no radio wave generating source executes data transmission with a reader/writer. The transponder is incorporated in a memory card having a memory with which the reader/writer reads and writes information the memory card being used as loaded in a dedicated slot of a host device. The reader/writer transmits a beacon signal telling a service area at a predetermined time interval. The memory card waits for a beacon signal from the reader/writer within a preset period of time after the host device loaded with the memory card is powered on, executes a connection establishment procedure with the reader/writer upon reception of the signal within the preset period of time and, if the beacon signal has not been received within die preset period of time, enters a sleep state in which at least a wait state of the transponder is stopped.

Abstract: The present invention provides radio frequency identification devices, remote communication devices, identification systems, communication methods, and identification methods. A radio frequency identification device according to one aspect includes a substrate; communication circuitry coupled with the substrate and configured to receive a wireless signal including an identifier, to process the identifier of the wireless signal and to output a control signal responsive to the processing of the identifier; and indication circuitry coupled with the communication circuitry and configured to receive the control signal and to indicate presence of the radio frequency identification device responsive to the control signal.

Abstract: A terminal for generating an electromagnetic field, including an oscillating circuit capable of receiving a high-frequency A.C. excitation voltage via an amplifier and a directional coupler, the oscillating circuit having at least one element of variable capacitance, and circuitry for modifying the value of this capacitance according to the amplitude of a signal extracted from the coupler.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to a wireless communication device. The embodiment provides a wireless communication device comprising: a reception signal processor demodulating a received signal; a first signal state detector detecting a reception state of a first signal from the received signal; a second signal state detector detecting a reception state of a second signal from the received signal; a transmission signal processor modulating a transmission signal; and a controller controlling a change of a frequency of a channel transmitted to the transmission signal processor depending on a reception state of at least one of the first signal of the first signal state detector and the second signal of the second signal state detector.

Abstract: A packaging box includes a body which has a top surface, a base, and a side, first and second signal conductors, and an RFID tag. The first signal conductor is provided on a first region of the body. The second signal conductor is provided on a second region of the body. The RFID tag is attached to the side in a third region as being electrically insulated from the first and the second signal conductors with a first electrode thereof connected to the first signal conductor and a second electrode thereof connected to the second signal conductor.

Abstract: A control device that specifies an output level to a reader/writer configured to supply an electrical signal corresponding to a radio signal to a stripline cell for transmitting the radio signal to an RFID tag and that has unique output characteristics. The control device includes a response analyzing section that checks the existence of a reaction in the RFID tag; and a distance calculation processing section that uses the output characteristics of the reader/writer from the output level specified to the reader/writer to obtain an electric field strength of the radio signal received by the RFID tag and that converts the electric field strength to a distance between a predetermined antenna and the RFID tag, the antenna transmitting the radio signal with a predetermined output and the RFID tag receiving the radio signal at a same electric field strength as the electric field strength.

Abstract: RFID readers, systems, and methods are provided for overcoming the effects of RF interference. While a system is communicating in a channel, RF interference is monitored. If it is low, then the next channel to be hopped onto is chosen in an unbiased manner. But if interference is high, then the next channel to be hopped onto is chosen in a biased manner that disfavors at least one channel over another, in view of the detected interference. The choice of the next channel can thus result in diminishing communication in channels with a lot of RF interference.

Abstract: The invention relates to a compensation circuit for suppressing the crosstalk between a transmission path and a reception path of an RFID-reader unit, including a device for coupling out a signal portion of a carrier signal from the transmission path into a compensation path, the compensation path having at least one variable phase shifter and at least one variable attenuator for varying the signal portion in the phase and in the amplitude respectively, a device for coupling in the signal portion varied in the phase and in the amplitude from the compensation path into the reception path, a unit for determining the crosstalk existing in the reception path and a control unit for the variable phase shifter and the variable attenuator, which is in signal connection with the unit for determining the existing crosstalk.

Abstract: Interactive radio frequency tags that are responsive to external stimuli to change state are disclosed. The tags preferably include a passive radio frequency transponder, having an antenna, an interface for receiving an external stimulus, and one or more integrated circuits responsive to the external stimulus received at the interface to change the state of the transponder. Also disclosed is a “sensor tag” which changes state in response to a particular environmental stimulus. In addition, either of these “button” or “sensor” features may be combined with an output feature which visually, audibly, tactilely or otherwise signals the state or change of state of an RF tag, or the tag may be designed to produce an output in response to the external stimulus of the RF signal received at the tag's antenna.

Abstract: Provided are a radio frequency identification (RFID) system including an RFID reading apparatus and a passive RFID tag and a method of transferring and/or processing data using the same. An RFID reading apparatus includes a data input unit which receives data to be transferred to a passive RFID tag, a control unit which generates a transmission packet containing the data and a command directing data transfer, and a communication unit which converts the generated transmission packet into an RF signal and transfers the converted RF signal to the passive RFID tag.

Abstract: A transceiver for a RFID reader and a transceiver for a RFID transponder (tag) allow communication between the two devices. The RFID reader utilizes an analog front end and a digital backend. In the receiver portion of the transceiver, the front end of the RFID reader uses a pair of down-conversion mixers to demodulate a received signal into in-phase (I) and quadrature (Q) components and analog-to-digital converters (ADC) digitize the signal. A digital signal processor (DSP) in the back end processes the digital signal and uses a matched filter for data detection. The RFID tag receives an inductively coupled signal from the reader and the receiver portion of the tag uses a pulse/level detector that employs an analog comparator and a sample and hold circuit to detect the received signal. A digital decoder/controller is used to decode the incoming data and to establish a sampling clock for the pulse/level detector.

Abstract: A system and method for providing operational feedback of systems employing electronic tags such as radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. In one configuration, the RFID reader is actuated by a single trigger pull, with the reader continuing to read multiple RFID tags in the read zone as long as the trigger is held until a terminating event occurs and in another configuration, an apparatus and method provides real-time feedback of the progress of a multiple RFID tag reading operation.

Abstract: An intelligent asset protection system is claimed and disclosed which features a plurality of devices are used to protect a retail establishment by radiating and detecting into a protection zone to identify transponders within a given area. These devices that radiate and detect are typically located in the ceiling or above the area that is desired to be monitored and create a cone shaped interrogation field which expands as it is broadcast downward into the monitored area. In communication with the RAD units, the system uses transponders capable of storing information which includes passwords and unique identifiers as well as information about the object to which the transponder is attached. The transponder is capable of responding to a RAD unit and broadcasting information to it which may include the information stored on the transponder.

Abstract: After a door of a vehicle is locked, a touch switch and a lock switch is disabled for a predetermined time period. A predetermined operation of a holder of a handheld unit to a door handle during the predetermined time period causes a device mounted in the vehicle to perform a certain function other than unlocking the door. Thus the predetermined operation solely to the door handle after the door of the vehicle is locked can serve as an instruction for the device mounted in the vehicle to execute the certain function.

Abstract: An electromagnetic transponder comprising: an oscillating circuit; a first rectifying bridge having its A.C. input terminals connected across the oscillating circuit and having its rectified output terminals connected at least to a voltage regulator in charge of providing a supply voltage; and a second rectifying bridge, of dimension smaller than that of the first bridge, having its two A.C. input terminals connected across the oscillating circuit and having at least one output terminal connected to a demodulator of data sensed by the oscillating circuit.