Abstract

In some embodiments, a method of manufacturing includes forming and attaching a first embellishment part onto a substrate composing a clothing article by sintering a thermoplastic powder on the substrate. Sintering may occur at a temperature below a temperature threshold, and sintering may further occur at a pressure below a pressure threshold. The first embellishment part may include all structural components of an entire embellishment. The first embellishment part may be a foundation for a complete embellishment. The method may also include forming a second embellishment part using an additive manufacturing process.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29C 64/153 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using layers of powder being selectively joined, e.g. by selective laser sintering or melting
• B29C 64/245 - Platforms or substrates
• B29C 64/268 - Arrangements for irradiation using electron beams [EB]
• B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
• B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
• B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes

Abstract

In some embodiments, a monitoring system may include an RFID reader mounted to a support structure. The RFID reader may be configured for continuously scanning for RFID tagged items within a field and issuing an alert when an alert condition has been triggered.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• G08B 21/18 - Status alarms

Abstract

A temperature-sensing RFID device includes an RFID chip and an antenna electrically coupled thereto. The RFID chip includes a temperature sensor, while the antenna is adapted to receive energy from an RF field and produce a signal. A shielding structure and/or a thermally conductive or absorbent structure may be associated with the RFID chip. The shielding structure is oriented so as to be positioned between at least a portion of the RFID chip and an outside environment and configured to shield the temperature sensor from at least one environmental factor capable of affecting a temperature sensed by the temperature sensor of an article to which the RFID device is secured. The thermally conductive or absorbent structure is oriented so as to be positioned between at least a portion of the RFID chip and the article and configured to enhance thermal coupling between the temperature sensor and the article.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips

Abstract

Methods of determining whether a digital trigger-labeled article is leaving or returning to a merchandising location are described herein. In some embodiments, the method includes detecting one or more articles having attached or affixed thereto one or more tags or labels comprising one or more digital triggers using a plurality of readers, wherein each reader includes multiple read zones. In some embodiments, each reader contains phased array antenna beam steering. In some embodiments, the readers are arranged at set intervals from each other.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• G06Q 10/087 - Inventory or stock management, e.g. order filling, procurement or balancing against orders
• G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
• G01S 13/87 - Combinations of radar systems, e.g. primary radar and secondary radar

Abstract

Methods and systems for detecting activity of variable weight-price items in detector-based inventory management and shopping systems in merchandising and/or storage areas are described herein. The methods described herein involve the use of multi-detector systems containing one or more digital triggers which can be read/detected in order to obtain a unique digital identity for the items. In some embodiments, the digital trigger is an RFID inlay and the detector-based system is a vision- or camera-based walk out shopping systems in order to detect variable weight-price items. In some embodiments, the vision- or camera-based walk out shopping system is deployed in a grocery store and the variable-weight items are selected from meats, cheeses, seafood, fruits and vegetables, deli items, salad bars, bulk items (e.g., nuts, coffee beans, grains, etc.) and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the sensors provide item level unique individual identification of the variable weight-price items to enhance the data fusion used to monitor these products by current employed ecosystems.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06Q 10/087 - Inventory or stock management, e.g. order filling, procurement or balancing against orders
• G06Q 20/20 - Point-of-sale [POS] network systems
• G07G 1/00 - Cash registers

Abstract

Described herein a heat transfer label comprising a support portion comprising a release layer having a first side and a second side and a first carrier at least partially disposed on the first side of the release layer; and a transfer portion comprising a engravable first ink layer having a first side and a second side; and an adhesive layer having a first side and a second side, wherein a graphic design is engraved on the first ink layer using the laser light after the heat transfer label is at least partially bonded onto a substrate. Also described herein are methods of laser engraving a heat transfer label comprising at least partially bonding the heat transfer label described herein onto a substrate; and at least partially laser engraving the ink layer.

IPC Classes  ?

• B44C 1/17 - Dry transfer
• C09J 7/40 - Adhesives in the form of films or foils characterised by release liners
• C09J 7/25 - Plastics; Metallised plastics based on macromolecular compounds obtained otherwise than by reactions involving only carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds
• C09J 7/21 - Paper; Textile fabrics
• B44C 3/00 - Processes, not specifically provided for elsewhere, for producing ornamental structures
• B41M 5/26 - Thermography

Abstract

Systems and methods of using multiple read area zones to generate more accurate item-level data are described herein. In some embodiments, the systems and methods involve a local read area in combination with a wide read area. In some embodiments, a local area read device alone, or in combination with a wide area read device, is used to detect the removal or return of a product from a merchandising location or area in retail establishment. In some embodiments, a local area read alone, or in combination with a wide area read device, is used to detect the removal or return of a product from a merchandising location or area in retail establishment by detecting/reading a digital trigger on the product.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation

Abstract

A temperature-sensing RFID device includes an RFID chip and an antenna electrically coupled thereto. The RFID chip includes a temperature sensor, while the antenna is adapted to receive energy from an RF field and produce a signal. A shielding structure and/or a thermally conductive or absorbent structure may be associated with the RFID chip. The shielding structure is oriented so as to be positioned between at least a portion of the RFID chip and an outside environment and configured to shield the temperature sensor from at least one environmental factor capable of affecting a temperature sensed by the temperature sensor of an article to which the RFID device is secured. The thermally conductive or absorbent structure is oriented so as to be positioned between at least a portion of the RFID chip and the article and configured to enhance thermal coupling between the temperature sensor and the article.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips

Abstract

In some embodiments, an RFID label rejecting system includes an imager for scanning an RFID label, and a label removal component for discarding an inoperable RFID label. The label removal component may include a paddle configured to receive the inoperable label as part of the removal process. The label removal component may include a retraction system configured to position the paddle in an ejection path of the label rejection system to receive a rejected label. The label removal component may include a removable liner on the paddle configured to receive the rejected label and to be discarded with the rejected label. The label removal component may include a pressurized gas system configured for ejecting a rejected label.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65C 9/44 - Label feed control by special means responsive to marks on labels or articles
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• B65C 1/02 - Affixing labels to one flat surface of articles, e.g. of packages, of flat bands
• G06K 17/00 - Methods or arrangements for effecting co-operative working between equipments covered by two or more of main groups , e.g. automatic card files incorporating conveying and reading operations
• G06K 5/00 - Methods or arrangements for verifying the correctness of markings on a record carrier; Column-detection devices

Abstract

Semiconductor wafer devices are formed of a wafer or a portion of a wafer. The wafer or wafer portion includes a plurality of functional blocks, one of which comprises an energy source and another which takes some other form, such as digital logic, data storage, a communication module, a display, a display driver, or a sensor. A functional block may be formed as part of processing of the wafer or may comprise a post-processing element. The functional blocks combine to provide an operational system having a plurality of functions. The wafer may be formed of an amorphous material, allowing the device to have a three-dimensional, non-planar structure, such as a cuboidal or tubular structure. If the device comprises only a portion of a wafer, a plurality of devices may be formed from a single wafer, with each portion being removed from the remainder of the wafer to define a device.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 23/00 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS - Details of semiconductor or other solid state devices
• H01L 27/00 - Devices consisting of a plurality of semiconductor or other solid-state components formed in or on a common substrate

Abstract

In some embodiments, an RFID system for product identification may include a compartment having a first wall and a second wall that extend toward each other and that together define at least part of a cavity and a channel. The cavity may extend laterally along a first direction and may be configured to contain a suspended package and having a first width may extend along a second direction. The channel may extend laterally along the first direction and having a second width may extend along a second direction, the channel being in fluid communication with the cavity, the channel may be configured to limit movement along the second direction of a support that extends downward through the channel and into the cavity to support the suspended package, the second width of the channel being narrower than the first width of the cavity.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation

Abstract

A system and method is provided for delivering customized information related to a specific product of interest to consumer. In practice, the consumer uses a suitably enabled portable, mobile and/or wireless device (e.g., such as a mobile camera phone) to scan or otherwise read a marker associated with a product, retail item or other article of interest. From the marker, a unique ID is obtained (i.e., the marker ID). The marker ID is then used to cross-reference a URL or other like address in a database that relates marker IDs to corresponding URLs. The target URL is returned to the consumer's device and an http session is established with a content management server at the target URL. In one suitable embodiment, the content management server obtains a SKU and/or template web page ID that are associated with the marker ID in a database. Suitably, the SKU relates to the specific product with which the marker was associated. Having in this way determined the actual specific product of interest to the consumer, customized information related thereto can be delivered to the consumer's device, e.g., via a web page optimized for the identified device. Optionally, the web page content and/or template is obtained from a database that associates the same with the template web page ID received by the content management server.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06Q 30/0201 - Market modelling; Market analysis; Collecting market data
• G06Q 30/0226 - Incentive systems for frequent usage, e.g. frequent flyer miles programs or point systems
• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
• G06Q 30/0601 - Electronic shopping [e-shopping]

Abstract

A system and method for food traceability from a food service location to the consumer is disclosed. The method comprises marking food items with a received label as the food items are received. This received label identifies a storage location for the food item and generates traceability information for the food item. If the food item is not intended for storage, then the food item is transferred to a prep table and unique item information is generated for the food item. The food item can then be prepped for usage. During the prepping process, the food item's expiration date is verified, and a serial number is generated, and a use by date is calculated. If the prepped food item is to be served to a consumer, a label is generated with traceability information, and unneeded ingredients are re-purposed or properly disposed of.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06Q 10/0833 - Tracking
• G01N 33/02 - Food
• G06Q 10/087 - Inventory or stock management, e.g. order filling, procurement or balancing against orders
• G06Q 30/0601 - Electronic shopping [e-shopping]
• G06Q 50/28 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading, distribution or shipping
• H04W 4/35 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for the management of goods or merchandise

Abstract

In some embodiments, a printer system may include a location sensor, a motor and driver assembly configured for adjusting a print position of a subsequent image on a substrate having a first side and a second side and at least one wireless communication device, and an optical sensor. Adjustment of the print position may be based on detection of the wireless communication device using the location sensor and a subsequent determination of whether the corresponding printed image is properly aligned with the wireless communication device using the optical sensor.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41F 13/02 - Conveying or guiding webs through presses or machines
• B41F 17/00 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for
• B41F 13/00 - Common details of rotary presses or machines
• B41M 1/26 - Printing on other surfaces than ordinary paper

Abstract

Methods for identifying one or more items in close proximity to a mobile device and/or are within a digital image. The location of the mobile device can be determined using outdoor positioning systems (“OPS”), indoor positioning systems (“IPS”), or combinations thereof. The identity of the item or items can be determine using planograms; visual inventory; RFID handheld inventory; RFID overhead inventory; vision system inventory; UR; barcode; NEC; or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the methods described herein include or involve identifying one or more items within a digital image, such as a photograph or video. The image has an identification (ID)/time stamp that is used to associate the items in the image that have been read in the same area as the image so that the items can be actively searched as a digital image to highlight or list items that are in the image.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04W 4/02 - Services making use of location information
• H04W 4/029 - Location-based management or tracking services
• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation

Abstract

RFID-integrated packages are disclosed combining a container, an article positioned within the container, and a packing material positioned within the container between at least a portion of the article and an inner surface of the container. The packing material is manufactured by at least partially associating it with an RFID device. The packing material may be formed of a recyclable material, such as paper. The packing material together with the RFID device is processed to provide it with an impact-absorbing configuration. Processing methods may include folding, crushing, and cutting or slitting, with the RFID device continuing to perform well after it and the packing material have been processed into the impact-absorbing configuration for use within the container. The entire RFID device may be associated to the packing material or only a portion or component of RFID device may be associated to the packing material, with another portion or component associated to the container or article.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• H01Q 1/22 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
• H01Q 7/00 - Loop antennas with a substantially uniform current distribution around the loop and having a directional radiation pattern in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the loop
• H01Q 9/16 - Resonant antennas with feed intermediate between the extremities of the antenna, e.g. centre-fed dipole
• B65D 81/05 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents specially adapted to protect contents from mechanical damage maintaining contents at spaced relation from package walls, or from other contents

Abstract

A data collection, data packaging, and data delivery system that includes methods that provide for accurate digital identity data, inventory data, and associated information from multiple sources to be repackaged and delivered to various destinations are disclosed. A source, such as an edge device, is used to monitor an RFID tagged product and is configured to send data about the RFID tagged product to a designated cloud application. The received data is combined with other product specific data and is sent either directly, or via an intermediate software, to a destination cloud application. The destination cloud application is configured to manipulate the data, adjust pricing for the products, and publish the information in a searchable format for consumers in a local area to determine, for example, if the products are locally available.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06Q 30/0601 - Electronic shopping [e-shopping]
• G06Q 30/018 - Certifying business or products
• G06Q 30/0202 - Market predictions or forecasting for commercial activities
• G06Q 10/087 - Inventory or stock management, e.g. order filling, procurement or balancing against orders

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for logging temperatures of food products using a temperature assembly including a housing and one or more temperature sensors, e.g., an infrared sensor for surface temperatures and an elongate probe for acquiring a temperature within a food product, and a mobile electronic device including a camera, a communication interface for communicating with the temperature assembly, a processor configured to acquire a temperature reading from the temperature assembly and an image from the camera when the temperature reading is acquired, and memory for storing the temperature reading and image.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01J 5/02 - Constructional details
• G01J 5/08 - Optical arrangements
• G06Q 50/12 - Hotels or restaurants
• G06F 16/58 - Retrieval characterised by using metadata, e.g. metadata not derived from the content or metadata generated manually
• H04W 4/70 - Services for machine-to-machine communication [M2M] or machine type communication [MTC]
• G06Q 10/109 - Time management, e.g. calendars, reminders, meetings or time accounting
• G06Q 30/018 - Certifying business or products
• H04W 4/021 - Services related to particular areas, e.g. point of interest [POI] services, venue services or geofences
• G01J 5/07 - Arrangements for adjusting the solid angle of collected radiation, e.g. adjusting or orienting field of view, tracking position or encoding angular position

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for logging temperatures of food products using a temperature assembly including a housing and one or more temperature sensors, e.g., an infrared sensor for surface temperatures and an elongate probe for acquiring a temperature within a food product, and a mobile electronic device including a camera, a communication interface for communicating with the temperature assembly, a processor configured to acquire a temperature reading from the temperature assembly and an image from the camera when the temperature reading is acquired, and memory for storing the temperature reading and image.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01J 5/02 - Constructional details
• G01J 5/07 - Arrangements for adjusting the solid angle of collected radiation, e.g. adjusting or orienting field of view, tracking position or encoding angular position
• G01J 5/08 - Optical arrangements
• G06F 16/58 - Retrieval characterised by using metadata, e.g. metadata not derived from the content or metadata generated manually
• G06Q 10/109 - Time management, e.g. calendars, reminders, meetings or time accounting
• G06Q 30/018 - Certifying business or products
• G06Q 50/12 - Hotels or restaurants
• H04W 4/021 - Services related to particular areas, e.g. point of interest [POI] services, venue services or geofences
• H04W 4/70 - Services for machine-to-machine communication [M2M] or machine type communication [MTC]
• G01N 33/02 - Food
• G06F 18/00 - Pattern recognition
• G06V 20/68 - Food, e.g. fruit or vegetables
• H04L 67/12 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks
• H04N 23/57 - Mechanical or electrical details of cameras or camera modules specially adapted for being embedded in other devices

Abstract

Digital ink formulations that cure by the application of light emitting diode (LED) energy are described. Also described are methods of bonding the LED-curable formulations onto substrates.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 11/101 - Inks specially adapted for printing processes involving curing by wave energy or particle radiation, e.g. with UV-curing following the printing
• C09D 133/08 - Homopolymers or copolymers of acrylic acid esters
• D06P 1/52 - General processes of dyeing or printing textiles or general processes of dyeing leather, furs or solid macromolecular substances in any form, classified according to the dyes, pigments or auxiliary substances employed using insoluble pigments or auxiliary substances, e.g. binders using compositions containing synthetic macromolecular substances
• D06P 5/20 - Physical treatments affecting dyeing, e.g. ultrasonic or electric

Abstract

RFID-based electronic surveillance article systems are provided with first and second receiving antennas. An RF signal is transmitted to an RFID device, which transmits a return signal that is received by the receiving antennas. A position of the RFID device may be determined based on a difference between the strength of the return signal when received by the first antenna and the strength of the return signal when received by the second antenna. If RF signals are transmitted by the receiving antennas, the position of the RFID device may be determined by changing the strengths of the RF signals transmitted by each antenna and comparing the strength of the RF signal transmitted by the first antenna when the RFID device is at a threshold for receiving the signal to the strength of the RF signal transmitted by the second antenna when the RFID device is at the threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08B 13/24 - Electrical actuation by interference with electromagnetic field distribution

Abstract

The present invention relates to a closure mechanism, such as a label construction, for a wide variety of packages. The closure mechanism may provide for a security means as well and can be provided with a radio frequency identification (RFID). The closure mechanism may comprise at least one label having at least one RFID device on either a first or second face of the label such that the label is applied to a package wherein the package is subject to a first and second state conditional upon the positioning of the at least one label positioning. The present invention also provides for a method of making and utilizing the label on at least one packaging.

IPC Classes  ?

• G09F 3/03 - Forms or constructions of security seals
• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• G09F 3/00 - Labels, tag tickets, or similar identification or indication means; Seals; Postage or like stamps
• G09F 3/10 - Fastening or securing by means not forming part of the material of the label itself by an adhesive layer
• B65D 33/34 - End- or aperture-closing arrangements or devices with special means for indicating unauthorised opening
• B65D 33/16 - End- or aperture-closing arrangements or devices

Abstract

A process for producing a digital printed heat transfer, the process comprising the steps of: 1) obtaining a substrate having a release layer; 2) applying a primer suitable for electrophotographic toner to the release layer; 3) digitally-printing electrophotographic toner to define a graphic within a defined region of a substrate inclusive of both printed and unprinted areas within that region; 4) digitally printing a tacky viscoelastic binder in registration with the printed areas of the digitally-printed graphic; 5) applying a polyurethane-based powder adhesive to the defined region of said substrate; 6) removing loose powder adhesive that does not adhere to the defined regions of said graphic; and 7) fusing and bonding the adhesive to the digital printed graphic. The binder precisely secures the adhesive powder to the printed graphical areas. The result is then cooled to set the image for use as a heat transfer.

IPC Classes  ?

• G03G 15/20 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for fixing, e.g. by using heat
• G03G 15/16 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for transferring a pattern to a second base of a toner pattern, e.g. a powder pattern
• B05D 5/00 - Processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces to obtain special surface effects, finishes or structures
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
• B05D 1/36 - Successively applying liquids or other fluent materials, e.g. without intermediate treatment
• B05D 3/02 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be applied; After-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials by baking

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for transferring a remote frequency identification (RFID) inlay from a first substrate to a second substrate. An RFID inlay is secured to a first substrate with a first adhesive. The RFID inlay is brought into the vicinity of a second substrate and secured to the second substrate with a second adhesive. The RFID inlay is then dissociated from the first substrate. The RFID inlay may be dissociated from the first substrate by softening the first adhesive, such as by the application of heat or the application of a softening substance. Alternatively, the RFID inlay may be dissociated from the first substrate without softening the first adhesive, but rather by differential release, whereby a release force is applied between the two substrates, with the release force being greater than the release strength of the first adhesive, but less than the release strength of the second adhesive.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

Label constructions comprise a first section and a second section that are laminate constructions of a card stock top surface that may include printed indicia, an adhesive layer disposed underneath the card stock, and a removable liner adhered to the adhesive layer and common to the first and second sections. The first section includes an RFID device. The first section may be configured once removed from the liner to fold on itself to form an RFID tag, or to form an RFID adhesive label. The second section once separately removed from the liner forms an adhesive label. The construction first and second sections are positioned adjacent one another and are formed during the same manufacturing process for purposes of manufacturing efficiency. The first and second sections may be treated to facilitate separate removal from the liner to provide labeling flexibility.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/02 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the selection of materials, e.g. to avoid wear during transport through the machine
• B32B 37/12 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by using adhesives
• B32B 38/00 - Ancillary operations in connection with laminating processes
• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• G09F 3/02 - Forms or constructions
• G09F 3/00 - Labels, tag tickets, or similar identification or indication means; Seals; Postage or like stamps
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating

Abstract

In some embodiments, a counting machine may include a counting area configured to count a plurality of items. The counting area may include a fixed pressure plate, a movable pressure plate, and one or more sensors configured to measure the distance between the fixed pressure plate and the movable pressure plate, and a processor configured to determine the number of items in the counting area by comparing a sampled thickness value to the thickness of the items located between the fixed pressure plate and the movable pressure plate.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
• G01B 21/02 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring length, width, or thickness
• G06M 1/10 - Design features of general application for actuating the drive by electric or magnetic means
• G06M 9/00 - Counting of objects in a stack thereof
• G01G 19/42 - Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in groups with provisions for indicating, recording, or computing price or other quantities dependent on the weight for counting by weighing

Abstract

A method, system, and apparatus for inserting a woven label with integrated radio frequency identification (RFID) capabilities into a garment seam is shown and described. In exemplary embodiments, a woven RFID label is inserted into a garment seam during stitching. For example, the woven RFID label is automatically inserted using an overlock machine adapted to include a guide system. The guide system is configured to insert and encode the RFID tag incorporated in the woven label device during a stitching process.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

RFID devices for use in electronic surveillance article (“EAS”) systems may be differently configured, resulting in different performance at the operating frequency or range of frequencies of an EAS system. The performance of differently configured RFID devices may be converged or rendered substantially similar by testing the performance of such RFID devices in a range of frequencies. At least one of the RFID devices is reconfigured to converge the performance of the RFID devices in the range of frequencies if the performance of the RFID devices is not sufficiently similar. This may include changing the configuration of an antenna, an RFID chip, and/or a non-functional component of an RFID device and/or the location in which an RFID device is associated to an article. Differently configured RFID devices may all be manufactured from the same initial configuration, with different RFID devices being differently processed before incorporation in an EAS system.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08B 13/24 - Electrical actuation by interference with electromagnetic field distribution

Abstract

In some embodiments, a printed laminate comprises a first substrate having a first side and a second side, an ink layer at least partially adhered through direct printing to the first side of the first substrate, and a second substrate comprising a heat activatable adhesive and having a first side and a second side. The first side of the second substrate may be at least partially laminated to the second side of the first substrate.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09J 7/29 - Laminated material
• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
• B32B 27/08 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin of a different kind
• C09J 7/35 - Heat-activated
• C09J 5/06 - Adhesive processes in general; Adhesive processes not provided for elsewhere, e.g. relating to primers involving heating of the applied adhesive

Abstract

RFID devices are provided for improving the performance of electronic surveillance article systems. The RFID devices may be modified in any of a number of ways to decrease their peak sensitivity and increase their bandwidth, thereby stabilizing their read range. The performance of an RFID device will depend on the nature of the article to which it is associated, such that the nature of the article to which the RFID device is to be associated may be factored into the design of the RFID device to equalize the performance at an operating frequency of RFID devices associated with different articles. By reducing the peak sensitivity and increasing the bandwidth of RFID devices in an electronic article surveillance system, the size of a transition zone between two read zones of the system may be reduced.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08B 13/24 - Electrical actuation by interference with electromagnetic field distribution

Abstract

In some embodiments, a radio frequency identification (RFID) device may include a reactive strap may include a conductor enclosing an area and an RFID chip connected to the conductor, the conductor enclosing an area and defining a first opening, and a flexible substrate attached to the conductor and defining a second opening. The first and second openings together may define a passage through both the conductor and the flexible backing material.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/04 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the shape
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

A recyclable RFID device having one or more recoverable components configured to remain substantially intact during a waste recycling process. The one or more recoverable components comprises a RFID coupling strap and a substrate encapsulating the RFID coupling strap. A filtering system for recovering the recyclable RFID device from a waste stream is also disclosed, and comprises a waste collection container, a RFID device detection unit, and a RFID device diversion area. Additionally, a filtering system for recovering the recyclable RFID device during a waste recycling process is disclosed. The filtering system enables separating the recyclable RFID device from a packaging and detecting the separated components of the recyclable RFID device including the one or more recoverable components. The separated components including the RFID chip is then diverted from the waste stream for reuse.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation

Abstract

Methods and systems including one or more entropically configured distinct physical features (an “identropy”) that serve as unique identifiers for a physical item, such as a product or device, particularly products and/or devices in commerce, documents, packaging, etc. are described herein. The identropy makes it possible to uniquely distinguish one item from the other. In one embodiment, the identropy needs to be converted into a digital entity which can be done through a challenge-response interaction, in which a physical challenge acts upon the identropy, and in which the identropy as a reaction to the challenge will provide a physical response. In some embodiments, the response(s) described above is encrypted. In some embodiments, the resulting decrypted and optionally decompressed code can be compared to the digital response that was retrieved upon the challenge by the authentication device to estimate a trust score, such as a trust quotient.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06Q 30/00 - Commerce
• G06V 20/80 - Recognising image objects characterised by unique random patterns

Abstract

In some embodiments, an RFID device may include a multilayer reactive strap having a first substrate, a first conductor portion, a second conductor portion, and a first connection. The first conductor portion may enclose a first area and may be disposed on a first side of first substrate. A second conductor portion may enclose a second area and may be disposed on a second side of the first substrate. A first connection may couple the first conductor portion and the second conductor portion together, and may thereby form a multiturn coil that includes both the first conductor portion and the second conductor portion.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• G06K 19/02 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the selection of materials, e.g. to avoid wear during transport through the machine
• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• H01Q 1/22 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
• H01Q 7/00 - Loop antennas with a substantially uniform current distribution around the loop and having a directional radiation pattern in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the loop

Abstract

In one embodiment, an RFID device is disclosed that contains a first conductive structure and a second conductive structure formed from multiple conductive materials configured to move between a first operating condition and a second operating condition when exposed to an event or other stimuli. The second conductive structure is initially operatively coupled to the first conductive structure in the first operating condition. However, after exposure to the event, the first conductive structure is altered to change the behavior of the RFID device. The RFID device is attachable to a substrate, such as a garment or a fabric, and the event may be a single or multiple occurrence event, such as washing, stretching, heating, or exposure of the RFID device to electrical signals.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/02 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the selection of materials, e.g. to avoid wear during transport through the machine
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

In some embodiments, a method of constructing a coil antenna structure may include forming a coiled antenna by cutting a spiraling gap into a conductive layer, applying a force to at least a part of the conductive layer to expand the gap between coils of the conductive layer to a distance great enough to prevent conductive sections of the coils from touching each other.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01Q 1/22 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
• H01Q 1/38 - Structural form of radiating elements, e.g. cone, spiral, umbrella formed by a conductive layer on an insulating support
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

A conductive structure for use with a RFID device having a metallic mass that is below a standard detection threshold of a metal detector and a method of manufacturing the same is disclosed herein. The conductive structure preferably comprises a pair of dipole arms extending from a tuning loop, wherein each of the pair of dipole arms terminates in a load end. The conductive structure may be manufactured from a printed metallic ink, or by cutting, lasering, or etching a metal foil. The conductive structure is modified to reduce overall thickness and metallic mass of the device as much as possible, while still maintaining an acceptable level of performance. Portions of the load ends may also be hollowed out to further reduce the conductive structure's metallic mass.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips

Abstract

In some embodiments, a method of manufacturing a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag on a target surface of a non-planar object may be provided. The method may include positioning an antenna on the target surface of the non-planar object, positioning a reactive RFID strap on the target surface, and coupling the reactive RFID strap to the antenna to induce an antenna response.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 1/12 - Methods or arrangements for marking the record carrier in digital fashion otherwise than by punching
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• H01Q 1/22 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
• H01Q 1/38 - Structural form of radiating elements, e.g. cone, spiral, umbrella formed by a conductive layer on an insulating support

Abstract

Radio frequency identification (RFID) systems for use with tires include a stud comprising reactive strap technology including an RFID chip and conductor. The stud is configured so as to be connected to a tire and to provide near field communication. The stud also may be coupled to an antenna structure to provide a far field RFID tag. The stud may unintentionally move with respect to the antenna structure during use, so the antenna structure may be configured to accommodate such movement without a change in the tuning of the RFID tag. A multi-antenna label may be provided to allow for selective coupling of the stud to a particular antenna, with differently configured tires being coupled to different antennas of the same type of multi-antenna label, which allows for the same label configuration to be used with a wider variety of tires.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

A system for reading RFID tags or labels on merchandise in a shopping cart or basket includes a chamber sized and configured to receive a shopping cart or basket. The chamber includes a portal sized and configured to accommodate a shopping cart or basket, along with an associated closure that is movable between open and closed conditions. At least one antenna coupled to an RFID reader is associated with an interior of the chamber and oriented to send signals to and receive signals from RFID tags or labels on merchandise in a shopping cart or basket within the chamber. The chamber and the closure are configured to prevent signals sent to and from RFID tags or labels on merchandise in a shopping cart or basket within the chamber from exiting the chamber. A transport mechanism may be provided to automatically move the shopping cart or basket through the chamber.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• G07G 1/00 - Cash registers
• G06Q 20/20 - Point-of-sale [POS] network systems

Abstract

In some embodiments, a mobile tote system includes a closeable mobile tote comprising an enclosure that includes a first radio-frequency-reflective surface and at least one radio-frequency-transparent layer. The system may include an engagement component that includes an RFID scanner having an RFID antenna. The engagement component may be configured to engage the mobile tote and to align the RFID scanner with the at least one radio-frequency-wave-transparent interface of the mobile tote to permit transmissions between the RFID antenna and the interior of the enclosure to pass through the radio-frequency-wave-transparent interface.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65G 1/137 - Storage devices mechanical with arrangements or automatic control means for selecting which articles are to be removed
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

Improved RFID devices and manufacturing methods that utilize more efficient RFID designs, result in less manufacturing material waste and increased recycling opportunities, all without sacrificing RFID device performance, are disclosed herein. Some exemplary embodiments of the improved RFID device may make use of a thinner foil, a hollowed-out foil, a “no-strip” design, or a tessellated design that may reduce material usage. Other exemplary embodiments may use a lower-impact and/or biodegradable adhesive so as to improve aluminum recycling and lessen risks to the environment.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• H01Q 1/22 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles

Abstract

Improved RFID devices and manufacturing methods that utilize more efficient RFID designs, result in less manufacturing material waste and increased recycling opportunities, all without sacrificing RFID device performance, are disclosed herein. Some exemplary embodiments of the improved RFID device may make use of a thinner foil, a hollowed-out foil, a “no-strip” design, or a tessellated design that may reduce material usage. Other exemplary embodiments may use a lower-impact and/or biodegradable adhesive so as to improve aluminum recycling and lessen risks to the environment.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• H01Q 1/22 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles

Abstract

A combined EAS and RFID circuit includes an HF coil antenna, a UHF tuning loop, and an RFID chip coupled to a strap that includes a first coupling area and a second coupling area. The coil ends of the HF coil antenna are configured to capacitively and/or conductively couple to one or both of the first coupling area or second coupling area of the strap. The HF coil antenna can include a gap between turns for non-interfering placement of the UHF tuning loop. The EAS circuit can be deactivating upon application of a field at the resonant frequency of sufficient intensity to cause the breakdown voltage to be exceeded between a coil end and coupling area. The threshold breakdown voltage between a coil end and a coupling area can be reduced by laser ablation treatment of a conductive surface of one or both of the coil end or coupling area.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08B 13/24 - Electrical actuation by interference with electromagnetic field distribution
• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• H01Q 1/22 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
• H01Q 7/00 - Loop antennas with a substantially uniform current distribution around the loop and having a directional radiation pattern in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the loop
• E05B 73/00 - Devices for locking portable objects against unauthorised removal; Locking devices not provided for in other groups of this subclass

Abstract

Dual-mode RFID devices are provided with an integrated dual-mode RFID strap including either a UHF/HF dual-mode RFID chip or the combination of a UHF RFID chip and an HF RFID chip. An HF antenna and a UHF antenna are both coupled to the integrated dual-mode RFID strap, with the UHF antenna being formed by an approach other than etching, such as a cutting or printing operation, thereby reducing the cost to manufacture the device. If a pair of chips is employed, one of the chips may have a greater thickness than the other chip, which allows for the thicker chip to be incorporated into the device after the thinner chip without requiring a minimum separation between the two chips due to the size of a thermode used to secure the chips. Additionally, the first chip may be tested before securing the second chip, thereby limiting the cost of a rejected device.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips

Abstract

A tuning assembly for an RFID chip includes an input port, a control unit, and a plurality of capacitors connected in parallel between the input port and the control unit. A selector circuit is coupled to each capacitor and to the control unit and is configured to selectively allow and prevent current flow through any of the capacitors in response to commands from the control unit, thereby adjusting the capacitance of the RFID chip. The commands include a command to always allow current flow through a capacitor, another command to always prevent current flow through a capacitor, and a third command to selectively allow and prevent current flow through a capacitor (e.g., for automatic adjustment of the capacitance of the RFID chip). The control unit may be programmed before or after the RFID chip is coupled to an antenna, including after a fully assembled RFID label has been attached to an article.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

RFID tags are provided for incorporation into the packaging of a microwavable food item. The packaging includes a first member (e.g., a tray) that is configured to be microwaved and a second member (e.g., a sleeve or box or enclosure) that is configured to be dissociated from the first member prior to microwaving the first member. The RFID tag includes a reactive strap associated with the first member and a far-field antenna associated with the second member. The reactive strap is coupled to the antenna when the packaging is intact, while being decoupled from the antenna when the second member has been dissociated from the first member. The RFID tag is capable of far-field communication when the reactive strap is coupled to the antenna, while the reactive strap is capable of only near-field communication when decoupled from the antenna.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65D 81/34 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging foodstuffs intended to be cooked or heated within the package
• B65D 77/04 - Articles or materials enclosed in two or more containers disposed one within another
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

Some embodiments include a kit for forming a radio frequency container. The kit may include a top panel, a bottom panel having a raised support, at least one side panel configured to connect the top panel and the bottom panel, and an RF antenna configured for attachment to an interior surface of the container. The top panel, the bottom panel, and the at least one side panel may be configured to reflect and contain RF signals within the radio frequency container.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation

Abstract

In some embodiments, an RFID device includes an RFID chip, a first antenna coupled to the RFID chip, and a cardboard substrate. The RFID chip may be at least one of attached to the cardboard substrate at a position and embedded within the cardboard substrate at the position. The cardboard substrate may form at least part of a carton blank configured to cover the RFID chip position with at least one layer of cardboard when the carton blank has been assembled into a closed box.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

Electronic surveillance article systems reducing the number and likelihood of false alarms are provided. Such systems include two read zones, with a second read zone having an associated RFID reader configured to detect an RFID device at a trigger threshold. The trigger threshold may be set or modified in view of a value of a sensor of an RFID device (sensing a capacitance or dielectric permittivity or temperature or degree of movement, for example), the number of times the RFID device is detected in the first read zone, or whether the RFID device is detected in the first read zone under predetermined conditions. Such systems may also or alternatively initiate a response (e.g., modifying the trigger threshold or the amount of power transmitted by an RFID reader) when an RFID guard device associated with a piece of infrastructure in the first read zone is detected in the second read zone.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08B 13/24 - Electrical actuation by interference with electromagnetic field distribution

Abstract

A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag with a configurable anti-tamper structure includes an RFID chip electrically connected to a configurable anti-tamper structure. The configurable anti-tamper structure includes a plurality of conductive segments substantially oriented in a ladder configuration. At least some of the plurality of conductive segments are cut to leave a single conductive path in accordance to the desired tamper detection application, and the RFID tag is attached with the anti-tamper structure placed across a break point to be monitored for tampering. When tampering occurs, the conductive path is broken and the RFID chip changes the data sent in response to interrogation by an RFID reader.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/073 - Special arrangements for circuits, e.g. for protecting identification code in memory
• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

In some embodiments, a wireless electronic device translation system includes a translator that includes a first antenna, a second antenna, and a controlling unit coupled to the first antenna and the second antenna. The translator may be configured to receive a wireless communication signal transmitted from a first electronic device at a first frequency, interpret a communication content from the wireless communication signal using a first communication protocol, translate the first communication content to be transmitted as a wireless translated signal using a second communication protocol, and transmit the wireless translated signal at a second frequency to be received by a second electronic device.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• H04L 69/08 - Protocols for interworking; Protocol conversion

Abstract

In some embodiments, an RFID device includes a reactive strap having an RFID chip and a conductive ring connected to the RFID chip. The RFID device may further include an antenna configured to be coupled to the reactive strap, and a tuning block set positioned in the vicinity of the reactive strap, a resonant frequency of the RFID device being determined at least in part by at least one of the shape of the tuning block set and the position of the tuning block set relative to at least the reactive strap.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

An RFID device includes a substrate and a lead frame secured to the substrate. The lead frame includes a pair of connection pads formed of a conductive material. An RFID chip and an antenna are electrically coupled to the lead frame. The width of the lead frame is substantially equal to the height of the lead frame. The connection pads of the lead frame may be oriented, among other options, along a direction parallel to a height of the substrate or along a direction parallel to a width of the substrate.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

An RFID device includes an antenna that is formed so as to control the optical properties of the RFID device, which may include minimizing the amount of light that will be transmitted through the RFID device or allowing for the passage of a predetermined amount of light therethrough. The RFID device includes a conductive material associated with a substrate. The conductive material includes an antenna and a periphery. An RFID chip is electrically coupled to the antenna, but not to the periphery. The antenna may be defined by a cutting or etching or printing process. A gap between the antenna and the periphery may be on the order of approximately 25 μm-200 μm (if the transmission of light through the RFID device is to be minimized) or greater in at least one section (if the passage of a predetermined amount of light through the RFID device would be desirable).

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

In some embodiments, a computer processor-based method using at least one processor and at least one non-transitory computer readable memory, the method includes associating a first component and a first unique identifier with at least one of a plurality of digital twins for a group of final products, the first unique identifier corresponding to a first digital trigger. The method also includes updating at least one of the digital twins based on an evolution that is associated with the first component and that is at least part of a process resulting in a commercial product. The method also includes associating the at least one of the plurality of digital twins with the commercial product and a second unique identifier corresponding to a second digital trigger. The method may also include providing data associated with a trust condition.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06Q 30/00 - Commerce

Abstract

A hanging device and methods of making the hanging device are shown and described herein. The hanging device may be a hook or a hanging device. The hanging device comprises: a) a first outer liner; b) at least one inner layer; and c) a second outer liner. For the hanging device, the first outer liner is at least partially disposed on the at least one inner layer and the second outer liner is at least partially disposed on the at least one inner layer, and the first outer liner, the at least one inner layer, and the second outer liner are laminated together. The hanging device may be comprised of a biobased material and/or a recycled material. The hanging device may be biodegradable.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47G 25/14 - Clothing hangers, e.g. suit hangers
• B32B 7/12 - Interconnection of layers using interposed adhesives or interposed materials with bonding properties
• B32B 3/26 - Layered products essentially comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products essentially having particular features of form characterised by a layer with cavities or internal voids
• B32B 3/30 - Layered products essentially comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar form; Layered products essentially having particular features of form characterised by a layer with cavities or internal voids characterised by a layer formed with recesses or projections, e.g. grooved, ribbed
• B32B 29/00 - Layered products essentially comprising paper or cardboard

Abstract

In some embodiments, a product management system includes at least one receiving location configured to receive a product associated with at least one smart device encoded with a unique identifier. The product management system further includes a reader system configured to receive a first signal transmitted from the at least one smart device, determine a time measurement, determine a state of the product based at least in part on a time measurement, and transmit a second signal based on the state of the product. The product management system further includes at least one display associated with the product and configured to receive the second signal from the reader system, and generate a visual indication of the state of the product based at least in part on the second signal.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management

Abstract

A method for recovering missed RFID tagged items in an RFID tunnel environment is disclosed. The method comprises using a dynamic RFID tunnel system comprised of a first RFID tunnel and a second RFID tunnel to inventory one or more containers of items having RFID tags. A first RFID read of the one or more containers is performed in the first RFID tunnel and compared to an expected containers' inventory stored in a database. If the comparison does not match, a second RFID read of the containers is performed in a second, subsequent RFID tunnel at a higher RFID read power and by moving the containers at a speed slower than a speed of movement of the containers into the first RFID tunnel. If a comparison of the second read to the expected containers' inventory still does not match, the containers may be recirculated through the tunnel system or may be diverted to an exceptions audit depending on how the system is configured.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers
• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation

Abstract

A system and method for configuring Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) read and write power levels includes an RFID module that generates RF signals, a digital step attenuator that attenuates RF signals, an antenna that transmits attenuated RF signals, and an RF shield that isolates the antenna from an RFID label supply roll. A floor read power is determined by iteratively interrogating an RFID label while decreasing the RF signal power until the label fails to respond to the interrogation. A ceiling read power is determined by iteratively interrogating the RFID label while increasing the RF signal power until multiple labels respond to the interrogation. The read power level is set between the floor read power and the ceiling read power. The write power level is determined by iteratively attempting to program the RFID module while increasing the write power from the read power level until successfully written.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• G06K 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
• H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication

Abstract

In some embodiments, an array of printed information sheets to be placed in a business establishment may include at least two stacks of printed information sheets being detachably connected to each other. Each stack of printed information sheets may include at least a first multiple product information sheet and a second information sheet that are removably attached to each other or to the stack. The first multiple product information sheet may have printed thereon first product information about a first product to be displayed in the business establishment and a first location indicator indicating a first predetermined location in the business establishment where the first multiple product information sheet is to be displayed. The second multiple product information sheet may have printed thereon second product information and a second location indicator.

IPC Classes  ?

• B42D 12/00 - Book-keeping books, forms, or arrangements
• G06Q 10/06 - Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling
• B42F 13/16 - Filing appliances with means for engaging perforations or slots with claws or rings
• B42B 5/12 - Permanently attaching together sheets, quires, or signatures otherwise than by stitching by finger, claw, or ring-like elements passing through the sheets, quires, or signatures the elements being coils
• B42D 5/02 - Form sets
• B42D 5/00 - Sheets united without binding to form pads or blocks
• B42D 15/00 - Printed matter of special format or style not otherwise provided for
• B31D 1/02 - Multiple-step processes for making flat articles the articles being labels or tags
• G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management

Abstract

A system for locating a RFID tag in a space or area having a physical barrier is disclosed herein. More specifically, the system comprises a plurality of guard tags for use in conjunction with a RFID tag disposed on an item and a RFID reader for locating the same. The system is configured to locate the RFID tag on either side of the physical barrier. The plurality of guard tags may comprise a plurality of negative encoded guard tags and a plurality of positive encoded guard tags, and an algorithm may be used to determine a probability of the RFID tag location within the physical space. A method of locating a RFID tag within a physical space, and a method of virtually shielding the physical space is also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• G06K 19/073 - Special arrangements for circuits, e.g. for protecting identification code in memory

Abstract

An adjustable and repositionable RFID inlay is described herein. The RFID inlay comprises: a) a substrate having a first side and a second side; b) an antenna at least partially disposed on the first side of the substrate, and c) an RFID chip at least partially disposed on the first side of the substrate; wherein a first adhesive is at least partially disposed on the RFID inlay; and wherein a second adhesive is at least partially disposed on the RFID inlay. The second adhesive is an activatable adhesive. Also described herein is a method of positioning an RFID inlay with a first adhesive and a second adhesive where the second adhesive is an activatable adhesive. The method may further comprise repositioning the RFID inlay prior to activating the second adhesive to at least partially affix the RFID inlay to the object.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for assembling an RFID device mounted to a fabric substrate via a “flip chip” approach. The system includes a pin thermode with a tip configured to penetrate the fabric substrate. The pin thermode may include or omit a heating element, with the tip being variously configured. The tip may have a variable cross-sectional area or include a plurality of projections that separately penetrate the fabric substrate, for example. If the pin thermode includes a heating element, a body of the pin thermode may be formed of a low thermal conductivity material to allow the temperature of the tip to increase without increasing the temperature of the body to the same degree. The body may define a lumen, with the tip and/or body defining an aperture for flowing a liquid out of the pin thermode and into the region surrounding the pin thermode.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

An RFID device includes an antenna defining a gap, with an RFID strap electrically coupled to the antenna across the gap. The RFID strap is secured to the antenna by a self-adhesive substance, such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive, an isotropic conductive adhesive, or an anisotropic conductive adhesive. The use of a self-adhesive substance allows for such an RFID device to be assembled at facilities other than dedicated RFID device manufacturing facilities, which may include a packaging supplier factory. Additionally, such an RFID device allows for the creation of a flexible “build on demand” system capable of producing a smaller number of RFID devices than are typically produced using conventional approaches. Such a system may further test, program, apply print to, and/or cut an RFID device that it has assembled.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier

Abstract

The present invention relates to a centralized system for generating labels and/or RFID tags that are printed and/or encoded with standard schema to make tracking of components easier in order to provide for the provenance of assets, especially consumable goods. A smart printing terminal is provided that can manage the product commissioning process as each item or component for a particular product is readied for shipment. The entire case, as well as pallet information, may be correlated together to provide for a complete data set relating to the products commissioned for a particular grower/producer or end user/customer.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
• G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code

Abstract

RFID devices are provided with an antenna coupled to an RFID chip by a direct or indirect connection. A data-carrying pattern that is visible at one or more wavelengths is incorporated into and/or onto the antenna. The pattern may comprise a plurality of apertures defined in the antenna or a material applied onto the antenna and having a property or properties different from a property or properties of the material used to form the antenna at one or more wavelengths. The pattern may carry data that is optically readable at one wavelength and quasi-optically readable at another wavelength. The pattern may include at least one sensing material configured to cause the pattern to present different data depending on whether a condition is existent or not. The antenna may include a plurality of layers, each with patterns or portions of a pattern or patterns that are visible at different wavelengths.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• G06K 19/08 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code using markings of different kinds in the same record carrier, e.g. one marking being sensed by optical and the other by magnetic means
• G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code

Abstract

RFID tags for use on a non-planar surface of an object, packaging around the object, or a metallic object, and methods of making and using thereof are disclosed. For 3D objects, the method comprises forming an antenna on the non-planar surface and positioning a reactive RFID strap in proximity to the antenna. The reactive RFID strap can induce a far field antenna response, wherein coupling can occur via electric fields, magnetic fields, or both. For metallic objects, an antenna is formed on the surface of a substrate. An RFID chip or strap is attached and the clip component cut. The clip components can be modified to help secure the clip component to the metallic item by adding surface deflections, adhesive fixing points, or tabs designed to engage with an existing hole or opening in the metallic item package or object.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• H01Q 1/22 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles

Abstract

Methods for food traceability are disclosed, which enhance food safety. In one embodiment, methods are disclosed for tracing a temperature profile of a food product from an origin to an ultimate disposition. In another embodiment, methods are disclosed for identifying a recall for a food item from an origin to an ultimate disposition are disclosed. In yet other embodiments, methods are disclosed for tracing a food item from a food service location to a consumer.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06Q 10/00 - Administration; Management
• G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
• G01N 33/02 - Food

Abstract

The present invention relates to heat transfers that include silicone based heat transfer inks and digitally printed toner images, particularly for use on fabrics, apparel items, garments and accessories. The present subject matter is especially suitable for use in heat-transferable labeling or creating embellishments on polyester fabrics and garments.

IPC Classes  ?

• B44C 1/17 - Dry transfer
• G09F 3/02 - Forms or constructions
• B41M 5/36 - Thermography using a polymeric layer, which may be particulate and which is deformed or structurally changed with modification of its properties, e.g. of its optical, hydrophobic-hydrophilic, solubility or permeability properties
• B41M 5/42 - Intermediate or covering layers
• B41M 5/392 - Additives other than colour forming substances, dyes or pigments, e.g. sensitisers, transfer promoting agents
• D06P 5/24 - Transfer printing
• D06P 1/52 - General processes of dyeing or printing textiles or general processes of dyeing leather, furs or solid macromolecular substances in any form, classified according to the dyes, pigments or auxiliary substances employed using insoluble pigments or auxiliary substances, e.g. binders using compositions containing synthetic macromolecular substances
• D06P 3/52 - Polyesters

Abstract

Provided herein are methods for producing a fiber from a waste material comprising: (i) fraying a waste material to form a fiber base; (ii) carding the fiber base to form a recovered fiber; and (iii) spinning the recovered fiber. The waste material may comprise manufacturing scraps, damaged materials, selvedges, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the method may further comprise reducing the size of the waste material prior to fraying and/or blending the fiber base. Also described herein is a fiber produced from waste material using the disclosed methods.

IPC Classes  ?

• D01G 11/04 - Opening rags to obtain fibres for re-use
• D02G 3/02 - Yarns or threads characterised by the material or by the materials from which they are made