Radio Frequency Identification (Rfid) Label Applicator

Abstract

The invention relates to an RFID label applicator (100) may include a peeler member (140) having a peel end (142), the peeler member being configured to cause an RFID label (102) to peel away from a web (110) when the web passes around the peel end; and a label tamp assembly (150) having a receiving surface (612) configured to receive the RFID label and to move it into contact with an item (104) on which the RFID label is to be applied, the label tamp assembly having at least one forward opening in a portion of the receiving surface away from the peeler member and a plurality of rearward openings in a portion of the receiving surface proximate the peeler member, wherein at least one of the forward or rearward openings is configured to draw in air such that a leading portion of the RFID label is substantially secured.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present application relates to radio frequency identification (RFID) label applicators, and more particularly, to a RFID label applicator capable of programming RFID labels, detecting defective RFID labels and rejecting the defective RFID labels. BACKGROUND INFORMATION [0002] Radio frequency identification (RFID) systems are generally known and may be used for a number of applications such as managing inventory, electronic access control, security systems, automatic identification of cars on toll roads, and electronic article surveillance (EAS). RFID devices may be used to track or monitor the location and / or status of articles or items to which the RFID devices are applied. A RFID system typically comprises a RFID reader and a RFID device such as a tag or label. The RFID reader may transmit a radio-frequency carrier signal to the RFID device. The RFID device may respond to the carrier signal with a data signal encoded with information stored on the RFID d...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Existing RFID applicators, however, have encountered problems in handling defective labels.

One problem occurs when tracking a defective label from the point at which it is detected to the point at which it can be rejected.

Because of potential differences in the RFID label footprints and web paths through the applicator, the number of labels between the point of detection and the point of rejection may be inconsistent.

As a result of this inconsistency, an applicator may reject a good label and may apply a defective label to the product.

Another problem is that the rejection of defective RFID labels may interrupt the label application process and may result in labels not being applied to items or products.

Each defective label that is encountered may cut the product application rate by up to an additional 50%.

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