Intelligent tagging automated capture solution

Abstract

A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag rejection system includes an imager for scanning RFID tags and a tag removal component for discarding inoperable RFID tags. The tag removal component can include a paddle configured to receive the inoperable tag as part of a removal process. The tag removal component can include a retraction system configured to position the paddle in a jet path of the tag rejection system to receive a rejected tag. The tag removal component can include a removable liner on the paddle configured to receive the rejected tag and discard with the rejected tag. The tag removal component can include a pressurized gas system configured for jetting a rejected tag.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 026,596, filed May 18, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This invention generally relates to radio frequency identification (RFID) tags and apparatus for automatically applying RFID-enabled smart tags. More specifically, this disclosure relates to an apparatus fully integrated with an automated labeling machine or an automated RFID-enabled printer labeling machine and capable of being used to remove RFID-enabled smart tags that are marked as or known to be defective from a tag liner before applying the tag to a product or product carton to ensure that only functional RFID tags are applied. Background Technology

[0004] Generally, RFID uses electromagnetic radiation or energy to stimulate a responding device (called an RFID "tag" or transponder) to identify itself and, in some cases, provide additional information and / or data stored in the tag. RFID tags typically include a semiconductor device often called a "chip," on which memory and operating circuitry are formed, connected to an antenna. RFID tags typically function as transponders, responding to radio frequency interrogation signals received from a reader (also called an interrogator) to provide information stored in the chip's memory. The reader converts the radio waves from the RFID device into a form that a computer can utilize.

[0005] Conventional tags are made from tagging material, which typically includes a substrate or face layer (also called face material), an adhesive layer adhered to the face layer, and a protective release liner removably adhered to the adhesive layer (unlined tags do contain a release liner). To form an RFID tag, an RFID tag is printed onto or otherwise incorporated into the face layer of the conventional tag. Furthermore, tagging material is typically supplied in continuous format or roll form. Individual tags can be produced by die-cutting the face layer and adhesive layer and then removing the surrounding waste substrate, thereby allowing the individual tag to adhere to the release liner.

[0006] RFID tags and labels are widely used to associate objects (such as cartons, boxes, containers) or individual products with a unique identification code. When used to track or manage inventory, a microprocessor stores the unique identification data associated with the inventory. An operator can then use an external receiver / reader to retrieve the stored data and process or track the inventory. One challenge in manufacturing RFID labels and inlays is that there is a certain percentage (typically 0.4-0.6%) that do not meet specifications or are completely inoperable. When a label or inlay is determined to be out of specification or inoperable, the label or inlay is typically marked with a printed ink square that indicates inoperability. This process is completed before the inlay is sent to the label converter.

[0007] Label conversion results in an RFID label incorporating an RFID chip and antenna inlay. When the label converter adds the inlay to a label substrate to create a smart label, a press that performs the addition prints human readable data and barcode data on the label substrate. Immediately following this step, a secondary inspection of the RFID label is performed. The equipment then attempts to query or read data from each label. If the query is not successful (indicating a defective label), the barcode on the label is overprinted (typically with a printed square), thereby rendering the label inoperable. Then, when the RFID smart label is used on an automated label applicator, the label with the inoperable RFID label needs to be removed. If the inoperable label / label is affixed to a product or carton, the product or carton must be reworked and in some cases completely discarded because the permanent nature of the adhesive can cause damage to the product or carton if removed after application.

[0008] There is a need for an automated RFID label and label rejection mechanism for removing inoperable or otherwise defective labels and labels before they are applied.

[0009] It is therefore an object of the present disclosure to provide an automated RFID label and label rejection mechanism that can be integrated with an automated label applicator or printer applicator system that in turn can provide a means of removing inoperable RFID labels and labels before they are applied. The mechanism can be incorporated with an automated label applicator or RFID printer applicator system along a section of its conveyor. SUMMARY

[0011] A brief summary is presented below to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and is not intended to identify key / critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0012] Described herein are systems, devices, apparatuses, and methods for determining whether an RFID marker is operable and removing the marker if the marker is not operable.

[0013] In some embodiments, an RFID marker rejection system includes an imager for scanning an RFID marker and a marker removal component for discarding an inoperable RFID marker. The marker removal component can include a paddle configured to receive the inoperable marker as part of a removal process. The marker removal component can include a retraction system configured to position the paddle in an ejection path of the marker rejection system to receive a rejected marker. The marker removal component can include a removable liner on the paddle configured to receive the rejected marker and discard the rejected marker together. The marker removal component can include a pressurized gas system configured for ejecting a rejected marker.

[0014] The pressurized gas system can include a pressurized gas reservoir. The marker removal component includes a tamping machine for receiving a rejected marker. The system can be controlled by a programmable logic controller. The programmable logic controller triggers an RFID marker rejection mechanism to scan an RFID marker for operability. The programmable logic controller can include a human-machine interface. The imager can include one or both of a barcode reader and a camera.

[0015] In some embodiments, a method for rejecting an RFID marker includes scanning an incoming RFID marker using an imager, determining that the incoming RFID marker can be an inoperable RFID marker, and discarding the inoperable RFID marker using a marker removal component. Discarding the inoperable RFID marker can include receiving the inoperable RFID marker on a paddle. Discarding the inoperable RFID marker can include extending the paddle into an ejection path of the marker rejection system using a retraction system before receiving the inoperable RFID marker on the paddle. The inoperable RFID marker can be received using a removable liner on the paddle. Discarding the inoperable RFID marker can include ejecting a rejected marker using a pressurized gas system. Discarding the inoperable RFID marker can include receiving the inoperable RFID marker using a tamping machine before ejecting the rejected marker using a pressurized gas system.

[0016] Scannability of the upcoming RFID label can be triggered by a programmable logic controller. The imager can include one or both of a barcode reader and a camera. Scanning can detect the inoperable label by identifying an overprint or presence of an ink marker.

[0017] In some embodiments, an automated label applicator includes a label application module, a programmable logic controller, and an RFID label rejection system configured to reject inoperable RFID labels. The automated label applicator can further include a scanner and a conveyor positioned to hold an upcoming RFID label in place for scanning by the scanner. The RFID automated label applicator can be capable of applying RFID labels and tags directly to products, product packaging, or product cartons.

[0018] In some embodiments, a system includes an RFID label rejection mechanism. In some embodiments, the RFID label rejection mechanism is controlled by a programmable logic controller (PLC). In some embodiments, the RFID label rejection mechanism includes an imager for scanning a plurality of RFID labels or tags. In some embodiments, the imager is a two-dimensional scanner or an imaging device such as a camera.

[0019] In some embodiments, the RFID label rejection mechanism is integrated with an automated label applicator or an automated RFID-enabled printer applicator. In some embodiments, the RFID labels are in the form of a roll, where the roll contains a plurality of labels attached to a liner. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of RFID labels has a two-dimensional barcode and human-readable text printed on the RFID label. In some embodiments, the barcode on an inoperable RFID label is overprinted, indicating inoperability. In other embodiments, a roll of RFID labels contains a plurality of "wet" RFID inlays attached to a backing. If no printed information (e.g., 2D barcode) is present, an ink marker can be printed on any inoperable RFID label. The imager is triggered by the PLC to scan for an overprint or presence of the ink marker on each RFID label or tag, thereby indicating inoperability.

[0020] In some embodiments, the RFID label rejection mechanism further includes a label removal component. The label removal component can be configured to remove inoperable RFID labels from a roll of RFID labels prior to application by an automatic label applicator or an automated RFID-enabled printer applicator. In some embodiments, the label removal component includes or comprises a solenoid powered pneumatic valve, a pneumatic actuator, and a retractable paddle. The pneumatic valve causes the pneumatic actuator to position the retractable paddle to receive inoperable labels or labels. In some embodiments, the label removal component further includes a second pneumatic valve configured to move the inoperable labels or labels to the retractable paddle. In some embodiments, the retractable paddle includes or comprises a removable liner for securing the inoperable labels or labels and facilitating periodic removal of the inoperable labels or labels as they accumulate.

[0021] In other embodiments, the automated RFID-enabled printer applicator includes or comprises an RFID label application module, a programmable logic controller, and an RFID label rejection system. The RFID label rejection system includes an imager for scanning a plurality of RFID labels or labels. In some embodiments, the imager is a two-dimensional scanner or an imaging device such as a camera. A roll of RFID labels includes a plurality of RFID labels, and the automated RFID-enabled printer applicator attempts to encode data to each RFID label. If a label cannot be encoded, the label is printed with an overprint pattern, and the printer applicator provides a bad label separation signal (BTS) to the PLC indicating that a bad label is about to be dispensed. The PLC then performs the same action to reject the label.

[0022] The RFID label rejection mechanism further includes a label removal component. The label removal component can be configured to remove inoperable RFID labels from a roll of RFID labels prior to application by an automatic label applicator or an automated RFID-enabled printer applicator. The label removal component can include a solenoid powered pneumatic valve, a pneumatic actuator, and a retractable paddle. The pneumatic valve causes the pneumatic actuator to position the retractable paddle to receive inoperable labels or labels. The label removal component can include a second pneumatic valve configured to move the inoperable labels or labels to the retractable paddle. The retractable paddle can include a removable liner for securing the inoperable labels or labels and removing the inoperable labels or labels from an application cycle.

[0023] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which principles of the innovation can be employed and is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 A front perspective view of an automated label applicator including an RFID label rejection mechanism is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0025] Figure 2 A close-up perspective view of an automated label applicator including an RFID label rejection mechanism is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0026] Figure 3 A rear side perspective view of an automated label applicator is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0027] Figure 4 An end perspective view of an automated label applicator is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0028] Figure 5 A close-up perspective view of an automated label applicator including an RFID label rejection mechanism is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0029] Figure 6 A close-up perspective view of an RFID label rejection mechanism is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0030] Figure 7 A front end perspective view of an automated label applicator is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0031] Figure 8 A perspective view of a programmable logic controller of an automated label applicator is shown in accordance with some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, where like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the innovation. It can be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the innovation.

[0034] Automated RFID label rejection systems and methods are described herein. In some embodiments, the automated RFID label rejection systems are integrated with automated label applicators or printer applicator systems. In some embodiments, the automated label applicators are positioned over or beside a section of product or packaging conveyor for the purpose of printing and / or applying labels to products, product packaging, or cartons containing products, automatically and directly. RFID labels and tags can be applied or removed using a variety of application techniques, including but not limited to tamp, blow, tamp-blow, swing tamp, or swing tamp blow.

[0035] Figure 1 An exemplary RFID label rejection system or device 150 integrated into an automated label applicator 100 or automated RFID-enabled printer applicator (not shown) is shown. The applicator 100 includes a roll of RFID labels and / or tags 30 and a roll of backing 32 to which the labels or tags are removably adhered, the roll of labels and / or tags and the roll of backing together forming an RFID label or tag 34. The label rejection system further includes a label removal component 154.

[0036] Figure 2 is a close-up view of the applicator 100 and RFID label rejection system 150 in Figure 1 The paddle 162 including a removable backing 164 is used to remove inoperable RFID labels.

[0037] Figure 3 is another angle of the applicator 100 and RFID label rejection system 150 in Figure 1 and Figure 2 Figure 3 Another view of the paddle 162 used to remove inoperable RFID labels is shown.

[0038] Figure 4 An RFID label rejection system or device 150 controlled by one or more computer processors and / or one or more programmable logic controllers 120 is shown. In some embodiments, the one or more computer processors can be part of an on-board or network-connected computer, computer cluster, or mobile device. In some embodiments, the computer processors can be part of a remote server in communication with and / or controlling the programmable logic controllers 120.

[0039] Figure 5 ​Another view of a labeling machine 100 and RFID marker rejection system 150 is shown that includes a roll of RFID markers and / or labels 30 and a backing 32 to which the markers or labels are removably adhered, and the roll of markers and / or labels and the roll of backing together form an RFID label or marker 34. The marker rejection system further includes a pneumatic actuator 160 that can be configured to position a paddle 162 to accept inoperable RFID labels or markers. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the pneumatic actuator 160 can be used to extend the paddle 162 down into the path of the ejected rejected RFID labels or markers. The paddle 162 can then be retracted so as not to interfere with a tamping machine tamping (or otherwise depositing) active, non-rejected operable RFID labels or markers onto a package, envelope, or other object. For example, in some embodiments, an article such as a box, package, product, or envelope can be carried by a conveyor past the RFID marker rejection system 150, and a tamping machine 170 can be extended to deposit active markers onto the article.

[0040] Figure 6 is an image of the marker application module 110. The module is capable of applying and / or rejecting RFID labels and markers 34 by one or more of the following processes: tamp, blow-on, tamp-blow, swing-tamp, or swing-tamp-blow, etc. In various embodiments, the marker application module 110 includes a vacuum pad 112 configured to hold and / or apply each operable RFID marker or label 34. In various embodiments, the vacuum pad 112 is also used to hold non-operable RFID markers or labels 34 removed from the backing 32 and / or the roll of RFID markers and / or labels 30. For some embodiments, in operation, a roll of RFID markers and / or labels 30 including a plurality of RFID markers 34 is loaded onto the automated marker labeling machine 100. In some embodiments, the roll of RFID markers and / or labels 30 includes RFID markers 34 attached to a continuous backing that can be collected to form the roll backing 32. In other embodiments, the roll of RFID markers and / or labels 30 does not include a backing, and a backing does not need to be collected into the roll backing 32.

[0041] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of RFID markers 34 has a two-dimensional barcode 36 printed on the RFID marker 34 to indicate operability. In some embodiments, an inoperable RFID marker 34 can lack a barcode, or can be provided with a rejection barcode to indicate that a given RFID marker 34 is inoperable. In some embodiments, the barcode 36 on an inoperable RFID marker or label 40 is overprinted, thereby indicating inoperability. Alternatively, a roll of RFID labels can include a plurality of "wet" RFID inlays attached to a backing. In some embodiments, an ink marker such as a printed ink square can be printed on an inoperable RFID label.

[0042] As shown in Figure 6 The RFID marker rejection system or apparatus 150 can include an imager 152. The imager 152 can be or include one or more two-dimensional imaging devices such as cameras, laser scanners, and / or 1D or 2D barcode readers. The imager 152 can be used to scan one or more of the plurality of RFID markers 34. The imager can be triggered and / or controlled by one or more computer processors and / or one or more programmable logic controllers 120 to search for and identify one or both of the operable RFID markers or labels 38 or the inoperable RFID markers or labels 40.

[0043] The RFID marker rejection system or apparatus 150 can further include a marker removal component 154. The marker removal component 154 removes any inoperable or otherwise defective RFID labels or RFID markers 34 from the roll of RFID markers and / or labels 30.

[0044] The roll of RFID markers and / or labels 30 includes a plurality of RFID markers 34 removably attached to a backing 32. Each of the plurality of RFID markers 34 has a two-dimensional barcode 36 printed on the RFID marker 34 to indicate operability. The barcode 36 on an inoperable RFID marker or label 40 is overprinted or overprinted, thereby indicating its inoperability. Alternatively, a roll of RFID labels can include a plurality of "wet" RFID inlays attached to a backing, and an ink marker such as a printed ink square can be printed thereon to indicate inoperable RFID labels.

[0045] As shown in Figure 7As shown, the marker removal component 154 can include a pneumatic valve that is part of a pressurized gas system that can be operated by a solenoid. The pressurized gas system can include a tank that stores pressurized gas or fluid, and can include a pump, fan, or other system designed to control the pressure of the gas or fluid of the pneumatic or hydraulic system. The solenoid can be energized by outputs from one or more processors and / or programmable logic controllers 120. In some embodiments, the marker removal component 154 can further include a pneumatic actuator 160 and a paddle 162, where the pneumatic actuator 160 can be a cylinder or a rotary actuator, and the paddle 162 can be a retractable paddle. More specifically, the pneumatic valve 156 can cause the pneumatic actuator 160 to position (e.g., by extending, moving, retracting, or otherwise placing) the paddle 162 into the jetting and / or tamping path to accept (or otherwise receive) the inoperable RFID marker or tag 40. The pneumatic valve 156 can then cause the paddle 162 to move away to allow placement of an operable RFID marker or tag (as by a tamping machine). Additionally, the marker removal component 154 can further include a second pneumatic valve configured to adhere the inoperable RFID marker or tag 40 to a removable liner 164 of the paddle 162.

[0046] Figure 8 is a close-up image of an example human-machine interface, such as a human-machine interface for use with the one or more processors and / or programmable logic controllers 120.

[0047] In some embodiments, the automated marker applicator 100 includes a marker application module, one or more processors and / or programmable logic controllers 120, and an RFID marker rejection mechanism. The automated marker applicator 100 can include any automated RFID marker applicator known in the art that is capable of applying RFID tags and markers to products, product packaging, or product cartons. The automated marker applicator 100 can be positioned over or adjacent to a section of a conveyor (such as a conveyor for products and / or packaging) to directly apply RFID markers 34 to or encode, print, and apply to products, product packaging, or product cartons.

[0048] In some embodiments, the RFID marker rejection mechanism is automated and includes an imager 152. In some embodiments, the imager comprises or is a one- or two-dimensional scanner, a barcode reader, and / or an imaging device such as a camera. The one or more processors and / or programmable logic controller 120 can be configured to trigger and / or control operation of the RFID marker rejection mechanism to scan the operability of each of the plurality of RFID markers 34. More specifically, the imager 152 can be used to scan and analyze each of the plurality of RFID markers 34. The one or more processors and / or programmable logic controller 120 can further be used to control the process of removing inoperable RFID markers or labels. A marker removal component 154 is configured to remove any inoperable RFID labels or markers 40, such as from the roll of RFID markers and / or labels 30.

[0049] In some embodiments, the marker removal component 154 includes a pneumatic valve 156, a pneumatic actuator 160, and a paddle 162 that can be operated by a solenoid actuated by an output from the programmable logic controller 120. In various embodiments, the marker removal component 154 can use any actuation system, such as a linear or rotary motor, a pneumatic pump, a hydraulic pump, or a pressurized gas or fluid system. In some embodiments, the pneumatic actuator 160 comprises a cylinder, and the pneumatic valve 156 causes the pneumatic actuator 160 to position the paddle 162 to accept inoperable RFID labels or markers 40. As stated above, in some embodiments, the paddle 162 can be a retractable or otherwise movable paddle. The marker removal component 154 can further include a second pneumatic valve 166 and / or actuation system configured to release the marker from a vacuum pad by using a volume of compressed air to adhere the inoperable RFID marker or label 40 to a removable liner 164 of the paddle 162. In other embodiments, other actuation systems can include an impact, friction, or other transport mechanism that can throw, carry, pick up, slide, drop, or otherwise move the inoperable RFID marker to the removable liner 164. For example, in some systems, only removal of the vacuum can be sufficient to allow the inoperable RFID marker or label 40 to drop to the paddle 162. In other systems, some additional effort can be required, such as moving a tamping machine to or placing the paddle 162 over the inoperable RFID marker or label 40, to remove the inoperable RFID marker or label 40 from the tamping machine 170.

[0050] In some embodiments, in operation, when an operable or "good" RFID tag 38 is fed or dispensed from the liner 32 onto the vacuum pad 112 of the tag application module 110 in preparation for the next cycle, a signal "dispense end" is sent from the automated tag applicator 100 to the one or more processors and / or programmable logic controller 120. The one or more processors and / or programmable logic controller 120 then trigger the imager 152 to begin scanning the next tag of the plurality of RFID tags 34 to be fed (while still on the liner 32 or otherwise attached to the plurality of RFID tags 34) for a predefined period of time for the two-dimensional barcode 36. If the imager 152 is unable to interpret or decode the two-dimensional barcode 36 within the predefined period of time, the imager 152 can provide an output signal to the one or more processors and / or programmable logic controller 120 indicating a "no read" condition and an inoperable RFID tag or label 40. The one or more processors and / or programmable logic controller 120 latch the signal until an operable or good RFID tag 38 has been applied. In other embodiments, the one or more processors and / or programmable logic controller 120 can identify the "inoperable" condition by recognizing a barcode, overprinted pattern, or other symbol or indicia associated with the inoperable RFID tag or label 40.

[0051] In some embodiments, after the operable RFID tag 38 is applied, the inoperable RFID tag or label 40 is fed outward onto the vacuum pad 112. When the tag feed is complete, the programmable logic controller 120 triggers the imager 152 to scan the next tag of the plurality of RFID tags 34 and simultaneously generates a separate output that energizes the solenoid on the pneumatic valve 156. The pneumatic valve 156 then causes the pneumatic actuator 160 to position the paddle 162 of the tag removal assembly 154 in front of the vacuum pad 112 of the tag application module 110. Once the paddle 162 is properly positioned, the programmable logic controller 120 can cause the second pneumatic valve 166 or other actuation system to activate. In some embodiments, when activated, the second pneumatic valve 166 sends a burst of compressed gas to blow the inoperable RFID tag or label 40 off of the vacuum pad 112, thereby causing it to adhere to the paddle 162. In other embodiments, the tamping machine 170 or other actuation system can use a mechanical or other system to either transport the inoperable RFID tag or label 40 from the tamping machine 170 to the paddle 162 or move the paddle 162 to the inoperable RFID tag or label 40. In various embodiments, once the inoperable RFID tag or label 40 adheres to the paddle 162, the paddle 162 retracts or returns to its original position.

[0052] In various embodiments, the cycle is completed if it is determined that the next RFID marker 34 on the liner 32 is an operable RFID marker 38. However, if it is determined that the next RFID marker 34 is an inoperable RFID marker or label 40, the cycle will repeat until another operable RFID marker 38 is fed onto the vacuum pad 112. Over time, the built-up inoperable RFID markers or labels 40 will need to be removed from the paddle 162. Accordingly, the paddle 162 can include a removable liner that is attachable to the paddle 162 with a removable adhesive. To remove the built-up inoperable RFID markers or labels 40, the removable liner can be simply peeled away from the paddle 162 and replaced with a new removable liner.

[0053] In some embodiments, there are no RFID markers having a two-dimensional barcode printed thereon. Rather, a roll of RFID labels can include a liner and a plurality of "wet" RFID inlays. A "wet" RFID inlay is simply an RFID inlay that is applied to a backing material, such as a clear plastic backing. In some embodiments, the same RFID applicator 100 uses the imager 152 programmed by the one or more processors and / or programmable logic controller 120 to identify the presence or absence of a printed ink marker, such as a printed ink square, on the RFID inlay. If the marker or square is present, thereby indicating an inoperable RFID label, the inoperable RFID label or marker 40 can be removed using the same process as when it is a completed marker. More specifically, the paddle 162 can be positioned in front of the vacuum pad 112 and the inoperable RFID label is blown onto the paddle 162. If the printed marker or square is not present (indicating an operable RFID label), the operable RFID label is fed onto the vacuum pad 112 for application.

[0054] In other embodiments, an automated RFID-enabled printer applicator (not shown) includes the marker application module 110, the one or more processors and / or programmable logic controller 120, and the RFID marker rejection mechanism. The automated marker applicator 100 can be any automated RFID-enabled printer applicator capable of printing and applying RFID labels and markers to products, product packaging, or product cartons. The automated RFID-enabled printer applicator is typically positioned above or adjacent to a section of conveyor or other material handling equipment to directly apply or encode, print, and apply RFID markers or labels to products, product packaging, or product cartons.

[0055] In some embodiments, it can be advantageous to utilize the one or more processors and / or programmable logic controllers 120 to control the timing functions of the label application module 110. The label application module 110 can be controlled by the automated label applicator 100 or RFID-enabled printer applicator. Utilizing the one or more processors and / or programmable logic controllers 120 can centralize user input to a single human-machine interface 122. The automated label applicator 100 or RFID-enabled printer applicator can then primarily function as a dispenser. In some embodiments utilizing the automated label applicator 100, all electronic and mechanical components are rated to IP65 or higher. This allows for use of the entire device in washdown environments, such as those commonly seen in food production applications.

[0056] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art can recognize that many additional combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term "includes" is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" as "comprising" is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in the introductory clauses of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A radio frequency identification tag rejection system, comprising: An imager used for scanning radio frequency identification tags; as well as A tag removal component for discarding inoperable RFID tags, wherein the tag removal component includes: A blade configured to receive the inoperable RFID tag as part of the removal process; A retraction system, the retraction system including a pneumatic valve configured to position the blade in the injection path of the mark rejection system to receive a rejected mark; Vacuum pad, the vacuum pad being configured to hold the rejection mark; and A second pneumatic valve is configured to release the rejection mark from the vacuum pad by using a large amount of compressed air to adhere the rejection mark to a removable liner of the blade, the removable liner being configured to receive the rejection mark and discard it together with the rejection mark.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the marker removal component includes a pressurized gas system configured to spray the rejected marker.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the pressurized gas system includes a pressurized gas reservoir.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the marker removal component includes a tamping machine for receiving rejected markers.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the system is controlled by a programmable logic controller, including using the programmable logic controller to control the imager and the marker removal component.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the programmable logic controller triggers a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag rejection mechanism to enable the imager to scan the operability of the RFID tag.

7. The system according to claim 5, wherein the programmable logic controller includes a human-machine interface.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the imager comprises a barcode reader and a camera.

9. A method for rejecting radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, the method comprising: Use an imager to scan for upcoming RFID tags; It was determined that the upcoming RFID tag was a non-operable RFID tag; as well as Discarding the inoperable RFID tag using a tag removal component includes: The retraction system extends the blades into the jet path of the marking rejection system; The blades are positioned in the injection path of the mark rejection system by a pneumatic valve to receive the rejected marks; Use a vacuum pad to hold the rejected mark in place; and A second pneumatic valve is used to release the rejection mark from the vacuum pad by using a large amount of compressed air, so as to adhere the rejection mark to the removable liner of the blade.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein discarding the inoperable RFID tag comprises: A pressurized gas system is used to spray the rejection markers.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein discarding the inoperable RFID tag comprises: Before using a pressurized gas system to spray the rejected marker, a tamping machine is used to receive the inoperable RFID marker.

12. The method of claim 9, wherein the operability of scanning the upcoming RFID tag is triggered by a programmable logic controller.

13. The method of claim 9, wherein the imager comprises a barcode reader and a camera.

14. The method of claim 9, wherein the scanning detects the inoperable RFID tag by identifying the overprinting or presence of ink markers.

Images