Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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Description
REAL TIME TOTAL ASSET VISIBILITY SYSTEM
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Claim of Priority
The present application is a Continuation-In-Part application
filed on September 24, 2002 and assigned Serial No. 10/253,254,
which claims priority to patent application having Serial No.
09/976,734, filed on October 12, 2001.
Field of the Invention
This invention is directed to a system which allows effective
inventory control and extensive tracking capabilities of a
plurality of articles by providing total real time access to a
monitored locale in order to establish the existence, location
and/or direction of movement of the articles. A plurality of tags
are associated with the various articles being monitored, at least
some of which include multi-frequency and uni-directional or
mufti-directional communication capabilities which at least
partially serve to extend the operative range between the tags
and a reader assembly in order to efficiently perform the
monitoring procedure.
Description of the Related Art
The monitoring of a variety of different articles, products,
etc. through the use of "tags" secured to or otherwise associated
with the various articles has been in use for many years.
Moreover, various attempts to modify this type of tracking and
inventory control have been made so as to adapt a tagging system
for use in a variety of different applications. Such known
applications include, but are not limited to, warehouses, retail
outlets, industrial manufacturing sites, and almost any location
where the variety or articles or products being monitored are
manufactured, transported, stored, sold, etc.
In its more simplistic form, the tagging of articles has been
associated with the display of pricing information in association
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with the shelving of various products, such as in retail outlets.
Pricing and inventory controls are sometimes maintained. through
the inclusion of coded data on the tags, such as by means of bar
codes, which are determinative of the identity, price, etc, of the
various products. Initially, and as is currently being used,
these types of "shelf tags" have been simply constructed and
include various information displayed thereon. Such displayed
information, when coded as set forth above,' can be read by various
types of optical or digital scanners.
While shelf tags of the type set forth above are generally
considered to be operative for less sophisticated applications,
they are commonly recognized as being inefficient and cumbersome
for use in many areas of commerce associated with the storage,
transport, manufacture, etc, of various types of products or
articles being monitored. As one example, the updating the
information frequently requires complete replacement of the tags
thereby at least partially defeating the goal of efficient
inventory, tracking and pricing controls for which such systems
were primarily intended.
To overcome the above noted problems associated with shelf
tags, attempts have been made to develop more sophisticated
electronic tags which are associated with some type of display
facilities. Typically known electronic tags and their attendant
systems, of the type referred to herein require the use of
complicated circuitry and cooperative electronic control
components in order to affect their installation and use. Another
major draw back associated with devices of this type is that in
order to maintain an efficient and accurate display a continuous
supply of power must be maintained. The maintenance of such power
is limited resulting in the limiting of information which can
reasonably be displayed. Accordingly frequent replacement of the
tags, associated power supplies, display facilities, etc, is the
result.
In an effort to expand the versatility and efficiency of
tracking and inventory control of a variety of articles, products,
etc. and as a result of the problems and disadvantages of the type
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set forth above, associated industries have moved forward.
Resulting advancements in this field has yielded the development
and utilization of radio frequency (RF) tags and their attendant
systems. In general, RF tags are capable of retaining and
transmitting a substantial amount of information, all of which is
required for the expansive tracking, security and inventory
control requirements associated with modern day industrial,
transport and retail facilities.
More specifically, the RF tag systems are capable of
receiving and storing information in a read/write application as
well as being capable of sending and/or receiving data relating
to product identification, status, location and overall control.
However, known or conventional RF tagging systems are recognized
as having at least one primary disadvantage associated with
limited communication range. Accordingly, in order that
transmission of signals to one or more tags be accomplished for
purposes of activation and/or data communication, an appropriate
exciter/reader would have to be positioned in very close proximity
to the one or more tags involved in the monitoring system.
Therefore, the versatility and practical applications of such
systems are severely limited due at least to the proximity or
range restrictions associated therewith. Efficient monitoring of
articles during product delivery, transportation, material
handling, security tracking and large scale storage may not be
possible. As a result, radio frequency tag technology has not
enjoyed wide spread use in many industrial applications associated
with the commercial development of various products.
Based on the above, there are still significant disadvantages
and problems associated with known tagging systems especially when
considering the wide variety of industrial applications where such
systems could be effectively implemented. Accordingly, there is
a significant and long recognized need for an improved tracking
and/or inventory control system. Such an improved system should
be capable of 1000 real time inventory control as well as
detecting the existence, location and direction of movement of
item. A plurality of RF tags associated with such an improved
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system could be further structured to detect tampering, low
battery power, unauthorized movement and/or removal from the
articles or products being monitored.
Such an improved system could also be adapted, without
significant structural or operative modification, for usage in a
variety of different areas including large scale warehousing,
transport, delivery, retail inventory, pricing and security, theft
prevention, all without significant manual intervention. In
addition, other unique and/or customized features can be
associated with the tags, dependent on the customer/user
applications and requirements.
Accordingly, an improved system using multi frequency tags
with strategically placed readers, accomplishing activation and/or
powering of certain ones of the plurality,of tags utilizing a
higher level of power signal and prescribed frequency range would
increase the reading or transmission distance associated with the
tags thereby allowing such an improved system to overcome the
recognized problems and disadvantages associated with RF tagging
monitoring system of the type set forth above.
Summary of the Invention
This invention is directed to a real time total asset vis-
ability system which in practical application is manifested in a
monitoring system for maintaining inventory control, on a real
time basis, of a variety of articles and within a monitored
locale. In addition, the monitoring system of the present
invention as capable of locating, tracking, identifying, and in
some cases communicating with personnel so as to better accomplish
the aforementioned real time total asset visibility of an area or
locale being monitored. For purposes of clarity, the terms
"monitored locale" may assume a variety of different locations
such as, but not limited to a warehouse, manufacturing or storage
facility, transport and/or delivery vehicles, as well as a variety
of retail facilities. In addition, the versatility of the
monitoring system of the present invention can be used for
inventory control as well as positional and movement tracking of
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various articles with minimal or no structural/operational
modifications of the various operative components of which the
system is comprised.
More specifically, the system of the present invention
5 comprises a host controller which may be in the form of a
computer/processor disposed in communicating relation at or remote
from the locale being monitored. In addition, a reader assembly
comprises, dependent upon the specific embodiment and practical
application for which the system of the present invention is
adapted, one or more readers . As will be explained in, greater
detail hereinafter, the reader assembly may comprise a variety of
different types of readers structured to perform a variety of
procedures for individually and collectively monitoring ~a
plurality of radio frequency (RF) responsive tags. The tags are
mounted on or otherwise directly associated with various objects
or articles being monitored. It is of course understood that the
obj ects or articles being monitored may of course vary greatly and
are not limited to a specific class or category of objects,
products, etc. Also the tags may be a part of or directly
associated with "personnel badges" for the location,
identification, etc, of numerous authorized personnel which have
access to the monitored locale and/or the plurality of articles
or objects stored within or passing into or out of the monitored
locale.
It is also emphasized that the reader assembly may in certain
applications comprise a plurality of readers disposed in a
predetermined array throughout the locale being monitored, such
as when such a plurality of readers are fixedly disposed within
the locale. In other preferred embodiments of the subject
monitoring system, as represented by various practical
applications, the reader assembly may comprise a single reader or
relatively few readers. In this latter application and by way of
example only, the reader assembly may comprise one or more mobile
or handheld readers which are movable about the monitored locale.
The mobile/handheld readers thereby communicate with the plurality
of tags for purposes of establishing the existence and/or
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identification of the various articles associated with the tags.
The plurality of tags may also vary in structure and function
based on their intended operation and the practical application
to which they are applied. In the various preferred embodiments
of the present invention. a common operative characteristic of at
least some of the plurality of tags is the ability to establish
uni-directional communication or transmission to the reader
assembly. Further, each of the tags are pre-programmed to include
identification or other pertinent data which enables the user or
operator to determine the status of the plurality of articles.
As a generally descriptive term, the status of a monitored article
may comprise the determination of its existence, location,
direction of travel, removal, etc. dependent on the requirements
of the customer or user of the subject monitoring or tracking
system.
By way of example, in its simplest form, one or more of the
tags defining the tag assembly comprises a passive tag
characterized by not having a self-contained power supply
associated therewith. Moreover, the passive tags are powered by
being exposed to and/or maintained within an electric field or
exposed to an electric signal of a predetermined first frequency.
Once powered and activated identification and/or pertinent data
relating to inventory control and/or tracking is transmitted from
the various passive tags (as well as the active tags to be
described hereinafter) to an appropriate one or more readers
servicing the monitored locale. Once received, the data
transmitted from the plurality of tags is then transmitted by the
reader assembly to the host controller/processor. The data is
further processed by the host controller as required to maintain
the desired inventory and/or tracking controls. As will also be
explained in greater detail hereinafter, communication or
transmission from the tags to the reader assembly occurs at a
second frequency, which differs from the aforementioned first
frequency or activation and/or power-up frequency.
Other structural and operative features of the tag assembly,
is the ability of both a passive tag and an active tag to be
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programmed or re-programmed with new data in order that individual
tags or a plurality of tags axe representative of and may display
most current data relating to the monitored or tracked products,
materials, personnel, etc. As will be more evident hereinafter,
such reprogramming and/or initial programming may be accomplished
as the one or more tags are exposed to a generated field or signal
from a fixed reader or from a hand held reader.
The tag assembly may also include one or more active tags
which are distinguishable from the aforementioned passive tags by
including a self-contained power source. As such, the active tags
are pre-programmed to periodically transmit, on a pre-scheduled
time basis, identification data or other appropriate information
to one or more of the readers associated with the locale being
monitored. Such active tags further include power supply
detection capabilities which will communicate to the reader
assembly the existence of a failing battery or a depleted power
source. Both the passive and active tags are also structured to
include numerous other operative features including tamper
switches and locking devices particularly, but not exclusively,
adapted for use in retail environments.
Further, both the passive and active tags may have common
operative features such as multi-frequency capabilities wherein
the activation or power-up field or signal is generated at the
aforementioned first frequency and communication between the tag
and the reader, either in a uni-directional or bi-directional
mode, occurs at a~second, differing frequency. The existence of
the multi-frequency capabilities of the various tags enhances the
range or proximity in which communication, activation, power-up,
etc, may occur.
More specifically, FCC regulations prohibit the generation
or transmission of pulsed signals, for example between a reader
and a tag, except when licensing requirements are met. However
FCC regulations do allow for the generation of fields/signals of
certain frequencies, having pre-established band parameters, to
be transmitted or generated at increased field strengths.
Therefore, establishing a field strength of "unlimited radiated
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energy" within the frequency parameters specified is permitted.
1n other words, increased power can be utilized within certain
specified frequency ranges, including 13.56 MHz. to increase the
range in which the tags of a monitoring system can be detected,
activated, powered-up, etc. without violating FCC regulations.
Accordingly, activation signals or the establishment of electric
fields for the activation or "wake-up" and/or "power-up" of one
or a plurality of RF responsive tags can be accomplished using
increased field strengths as long as there is no human exposure
hazards involved. Therefore, utilizing the aforementioned first
frequency in the frequency range of 13.56 MHz. allows for the
activation and/or powering (such as in passive tags) at a much
higher energy level so as to increase the read distance and/or
proximity range to at least approximately 12 to 15 feet without
violating any regulatory codes. 1t is emphasized that while the
aforementioned first frequency, in the frequency range of 13.56
MHz may be preferred due to the ability to use the higher energy
level and thereby increase the read distance, other frequencies
can be utilized to activate or power the tags, wherein such
frequency may be in the range of 433 Mhz.
The aforementioned multi-frequency capabilities of the
various types of tags (both active and passive) in the monitoring
system of the present invention further provides for data
transmission or communication between the tags and the reader
assembly at a second frequency, which differs from the
aforementioned first frequency. Further such data transmission
normally occurs on a periodic pulsed basis, at pre-scheduled
times, rather than as a continuously generated, high strength
field or signal, at which the first frequency normally occurs.
Also, in certain preferred embodiments to be described
hereinafter, one or more of the plurality of tags are structured
for asynchronous transmissions, at the second communication
frequency, to the reader or host controller.
As set forth above, the various embodiments of the present
invention may further comprise a tracking system demonstrating
certain control and tracking abilities. More specifically, the
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reader assembly may include at least one control reader and/or at
least one tracking reader. Accordingly, at least some of the
plurality of tags comprising operative components of the system
are associated with a variety of objects or articles, and are
specifically mounted on or connected thereto so as to move
therewith. Therefore the objects or articles with which the
plurality of tags are associated can be effectively tracked on a
real time basis. As such, at least one of the aforementioned
control readers may be mounted in predetermined relation to at
least one, or more practically each, of the entrances/exits
associated with the locale being monitored. Further, the control
reader may be structured independently or in combination with the
host controller to regulate specific observation facilities in
order to allow real time viewing and/or recording or certain areas
such as, but not limited to the entrance/exits or portals of the
monitored locale. Such observation facilities can include
cameras, display monitors, recorders and/or other video facilities
capable of accomplishing and storing activities or events within
a predetermined portion of the locale being monitored.
Operation and control of the aforementioned observation
facilities may further include the monitoring of one or more
individuals, products, etc. As such, a reader can find the
location of individual tags or a plurality/group of tags and, when
located, send a signal to a correspondingly located camera or
other observation facilities so as to monitor or track the one or
more tags which have been located, as well as the personnel or
products associated therewith. Further, whether or not directly
associated with specific observation facilities such as cameras,
monitors, etc. the system can also wake-up individual ones or all
of a predetermined plurality of tags located within a specific
area, such as a meeting room, classroom, seminar area, etc. In
doing so, the individuals in attendance at a seminar, class,
meeting, etc. can be quickly and effectively established, assuming
the attending personnel have an appropriate tag in their
possession.
In addition, the aforementioned one or more tracking readers
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are structured to receive status data which is communicated to the
host controller. The host controller, independently or in
combination with the one or more tracking readers can determine
position parameters relating to one or more of the plurality of
5 tags being currently monitored or tracked. Such position
parameters can also, in certain embodiments of the present
invention, be considered part of tag status data transmitted from
the tags to the various readers of the reader assembly. As such,
the tags status data may include tag identification and/or
10 position history as to where a particular object, article, etc.
is or should be located within the monitored locale. Further
structural capabilities of the host controller and/or the tracking
reader include determination of the direction of movement or
travel of one or more of the plurality of tags being currently
monitored, wherein such information can also be included within
or defined by the aforementioned position parameters.
It should be further noted that the "wake-up" field can be
enabled by motion sensors, optical sensors, and similarly
functional operational sensors having appropriate capabilities.
Once activated, the one or more tags within the wake-up field will
generate the identification or address of the individual tags,
plus an appropriate reader address. This information allows
operating personnel to identify and determine the location of any
one tag or plurality of tags, at the time of wake-up or
activation.
As described throughout, the utilization of the various
preferred embodiments of the present invention involves the
generation of a field signal or activating signal, to which the
various tags are responsive to establish activation, wake-up
tracking, and/or communication links. Typically and in at least
some of the preferred embodiments, the field or activating signals
are generated by the reader assemblies. However, in use the
present invention also contemplates the use of a field generator
for establishing such signal generation, wherein a field generator
can be combined with a single reader or with each of the plurality
of readers. Alternatively, the field generator or other facility
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for generating the field or activating signal can be operatively
maintained separately and independent of any one of the reader
assemblies. Also, the independent field generating facility can
have its own address which can be linked to a single reader
address. Yet another alternative embodiment would be the
provision of several field generators linked to a single reader.
Also, the field generator can be independently powered such as by
a 12 volt DC transformer or by means of a contained battery
source.
These and other objects, features and advantages of the
present invention will become more clear when the drawings as well
as the detailed description are taken into consideration.
Brief Description of the Drawings
For a fuller understanding
of the nature of
the present
invention, reference
should be had to
the following detailed
description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings
in
which:
Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a preferred
embodiment of the monitoring system of the present invention
as
demonstrated in one
of a large number
of possible practical
applications.
Figure 2 is a schematic representation of the interaction
between various o perative components of at least one preferred
embodiment of the system of the present invention, including
a
host controller,
reader assembly
and tag assembly.
Figure 2A is a schematic representation of the interaction
between various operative components of another preferred
embodiment of the system of the present invention.
Figure 2B is a schematic representation of the interaction
between various operative
components of yet
another preferred
embodiment of the system of the present invention.
Figure 3 is a schematic representation of the interaction
between the various
operative components
of another preferred
embodiment of the system of the present invention.
Figure 4 is a schematic representation of the interaction
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between the various operative components of yet another preferred
embodiment of the system of the present invention.
Figure 5 is a schematic representation of the interaction
between the various operative components of yet another preferred
embodiment of the system of the present invention.
Figure 6 is a schematic representation of the operative
components of at least one preferred embodiment of a reader
associated with the reader assembly of the present invention.
Figure 7 is a schematic representation of a programming
station or assembly for programming one or more tags included
within the monitoring system of the present invention.
Figure 8 is a schematic representation of another preferred
embodiment of a reader associated with the reader assembly of the
present invention.
Figure 9 is a schematic view showing details of various
operative and structural variations of the tags utilized in one
or more of the various preferred embodiments of,the system of the
present invention.
Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the
several views of the drawings.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment
As shown in the accompanying Figures and as generally
represented in Figure 1, the present invention is directed to a
real time total asset visibility system particularly, but not
exclusively, adapted for maintaining effective inventory control
as well as being capable of accomplishing efficient tracking of
a plurality of articles, wherein the status of the various
articles can be determined on a real time basis. As used herein,
the status of the various monitored articles is more specifically
meant to describe the ability to determine the existence,
location, identity, direction of movement, as well as the passage
of the various articles to and from a monitored local.
Accordingly, as disclosed in Figure 1,, the monitored locale
is generally indicated as 10 and may include a warehouse, storage
facility, transportation depot, etc. It is emphasized that the
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locale being monitored may also include various industrial sites
11 where the articles are manufactured or processed and any of a
number of various transportation vehicles such as ships generally
indicated as 12, trucks generally indicated as 13, etc. Such
vehicles may be associated with the transport and temporary
storage of the monitored articles.
In addition, the monitoring system of the present invention
includes one or more host controllers generally indicated as 14
which is disposed in communicating relation with anyone or all of
the plurality of monitored locales 10 through 13. The host
controller 14 may be in the form of a somewhat conventional PC,
or other processor/computer facility 16 and is utilized to
accomplish higher level processing in order to filter the data
received from the remainder of the operative components of the
monitoring system of the present invention and thereby maintain
adequate inventory control and/or perform tracking procedures, as
set forth above.
As also schematically represented in Figure 1, communication
between the various monitored locales 10 through 13 and the one
or more host controllers 14 may occur by a variety of different
relatively standard communication facilities. Such communication
facilities may include, but are not limited to, wireless
transmission, Internet access, hard wire connections, etc.
Accordingly, the host controller can be located in close proximity
to the monitored locale, such as a warehouse or like facility 10,
or be disposed a fixed or variable remote distance therefrom in
the case of transportation vehicle 12, 13, etc.
In addition to the host controller l4, the monitoring system
of the present invention comprises a reader assembly which
includes at least one, but dependent upon the specific preferred
embodiment being utilized and the practical applications
associated therewith., a plurality of readers. In the preferred
embodiment of Figure 1, the plurality of readers are generally
indicated as 18 and are fixedly disposed in a predetermined array
relative to the configuration of the locale 10 being monitored.
More specifically,' the plurality of readers 18 are disbursed
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throughout the monitored locale 10 so as to provide complete, real
time communication with a plurality of tags 20 contained within
the locale 10.
As shown the plurality of tags 20 are associated with a
plurality of articles 22 which of course may be defined by any
type of product, object, personnel identification badge, etc. The
plurality of tags utilized in a specific user application may vary
in structure, function and operation and, as will be described
hereinafter, may be broadly classified as being operative in a
passive mode (passive tags) or active mode (active tags). The
passive and active tags are distinguishable from one another by
the active tags including a self-contained power source such as
a battery, which may or may not be rechargeable. The passive tags
are absent any self contained power source. Further, both the
active and passive tags are generically defined by micro-circuitry
including a transmitter and/or transceiver as well as appropriate
transmitting and/or receiving antennas. Customized integrated
circuits (IC) could be adapted for specific customer or user
applications as required and still be incorporated within the
spirit and scope of the present invention.
The various categories of monitoring tags, being either
passive or active, may also be structured to be at least uni-
directional in terms of transmitting identification or other
pertinent data therefrom to one or more readers defining a
particular reader assembly. Alternatively, in at least one
preferred embodiment of the monitoring system of the present
invention, the tags include bi-directional communication
capabilities wherein data may be transmitted from the tag to the
one or more readers and acknowledgment and other directive or
informative signals may be directed from the one or more readers
back to the tag.
Yet another structural and operative feature of the tag
assembly of the present invention is the ability of at least some
of the aforementioned tags to include mufti-frequency
capabilities. More specifically, a first frequency is utilized
to activate either a passive or active tag, dependent upon the
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specific embodiment being practiced. Tag activation can be broadly
defined as providing power to passive tags and/or serving to
"wake-up" active or passive tags. Also, the recharging of the
batteries included in the structure of the active tags can also
5 be accomplished by exposing the active tags to a generated field
or signal at the first frequency.
In compliance with FCC regulations the first frequency,
preferably in the bandwidth of 13.56 MHz, is allowed to be
generated at an increased field or signal strength which is
10 sufficiently high to enhance the operative range between the tag
and the reader or other activation facility serving to generate
the activating field or signal. In accordance with FCC regulations
establishing a field strength of "unlimited radiated energy" in
the bandwidth parameters specified for certain frequencies (13.56
15 MHz.) is permitted absent any potential hazards associated with
human. exposure. The activating or operative proximity range can
thereby be extended to approximately 12 to 15 feet without
violating FCC regulations. It is emphasized, that the
aforementioned and defined first frequency is preferably in the
range the 13.56 MHz, because of the stated increase in operative
proximity range, However, other frequencies could be used and
defined as the first frequency. More specifically, a frequently
range of 433 MHz could also be used as a first frequency.
In addition, the multi-frequency capabilities of certain ones
of the plurality of tags may also be defined by data transmission
or communication from the tag to the reader assembly at a second
frequency which differs from the first frequency. The second
frequency is preferably, but not exclusively, in the 9.15 MHz, 868
MHz or 433 MHz frequency range. Accordingly, data is transmitted
between the plurality of tags at the designated second frequency
on a repetitive pulsed basis rather than maintaining a continuous
field or constant signal generation at the lower 13.56 MHz (or 433
MHz) which preferably defines the first frequency.
It is to be understood that not all of the plurality of tags,
either passive or active, are structured for intended exposure to
the first frequency range in order to accomplish activation. More
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specifically, and with reference to the embodiments of Figures .1
and 2, the one or more readers 18 are disposed in a predetermined
proximity relative to a plurality of tags 20 within the monitored
locale 10. Each of the tags 20 are operative in an active mode
and are structured for uni- directional transmission. As such,
each of the tags 20 is normally maintained in "sleep mode" fox
ceratin pre-programmed periods of time. After the time period has
expired, the tag will automatically go into its unique anti-
collision skim and start transmitting appropriate identification
or like data several times to make sure that one or more of the
plurality of readers 18 will receive such transmitted data. After
the data is transmitted several times, the tag will then
automatically reset itself and will again go into a sleep mode
until a predetermined or pre-programmed time has again expired.
Transmission will then be repeated. Further, the plurality of
tags can have the same transmission time or different pre-
scheduled transmission times.
Clearly, the time period that the tag goes to "sleep" varies
based on customer requirements. However, additional structural
and operative features associated with the RF tags, will cause
the tags to start communication or transmission to the reader
assembly asynchronously based on the occurrence of certain events.
By way of example, asynchronous transmission of a tag may occur,
in certain preferred embodiments of the present invention, when
the tag wakes-up because it is passing through a certain
electronic field or because it receives a stand-by command by
receiving pulses of a specified frequency from the reader.
Alternatively, the tag will wake-up because it ,went into a
programming mode as will be explained with reference to the
embodiment of Figure 7. The tag may also wake-up because of the
existence .of a tampering detector or because of a low power
detection of the self-contained power source associated with
active tags. As also to be described in greater detail
hereinafter, the tags may wake-up or operatively communicate with
a hand held reader at a preferred 13.56 MHz frequency (or 433
MHz ) . '
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Two categories of active tags are distinguishable, at least
in part, as being either directional or uni-directional in their
intended transmission capabilities. The bi-directional active
tag, after transmitting its tag identification or other
appropriate data to the reader may expect to receive an
acknowledgment or other directive signal from the host controller
through the reader assembly. If the bi-directional active tag
receives no response signal or an un-acceptable acknowledgment or
directive signal it reverts back to its anti-collision skim and
continuously sends transmitted data until it receives an
acceptable acknowledgment signal from the host. T h a b i -
directional active tag will then re-set its timer in the
conventional fashion, as with the uni-directional active tag, and
it will go into a sleep mode until the pre-programmed time
expires. Upon expiration of the preprogrammed time transmission
of the ID or other appropriate data will be repeated. As with the
uni-directional active tag, the bi-directional active tag will
start to communicate with the reader on an asynchronous basis upon
the occurrence of specific events, as set forth above.
In order to better achieve real time inventory control and
facilitate desired tracking procedures, concurrent communication
of the plurality of tags with the reader assembly is accomplished
through the inclusion of an anti-collision protocol. More
specifically, a multi-tag algorithm is integrated into the tag
assembly and/or reader assembly which is operative to allow the
concurrent transmission by and reading of data from a plurality
tags while encountering minimal if any meaningful interference.
Accordingly, upon being activated each of the plurality of tags
assumes an anti-collision skim prior to pre-scheduled and/or
asynchronous communication.
The reader assembly of the present invention serves as a
communication link between the plurality of tags and host
controller 14. As such, the reader assembly may include one or
more readers, dependent upon the specific practical application
and the preferred embodiment associated therewith, wherein various
types of readers may be defined as part of the reader assembly.
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Preferably, common structural and operational features are
included in each of the various readers, regardless of their type
or category. Further, each of the various types of readers have
a dynamic addressing capability as it powers-up. In doing so, the
individual reader will send a power-up command to inform the host
controller 14 that it is alive and requesting a specific reader
address. The host 14 will initiate the addressing of the reader
and in performing this initialization process, a two way
communication link is established there between as at 17 utilizing
the second frequency range of the tags 20 or other appropriate
frequency range. Further, the communication link 17 represents
either a hard wire connection or wireless communication. It
should also be noted that the reader address can be established
automatically without having any addressing switches.
The reader assembly can include one or more fixed readers,
such as readers 18 being fixedly disposed throughout the monitored
locale 10~. In this context, the term "fixed" is not necessarily
meant to describe a permanent mounting in that the various readers
18 can be removed, repaired, replaced, etc. Further in the
embodiment of Figures 1 and 2 the readers 18 may be powered by a
conventional 110 or 220 power source and be connected thereto by
being removably attached to a conventional light socket or by
utilizing other means of attachment.
As set forth herein, at least one preferred embodiment of the
system of the present invention may be more accurately described
as a tracking system incorporating specific tracking and/or access
control features which accomplishes not only the determination of
the identity, location and other tag status of the various
plurality of tags and objects associated therewith, but also
facilitates the tracking of the movement, travel, replacement,
etc. of the tags and associated objects within a predetermined
locale. In addition, the authorized or unauthorized entry and
existing of authorized and unauthorized personnel into and out of
the locale being monitored as well as the entry or removal of any
objects being transported by such authorized or unauthorized
personnel can be regulated.
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More specifically, the monitoring of activities around and
through and access portal 100 can be establish utilizing one or
more control readers 104. It is of course recognized that one or
more portals 100 may be associated with an area or predetermined
locale being monitored. As such, one or more control readers 18'
may be provided in the tracking system of the present invention.
In this preferred embodiment of the tracking system of the present
invention, the control reader 18' includes a 915 megahertz or 868
megahertz transceiver that communicates with at least some or
anyone, of the tags 20 entering within a predetermined range of the
portal 100. The predetermined range may be established by the
generation of an activating signal by the control reader 18'. The
activating signal may be more specifically defined by an
activating field generated preferably at the first frequency range
of 13.56mz. ~nThen anyone of a plurality of tags 20 enters the
activating field, it will in turn be activated and subsequently
transmit tag status data to the associated reader 18', preferably
on a repeated basis. Such tag status data can include tag
identification, location, as well as other pre-programmed
information. If the one or more tags 20 associated with various
objects 22 and/or personnel 23 remain within the activating field
the repeated transmission of the tag status data will eventually
cease after a predetermined time period. The tags 20 will then
assume a sleep mode until a predetermined time has elapsed. If
after the predetermined time has elapsed and if the tag is still
within the activating field, the tag status data will again be
transmitted to the control reader 18' or other associated readers
18 on a repeated basis. If the tag is removed from the activating
field, it will then assume its original sleep mode until
reactivated by an activating signal generated by an appropriate
reader 1"8, 18' of the reader assembly. .
Further, each of the one or more control readers 18' is
structured to trigger an output relay so as to control opening or
closing of the access portal 100 with which it is associated.
Also, an observation assembly or facility lOg is preferably
located in an observing located relative to the vicinity
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surrounding the access portal so as to view, on a real time basis,
and record any activities being conducted in the vicinity of the
access portal 100. Such activities may include the attempted
ingress or egress relative to the interior of the predetermined
5 locale being monitored and track. The observation facility 104
therefore may include a variety of video facilities capable of
accomplishing real time and/or stored recordings of video
observation of the various associated with the access portal 100.
By way of example only if an individual as at 23 is
10 unauthorized to enter the predetermined locale being monitored
and/or is carrying objects 22 that are not authorized to pass
through the portal I00, operative communication will be
transmitted from either the control reader 18' directly and/or the
host controller 14 by means of appropriate facilities such as
15 computer/processor 16. Such signals will prevent the passage of
the individual 23 and/or object 22 through the portal 100 if
authorization is not present. Concurrently, the observation
facilities 104 will be directed to the portal 100. Other display
and/or communication facilities may be appropriately positioned
20 at either the host controller 14 and/or an association with any
operator or individual further regulating control of entrance or
exiting of the predetermined locale.
The control reader 18', upon receiving tag status
transmission from one or more tags 20 will transfer the
information to the host controller 14. The host controller 14 can
respond to the control reader 18' to the effect of validating or
authorizing movement or travel of personnel 23 and/or objects 22.
Similarly, the authorization of individuals 23 and/or objects 22
can be invalidated or not recognized thereby preventing ingress
or egress through the portal 100.
With reference to Figure 2A, each of the one or more control
readers 18' preferably includes a data base having information
stored therein relating to recent tag activities including
identification, position, location, etc. If the control reader
18' finds that sufficient data is stored within the data base 19,
communication to establish the validity or invalidity of the
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21
authorization of personnel 23 or objects 22 need not be made.
Therefore, each of the one or more control readers 18' may
determine the validity or authorization of travel or positioning
of personnel 23 and/or objects 22 either through communication
with and input from the host controller 14 or independently
thereof through accessing information in data base 19. As set
forth above the control reader 18' will communicate to the host
controller 14 through RS232 communication configuration or
wireless communication at 2450 Megahertz or the tag frequency.
With reference to Figure 2B, the tracking system embodiment
of the present invention may also include one or more tracking
readers 18" associated with the reader assembly of the present
invention. The tracking reader 18" includes a 9.15 Megahertz or
868 Megahertz transceiver that communicates with the tag. If
there is a tag 20 passing through the activation field established
by the one or more tracking readers 18" , the tag will transmit tag
status data at least including tag identification and/or travel
activity or history of the personnel 23 or object 22 associated
with a given tag 20. This tag status will be then transmitted
from the tracking reader 18" to the host controller 14. The host
controller will analyze the tag status transmitted data at least
in terms of determining the previous location of the personnel 23
or objects 22 with which one or more tags are associated.
Subsequent to appropriate analysis, a decision will then be made
relating to position parameters of the individuals tags associated
with the obj ects 22 of personnel 22 . Such position parameters can
include, as set forth above, not only tag identification
information but appropriate information determinative of tag
movement including direction of movement and/or location or custom
mated destination.
With reference to Figure 3, another preferred embodiment of
the present invention comprises the reader assembly including at
least one but preferably a plurality of shelf readers 30. The
shelf readers 30 are at least partially distinguishable from the
warehouse or fixed readers 18 as set forth in greater detail
hereinafter. As such, each of the shelf readers 30 include a 9.15
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MHz., 868 MHz or 433 MHz. transceiver that communicates with the
tag. The tag assembly comprises a plurality of tags 32 associated
with a plurality of articles being monitored (not shown for
purposes of clarity), wherein the tags 32 are active and include
multi-frequency, bi-directional capabilities. As such, the one
or more readers 30 generates and transmits an activation signal
at the aforementioned first frequency of 13.56 Mhz. or 433 MHz.
for purposes of tag activation or wake-up. Upon being activated,
the tags 32 will send the appropriate data transmissions to the
one or more shelf readers 30. The readers 30 will send the
transmitted data received from the tags to the host controller 14
for further processing. Communication between the readers 30 and
the host controller 14 will occur by either RS232, wireless
communications at 2450 MHz., or the specific tag communication
frequency, as set forth above.
The physical characteristics of the shelf readers 30 may of
course vary but such readers 30 typically include 13.56 Mhz. or
433 MHz. antennas mounted on or within an appropriate casing that
can be attached to or otherwise associated with shelving or other
facilities on which the various articles being monitored are
stored, displayed, etc. It should be apparent, that the
particular preferred embodiment incorporating the shelf readers
and the cooperatively structured bi-directional, multi
frequency capable tags 32 is readily adaptable for retail outlets
25 or like retail facilities.
In another preferred embodiment schematically represented in
Figure 4, the monitored locale comprises a vehicle 12 and/or 13.
As such, the reader assembly associated therewith comprises one
or more vehicle readers 34 disposed in communicating relation with
30 a plurality of tags 36 defining the attendant tag assembly. As
with the previous preferred embodiments, the one or more vehicle
readers 34 include a 915 MHz . , 868 Mhz . or 433 MHz transceiver
which communicates with the plurality of tags 36. The tags are
associated with a plurality of shipping boxes, containers or
directly with. the articles themselves. As the tags 36 are self
activated from their sleep mode, ID or other appropriate data is
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transmitted to the one or more vehicle readers 34. The vehicle
readers 34 are structured to have the capability of communicating
- this transmitted data from tags 36 to the host controller 14.
The one or more vehicle readers 36 can be powered by a
variety of substantially conventional power sources such as one
or more batteries or any other appropriate power source which may
be associated with the vehicles 12, 13, etc. Moreover, when the
monitored locale is a transport vehicle including a truck 13, A
tracking procedure may be incorporated within this preferred
embodiment of the subject monitoring system. More specifically,
when any box, shipping container or article associated with one
of the tags 36 passes into or out of the truck 13, the tags 36
will be automatically activated on an asynchronous basis and send
tag ID or other appropriate data to the one or more readers 34.
In addition, at least some of the tags which are communicative
with the vehicle reader can include information relating to the
vehicle and/or driver identification. Accordingly, as the vehicle
approaches a given area, security or other personnel can check the
tag identification information with vehicle documents, drivers
license, etc. Appropriate information will be transmitted to the
host controller 14 for processing. Therefore, the loading of the
boxes, articles, etc. with the tags 36 mounted thereon will allow
the inventory information to be coordinated with various shipping
invoices or other documentation to determine the existence or non-
existence of a discrepancy there between. Communication between
the readers 34 and host controller 14 can be accomplished by a
variety of substantially conventional communication facilities.
Still another preferred embodiment of the present invention
is schematically represented in Figure 5. As schematically
represented therein, the reader assembly includes at least one or
alternatively a plurality of mobile or handheld readers 38. The
mobile readers 38 are communicative with the host controller 14
by an appropriate communication link Z7 as described above. As
will be apparent, the mobile or handheld reader 38 is particularly
adaptable for inventory control in the application of a variety
of different retail facilities. As with. the previously described
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readers, the handheld/mobile reader 38 has a 9.15 MHz., 868 MHZ.,
or 433 MHz. transceiver that communicates with the plurality of
tags 40. The handheld/mobile reader 38 will transmit an
activating signal at the aforementioned first frequency of
preferably 13.56 Mhz. or 433 Mhz. By manual control of certain
control facilities or hardware associated directly with the mobile
reader 38. As a result, at least one, but preferably all of the
plurality of tags will exposed to the generated field at the first
frequency and will wake-up and transmit (at the second frequency)
ID and/or other appropriate data to the handheld/mobile reader 38.
Also, the mobile reader 38 has the ability to "write" appropriate
information into a storage facility associated with the various
tags for subsequent accessing.
In certain instances associated with the intended inventory
control procedure the identifying of a specific tag location,
existence, identity, etc. may be required. In doing so, the
reader 38 will determine the strength of the transmitted signal
from a designated or searched for tag 40. As the handheld/mobile
reader 38 enters into a closer proximity to a specified tag as at
40', the transmitted signal from tag 40' will of course increase
until the reader 38 narrows the proximity range down to the
specific tag 40'. The handheld reader 38 may also include
specific visual display facilities which will be explained in
greater detail with reference to Figure 9 but which generally may
be in the form of an LCD display.
The versatility of the monitoring system of the present
invention is further evidenced by the schematically represented
preferred embodiment of Figure 6. In this embodiment a reader
module 42 can be embedded in a bar code reader generally indicated
as 44. A bar code scanner or other facility 46 is operative to
scan or detect certain bar codes on tags and/or labels 48. The
bar code data is communicated to the reader module 42 which serves
to re-transmit the bar code data to the host controller 14 for
further processing. The reader module 42 may also be operatively
structured within the overall bar code reader 44 to independently
read appropriately configured tags as at 48' independent of any
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bar code display thereon. As set forth above the communication
link 17' between the reader module 42 and the host controller 14
is bi-directional and in this context host controller 14 may send
an acknowledgment signal after receiving any appropriate data from
5 the reader module 42.
At least one preferred embodiment of the monitoring system
of the present invention includes the provision of programming
assembly or station generally indicated as 50. Each of a
plurality of tags, regardless of their intended performance and
10 operative content and indicated in Figure 7 as 20, 32, 40 and 48,
are structured to be programmed and/or re-programmed by
programming assembly 50. The programming assembly 50 will use the
same frequency that powers the tag (first frequency) but
preferably at a much lower field strength in order to comply with
15 specific FCC regulations. Therefore, the proximity "write" range
between the programming assembly 50 and the one or more tags 20,
32, 40, 48, etc. being reprogrammed will be significantly shorter
than that available when normally utilizing the first frequency
at high field strengths. Acknowledgment of re-programming will
20 be observed through an appropriate acknowledgment signal generated
by the plurality of tags at the normal communication frequency
(second frequency). The programming assembly 50 and the various
structures of the individual tags provide for the programming or
reprogramming of the tags individually or collectively. The
25 reprogramming procedure is accomplished in order to supply one or
more tags with the most current data, such as a change in data or
information. Further, the programming assembly 50 can be broadly
or generally defined, in at least one embodiment of the present
invention, as a fixed or permanent reader and/or a hand held
reader, as previously described.
Further structural features preferably, but not necessarily,
common to all of the plurality of tags 20, 32, 40, 48, etc. is the
inclusion of a tamper switch or detector. As a result an attempt
to remove the tag from the article being monitored or otherwise
disassociate it therefrom will result in its automatic activation
or wake-up. The generation of a warning or alarm signal from the
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tag to the host or an appropriate reader will result in the
signaling of the host controller 14. Similarly, for the various
active tags incorporating a self contained power source, a low
battery detector 54 can also be incorporated in the various active
tags so as to detect a failure or a predetermined low energy
output from the self contained power source. Similar automatic
activation and alarm signaling of the host, preferably through an
appropriate reader will also be accomplished.
Yet another device associated with at least some of the
plurality of tags is the inclusion of a mounting or lock device
or assembly 56. Such lock device 56 will be particularly
adaptable for use in a retail facility or environment. As such,
the tag 20, 32, 40, 48 etc. will be connected to a product
displayed or presented for sale (and/or stored items). The lock
device will prevent the tag from becoming detached from the
article being monitored unless it is exposed to an electric field
or signal, preferably within the first frequency range of 13.56
MHz or 433 MHz. This field will cause activation or wake-up of
the tag and the tag will send ID or other appropriate data to one
or more readers of an associated reader assembly. If the
transmitted data is valid, recognizing that the customer is buying
the item, then the reader will send a command to the lock device
56 allowing the associated tag to be removed from the article
being sold prior to it leaving the retail facility.
One or more of the preferred embodiments of the present
invention may incorporate one or more readers 38' incorporating
a display facility 60. A typical practical application of the
leader 38' having a display facility 60 is that used in the mobile
or handheld computer 38 in the preferred embodiment of Figure 5.
As such, the reader 38, 38' has a 2450 MHz. or 9.15 MHZ., 868 Mhz.
or 433 MHz . transceiver that communicates with the host controller
14. The reader 38, 38' is connected directly to any size LCD or
other appropriate display 60. The display 60 will be used for
displaying any information about the monitored. article,
transporting carrier, box, contents or any other information that
the customer/user would like to display in maintaining an
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inventory control and/or tracking procedure as set forth above.
The versatility of at least one embodiment of the present
invention is further demonstrated by the display 60 being used to
indicate price information in a retail establishment such as, but
not limited to, a grocery store or the like, wherein the quantity
and/or volume of products is extensive. A central computer can
send a command to an appropriate reader to wake-up individual ones
or an entire group of tags. The updated or current data, such
as price information or any other information of the type that
need be displayed can be transferred to the tag. The display 60
will thereafter display the new information, when appropriate, in
an immediate fashion.
Common to at least some of the preferred embodiments
described above is the inclusion of certain "repeater
capabilities" within one or more of the individual readers
associated with any reader assembly. As such, a repeater/reader
serves as an amplifier and, in addition to processing any
transmitted data in the context of the normal reader performance
characteristics, will facilitate transmission of such data between
readers or from the readers to the host controller 14. Typically,
a repeater/ reader is positioned and/or utilized when a
conventional reader without repeater capabilities is located a
distance from the host controller or other readers which
derogatorily affects the efficient or reliable transmission of
communication signals there between.
In addition to the above the various readers, tags, etc. may
be provided with various antenna structures operative to form
their intended communication functions. Such various antenna
structures may include a high frequency reader antenna,
transmitter antenna, shelf antenna (short range), communication
antenna, etc.
As described throughout, the various preferred embodiments
of the present invention include the generation of a field signal
or activating signal, to which the various tags are responsive to
establish activation, wake-up tracking, and/or communication
links. Typically and in at least some of the preferred
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embodiments, the field or activating signals are generated by the
different embodiments of the reader assemblies. Moreover, a
practical application of the present invention may involve
provision of a field generator for establishing such signal
generation.. The field generator can be combined with a single
reader or with each of the plurality of readers. Alternatively,
the field generator or other facility for generating the field or
activating signal can be operatively maintained separately and
independently of anyone or more of the reader assemblies. The
independent field generating facility can have its own address
that is linked to a single reader address. Yet another
alternative embodiment would be the provision of several field
generators linked to a single reader. Also, the field generator
can be independently powered such as by a 12 volts DC transformer
or by means of contained battery.
Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail
can be made to the described preferred embodiment of the
invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing
description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted
as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of
the invention. should be determined by the appended claims and
their legal equivalents.
Now that the invention has been described,
