Abstract: A linkage device that can be connected with other linkage devices and to itself, the linkage device comprising a strip having a first end and a second end, a closure hub attached to the first end of the strip and having an opening to receive a second end and a locking mechanism within the closure hub, a connecting surface protruding from the strip operable to secure the second end within a closure device, and a tampering detection device connected to the linkage device.

Abstract: A directional warning system and a method of warning of friendly forces. In one embodiment, the system includes: (1) a conductive shield having an opening at an end thereof and a radio frequency absorptive material located on an inner surface thereof, (2) a Luneberg lens located within the conductive shield and (3) a plurality of feed horns located proximate a portion of the Luneberg lens that is distal from the opening and arranged relative thereto based on a zone-of-interest with which the directional warning system may be associated.

Abstract: A releasable security tag for attachment to an article of merchandise includes: a locking mechanism with a release for attaching the tag to the article of merchandise; an EAS resonant circuit or an RFID circuit for responding to a first RF signal at a predetermined frequency corresponding to the resonant circuit or to the RFID circuit; an ambient RF energy harvesting circuit; a release signal detection circuit coupled to and powered by the ambient RF energy harvesting circuit and an electro-mechanical actuator electrically coupled to the release signal detection circuit. The electro-mechanical actuator releases the locking mechanism whenever the release signal detection circuit receives a release signal.

Abstract: An item tracking system using RFID technology for automatically monitoring the taking and returning operations of items from a storage location inside a working area provides an “on line” status of each tool as well as a usage history of each tool. Furthermore, the system knows which item has been taken or stored from which storage area by which worker and when.

Abstract: A container comprising a body having embedded therein a plurality of chipless radio frequency identification elements. The chipless radio frequency identification elements comprises a plurality of categories of resonant elements. The resonant elements can be utilized in a system having a binary code feature. The combination of different resonant elements can be read and translated to identify the features of a particular product. The container can be prepared by compounding moldable compositions with the resonant elements and molding the moldable compositions containing the resonant elements into the final product. The invention also provides a system and a method for reading the binary code provided by the chipless radio frequency identification elements.

Abstract: The subject invention relates to systems and methods that distribute electronic data, such as Electronic Product Code (EPC) data, obtained from RFID tags by Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) readers and/or servers to agents within an agent-based control system. The systems and methods employ a component that collects, filters, processes, and stores electronic product data. The component collects electronic product data through corresponding reader and/or server interfaces. This data can be filtered to accept particular electronic product data, processed to a format suitable to the agents, and stored. Such storage can include delineating the electronic product data across rows of a table by electronic product code and across columns of the table by various types of data. Upon receiving a subscription and/or request from an agent for electronic product data, the component can obtain and convey the information to the agent.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a passive UHF omnidirectional container electronic seal. It comprises a locking bar and a locking cap; the locking bar contains a locking bar hasing a RFID chip and a cable connector, wherein the RFID chip is electrically connected with the cable connector; and the locking cap hasing a plug-in unit, which is matched with the cable connector in the locking bar for connecting an antenna in the locking cap. The present invention combines the mechanical container seal in the present market with the RFID technology and adopts the ultra-high frequency (UHF) RFID technology, which has overcome numerous shortcomings to reach the long-distance transmission, the transmission distance can be up to 10 meters and with no direction, can resist more than 1.2 tons pulling force, and the appearance is novel, small, exquisite and cheap.

Abstract: A security system for freight containers comprises: a locking device configured to reliably attach to the container and prevent unauthorized opening of the container doors; an electromechanical locking mechanism; and a GPS receiver so that unlocking may be authorized when the container is at a selected location. The system may further include a device to sense conditions affecting the container; and, a communication system to transmit the output of the sensing device to a system administrator located remotely. The locking and sensing devices may be capable of two-way communication with the system administrator. The system may include a visual display on the exterior of the container capable of displaying selected messages. The messages may be preprogrammed or may be changed as the container moves from one geographic location to another.

Abstract: A security tag assembly and security system associated therewith to 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 including a locking member is structured to restrict 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: Systems and methods are disclosed for a tamper resistant RFID (radio frequency identification) tags that overcome the problems existing with previous RFID tags. The tamper resistant RFID tags described herein are particularly useful for tracking of liquid propane gas (LPG) containers and/or other types of containers or objects. Removal of the RFID tag, after it is attached, will destroy and/or render inoperable the RFID transponder within the tag so that removal and re-use is not practical or possible. One key feature of this tamper resistant RFID tag is the use of adhesive materials with differing adhesion characteristics with respect to the container material (e.g., metal) and the housing for the RFID tag (e.g., plastic) so that the RFID tag will tend to be destroyed when removal is attempted.

Abstract: A package and method for products is provided. The package includes a non-planar package comprising a wall formed of polymeric material, and at least one tracking device partially embedded within a thickness of the wall during forming of the package such that the tracking device is exposed and visible on a surface of the package.

Abstract: A security device for a product for sale. The device includes a housing having a cable for engaging the product. A free end of the cable has a locking pin receivable within a bore in the housing. A locking mechanism is provided to lock the locking pin within the bore. The mechanism includes a slider and a clamping member. When the slider moves away from the clamping member, the locking pin is clamped in the bore. When the slider moves toward the clamping member, the member disengages the locking pin which may then be withdrawn from the bore. The locking mechanism further includes a magnetic spring clip that prevents the slider from being moved toward the clamping member. The spring clip is only deactivateable by a complementary magnetic key.

Abstract: A method of protecting luggage from tampering includes steps of receiving a piece of luggage at a baggage check-in station (1302), and encoding passenger and routing information at the baggage check-in station onto an identification tag (1304). The identification tag is attached to the piece of luggage (1306). The piece of luggage is placed on a baggage conveyor and conveyed to a security inspection station inside a secure area that excludes all unauthorized s personnel (1308). The piece of luggage is conveyed on the baggage conveyor to a scanning station to detect and decode the passenger and routing information on the identification tag (1310). The piece of luggage is conveyed on the baggage conveyor to a wrapping station (1312). When an identification tag is detected, the method continues from step (1316), otherwise from step (1322). When the identification tag indicates that the piece of luggage is to be wrapped, the method continues from step (1320), otherwise from step (1322).

Abstract: An anti-theft security tag includes an engagement member and a housing for supporting an electronic article surveillance (EAS) marker. The housing includes a rotating inner core for supporting the engagement member for attachment to the article. The engagement member includes a line for connection to the article and a locking mechanism for securing the first and second ends of the line therein so that the core and the engagement member can rotate together within the housing. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism includes one or more self-crimping members which automatically secure at least one end of the line upon insertion therein. One end of the rotating core may be disposed flush with one end of the housing, so that the consumer cannot twist the line in order to remove the tag.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) assembly is configured for use with cast concrete components. The RFID assembly has a planar back plate having a plurality of break-away, registration posts extending perpendicular to the nominal plane of the back plate, and a plurality of gripping surfaces extending opposite the registration posts. The RFID assembly further includes a RFID transponder encapsulated between the back plate and a cover. The RFID transponder is programmed with information concerning the cast concrete component to which the RFID tag is affixed.

Abstract: A rugged, mobile, wireless data capture device with an integrated radio frequency identification (“RFID”) reader is described. The wireless data capture device includes a durable, sealed enclosure. A wireless microprocessor is mounted within the enclosure. An RFID reader is coupled to the wireless microprocessor and mounted within the enclosure. The enclosure also supports a mounted communications antenna that is communicatively coupled to the wireless microprocessor, as well as RFID reader antenna communicatively coupled to the RFID reader. A power supply system supplies power to the data capture device. Finally, the durable, sealed enclosure includes mounting means for securing the enclosure to industrial equipment in a manner that mitigates effects of physical shock and vibration.

Abstract: An inventory control tag comprises a first component, a second component, and a fastening mechanism for fastening together the first component and the second component. The fastening mechanism is configured such that the first component and the second component can be easily locked together and can only be unlocked from each other in normal usage by an external tool. At least one chamber defined by at least one of the first and second components is provided. Further, an electronic device is located in one of the chambers for triggering a compatible sensor and alarm system external to the control tag. A dye container located in one of the chambers designed to fracture and spill dye when the first and second components are forced apart.

Abstract: A security device for securing around a generally cylindrical article such as the neck of a bottle includes a housing which forms a lock compartment and which contains an EAS security device and a magnetically actuated lock mechanism. A ratchet strap have a series of locking teeth and is formed integrally with the housing and extends outwardly therefrom and has sufficient rigidity to assume a generally circular configuration with a curved article contact surface of the housing to facilitate attaching the device around the article. The lock mechanism includes a locking pawl which engages the strap teeth and an actuation strip which biases the pawl toward locking engagement with the strap.

Abstract: A security device for securing around a generally cylindrical article such as the neck of a bottle includes a housing which forms a lock compartment and which contains an EAS security device and a magnetically actuated lock mechanism. A ratchet strap have a series of locking teeth and is formed integrally with the housing and extends outwardly therefrom and has sufficient rigidity to assume a generally circular configuration with a curved article contact surface of the housing to facilitate attaching the device around the article. The lock mechanism includes a locking pawl which engages the strap teeth and an actuation strip which biases the pawl toward locking engagement with the strap.

Abstract: This disclosure discloses a RFID-tag structure body comprising an affixed portion to be affixed onto an affixed face; a self-supporting portion self-supported with respect to the affixed face; at least one RFID circuit element having an IC circuit part provided at the self-supporting portion and configured to store information, and a tag antenna connected to the IC circuit part; and a stereo-structure preparation portion configured to realize a three-dimensional structure when being affixed onto the affixed face.

Abstract: A security device for securing around a generally cylindrical article such as the neck of a bottle includes a housing which forms a lock compartment and which contains an EAS security device and a magnetically actuated lock mechanism. A ratchet strap have a series of locking teeth and is formed integrally with the housing and extends outwardly therefrom and has sufficient rigidity to assume a generally circular configuration with a curved article contact surface of the housing to facilitate attaching the device around the article. The lock mechanism includes a locking pawl which engages the strap teeth and an actuation strip which biases the pawl toward locking engagement with the strap.

Abstract: A security device for securing around a generally cylindrical article such as the neck of a bottle includes a housing which forms a lock compartment and which contains an EAS security device and a magnetically actuated lock mechanism. A ratchet strap have a series of locking teeth and is formed integrally with the housing and extends outwardly therefrom and has sufficient rigidity to assume a generally circular configuration with a curved article contact surface of the housing to facilitate attaching the device around the article. The lock mechanism includes a locking pawl which engages the strap teeth and an actuation strip which biases the pawl toward locking engagement with the strap.

Abstract: A security device for securing around a generally cylindrical article such as the neck of a bottle includes a housing which forms a lock compartment and which contains an EAS security device and a magnetically actuated lock mechanism. A ratchet strap have a series of locking teeth and is formed integrally with the housing and extends outwardly therefrom and has sufficient rigidity to assume a generally circular configuration with a curved article contact surface of the housing to facilitate attaching the device around the article. The lock mechanism includes a locking pawl which engages the strap teeth and an actuation strip which biases the pawl toward locking engagement with the strap.

Abstract: A security device for securing around a generally cylindrical article such as the neck of a bottle includes a housing which forms a lock compartment and which contains an EAS security device and a magnetically actuated lock mechanism. A ratchet strap have a series of locking teeth and is formed integrally with the housing and extends outwardly therefrom and has sufficient rigidity to assume a generally circular configuration with a curved article contact surface of the housing to facilitate attaching the device around the article. The lock mechanism includes a locking pawl which engages the strap teeth and an actuation strip which biases the pawl toward locking engagement with the strap.

Abstract: A method for activating a device operatively coupled to an activation circuit includes steps of: receiving a password-protected instruction sent by wireless communication to the device; decoding the instruction using the password; and activating the activation circuit by permanently changing the state of the activation circuit from an off state to an on state.

Abstract: A tamper-indicating closure includes a closure shell having a skirt for securing the closure to a container neck finish and a tamper band frangibly coupled to the skirt for separation from the skirt upon first removal of the closure from the container. An RFID circuit, including an RFID tag and an antenna, is carried by the tamper band for separation from the skirt with the tamper band and remaining operational on the container after the closure has been removed from the container. The RFID circuit preferably is carried by a stop flange that extends from the tamper band, and is disposed between the stop flange and the tamper band.

Abstract: A security device for attachment to an article to deter theft of the article has a housing containing an alarm system including an audible alarm and an LED. A cable has one end attached to the housing and a second end attached to a plug which is selectively inserted into and locked to the housing. The cable includes a conductor electrically connected to the alarm system when in the locked position. The audible alarm is activated if the integrity of the cable is compromised. An EAS tag located in the housing will actuate an alarm at a security gate and can actuate the audible alarm of the security device when the device is in proximity to a security gate. The LED is positioned in the housing to be visible from both sides of the housing. A magnetically attractable lock mechanism releasably secures the cable plug in the locked position.

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 including a locking member is structured to restrict 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: An single use, disposable electronic article surveillance tag is claimed wherein the tag features a spindle assembly which anchors and retains a set of ball bearings which are used to clutch and retain the shaft of a tack. The spindle features an operational tab which may be contacted by the appropriate probe to turn the spindle about a central axis.

Abstract: An electronic identification device for portable devices having a standardized rectangular security slot, such as a laptop computer, comprising anchoring means designed to be anchored in the security slot of the portable device; and electronic identification means attached to the anchoring means.

Abstract: A self-checkout system 1 includes a console 2 for interacting with a user, in the form of consumer 3. This consumer 3 is located within a spatially defined control zone 4 during such interaction. An interface 5 is responsive to console 2 for receiving a first signal 6 indicative of an audible representation 7. A processor 8 is responsive to the signal 6 for selectively defining a second signal, in the form of ultrasonic transmission 9. An output, in the form of an ultrasonic transducer 10, is responsive to processor 8 for propagating transmission 9 to provide only in the control zone 4 audible representation 7. Representation 7 is substantially inaudible outside of zone 4.

Abstract: A housing for supporting an electronic tag on a zipper for a zippered container including a housing and an electronic tag supported by the housing. The housing has a configuration which is attached to at least one zipper of a zippered container. The housing is attached to the exterior of the container to limit movement of the zipper about the container.

Abstract: A security device for securing around a generally cylindrical article such as the neck of a bottle includes a housing which forms a lock compartment and which contains an EAS security device and a magnetically actuated lock mechanism. A ratchet strap have a series of locking teeth and is formed integrally with the housing and extends outwardly therefrom and has sufficient rigidity to assume a generally circular configuration with a curved article contact surface of the housing to facilitate attaching the device around the article. The lock mechanism includes a locking pawl which engages the strap teeth and an actuation strip which biases the pawl toward locking engagement with the strap.

Abstract: A security tag assembly and security system associated therewith to 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 including a locking member is structured to restrict 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: This invention proposes the useful, non-obvious and novel steps of a polymer or wet paper based planchette containing an RFID fully integrated system on a chip transponder which can be attached to a collectible or reusable through the use of a substrate friendly adhesive. A collectible is defined herein as an individual piece of art work or an art collection, a stamp collection or an individual stamp, sports card collections or an individual card, sports memorabilia of any sort, currency collections or an individual piece of currency and items of a similar ilk plus designer label garments and accessories. As a collectable tracing and tracking system it is called “Collectable Cop”. A reusable is defined as packaging, containers, pallets or any other non consumable item utilized on the supply chain which reusable(s) requires tracking or tracing, referred to as the “Spot Chip” system.

Abstract: A method and device for protecting an article, wherein the security device has belt having a latch mating element. A magnetically actuable locking mechanism has a magnetically actuable latch and a flexible element. The magnetically actuable latch includes a lower surface having at least one protrusion extending there from and adapted to engage with the latch mating element of the belt, and a front surface adjacent the lower surface. The front surface has a lateral notch formed therein. The flexible element biases the magnetically actuable latch and the belt into a locked position. A housing has the magnetically actuable latch disposed therein and housing includes a passageway therein defining a belt pathway configured to slidingly receive the belt therein.

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.

Abstract: An anti-theft tag includes a body that carries an EAS sensor, a shrinkable sleeve disposed about the outside of the body, an adhesive material disposed on the body between the body and the sleeve, and a sleeve holder extending from the body. The sleeve holder is constructed and arranged to hold the sleeve on the body such that a portion of the sleeve and the body define an aperture configured to receive an elongate article, such as an arm from a pair of eyeglasses. In use, once the anti-theft tag is disposed on the article, an assembler shrinks the sleeve to secure the anti-theft tag to the arm. In such a configuration, the sleeve and adhesive material holds the body of the anti-theft tag against the arm, thereby limiting the ability for a thief to remove the anti-theft tag from the elongate article by twisting or rotating the anti-theft tag relative to the article.

Abstract: A merchandising tag comprising a housing with a first compartment defined therein and having a door pivotally mounted thereon to selectively allow or prevent access to the first compartment. The first compartment is adapted to receive a price tag therein. The housing is also provided with an attachment mechanism which has at least one portion which extends outwardly away from the housing is adapted to engage the product. The tag includes at least one alarm system disposed within the housing. A locking mechanism is provided for simultaneously locking the moveable door to prevent access to the first compartment; securing the portion of the attachment mechanism to the product so that the housing is not detachable therefrom; and for arming the at least one alarm system. When the locking mechanism is engaged, any attempt to remove the tag from the product, open the door, or remove the product with attached tag from the store will result in a loud-attention getting sound being emitted from the housing.

Abstract: A security tag holder is releasably clamped onto a garment. The holder includes first and second members coupled for relative pivotal movement about a pivot pin. The first member includes first clamping and locking regions at opposite sides of the pin, respectively. The second member includes second clamping and locking regions at opposite sides of the pin. The first locking region has a recess and a fixed magnet. The second locking region has a bore and a movable magnet movable between an unlocking position wherein the movable magnet is received in the bore and a locking position wherein the movable magnet is partly inserted into the recess and attracted to the fixed magnet. When the first and second members are urged against each other to clamp the garment, the movable magnet is moved from its unlocking to locking position to lock the first and second members against relative pivotal movement.

Abstract: A system for dispensing, reading and verifying RFID tags. The system includes a label dispenser that dispenses labels that contain RFID tags from a bulk label storage device, an RFID Reader/Writer device that is operatively connected to the label dispenser. The RFID Reader/Writer device reads and codes tags which are embedded within these labels. The RFID Reader/Writer is configured to function in close range and thus provide adequate fidelity of coding and transfer of individual program tags. The invention also includes an RFID reader/writer that is powered by its communications means.

Abstract: Containment packages (10) having utility for transport of hazardous gases and security systems for controlling access to packages, e.g., hazardous gas containment packages (20). In a specific implementation, a containment package includes an overpack (11) for improving the safety and security of gas-containment vessels during transportation, e.g., air shipment, in which the overpack is pressurized by a protective gas at pressure in excess of the pressure in the gas-containment vessels, and a global positioning system (GPS) coordinated programmable lock and key system (30) is integrated with the containment package for controlled access to the gas-containment vessels only when the GPS component indicates that the containment package is at a specific geographic location.

Abstract: A system and method for attaching a Radio Frequency operable transaction device to an article using various attachment apparatus are disclosed. The invention includes attaching a transaction device to an article using apparatuses comprised of bands, clips, clamps, drawstrings, and adhesives. The present invention allows for the securing of an RF transaction device (e.g., a payment fob) to a consumer's person thereby enabling a transaction to be completed without the need for the consumer to manually present the transaction device.

Abstract: A small integrated diagnostic and identification system is disclosed that solves several problems associated with current sensory systems. The diagnostic and identification system comprises a bracelet with an identification mechanism that is difficult to remove and has a lock. Further, the diagnostic and identification bracelet comprises a microprocessor which communicates with various physiologic sensors wherein said physiological sensors are substantially within said bracelet. Alternatively some of the sensors may be mounted outside the bracelet and means are provided for communicating data from the outside mounted sensors to the bracelet. The physiologic sensors either routinely, automatically monitor an individual's physiology or monitor the physiology based on a user request. The resulting physiology data from each sensor is combined via a single output and displayed on a display device. The present invention may be integrated with a record management system to share and store an individual's records.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for locking and unlocking a lockable container that has an internal locking mechanism are disclosed. The apparatus may include a main body including a channel for receiving the container. A magnetic field source coupled to the main body may emit a magnetic field for actuating a container lock catch mechanism disposed at least partially inside the container. The apparatus may include a channel blocker that may be positioned by actuating a channel lock to selectively prevent the magnetic field source from actuating the catch mechanism of a container lock. The channel lock may be coupled to a cam configured to position at least a portion of the channel blocker in the channel. In some embodiments, the apparatus may include a ramp retractor coupled to the channel blocker wherein the ramp retractor urges the channel blocker down through the channel by action of the magnetic field.

Abstract: An electronic marker device affixes a fishing rod to a fishing reel. The device includes a marker housing having a base and a cover to wrap around an arm of a fishing reel and enclose a foot of the reel and a rod of a fishing rod thereby preventing removal of the fishing reel from the fishing rod. The marker housing also supports an electronic marker so as to deter unauthorized removal of the rod and reel combination. The marker may be preferably an electronic article surveillance (EAS) marker.

Abstract: The present invention provides a security device for attachment to an electrical cord. The device includes a housing assembly having an exterior housing and an interior housing. The interior housing having means to securely attach the plug inside the interior housing. The device also includes an exterior housing for inwardly receiving the interior housing and the attached plug. The interior housing snap locks into the exterior housing to provide a locking non-removable engagement therewith. Additionally, the housing has means to provide a tight engagement of the plug with the housing assembly.

Abstract: An electronic article surveillance tag is claimed wherein the tag features a spindle assembly which anchors and retains a set of ball bearings which are used to clutch and retain the shaft of a tack. The spindle features an operational tab which may be contacted by the appropriate probe to turn the spindle about a central axis. The spindle is seated in a retaining means with a graduated lip around the perimeter. The turning of the spindle serves to raise a portion of the spindle from the retaining means, loosening the ball bearing grip on the shaft of the tack. The electronic article surveillance tag may be used with either a smoothed or grooved tack shaft and may be operated by either mechanical probe actuation or by the use of a magnetic detachment means applied to the spindle.

Abstract: A security tag having a lanyard member that engages an article and the lanyard is secured to the tag body in a moveable manner such that the application of a turning force to the lanyard does not cause the lanyard to twist.

Abstract: An RFID tag housing is disclosed. The housing can include a tag holder, which holds an RFID tag, and an attachment arrangement for attaching the housing to a receptacle. The attachment arrangement may also prevent rotation about a frame member of the receptacle to which the housing is attached. The housing can hold an RFID tag at a spacing above the receptacle's framework, allowing the tag to be read over the top of the receptacle and its contents, as well as other receptacles positioned nearby. This spacing can also allow use of the framework as a ground plane for the RFID tag antenna.