Abstract: An RFID tag attached to an object and transmitting a signal that corresponds to identification information includes an RFID tag chip that modulates the signal according to the identification information and an RFID tag antenna that transmits the modulated signal. The RFID tag antenna includes a dielectric material, a radiating patch, and a slit. The dielectric material has a polyhedral shape and includes a first surface that contacts the object and a second surface that is parallel with the first surface, the radiating patch is formed on at least a part of the second surface and radiates electromagnetic to waves, and the slit is formed on at least a part of the radiating patch to expose the dielectric material.

Abstract: A system, apparatus, and techniques for interrogating a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag are disclosed. The system includes an RFID reader that includes a pivotable polarized antenna for reading a reader/tag link. The antenna moves at a specific frequency over a specific distance resulting in reader/tag links being moved out of a null region of the reader. Advantageously, by pivoting the antenna, the antenna apparatus minimizes signal fading and improves signal quality from tags.

Abstract: A flexible stored value label has within it an integrated thin film flexible display and has RFID and security capabilities. In another embodiment, the present invention is a stored value payment system. The label has a secure processor with a memory, a near-field antenna connected to the processor and a bi-state display and a flexible encapsulation layer encapsulating the secure processor, the near-field antenna and the bi-state display. The encapsulation layer has a window through which information displayed on the bi-state display may be viewed. The secure processor and the display are powered solely by energy received through the near-field antenna and the label conforms to a shape of a non-planar surface of an object to which it is attached.

Abstract: Monitoring assemblies for determining an operational state of a circuit protector in an electrical circuit.

Abstract: A noncontact IC tag label includes: a band-shaped label base material inclusive of a release surface formed at least at one end of the base material and releasably treated in advance, and a non-release surface; an electroconductive layer formed on the non-release surface of the band-shaped label base material and including a required antenna pattern; and an IC chip mounted on one face of the electroconductive layer. The electroconductive layer and the IC chip are shrouded by a surface protection sheet via a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer. A thermoadhesive resin layer bonded onto the non-release surface of the band-shaped label base material is provided on an opposite face of the electroconductive layer including the antenna pattern, with respect to the surface protection sheet. Also, the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer is bonded onto the non-release surface and release surface of the band-shaped label base material.

Abstract: A passive RFID tag suitable for attachment to an electrically conductive surface is provided. The passive RFID tag includes a dielectric substrate, an RFID chip for storing data, and an RFID antenna structure operatively connected to the RFID chip wherein the RFID antenna structure comprises a slotted inverted L-shape. A method of manufacturing a passive RFID tag includes forming an antenna structure on a conductive layer, the antenna structure comprising a slotted inverted L-shape. The method further includes operatively connecting an RFID chip with the antenna structure. A method associated with a passive RFID tag includes providing a passive RFID tag. The passive RFID tag includes a dielectric substrate, an RFID chip for storing data, and an RFID antenna structure operatively connected to the RFID chip wherein the RFID antenna structure comprises a slotted inverted L-shape. The method further includes operatively connecting the passive RFID tag to a conductive surface.

Abstract: An RFID tag includes a substrate having a top surface and a bottom surface. An RFID integrated circuit is disposed on the top surface of the substrate. A first electrically conductive region is associated with the top surface of the substrate and electrically coupled to the RFID integrated circuit. A second electrically conductive region is associated with the bottom surface of the substrate and electrically coupled to the first conductive region, the first and second conductive regions forming an RFID antenna. The RFID integrated circuit, first conductive region and second conductive region together provide an RFID function. An attachment layer is associated with the bottom surface of the substrate for attaching the tag to a surface. An adhesion modifying layer modifies the adhesion of the second conductive region such that the second conductive region is disrupted if the tag is tampered or removed from the surface.

Abstract: A system is provided of tracking objects loaded into a receptacle, where the receptacle defines a chamber having an open side for receiving the objects and has a perimeter about the open side. The system comprises a radio frequency identification antenna spaced from the receptacle and attached to the perimeter about the open side, and a radio frequency identification reader attached to the receptacle for receiving a signal from the antenna. The system further comprises a control unit attached to the receptacle communicating with the reader for processing the signal from the antenna.

Abstract: A system and method for using a single antenna for active and passive radio functions. A wireless communication device includes a passive component that can be read using an antenna when the wireless communication device is in a low power sleep mode. When it is determined that a higher capacity is needed, the wireless communication device activates an active component. Activation of the active component includes a switching of a connection of the antenna from the passive component to the active component.

Abstract: Whether or not one utilizes direct DC coupling of the microradios to the antenna feed points or couples the RF energy from the dipoles associated with the spaced-apart contact pads on the microradio, in the subject invention one selects only those microradios that are within a certain variance of a preferred direction and then makes sure that the polarization direction of all of these radios is in the preferred direction are identical, in one embodiment by utilizing digital coding, which both activates the microradio and is used to sense the polarity associated with the connection from the signal source to the contact pads.

Abstract: Method and system for localizing an object in a stack of objects. A passive radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is attached to each object. Each RFID tag includes a unique identifier of the object to which the RFID tag is attached. A RFID reader has multiple antennas. Each antenna is positioned to transmit a signal that can be detected by different RFID tags attached to the objects within a reading range of the transmitted signal from each antenna. The antennas are sequentially selected and powered to transmit to the stack a read signal including object's identifier for the object to be localized. If a response to the read signal is received by a selected and powered antenna from a RFID tag that matched the object's identifier with its unique identifier, then a light emitting diode (LED) is lighted to identify a location of the object being localized.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) device has multiple modes of operation. One of the modes of operation is an electronic article surveillance (EAS) mode, which is used to allow use of the RFID device as an EAS device. Another mode of operation is an RFID mode, which allows normal function of the RFID device in RFID communications. The EAS mode has greater sensitivity than the RFID mode, requires less power than the RFID mode to operate the device, and requires less current and/or voltage for operation. The EAS mode may achieve these different characteristics by one or more of: switching off some digital blocks in the circuitry of the RFID device; reducing power storage required to respond to incoming signals; reducing the length of response to incoming signals; reducing modulation required for a response; changing chip input impedance; and having multiple chip ports with different impedances.

Abstract: A sensor is provided. The sensor comprises at least one sensing device comprising a first electrode and a second electrode, and a gap defined as a distance between one or more facing inner surfaces of the first and second electrodes, wherein the gap distance at least in part determines a threshold of one or more sensed parameters, and an antenna in operative association with the sensing device.

Abstract: Method, systems, and articles of manufacture for assigning priority to antenna are disclosed. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, reader antenna (151, 152, 153) identify the location of an object by detecting a tag or other identifier associated with each object. Sensors (121, 122, 123) can be provided to provide additional information regarding the environment of the objects to their surroundings. A priority order is assigned to the reader antenna based on the location and other characteristics of the objects and/or their environment. A polling sequence for reading the reader antennae is determined according to the priority order.

Abstract: According to an aspect of an embodiment, a radio frequency tag comprising: a base; a radio frequency antenna disposed on the base; a circuit chip mounted on the base and electrically connected to the radio frequency antenna, the circuit chip performing radio communication via the radio frequency antenna; and a protection sheet disposed on the radio frequency antenna, the protection sheet comprising a flexible material and rigid bodies dispersed in the flexible material so as to prevent the protection sheet from being collapsed when the radio frequency tag is bent and compressed.

Abstract: An RFID tag (1, 1?) comprises at least one antenna (2, 2?) and electronic tag components (4) cooperating with the antenna, wherein the antenna (2, 2?) and the electronic tag components (4) are positioned on a common substrate (3), wherein portions (3b) of the substrate encircled by the antenna (2, 2?) and not occupied by the electronic tag components (4) have been removed.

Abstract: A method for a municipality to control, track, and monitor waste or refuse receptacles requires a permit for use of a waste receptacle. An issuing organization issues a permit associated with a discreet receptacle identifier. An RFID tag is provided with the permit and attached to a discreet receptacle. The RFID tag transmits a signal carrying data associated with the discreet receptacle identifier. The signal may be read by a portable reader carried by municipal personnel to record violations of municipal code associated with the use of the discreet receptacle.

Abstract: A combination EAS/RFID antenna for use in an EAS/RFID surveillance system. The antenna includes an EAS antenna element and an RFID antenna element. The EAS antenna element includes an EAS loop antenna defining an interior portion. The RFID antenna element includes an RFID patch antenna having a hatched conductor pattern. The RFID antenna element is situated proximate the EAS loop antenna in such a fashion that the overall size of the antenna is reduced.

Abstract: The charging circuit includes an antenna circuit receiving radio waves, a rectifier circuit rectifying AC voltage generated in the antenna circuit to generate DC voltage, and a power supply circuit adjusting the magnitude of the DC voltage and charging a rechargeable battery using the adjusted DC voltage. The charging device may further include a charge control circuit controlling the power supply circuit so as to prevent overcharge of the rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery may be charged by application of DC voltage to a pair of terminals, or it may be charged wirelessly in such a manner that an oscillation circuit and an output antenna circuit are additionally provided.

Abstract: Deactivating a data tag attached to packaging for user privacy or tamper-evident reasons. Each of a plurality of data tags stores identification information. At least one of the data tags is removable and capable of wireless signal transmission at a first range such that removal of the data tag substantially prevents communication of the identification information via the removed data tag and permits communication of the identification information via another data tag at a second range relatively smaller than the first range.

Abstract: A strain-resistant electrical connection and a method of making the same is provided. An antenna (36, 38) or other conductive lead is connected to a circuit (32) in a manner that makes the connection more resistant to mechanical stresses such as movement or rotation of the antenna (36, 38) or conductive lead relative to the circuit (32). The antenna (36, 38) or conductive lead is at least partially coiled to provide additional ability to withstand mechanical stresses. The antenna (36, 38) or conductive lead may be encase along with is connected circuit in an elastomeric material.

Abstract: An access control system has at least two antenna coils (12, 13 and 14, 15) arranged one behind the other at an entrance lane (4) and connected to a reading device (20), which with a capacitance (40, 41) form an oscillating circuit (30, 31). Here either the one oscillating circuit (30, 31) with the in entrance direction (5) first antenna coil (12, 13) or the other oscillating circuit with the second antenna coil (14, 15) is actuated by the reading device (20), in order to read out data for the purpose of access authorization from a transponder (22) which is carried by a user and has a transponder coil (24) coupleable with the antenna coils (12 to 15). The oscillating circuit (30, 31) not actuated by the reading device (20) is detuned or short-circuited.

Abstract: A radio frequency communication device and methods of testing and tuning an antenna attached thereto are described. A radio frequency communication device comprises 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.

Abstract: RFID tags and chips for RFID tags store a first code and a second code in memory. They are capable of backscattering a combination made from at least portions of the first code and the second code, without receiving any commands in the interim. In a number of embodiments, therefore, a separate command does not have to be sent for also reading the second code, thereby saving time in inventorying the tags. Plus, the combination can enable reading tag codes during tag manufacturing that are not otherwise readily available to read in the field.

Abstract: A pest detection device includes a housing with a sensor and one or more bait members. The sensor includes one or more of a chisel-shaped electrically conductive trace carried on a substrate, a low resistance electrically conductive ink defining an electrical pathway on a substrate with a pointed profile, and/or a substrate including a directional grain structure oriented in a predefined manner relative to an electrically conductive pathway.

Abstract: An RFID-tag communication device including (a) an antenna from which a transmission signal is transmitted toward an RFID tag and through which a reply signal transmitted from the RFID tag in response to the transmission signal is received, for radio communication with the RFID tag, (b) a first-cancel-signal output portion operable to generate a digital first cancel signal for suppressing a leakage signal from a received signal which is received through the antenna and which contains the leakage signal as well as the rely signal, the leakage signal being a part of the transmission signal which is transmitted from the antenna and which is returned to and received by the antenna, (c) a first-cancel-signal control portion operable to control an amplitude and/or a phase of the first cancel signal generated by the first-cancel-signal output portion, (d) a first-cancel-signal D/A converting portion operable to convert the first cancel signal generated by the first-cancel-signal output portion, into an analog signal,

Abstract: Aspects of the subject matter described herein relate to using wireless identification tags (e.g., RFID tags) with backup media. In aspects, a wireless identification tag may be attached to, incorporated into, or otherwise associated with backup media, a container holding the backup media, or a location (e.g., a shelf) associated with the backup media. In response to a signal, this wireless identification tag may provide an identifier that uniquely identifies the wireless identification tag. This identifier may be associated with a data set that is stored or to be stored on the backup media. The wireless identification tag may be used to locate the backup media and to identify what is on particular backup media. In some embodiments, the wireless identification tag may store backup information thereon that may be subsequently retrieved and used identify what is on its associated backup media.

Abstract: An IC tag label includes an inlet substrate, an IC chip protection sheet, 4 which is mounted on one surface of the inlet substrate 11 and an antenna pattern and an IC chip which are mounted on the other surface of the inlet substrate. An adhesive layer is mounted on the other surface of the inlet substrate to cover the antenna pattern and IC chip. An opening, which serves as a clearance for the IC chip, is formed in a portion of the IC chip protection sheet-4, the portion corresponding to the IC chip.

Abstract: A power-saving wireless input device and an associated system are included. The wireless input device comprises an antenna, an RFID transponder, an energy-storing unit, and a sensing unit. The RFID transponder receives an AC signal via the antenna, and converts the AC signal into a DC signal. The energy-storing unit receives the DC signal for charging. The sensing unit, which is powered by the energy-storing unit, generates an input signal to the RFID transponder. The RFID transponder demodulates the AC signal to generate a request signal, and performs load modulation according to the input signal to generate a reply signal in response to the request signal. The reply signal is then transmitted via the antenna.

Abstract: A multi-part, distributed antenna arrangement including: an antenna element as a first part; and a semiconductor chip as a second part, separated from the first part, wherein the semiconductor chip comprises integrated radio frequency circuitry and a coupling element for wirelessly coupling the integrated radio frequency circuitry with the antenna element.

Abstract: A blister package with an integrated RFID tag is provided. The conductive lidding material is modified to serve not only to seal some contents within some formed blister film, but also to act as an RFID tag antenna. An IC chip is electrically connected to the lidding film antenna. Methods of manufacture which integrate with conventional blister package manufacturing processes are also provided.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification system comprises a radio-frequency identification substrate and an interrogator. In one embodiment, the radio-frequency identification substrate comprises a plurality of radio-frequency identification devices. In one embodiment, a first radio-frequency identification device on the substrate monitors an indication of a response of a second radio-frequency identification device on the substrate to an interrogation signal and selectively responds to the interrogation signal based on the monitoring of the indication.

Abstract: An RFID system according to the present invention includes an RFID antenna system including: a first antenna that can communicate with an external reader/writer; an antenna selector for connecting with the first antenna; and a plurality of second antennas that can connect with the first antenna in order via the antenna selector, each of the second antennas can communicate with an IC tag that is attached to an article placed in a region defined by the second antenna.

Abstract: Disclosed is a printing device for printing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) labels. The printing device includes an input media drawer configured to receive a plurality of RFID labels including RFID tags and an RFID label processing mechanism operatively coupled to the input media drawer. The RFID label processing mechanism includes a radio system for providing a signal for processing of the at least one RFID tag received from the input media drawer, and an antenna module coupled to the radio system for processing the at least one RFID tag based on the signal received from the radio system. The antenna module includes a transmission line including serially connected, a first set of horizontal legs and a second set of vertical legs. Further, the printing device includes a printing mechanism operatively coupled to the RFID label processing mechanism for printing the RFID labels.

Abstract: Provided are a method, system, and device in which non-RF (radio frequency) data signals are transmitted to a non-RF data port connected to an antenna of a device. The non-RF data signals from the non-RF data port are coupled to a data bus using a low frequency coupler of the device. RF signals are blocked from the data bus using the low frequency coupler of the device. In another aspect, RF signals are transmitted to the antenna of the device and are coupled to an RF port using a high frequency coupler of the device. Non-RF data signals are blocked from the RF port using the high frequency coupler. Additional embodiments are described and claimed.

Abstract: RFID readers, reader systems, and methods are provided that utilize smart antenna switching. A first signal is transmitted from a first antenna estimating presence of tags within the antennas field of view. If fewer than a predefined number of tags are estimated, the system switches to a second antenna. Otherwise, the tags found in the field of view of the first antenna are inventoried before switching to the second antenna.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification device is enclosed in an enclosure suitable for harsh environments, and is resistant to physical, chemical, temperature, and electro-magnetic abuse. The enclosure includes a shell member configured to deflect direct blows to the transponder and can be shaped to fit various types of surfaces to which it can be affixed.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling distant equipment. A passive radio frequency identification (RFID) tag within a Programmable Secure Remote Controller (PSRC) receives a radio frequency (RF) signal from a transmitter integrated in the distant equipment. The distant equipment is external to and remote from the PSRC. The PRSC does not include an internal source of energy and requires energy from an external source to operate. The PSRC is configured to distribute sufficient energy from the RF signal to components of the PSRC to enable the components to operate. The RFID tag is activated to generate information and the information is decoded to identify the distant equipment. A request to perform an operation that controls the distant equipment is received. After the request is received, a first predefined scenario is activated for performing the operation that controls the distant equipment.

Abstract: Methods and systems for automatically locating and identifying labware using radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags are described herein. The methods and systems include a plurality of RFID tags (pre-programmed with unique data codes) that are associated with labware (or labware holders). For example, the RFID tags can be embedded within the locating pegs of the labware (or labware holders). The methods and systems also include a plurality of RFID tag readers that mount near known locations of an instrument deck which receives the labware. The RFID tag readers automatically scan for the presence of RFID tags such that when a piece of labware is added to the instrument deck, and then report to a processing device the specific known location on deck where each tag was found, as well as the unique data code of each tag. Using this information, the methods and systems determine one or more of the location, orientation, and identity of the received labware.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a power rectifier for a Radio Frequency Identification tag circuit. The rectifier is constructed from a pair of complementary MOS transistors. Gates of the transistors have predetermined voltages applied to them. The applied voltages bias the transistors to near their active operating region. During the same time additional control signals are applied to the gates of the transistors, the control signals are synchronous, but out of phase, with each other.

Abstract: Systems and methods to selectively attach and control antennas via diodes and current sources. In one embodiment, a system includes: an RFID reader having a plurality of reader antennas of different polarizations to transmit radio frequency signals; and at least one RFID tag. The RFID tag includes: a plurality of tag antennas of different polarizations; a plurality of diodes coupled to the plurality of tag antennas respectively; a receiver coupled to the plurality of diodes to receive the radio frequency signals from the tag antennas when the diodes are forward biased; and a set of one or more current controllers coupled to the plurality of diodes. In a receiving mode the controllers selectively forward bias the diodes to receive the signals from the RFID reader. In a transmitting mode the controllers selectively change the state of the tag antennas to transmit data via backscattering the radio frequency signals.

Abstract: An RFID reader control system and method is provided. A protocol for controlling an RFID reader and an RFID reader control unit of a mobile phone is defined. Messages, information, commands, responses, and notification are constructed and transmitted between the RFID reader and the RFID reader control unit.

Abstract: A method for tracking objects includes providing each of at least two different objects with a transmitter having individualized identifier data; logically connecting the objects to each other by connecting the identifier data of the transmitters to each other; recording the identifier data of the transmitters of the objects in a memory; connecting contact information of the object in question to the identifier data; detecting the transmitter of the object with a receiver of an identification point when the object comes close to the identification point; determining based on the identifier data contained in the memory whether at least two objects logically connected to each other have traveled past the identification point inside a pre-defined time window; and performing one or more pre-defined feedback actions when at least two of the objects logically connected to each other have not traveled past the identification point inside the pre-defined time window.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a near field communication device containing a ZigBee communication module circuit linking with a Bluetooth communication module. A ZigBee module is equipped with a master central processing unit (CPU) to identify N-Fi communication protocol and enable wireless communication. The master CPU is connected with a communication chip to transmit or receive packets, and includes a ZigBee memory to store the packets temporarily. Besides, the master CPU is linked with a signal conversion/transmission circuit to enable internal exchange of information packets with the Bluetooth communication module. The Bluetooth communication module has a Bluetooth master CPU to control Bluetooth communication, and is connected with a Bluetooth communication chip to transmit and receive Bluetooth-based packets. Thus, the embedded Bluetooth module can be used to connect the electronic device that includes a ZigBee module to carry out transmission of NFC signals.

Abstract: An RFID thread which is mounted on a sheet and whose predetermined information can be read wirelessly from outside, the RFID thread includes: an IC chip recording the predetermined information; a first antenna consisting of an electrically continuous conductor which has a length corresponding to a size of the sheet and on which one or a plurality of the IC chips are mounted; and a base film made of resin for supporting the first antenna.

Abstract: The invention provides a tag communication device, a tag moving direction detecting system and a tag moving direction detecting method able to detect the moving direction of a moving body attaching a RFID tag thereto by simple processing, and able to easily detect the moving direction even when its moving speed is increased. A scan antenna scans a beam of a transmitted radio wave toward a belt conveyer for conveying baggage with a RFID tag. ID is read from the RFID tag, and reading NO. and a scan angle are related and recorded to a measuring data table, and plot data are generated. These plot data are plotted in an XY coordinate system, and a plot graph is generated. Further, a linear approximate straight line is calculated from this plot graph, and a moving direction of the baggage is detected from an inclination value of the linear approximate straight line.

Abstract: Passive tags use two antennas with only limited mutual coupling one of which receives a power/clock field and the other of which receives a data signal. An area-reading antenna, or two or more antennas, are deployed to generate the power/clock field, from a base station. The base station, or active tags, or both, generate the data signals from time to time. This topology together with the use of low frequencies permits area reads, and permits small and economical passive tags, and further permits localization of a particular passive tag as being nearby to a particular active tag.

Abstract: A door and method of constructing a door whereby a security system antenna is routed through channels that are incorporated within the outer perimeter of the door, and completely or partially hidden from sight. The channels are sized to retain at least a portion of the security system antenna therein. The door can be purchased with the antenna wires already embedded therein and hidden from sight and installed at a facility without the need to mount the antenna wires on a pedestal or dig up floors and/or walls to embed the antenna coils. Existing doors can be retrofitted to install the antenna wires. Such antennas may be used, for example, in an RFID marker system or a magneto-acoustic EAS marker system.

Abstract: A system and method of identifying objects packaged in electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection packaging is disclosed. The system includes an ESD protection package and a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. The RFID tag is affixed to the object prior to being inserted into the ESD protection packaging. A RFID interrogation device having a transmitter, an antenna and a receiver is used to interrogate the RFID tag and output the identification data to a display or to a computer. The method includes affixing an RFID tag to an object prior to placement in the ESD protection packaging, providing a RFID interrogation device including an antenna in proximity to the packaged object, and reading the data stored by the RFID tag for identifying the object.

Abstract: A single antenna single reader (SASR) system and method for locating a tag. The reader connects to a single antenna that is in motion. The reader transmits an interrogation signal to the tag. The reader receives a response signal from the tag. The reader determines the range of the tag from the reader, the received signal strength (RSS) of the response signal at the reader from the tag, and the maximum correlation of the response signal at the reader from the tag. The reader determines the location of the tag using range of the tag from the reader, received signal strength and maximum correlation of the response signal.