Abstract: An object locating, identifying, tracking, and surveillance system, denoted the Assets Locating, Tracking, and Surveillance System (ALTSS), is provided for managing physical objects and evidence in environments such as police departments, law offices, and the Courts. ALTSS employs radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, computer programming and database applications, networking technologies, and hardware elements. ALTSS may locate and track physical evidence, merchandise, information carriers like files, folders or individual pieces of paper, and people, under certain conditions, in near-real time. It may be configured as part of a local area network, a wide area network, or the Internet. ALTSS may employ exemplary components such as RFID transponders, scanners, strategically located antennas and computers to facilitate tracking of objects and people as needed.

Abstract: A microprocessor controlled security tag and accompanying security system is described. The tag generally includes a housing having external contacts to interface with elongated contacts on a connecting band. The band forms a complex impedance circuit with a patient's limb that allows detection features such as removal and band compromise. A microprocessor and related circuitry as well as a transmitter and receivers are enclosed in the housing. The tag is adapted to communicate inductively with an activator/deactivator unit as well as a tag programmer that updates and changes tag features in the tag firmware. The overall system further includes a hub to receive the data from a plurality of tags in the system. The tag can also communicate with a phased multiple antenna that sends signals to the tag.

Abstract: Systems for identifying and categorizing distributed devices, e.g., lighting fixtures and thermostats, is disclosed. In an embodiment, a user (200) sends a low power discovery message to devices (201) using a portable programming tool (100). The devices (201) within range respond with identification information. The portable programming tool (100) organizes the responses by proximity and sends a “flash” message to the device with the closest perceived proximity. That device responds with a visual or audible signal (202), allowing the user (200) to determine whether that device is the one intended for selection. If so, the user initiates a store routine in which identification information, including category information, is stored in one or more locations, such as, the selected device (201), the portable programming tool (100), and/or a central or local controller (1100). The identification and categorization can, for example, be used to automate load shedding and to reduce energy consumption.

Abstract: An anti-effraction and antitheft system (1) of an electromechanical type for photovoltaic panels (8) and components of electrical plants and systems in general, which has the purpose of rendering unserviceable and/or unlikely to be re-usable, in the case of theft or tampering, of the photovoltaic panels (8). The system (1) is based upon the combination of functions of connection and electrical and electronic functions; namely, it is based upon at least one electromechanical element or connector (24), an electronic unit or management card (21) and a central system (39) with georeferencing, communication, and signalling functions.

Abstract: A dynamic adjusting RFID demodulator circuit includes an envelope detector having an input for receiving a modulated RF signal, a fixed reference generator coupled to the input of an RC filter, an RF level dependent signal path adding to the fixed reference level at higher RF energy levels, a comparator having a first input coupled to an output of the envelope detector, a second input coupled to an output of the RC filter, and an output for providing a data output signal.

Abstract: An antenna for protecting radio frequency communications includes a masking portion to broadcast a masking signal including a first loop and a second loop connected to the first loop, wherein a current supplied to the masking portion flows in opposite polarity in each of the first and second loops. The antenna includes a reader loop to receive a response signal from a responder and decoupled from the masking signal, wherein the masking signal masks the response signal about the responder.

Abstract: There is disclosed a stream data reception/reproduction device capable of suppressing deterioration of quality of stream data reproduced even when the stream data is received via an IP network or the like in which the packet arrival timing and the order are not guaranteed. In this device, a reproduction speed control unit (107) sets various conditions in accordance with the value of the synchronization difference reported from a synchronization difference calculation unit (102). Only when the set conditions are satisfied, the speed of reproduction of a frame decompressed and inputted from a decoding unit (105) is adjusted. The reproduction speed control unit (107) interpolates a predetermined amount of sample data into the frame or decimates it from the frame when adjusting the reproduction speed.

Abstract: A networked card for identifying and tracking animate and inanimate objects and personnel, the card including: a radio frequency modem operable at a low radio frequency not exceeding one megahertz, the modem including a full duplex transmitter and receiver; a loop antenna operatively coupled with the radio frequency modem, the antenna operable within a range of hundreds of feet; a programmable microprocessor operatively coupled with the radio frequency modem and fully programmable within a network; a memory operatively coupled with the programmable microprocessor, the memory holding identification data; and a battery for providing power to the microprocessor.

Abstract: A pedigree tag for tracking and validating authenticity of contents in a container includes: a radio frequency modem operable at a low radio frequency, not exceeding one megahertz, and including a full duplex transmitter and receiver; an antenna operatively coupled with the radio frequency modem; a programmable microprocessor operatively coupled with the radio frequency modem; a memory operatively coupled with the programmable microprocessor; a clock; and a connector for connecting a power source for providing power to the microprocessor; wherein the pedigree tag is in a form factor conformable to the container to which it is affixed.

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 system and method are disclosed for applying multi-layered identification techniques to associate live fireground Asset information (e.g., handheld radio messages, breathing apparatus status data) to identify incident personnel and provide graphical, prioritized Rollcall, personnel accountability, and emergency alert reporting to incident commanders and other personnel. In one aspect, the system may capture, display, and store routine and emergency alerting messages and data received at incidents from handheld radios and other Assets, associate that information with other data to specifically identify first responder personnel, and provide an automated and prioritized Rollcall and personnel accountability report based on received transmissions. The system has applicability for fire departments and fireground usage, as well as other first responders, military personnel operations, and other organizations needing to account for on-scene personnel.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag access method and a circuit applied to an RFID tag to determine whether to respond to a command sent by a reader are provided. According to the access method, an extra reference value is used for adjusting a parameter or a count value, so as to increase or decrease the probability of generating a condition matching with a command sent by the reader. Therefore, the probability of the tag being accessed is adjusted, and the tag carrying urgent information shall be accessed prior to the tag without urgent information.

Abstract: A system and method for using an RFID read/write device to secure an RFID operable instrument or an RF communication is provided. The invention includes security databases in communication with a processor for storing and communicating security protocols to the RFID read/write device. The invention includes a method for restricting the unauthorized use of an RFID read/write device. The invention includes a subscription service for communicating user credentials to a certificate authority to obtain a counter security protocol. The invention also includes decrypting information stored on an RF operable device or transmitted via radio-frequency using counter security protocols.

Abstract: A method for detecting a contactless receiver in a field of an antenna of a contactless reader includes during a first ramp interval, exciting the antenna by applying a potential difference comprising a ramp between first and second values of the potential difference, and during a first plateau interval following the first ramp interval, maintaining the potential difference at the second value of the potential difference, while maintaining the potential difference at the plateau, measuring a response of the antenna, comparing the measured response and a reference response, and determining presence of a contactless receiver in the field of the antenna based at least in part on a result of the comparison.

Abstract: Methods and computer program products for locating devices having a given state by locating a device using an RFID tag associated with the device that responds to queries from an RFID tag reader independently of the state of the device, and determining the state of the device using an RFID tag associated with the device that responds selectively in dependence upon the state of the device. A system for locating devices having a given state comprises an RFID tag reader for locating a device by reading an RFID tag associated with the device that responds independently of the state of the device, and an RFID tag reader for determining the state of the device by reading an RFID tag associated with the device that responds selectively in dependence upon the state of the device.

Abstract: An RFID system and method utilizes an RFID device, wherein the RFID device senses a thing or condition interior to a closable container at or proximate the RFID device and transmits messages. The messages include information uniquely identifying the RFID device and information relating to the thing or condition sensed at or proximate the RFID device. Information in the received messages relating to the thing or condition sensed at or proximate the RFID device of messages are employed for determining whether the container is closed, is not closed, has been closed, or has been not closed, or any combination thereof, whereby an opening of and/or tampering with the container may be detected. Messages received from the RFID device, as well as an indication of a condition, may be relayed to a remote location.

Abstract: An integrated scanner, scale and touchscreen display (“integrated touchscreen scanner”) is addressed. In one alternative, the integrated touchscreen scanner further includes a printer for printing receipts, coupons and the like. The integrated touchscreen scanner is designed for flush mounting in a checkout or self-checkout stand. Keystrokes, icon selection and the like may be suitably sensed employing weigh cells in the scale of the integrated touchscreen scanner. Additionally, the display may be partitioned into a customer portion and a checker portion. This partitioning may be fixed or dynamically adjusted in response to the state of the transaction.

Abstract: A technique for operating a Radio Frequency Identification, RFID, reader with motion detection includes detecting a motion in proximity to the RFID reader, and triggering the RFID reader to read any tags in proximity to the RFID reader in response to detecting a motion in proximity to the RFID reader. Detecting a motion can also generate a change in digital signage, or communicate information about read tags to a local area network. Operating this system only when motion is detected saves battery life.

Abstract: A method, system or computer usable program product for managing a potential choking condition with a monitoring system including monitoring by the monitoring system by detecting relative positions of a set of emitters disposed along an object, wherein a choking condition is indicated by the set of emitters being on close proximity to a neck portion of a body and arranged in a potentially choking configuration, and responsive to the determination of the choking condition, the monitoring system performing an action.

Abstract: The directions of at least two fibers arranged at a tag are detected to identify the tag and an item intended to be attached thereto. The fibers have an impedance for high frequency electromagnetic waves, which impedance is dependent on a magnetic field at the fiber. Electromagnets generate a modulation magnetic field having an amplitude modulated magnetic component with a first frequency; and a bias magnetic field for counterbalancing any constant magnetic fields parallel to the direction of the fiber. A microwave transmitter directs a frequency modulated microwave signal towards the fiber via a transmitting antenna. The microwave reflected by the microfibers is received by a receiving antenna coaxial with the transmitting antenna and is used to identify tag by determining the orientation of the fibers.

Abstract: Communications methods, methods of forming a reader, wireless communications readers, and wireless communications systems are described in some embodiments. In one embodiment, a communications method includes associating a plurality of remote communications devices with a plurality of objects located within a wireless communications range of a reader having a first configuration, providing one of the remote communications device within a wireless communications range of a reader having a second configuration, wherein the wireless communications range of the reader having the second configuration is less than the wireless communications range of the reader having the first configuration, and during the presence of the one of the remote communications devices within the wireless communications range of the reader having the second configuration, implementing communications between the reader having the second configuration and only the one of the remote communications devices.

Abstract: A system and method for establishing a weight related risk profile using RFID technology is provided. While the cargo container is in transit, a RFID reader inside a cargo container polls the contents of the container by reading RFID data from each RFID tagged item and calculate the payload weight. When the truck transporting the cargo container passes a weigh station, or a high-speed scale embedded in the road, a payload weight is measured by a scale. A risk factor is assessed by comparing the estimated weight by the RFID reader with the measured weight by the scale. According to one aspect of the invention, the RFID based polling system has the ability to map the weight and location for each tagged item and estimate a container weight distribution. The estimated weight distribution is compared with the weight distribution measured by the scale to determine potential anomalies.

Abstract: An electronic apparatus comprises a main apparatus portion, a unique identification device for attachment in close proximity to the main apparatus portion and an interrogation system provided as part of the main apparatus portion for wirelessly interrogating the identification device such that the main apparatus portion function is enabled only when in close proximity to the identification device. The identification device is adapted to be made disfunctional by detachment or attempted detachment. In this arrangement, the main apparatus portion is the normal electronic apparatus to be protected from theft. It is provided with an interrogation system so that it can be made to cease functioning if not in close proximity to the identification device.

Abstract: A networked radio frequency identification system includes a plurality of radio frequency identification (RFID) tag readers, a computer in signal communication with the RFID tag readers over a network, and a software module for storage on and operable by the computer that localizes RFID tags based on information received from the RFID tag readers using a network model having endpoints and oriented links. In an additional example, at least one of the RFID tag readers includes an adjustable configuration setting selected from RF signal strength, antenna gain, antenna polarization, and antenna orientation. In a further aspect, the system localizes RFID tags based on hierarchical threshold limit calculations. In an additional aspect, the system controls a locking device associated with an access point based on localization of an authorized RFID tag at the access point and reception of additional authorizing information from an input device.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention relates to a magnetic sensor circuit having a magnetic field sensor device configured to generate a digital signal proportional to an applied magnetic field. An analog-to-digital converter converts the analog signal to a digital signal that is provided to a digital signal processing unit, which is configured to digitally track the analog output signal. The digital tracking unit comprises a delay removal circuitry configured to generate a plurality of digital signal component corresponding to a chopping phase. A non-delayed offset compensated digital output signal may be generated within the chopping phase by mathematically operating upon (e.g., adding or subtracting) the plurality of digital signal components, generated by the delay removal circuitry.

Abstract: An integrated electronic article surveillance (“EAS”)/metal detection system. The system includes a transmitter operable to transmit an EAS interrogation signal, where the EAS interrogation signal establishes an interrogation zone and is used to detect EAS markers and metal objects within the interrogation zone. The EAS interrogation signal is transmitted at a first frequency during an EAS detection cycle and at a second frequency during a metal detection cycle. The system includes a receiver operable to detect a signal received from an EAS marker, and a metal detector module operable to detect a metal object in proximity to the integrated EAS/metal detection system, where the metal detector module includes a filter tuned to substantially filter out the first transmission frequency.

Abstract: A system and method for identifying a specific RFID tag includes RFID reader circuitry, such as within an RFID reader, configured for sending and receiving RF signals to detect RFID tags and for obtaining signal parameter information associated with the RFID tags. Processing circuitry is configured for using the signal parameter information for one or more tags of the RFID tags and calculating a tag score for the one or more RFID tags. The processing circuitry is further configured for determining a specific RFID tag using the tag scores for the one or more RFID tags.

Abstract: A radio frequency signal acquistion and source location system, including a first signal acquisition and source location module comprising an RF transceiver coupled to an antenna, the antenna provided with a electronic steering circuit. The antenna operative to launch an interrogation signal, the interrogation signal steerable by an electronic steering circuit. A processor operatively coupled to the RF transceiver and the electronic steering circuit, the processor provided with a data storage for storing a signal data record for each of at least one response signal(s) received by the RF transceiver(s). The signal data record including a signal identification, a received signal strength indicator and an RF signal direction along which respective signal(s) are received by the antenna, the RF signal direction derived from the electronic steering circuit. A postion logic operative upon the data record(s) derives a three dimensional signal origin location of each response signal.

Abstract: The present invention provides a radio frequency identification (RFID) system and a tag counting ending method for anti-collision thereof. The RFID system comprises a reader-writer and tags. The tag counting ending method comprises: in the counting process, when the reader-writer does not receive a response signal from a tag and the value of a register is not greater than a pre-determined counting ending register threshold value, the reader-writer transmits a Finish command to each of the tags and waits for responses; after receiving the Finish command, the tag determines whether the tag itself is counted successfully, if so, makes no response; if not, sets the counter of tag itself as 0 and transmits a response signal to the reader-writer; if the reader-writer receives the response signal, then determines that counting is not finished and continues to count the tag which makes response; if the reader-writer does not receive the response signal, then determines that counting is finished.

Abstract: Provided is a device for deterring purchase-wear-return of merchandise, particularly women's dresses, by a consumer.

Abstract: An EAS security tag for providing both EAS and battery recharging features within one tag. The tag includes a rechargeable battery and an antenna having a magnetic core and at least one coil winding disposed around at least a portion of the core. The antenna supplies a voltage corresponding to a first frequency or a second frequency when placed within a magnetic field. The tag also includes an EAS circuit having a resonant frequency corresponding to the first frequency, and an energy harvesting circuit having a resonant frequency corresponding to the second frequency, where the battery recharging circuit recharges the rechargeable battery. Depending upon the magnetic field that the tag is exposed to, either the EAS circuit is enabled thus allowing for EAS detection or the energy harvesting circuit is enabled allowing for the battery to be recharged.

Abstract: A multi-mode RFID tag includes a power generating and signal detection module, a baseband processing module, a transmit section, a configurable coupling circuit, and an antenna section. In near field mode, the configurable coupling circuit is operable to couple the transmit section to a coil or inductor in the configurable coupling circuit to transmit an outbound transmit signal using electromagnetic or inductive coupling to an RFID reader. In far field mode, the configurable coupling circuit is operable to couple the transmit section to the antenna section, and the multi-mode RFID tag then utilizes a back-scattering RF technology to transmit the outbound transmit signal to RFID readers.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and media to improve employee productivity using radio frequency identification (RFID) are disclosed. Embodiments comprise a method of transmitting information from RFID tags, receiving the information in an RFID tag reader, analyzing the information to select a number of employees to work in a work area, and dispatching one or more employees to or from the work area according to the selected number of employees. Some embodiments select employees with certain skills, based on the RFID tag information. In other embodiments, an RFID tag reader monitors the movement of employees to ensure that they are moving according to the dispatch and potentially dispatching alternate employees. Some embodiments involve reading information from RFID tags attached to goods, whereas other embodiments involve reading information from RFID tags in cards carried by employees and customers, and RFID tags fastened to shopping carts and shopping baskets.

Abstract: The present invention relates to coupler device, processing apparatus and method of processing a plurality of body-coupled communication signals which have been detected by using an electrode arrangement with a plurality of electrodes or electrode segments (40, 42; 40, 43). Respective transmission parameters of the body-coupled communication signals are estimated and at least one of a selecting and weighting processing is applied to the detected body-coupled communication signals based on the estimated transmission parameters. Then, the processed body-coupled communication signals are combined to generate a diversity output signal. Thereby, robustness against coupler misplacement and user convenience is increased in body-coupled or body-based communication systems.

Abstract: A system includes a first sensor, a second sensor and a processing portion. The first sensor can wirelessly transmit a first detected signal based on a detected parameter of a structure. The second sensor can wirelessly transmit a second detected signal based on the detected parameter of a second portion of the structure. The processing portion can wirelessly transfer energy to the first sensor and the second sensor. The processing portion is operable to wirelessly transfer electromagnetic energy to enable the first and the second sensors.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to simplified monitoring and transmission of a binary switch position by means of coded switching, in which corrections caused by different pulse edge delays are eliminated. According to the disclosure, an auxiliary voltage which is to be transmitted when the switch position is closed is coded using two identical pulse edges of two different pulses, that is to say using either the two connection edges or the two disconnection edges of the two pulses. As a result, the previously known pulse duration modulation is replaced with modulation of the delay time between the two pulses. The two pulses mentioned can be repeatedly generated inside a basic period, which is independent of the auxiliary voltage, and have, for distinguishing purposes, a connection duration or pulse length which is different but is independent of the auxiliary voltage.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for measuring a location of a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader by using beacons, and an RFID system for measuring a location of a moving RFID reader in an RFID system comprising: a plurality of beacon devices for emitting beacons; an RFID tag for transmitting pre-stored information by using radio frequency identification; and an RFID reader for calculating a current location using a plurality of at least three beacons wherein the RFID reader receives the plurality of beacons from the plurality of beacon devices while moving, and receiving the information from the RFID tag by using the radio frequency identification. According to the present invention, it is possible to increase the accuracy of the location measurement of a moving RFID reader in an RFID system because the location of the RFID reader is measured in consideration of propagation environments.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing personalized information are provided. Based on an identification of a customer through the use of a card, personalized information is selectively produced and wirelessly provided to a display such as a wireless display. The identification of the customer, as well as additional information, can be provided through the use of the card, wherein functions of the card can be enabled or disabled by the customer through the use of on-card switches, buttons, slides and/or bistable domes.

Abstract: Information from one or more transmitters installed in a detection object area is received. The reception feature value of when a detection object is present in a predetermined position of the detection object area is measured. A reception pattern of when the detection object is present in the predetermined position is formed. The reception pattern is compared with reference reception patterns, and the presence position corresponding to the reference reception pattern most approximate to the reception pattern is acquired from a reference reception pattern database where the presence positions of the detection object and the reference reception patterns of when the detection object is present in the presence positions are associated with one another. The presence position of the detection object is estimated according to the acquired presence position. The estimated presence position of the detection object is associated with received detection object identification information.

Abstract: An apparatus provides environmental monitoring of an item and includes an RFID tag, and a passive switch for sensing an environmental parameter to which the item is subjected, and coupled to the RFID tag so that a measurement of the sensed environmental parameter can be stored, the RFID tag for providing remote readout of the sensed environmental parameter. A method provides environmental monitoring of an item and includes the steps of sensing an environmental parameter to which the item is subjected with activation of a passive switch, storing a measurement of the sensed environmental parameter upon the event of activation of the passive switch, and providing remote readout of the measurement of the sensed environmental parameter with an RFID tag.

Abstract: A smart card capable of independently displaying information is wirelessly connectable to an external interface. The smart card includes a main body, an antenna module, an electronic paper, a drive member and a radio frequency identification chip isolated from the drive member. The antenna module includes a first antenna for receiving first electromagnetic wave and a second antenna for receiving/transmitting second electromagnetic wave. The first and second antennas are respectively connected to the drive member and the radio frequency identification chip. The information can be independently displayed on the smart card to ensure confidence of the data. Moreover, the smart card can be more conveniently used.

Abstract: An integrated circuit for use in an RFID tag includes an integrated circuit die having a circuit, a radio frequency identification (RFID) interface for providing communication between the circuit and a remote RFID reader via RF signaling between the RFID interface and the remote RFID reader. An antenna section facilitates the RF signaling between the RFID and the remote RFID reader. A substrate is coupled to support the first integrated circuit die and at least a portion of the antenna section.

Abstract: Logic is included in a piece of active storage furniture such that the active storage furniture integrates articles stored thereby into a representation of information about those articles. The logic includes (i) sensors to identify individual articles stored by the furniture and respective locations of the articles and (ii) display elements capable of incorporating selected individual ones of the articles as separate and individual components of a collective representation of information about the selected articles. In response to queries about the articles, the articles themselves are integrated into a representation of information about the articles. For example, a wine rack includes RFID and LEDs in each of a number of storage cells or cubbies and illuminates each cubby according to information about the wine stored in the cubby in response to a query for such information (e.g., show me all wine color-coded by region).

Abstract: A communication system includes a first information processing device, a plurality of processing portions, a storage portion, and a second information processing device. The first information processing device includes a processing command transmission portion that transmits to the second information processing device, by non-contact communication, a processing command that includes one of a plurality of identification information items. Each of the processing portions is uniquely associated with one of the identification information items. The storage portion stores a correspondence information item that indicates a correspondence between one of the identification information items and one of the processing portions.

Abstract: The invention concerns a multi-layer flexible film body (6), in particular a label film or packaging film as well as a goods identification system and uses of such a film body. The film body (6) has a carrier layer and a decorative layer system (11) which provides optically recognisable information. A plurality of layers of the decorative layer system form an electronically controlled display element (65), by the activation of which the optically recognisable information becomes visible.

Abstract: A RFID transponder includes a resonant circuit for providing a clock signal at a predetermined clock frequency, a self-calibration stage for calibrating the resonant circuit's current clock frequency towards the predetermined clock frequency. The self-calibration stage is adapted to compare a first clock frequency of the resonant circuit determined during an interrogation period, during which the resonant circuit is excited by an external RF signal, with a second clock frequency determined during a frequency maintenance period, during which the resonant circuit is excited internally through an oscillation maintenance circuit of the RFID transponder and to calibrate the resonant circuit towards the predetermined clock frequency based on the comparison result.

Abstract: A walking guidance apparatus using human body communication, including: a first human body communication device acquiring a walking guidance information signal, converting the acquired walking guidance information signal into a signal available for human body communication, and transmitting the converted signal through a user's body; and a second human body communication device receiving the signal transmitted through the user's body from the first human body communication device, converting the received signal into a signal that can be recognized by the user, and outputting the converted signal. Walking guidance information having a high privacy function and high stability and accuracy can be provided to enhance user convenience.

Abstract: A mount sheet having a plurality of radio tags attached at an interval to it is run over a radio communicating section. The radio communicating section has a metal member providing a conveying surface with a slit formed therein. A dielectric member is arranged on a lower surface of the metal member with a projecting section inserted into the slit and, by doing so, the top surface of the projecting section is set flush with the top surface of the metal member. An antenna of the radio communicating section is located beneath the projecting section of the dielectric member and this antenna is held within the metal case. When any radio tag being an object of a radio communication is located over the slit, the radio communicating section positively makes radio communication with the radio tag through the antenna.

Abstract: A location-based multi-media information delivery system and control for pedestrian use is disclosed, designed especially for use in areas where it is not possible to determine a user's precise location. The system automatically provides a selection list of relevant information based on the user's calculated location. The system then delivers information via the appropriate output method, based on the user's selection. Also disclosed is a system that receives location information from various systems, including global positioning satellite systems and wireless local area network systems. The system may provide video, audio and visual information.

Abstract: A method for monitoring shipments of a plurality of components and enabling assembly of the plurality of components. The method can include the steps of encoding a unique identifier and specification information on each component into a data storage of a GPS device; encoding assembly instructions for each component; attaching the GPS device to the component; actuating each GPS device to provide a longitude and latitude signal to a network; tracking the location of each component; shipping the components while tracking the location of the components until the components reach a designated location; and retrieving from each component assembly instructions, specification information, and inspection information. The method can include assembling the components using the assembly instructions at the designated location, and forming a record of each route used by each component.