Abstract:
Multi-mode (e.g., EAS and RFID) tags and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. The tag generally includes an antenna, an electronic article surveillance (EAS) function block coupled to the antenna, and one or more identification function blocks coupled to the antenna in parallel with the EAS function block. The method of reading the tag generally includes the steps of applying an electric field to the tag, detecting the tag when the electric field has a relatively low power, and detecting an identification signal from the tag when the electric field has a relatively high power. The present invention advantageously enables a single tag to be used for both inventory and anti-theft purposes, thereby improving inventory management and control at reduced system and/or “per-article” costs.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to methods of making capacitors for use in surveillance/identification tags or devices, and methods of using such surveillance/identification devices. The capacitors manufactured according to the methods of the present invention and used in the surveillance/identification devices described herein comprise printed conductive and dielectric layers. The methods and devices of the present invention improve the manufacturing tolerances associated with conventional metal-plastic-metal capacitor, as well as the deactivation reliability of the capacitor used in a surveillance/identification tag or device.
Abstract:
Multi-mode (e.g., EAS and RFID) tags and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. The tag generally includes an antenna, an electronic article surveillance (EAS) function block coupled to the antenna, and one or more identification function blocks coupled to the antenna in parallel with the EAS function block. The method of reading the tag generally includes the steps of applying an electric field to the tag, detecting the tag when the electric field has a relatively low power, and detecting an identification signal from the tag when the electric field has a relatively high power. The present invention advantageously enables a single tag to be used for both inventory and anti-theft purposes, thereby improving inventory management and control at reduced system and/or “per-article” costs.
Abstract:
Printed integrated circuitry and attached antenna and/or inductor for sensors, electronic article surveillance (EAS), radio frequency (RF) and/or RF identification (RFID) tags and devices, and methods for its manufacture. The tag generally includes printed integrated circuitry on one carrier and an antenna and/or inductor on another carrier, the integrated circuitry being electrically coupled to the antenna and/or inductor. The method of manufacture generally includes of printing an integrated circuit having a plurality of first pads on a carrier, forming an antenna and/or inductor having a plurality of second pads on a substrate, and attaching at least two of the first pads of the printed integrated circuit to corresponding second pads of the antenna and/or inductor. The present invention advantageously provides a low cost RFID tag capable of operating at MHz frequencies that can be manufactured in a shorter time period than conventional RFID tags that manufacture all active electrical devices on a conventional wafer.
Abstract:
A method, algorithm, architecture, circuits, and/or systems for EAS, HF, UHF, and RFID designs suitable for multi-tag read applications using TTF anti-collision schemes are disclosed. In one embodiment, a tag for wirelessly communicating with a reader can include: (i) a memory portion with an identifier, the memory having at least one printed layer; and (ii) a circuit for providing a bit string followed by a predetermined silent period, where the bit string is related to the identifier. The tag can include pre-programmed memory bits (e.g., bits the value of which is programmed by printing), or alternatively, memory bits formed by conventional photolithography, but having connections made using printing technology to form the identifier, for example. A unique identifier for each tag or device used in a system under a given set of operating conditions can allow a reader to distinguish between them based on a length and/or value of a bit string, for example. Embodiments of the present invention can advantageously provide a reliable and simplified approach for multi-tag read capable EAS, HF, UHF, and RFID systems using TTF anti-collision schemes.
Abstract:
Systems and methods for determining locations of wireless sensor nodes in a tree network architecture having mesh-based features are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a system includes a hub having one or more processing units and RF circuitry for transmitting and receiving communications with sensor nodes to enable bi-directional communications. The one or more processing units of the hub execute instructions to configure the system with a tree architecture for communications between the hub and the sensor nodes, and to configure the system temporarily with a mesh-based architecture for determining location information for the sensor nodes.
Abstract:
Circuits and circuit elements configured to generate a random delay, a monostable oscillator, circuits configured to broadcasting repetitive messages wireless systems, and methods for forming such circuits, devices, and systems are disclosed. The present invention advantageously provides relatively low cost delay generating circuitry based on TFT technology in wireless electronics applications, particularly in RFID applications. Such novel, technically simplified, low cost TFT-based delay generating circuitry enables novel wireless circuits, devices and systems, and methods for producing such circuits, devices and systems.
Abstract:
A memory cell is provided that includes a first conductor, a second conductor, a steering element that is capable of providing substantially unidirectional current flow, and a state change element coupled in series with the steering element. The state change element is capable of retaining a programmed state, and the steering element and state change element are vertically aligned with one another. Other aspects are also provided.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to aqueous liquid compositions in which surfactant system is specifically selected so that it cleanses well, but is mild and adequately foaming. Further the composition tolerate relatively large amounts of emollient (to help mildness) while, surprisingly, showing better stability.
Abstract:
A memory cell is provided that includes a first conductor, a second conductor, a steering element that is capable of providing substantially unidirectional current flow, and a state change element coupled in series with the steering element. The state change element is capable of retaining a programmed state, and the steering element and state change element are vertically aligned with one another. Other aspects are also provided.