Abstract: A radio frequency communication device and method for tuning an antenna attached thereto are disclosed. A radio frequency communication device is disclosed comprising internal circuitry and an antenna having a plurality of antenna segments associated therewith. Each antenna segment is associated with the antenna in either series or parallel relation through at least one of a fuse and an antifuse. In testing and tuning, a comparison is made to indicate whether the antenna is too short or too long. If the antenna is too short, an antenna segment may be attached to the antenna by initiating an antifuse. If the antenna is too long, an antenna segment may be detached from the antenna by blowing a fuse. If it is indeterminate whether the antenna is too short or too long, an antenna segment may be either attached or detached, the test repeated, and the results of the repeated test compared with the prior test to determine whether the correct action was taken.

Abstract: This invention is directed toward a series of devices designed to scare away Great Blue Herons, raccoons, and other common koi pond predators through a combination of a motion detection system which triggers an auditory and/or movement response from a variety of common enemies of koi pond predators and fanciful creatures intended to frighten koi predators. The invention teaches the combination of the motion detector with the koi predator enemy replica, such that a koi pond user can economically and efficiently protect his/her pond without adversely impacting the visual appeal of a koi pond.

Abstract: The disclosed embodiments of the present invention are used to permanently disable or destruct an RFID so that it is no longer possible to read some or all of the data encoded on the RFID tag. In one method for disabling data on a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, an RFID tag is identified and its identity is confirmed. Verification that a prerequisite event has occurred is obtained, occurrence of which is required prior to disablement of the data. A destruct instruction is transmitted to the RFID tag. The RFID tag verifies that the destruct instruction is valid and disables the data upon verifying validity of the destruct instruction. The tag may disable the data by erasing the data, disabling the data, auto-destructing, or performing any operation that makes the data unreadable.

Abstract: Disclosed are deactivatable RFID labels and tags in individual and web form, and methods of making same. When it is desired to deactivate the label or tag, the tag or label is subjected to tearing. One arrangement involves providing the label or tag with a tear strip by which the RFID transponder in the label or tag is destroyed, and in another arrangement a tag can be torn along a weakening line to destroy the RFID transponder.

Abstract: A resonant circuit for use with a radio-wave detection system for the prevention of shoplifting or the like which has a coil and capacitor circuit whereby the circuit is permanently destroyed when the tag is exposed to a radio signal that causes a voltage across the capacitor that exceeds the breakdown voltage of the capacitor. The capacitor comprises a dielectric that does not exhibit self-healing. Such dielectrics include ceramics, metal oxides and minerals.

Abstract: A system and device for harvesting various frequencies and polarizations of ambient radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic (EM) energy for making a passive sensor (tag) into an autonomous passive sensor (tag) adapted to collect and store data with time-stamping and some primitive computation when necessary even when an interrogating radio frequency identification (RFID) reader is not present (not transmitting). A specific source of ambient RF EM energy may include wireless fidelity (WiFi) and/or cellular telephone base stations. The system and device may also allow for the recharging of energy storage units in active and battery assisted passive (BAP) devices. The system could be a “smart building” that uses passive sensors with RF EM energy harvesting capability to sense environmental variables, security breaches, as well as information from “smart appliances” that can be used for a variety of controls and can be accessed locally or remotely over the Internet or cellular networks.

Abstract: A sensor device may use battery power to operate a sensor node by taking sensor readings and transferring data onto or out of a set of queues. A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag may be used to wirelessly communicate data into and/or out of the sensor device without using power from the battery. The sensor node may be placed in a low-power mode without respect whether the RFID tag is communicating. In some embodiments, the sensor device may be used as a store-and-forward node for other devices by placing data received from one RFID reader into the set of queues and later transmitting the data from the set of queues in response to a poll from another RFID reader.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling the transmission state of a radio frequency identification transponder. A value in an event indicator is changed upon occurrence of an event. The value in the event indicator is compared to a predetermined value. Responsive to the value in the event indicator equaling the predetermined value, the transmission state of the radio frequency identification transponder is selectively changed between a first state and a second state, wherein the first state activates the radio frequency identification signal transmitted by the radio frequency identification transponder, and wherein the second state deactivates the radio frequency identification signal transmitted by the radio frequency identification transponder.

Abstract: A device for deactivating an RFID portion on an identification tag and indicating that the RFID portion is deactivated. The present invention addresses current privacy concerns regarding potential use of RFID technology after the point of sale. The device for deactivating the RFID portion of an identification tag provides visual indication that the RFID portion is deactivated. The visual indication occurs without the use of additional equipment or electronics. The visual indication component of the present invention is easy to interpret, so that a viewer will be able to quickly determine whether the RFID portion of the identification tag has been deactivated.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a magnetic detacher with open access are described. In one embodiment, the magnetic detacher may include magnet assembly to provide open access to a hard tag and a magnetic field sufficient to disengage a clamping mechanism of the hard tag. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Abstract: Apparatus and method is provided for using low cost, passive RF sensor technology such as RFID tags, to determine whether containers or other objects are in a right-side-up orientation. A useful embodiment of the invention is directed to sensor apparatus for use in detecting an improper orientation of a conventional box or container with respect to a substantially horizontal surface. The apparatus includes a structure having two sides formed of plastic in spaced apart relationship, to define an enclosed space within the structure. Selected shielding material attached to the structure shields a specified region of the enclosed space against RF signals, the shielded region being located in the lowest portion of the enclosed space when the structure is in a reference orientation with respect to the horizontal surface. An RFID tag embedded in a disk is positioned in the enclosed space, the disk being sized to move freely within the space.

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

Abstract: A RF MOS- or nonlinear device-based surveillance and/or identification tag, and methods for its manufacture and use. The tag generally includes (a) an inductor, (b) a first capacitor plate coupled to the inductor, (c) a dielectric film on the first capacitor plate, (d) a semiconductor component on the dielectric film, and (e) a conductor that provides electrical communication between the semiconductor component and the inductor. The method of manufacture generally includes (1) depositing a semiconductor material (or precursor) on a dielectric film; (2) forming a semiconductor component from the semiconductor material/precursor; (3) forming a conductive structure at least partly on the semiconductor component; and (4) etching the electrically functional substrate to form (i) an inductor and/or (ii) a second capacitor plate.

Abstract: A security system for a container connected to a device includes a collar connected to a device requiring the contents of the refillable container. The collar has a top with a diameter that matches the diameter of the filling portion of a container. The system has a band with a security wire to prevent tampering, and a chip in communication with the security wire wherein the chip includes memory, and contacts. The system has one or more connections for facilitating receiving and transmitting data from the chip and a connector for communicating between the chip and a processor. The processor reads the chip via the connector and confirms that the information in the processor is identical to the information from the chip and provides a transmission to a device to accept the contents of the container.

Abstract: A method for authorizing use of a disabling RFID apparatus includes attaching the apparatus to a wearer, verifying credentials associated with use of the apparatus, and tightening the apparatus to the wearer to prevent unauthorized removal of the apparatus. Optionally, an additional security method can include updating a data field indicating the credentials have been verified and the apparatus has been tightened to the wearer. In one embodiment, the RFID apparatus can include a band having a series of holes along a length thereof and an electrically conductive loop disposed in the band, wherein severance of the electrically conductive loop disables the apparatus. In another embodiment, the RFID apparatus can further include a tightening mechanism for attaching the apparatus to the wearer. The tightening mechanism can include a series of projections positioned to allow the apparatus to be tightened and not loosened.

Abstract: An identification tag is provided in which radio frequency (RF) circuitry and ultrawide bandwidth (UWB) circuitry are both provided on the same tag, along with some UWB-RF interface circuitry. The RF circuitry is used to detect when the identification tag must be accessed, and is used to connect the UWB circuitry with a power supply. The UWB circuitry then performs the necessary communication functions with a distant device and the power supply is again disconnected. In this way the power supply is only accessed when the UWB circuitry is needed and it's usable lifetime can be maximized.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method of tamper detection. A tamper detection system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes: a passive electronic sensor including a circuit having first, second, and third nodes; a load connected between the first and second nodes of the circuit; a friable electrical connection element connected between the second and third nodes of the circuit; and a storage unit, connected to the second node of the circuit, for storing an identification code of the sensor; wherein in use a voltage is applied across the first and third nodes of the circuit, and when the friable electrical connection element is intact, the second node of the circuit is at a first voltage, and when the friable electrical connection element is broken, the second node of the circuit is at a second voltage.

Abstract: Disclosed are deactivatable RFID labels and tags in individual and web form, and methods of making same. When it is desired to deactivate the label or tag, the tag or label is subjected to tearing. One arrangement involves providing the label or tag with a tear strip by which the RFID transponder in the label or tag is destroyed, and in another arrangement a tag can be torn along a weakening line to destroy the RFID transponder.

Abstract: A method for controlling access to data contained within a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag associated with an item includes reading the RFID tag; receiving a first value from a personal communication device associated with a purchaser of the item; creating a key using the first value received from the personal communication device and a second value associated with the item; and initially transmitting the key to both the RFID tag and the personal communication device. The RFID tag is configured to automatically program one or more electrically programmable fuse devices therein so as to prevent subsequent reading of data therein by an RFID reading device, upon receipt of a valid key initially transmitted thereto. The RFID tag is further configured to automatically program one or more additional fuse devices therein so as to restore read access to the data therein, upon receipt of a valid key subsequently transmitted thereto.

Abstract: A disarming system for an RFID tag or an IRID tag having a magnetically operated sensor or switch includes a permanent magnet, wherein the permanent magnet is configured to activate the magnetically operated switch or sensor in the RFID tag or IRID tag when the RFID tag or IRID tag is brought into proximity of the permanent magnet.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for retail product transaction processing and security tag deactivation analysis. Upon detection of a security tag deactivation associated with entry of product information into a retail transaction, product information for the product is analyzed to determine whether the security tag deactivation is legitimate or possibly illegitimate. Upon identification of a deactivation as possibly illegitimate, an alert is issued to a retailer employee to investigate the transaction. The product information may be updated according to an entry made by the retailer employee identifying the deactivation as legitimate or illegitimate. Product information for a product may include a deactivation count for a product, with a deactivation being identified as possibly illegitimate if the deactivation count does not meet a predefined threshold, the deactivation count being incremented if a deactivation identified as unexpected is determined to be legitimate.

Abstract: A system and a method for disabling RFID tags that send information to a receiver by using a device capable of generate a strong electromagnetic field or any other targeted radiation of energy or particles. The system comprises a RFID tag interrogator, a display, an input device, and an EMP emitting device, all connected to a computer. The system may be built into a doorway, passage, channel or any other similar pass through or way through. It can be also built as a handheld device or into a belt running apparatus. The method is comprised of offering these systems in shopping malls, shopping centers or any other shopping facilities as well as in car wash centers.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for preventing an unauthorized person from use a portable computer having an external port. The system includes a control device capable of connecting to an external port of the portable computer. The control device includes a wireless receiver to receive wireless signals. The control device is capable of enabling and disabling a security function executed by the computer based on a wireless signal received by the wireless receiver.

Abstract: Multi-mode (e.g., EAS and RFID) tags and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. The tag generally includes an antenna, an electronic article surveillance (EAS) function block coupled to the antenna, and one or more identification function blocks coupled to the antenna in parallel with the EAS function block. The method of reading the tag generally includes the steps of applying an electric field to the tag, detecting the tag when the electric field has a relatively low power, and detecting an identification signal from the tag when the electric field has a relatively high power. The present invention advantageously enables a single tag to be used for both inventory and anti-theft purposes, thereby improving inventory management and control at reduced system and/or “per-article” costs.

Abstract: The antenna of a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag may be detuned by applying a conductive material in radio frequency (RF) contact with the antenna, such that the RFID tag is not operable. This material may later be removed, or the conductive effect of the material eliminated, thus re-tuning the antenna to its design specifications and restoring the RFID tag to an operable condition. In this manner, RFID tags may be manufactured in an inoperable state, to be subsequently made operable through the occurrence of an event, such as scraping off the conductive material.

Abstract: The present invention provides a RFID device comprising a radio frequency identification (RFID) transceiver and antenna element co-located with a semiconductor device, a method for making same and a method of using the RFID device of the present invention to locate, track and identify semiconductor devices and the devices they reside in. One embodiment of the RFID device of the present invention comprises a radio frequency identification (RFID) transceiver embedded within packaging of a semiconductor device. A second embodiment of the RFID device of the present invention comprises a radio frequency identification (RFID) transceiver as a separate circuit block within the semiconductor device. A third embodiment of the RFID device of the present invention comprises a radio frequency identification (RFID) transceiver as a separate independent circuit on top of the semiconductor device, System on Chip (SoC).

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RF ID) tag (202) and a method for communicating data from an RF ID card to an electronic device (102) are disclosed. The RF ID tag comprises one or more removable materials that conceal the data (106). The presence of the one or more removable materials disables the RF ID tag.

Abstract: A tamper-resistant RFID wristband that becomes permanently disabled upon tampering. The wristband includes a plurality of holes for snugly securing the band to a wearer, an RFID circuit, and an electrically conductive loop disposed in the band. The RFID circuit and the conductive loop are electrically coupled to form a series circuit, severance of which disables the wristband. The electrically conductive loop includes a first layer and a second layer that are electrically isolated from one another, save for at least one electrical connection made preferably by a via at the end of the band distal from the antenna element.

Abstract: Rendering data stored within an electronic data tag unreadable. A receptacle receives an article with the data tag, detects the presence of the electronic data tag, and decommissions the electronic data tag. The receptacle further modifies a label on the article to remove data printed thereon.

Abstract: A shoplifting-prevention security device includes a flexible flat substrate (1) having an inductor (2) and a capacitor (3) which form a resonant circuit, the plates of the capacitor being separated by a layer of dielectric material. Moreover, at least one zone (A) of the material can be used to establish a short circuit between the plates in order to deactivate the device. In addition, at least one face of the above-mentioned substrate is provided with a rigid part (B) having a contour (Bc) which surrounds the zone(s) (A) provided for the purpose of deactivation.

Abstract: A system including an RFID tag reader and a hole punch apparatus to punch a hole in an RFID tag. The hole punch punches a hole in the RFID tag to affect the functioning of said RFID tag. The system may also interrogate the RFID tag before and after the hole punching to confirm the affect on the RFID tag.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for allowing users to verify the presence of personal items. RFID tags are attached to personal items, and the items are entered into a list. The user makes travel lists from the list of items. When traveling, the user queries the system to determine whether all personal items in the travel list are within range of the system. The system checks for the presence of the RFID tags associated with the items in the travel list. If any RFIDs are not present, the user is alerted. Optionally, the system updates the last known location of items whenever checking for the presence of personal items, so that if an item is not found the user can determine where the item was last known to have been.

Abstract: A thermoforming apparatus and method are provided. An identification tag such as a radio frequency identification tag is provided for molding into or attaching to a thermoformed article during the thermoforming process. The tag may be attached to the article by mechanical interlocking and/or a heat sensitive adhesive. The identification tag is applied to the article while the article is being formed in the thermoforming mold.

Abstract: A security device for a transponder with a kill and/or cloak function is provided. The security device includes a memory device, in which a first, open password is stored, an input, into which a second, secret password is coupled, a cryptologic device, which is connected to the input and generates a checksum from the second password, and a comparison unit, which compares the checksum and the first password and which upon an agreement generates a kill and/or cloak control instruction to activate and/or deactivate a kill and/or cloak mechanism, which can be tapped at an output. A method for configuring a security device and a method for operating a transponder, and a transponder having the security device are also provided.

Abstract: A method for modifying an object involves determining a modification rate for the object, creating a first reservoir and a first wicking channel based on the modification rate, where the first reservoir and the first wicking channel are on the object and the first wicking channel is operatively connected to the first reservoir, and filling the first reservoir with a chemical for modifying the object, wherein an amount of chemical in the first reservoir is determined based on the modification rate.

Abstract: An authorization device includes a transponder and antenna. Transmission prompts are received by the antenna and sent to the transponder. The transponder will then emit an identification signal utilized to verify and provide access to a locking device. The antenna is selectively connected to the transponder to control receipt of the transmission prompt. The example authorization device controls receipt of transmission prompts by a transponder to prevent unauthorized and undesired receipt and thereby transmission of identification and other signals.

Abstract: An instruction drop-off warning system (1), which warns of drop-off of an instruction sheet (L) attached on a work (20) in a production line (40), comprises an IC tag (5a), which is incorporated in the instruction sheet L and is used for storing identification information, an instruction-management system (2), which manages the identification information of the instruction sheet (L) attached on the work (10) as instruction information (4), and a handy terminal (6), which includes a reader/writer (3) for reading and writing identification information from and into an IC tag (5b) and which stores the instruction information (4) received from the instruction-management system (2). In the instruction drop-off warning system, the handy terminal (6) is used for comparing the identification information being read from the instruction sheet (L) attached on the work (20), with the instruction information (4), so that a detection is made for warning whether or not any instruction sheet (L) has dropped off.

Abstract: A tag includes an RFID circuit storing bits. One or more of the bits are modified in response to physically altering a portion of a medium that the RFID circuit is affixed thereto. Also, the RFID circuit is activated in response to physically altering a portion of the medium.

Abstract: A tamper resistant electronic tag that wirelessly receives and transmits unique subscriber information to and from a transceiver so that financial transactions can occur quickly and seamlessly. In a preferred embodiment, the tag works in conjunction with a roadway toll booth and is mounted onto a flat interior surface of a vehicle, where it can receive and transmit electronic information to and from a toll booth. That allows a driver to pay the toll fee without having to stop his vehicle. The electronic tag includes a hard plastic support case for carrying a circuit. The circuit includes an integrated circuit that is adhesively attached to the support case. The support case and circuit are then attached to the flat surface. When the support case is removed, the integrated circuit is pulled off with the support case while the rest of the circuit remains attached to the flat surface, thereby severing the circuit, and rendering it inoperable.

Abstract: A system for remote detection using and RFID system including a transceiver, a transponder and a fuse configured within the transponder. The transceiver is configured to send and receive radio frequency signals. The transponder is configured to receive radio frequency signals from the transceiver and to send radio frequency signals to the transceiver. The transceiver is configured to send radio frequency to the transponder thereby preventing the fuse from blowing while the radio frequency signal is received.

Abstract: Methods and computer program products for managing a device connected to a network include querying the device using the network, querying the device using a simulated RFID tag, and querying the device using a suppressible RFID tag to determine status information about the device. A system for managing a device connected to a network comprises means for monitoring status of the device using the network, for receiving status information about the device reported by a simulated RFID tag, and for receiving status information about the device reported by a suppressible RFID tag.

Abstract: A tamper-resistant RFID identification apparatus that includes a mechanism for storing an excess portion of the apparatus when engaged. The apparatus includes a substrate including a series of holes along a length thereof and a slot distal from the series of holes, a tamper-resistant locking mechanism for securing the apparatus to an object, an RFID circuit disposed on the substrate and an electrically conductive loop disposed on the substrate and electrically coupled to the RFID circuit, that is arranged to disable the RFID circuit when cut. The slot receives a tail portion of the substrate when the apparatus is secured.

Abstract: A security tag assembly and security system associated therewith prevent the unauthorized removal of merchandise from a given area, such as a retail establishment. The security tag assembly comprises a base and at least one attachment member removably connected in an operative position on the merchandise being protected. A locking assembly restricts detachment of the attachment member and is forcibly disposed out of movement restricting relation to said connector member when the base and the attachment member are separated. A detachment assembly and a data registering processor may include a two-way communication link which facilitates processing of the merchandise data disposed on the security tag assembly, such that the purchasing of the merchandise and the removal of the security tag assembly can be effectively accomplished without jeopardizing the security of the merchandise being sold.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing an RFID disabling apparatus using prefabricated, “off-the-shelf” components. The method includes: disposing a prefabricated RFID circuit and a conductive loop on a substrate, coupling a first end of the conductive loop to a first endpoint of the RFID circuit, and coupling a second end of the conductive loop to a second endpoint of the RFID circuit. An optional electronic component can be coupled between the first endpoint and the second endpoint of the RFID circuit. The RFID circuit can be an “off-the-shelf” RFID circuit. A portion of the RFID circuit can be severed to create the first endpoint and the second endpoint.

Abstract: The invention provides protection to wireless portable transponders from unauthorized interrogation by employing a mechanism for disabling reception by or from the antenna of the transponder. Transponders include RFID tags that are attached to items that a persons may purchase or carry. Such transponders generally have an ability for receiving and storing electronic and other information, commonly in binary form using memories as in electronic circuits, etc. The invention is designed to provide privacy of electronic information. The tags can be protected from receiving or providing unauthorized or unwanted information. The invention provides the mechanism that permit the owner to decide when reception/interrogation of personal or other information is not desired by employing the provided mechanical disable control.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for communicating with an RFID tag is provided that includes: a capacitive encoder adapted for placement in proximity of the RFID tag and operable to transmit a first operating signal to the RFID tag for communicating with the RFID tag; wherein the capacitive encoder is further operable to transmit to the RFID tag a second operating signal adapted to excite the RFID tag such that RF radiations from the RFID tag to adjacent RFID tags are nullified.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of security and especially to radio frequency identification. According to an embodiment method for securing a personal item for preventing unauthorized passage out of secured premises comprises steps of checking tag for identifying a personal item exiting the premises, checking a permission bits of the identified tag, and determining according to the permission bits of the tag is the item allowed to leave premises secured by the security system.

Abstract: An arrangement for providing protection to wireless portable transponders (including resonant tags such as RFID tags) from unauthorized interrogation by employing a mechanical arrangement for disabling reception by or from the antenna of the transponder. The tags can be protected from receiving or providing unauthorized or unwanted information. Contemplated are mechanical arrangements that permit the owner to decide when reception/interrogation of personal or other information is not desired by employing the provided mechanical disable control arrangement. Also broadly contemplated herein is the altering interrogation characteristics of RFID tags to such an extent that they may still be read at a close range instead of the original range, and this result of this altering is visible to the user.

Abstract: An RFID tag (20) has an electrically non-conductive substrate (22) with a mounting surface (24), an electrically conductive member (26), a conductive bridge (28), a dielectric strip (30), and a semiconductor device (32). The member (26) is mounted to the surface (24) and has an inner section (38), an outer section (40) and a connecting section (42). The section (38) has windings (44) and a free end (46) extending from one of the windings. The section (40) substantially surrounds the section (38) and has a winding (50) and a free end (52) that extends from a portion (54) of the winding (50) towards the section (38). A segment (56) of the section (42) is disposed between the ends (46, 52). The bridge (28) spans from the end (46) to the end (52). With the strip (30) disposed between the bridge (28) and the member (26), capacitive sections are thereby formed along the strip (30).

Abstract: A system and method for releasing a security tag from an article automatically at a point of sale without the need for store employee involvement, assuming a valid sale is occurring. A system and method for releasing a security tag from an article automatically at a point of sale that tracks the detacher operation and the time and date of such operation.