Systems and methods for providing labels suitable for incorporation with or into articles

Abstract

A system and method for integrating a tag with an article. The method includes dynamically determining the length of each wire to be incorporated into the article or trace to be placed on the article to optimize tag performance taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of the article. In the wire scenario, the method further involves generating a wire having the dynamically determined length; and sewing the wire into the article being produced to form an antenna for a first tag. In the trace scenario, the method further involves forming the trace on the article being produced to form an antenna for the first tag. Next, at least a communication-enabled device is attached to the article to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication-enabled device and the at least one antenna.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This document claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. non-provisional patent application No. 16 / 685,584, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING TAGS ADAPTED TO BE INCORPORATED WITH OR INITEMS,” filed on November 15, 2019, and U.S. provisional patent application No. 62 / 902,355, entitled “RFID TAGS ADAPTED FOR CONCEALED, PERMANENT PLACEMENT IN TEXTILE PRODUCTS, AND PROCESSES FOR THE MANUFATURE AND INSTALLATION THEREOF,” filed on September 18, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to tags, such as radio frequency identification ("RFID") tags. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to implementing systems and methods for providing tags suitable for incorporation with or into articles, such as textile products. Background Art

[0004] Many RFID tags are known in the art. These include the Visual Source Tag ("VST") Item-Level Intelligence ("ILI") hard tag, manufactured by Sensormatic Electronics, LLC of Florida. The VST ILI hard tag consists of an RFID tag attached to a polyethylene terephthalate ("PET") substrate and encased in an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene ("ABS") plastic housing. The VST ILI hard tag is difficult to destroy by malicious individuals (e.g., thieves). However, the VST ILI hard tag is difficult to remove at a point-of-sale ("POS") system. To address these shortcomings of the VST ILI hard tag, a hangtag containing an RFID tag on PET has been created and embedded in paper. The problem with the hangtag configuration is that the hangtag cannot be easily removed from the retail item without damaging the retail item, which results in lower security against theft.

[0005] Therefore, it makes sense to insert RFID tags directly into the retail items they are intended to protect. One such solution involves incorporating the RFID tags into thread that can be sewn into fabric. In theory, this is a cheap solution using standard sewing techniques. However, standard sewing techniques tend to damage the RFID tags, resulting in an unacceptable failure rate of 1% to 20%. Therefore, special machines are used to install the RFID tag thread into the fabric. For physical strength, the thread is coated with a thick coating. As a result, the RFID tag thread can be felt by someone touching the fabric and can be seen after the fabric has been ironed. Moreover, this solution is relatively expensive.

[0006] Another solution involves placing RFID tags on the care label or brand tag of a retail item. This tag-based solution has several drawbacks. For example, the care label / brand tag has a known location and is easy to remove from the retail item using a cutting tool (e.g., scissors). Furthermore, the care label / brand tag is typically small, so the RFID tag antenna needs to be folded back, which can reduce RFID tag performance. If the care label / brand tag material is thick or stiff, the care label / brand tag will be irritating to the individual wearing the item. Finally, if the retail item is a garment for the upper body, an individual may attempt to steal the garment by putting it on in a fitting room and then wearing it out of the retail store without paying. The back of an individual's neck is a difficult location to attempt and read an RFID tag through an exit door. If the RFID tag is mounted in the seam of the garment, the tag is more easily detected. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present disclosure relates to implementing systems and methods for integrating a tag with an article. The method can be performed while the article is being manufactured. In some scenarios, the method includes: determining, by a computing device, dielectric and tuning properties of the article using a lookup table or sensor data; dynamically determining, by the computing device, a length of each metal wire to be incorporated into the article to optimize tag performance taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of the article; producing at least one metal wire having the dynamically determined length; sewing the at least one metal wire into the article being produced to form at least one antenna for a first tag; and attaching at least a communication-enabling device to the article to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication-enabling device and the at least one antenna.

[0008] In some cases, the method further includes: adding at least one alignment mark to the article, wherein the at least one alignment mark can be used to attach to guide proper placement of the at least one communication-enabled device on the article; coating one or both ends of the at least one metal wire with a substance selected to reduce or eliminate irritation caused by the at least one metal wire to an individual using the article; covering the communication-enabled device with a flexible fluid resistive material prior to attaching; and / or attaching the communication-enabled device to a substrate prior to attaching.

[0009] In those or other scenarios, the method also includes: verifying that the tag operates properly after it has been coupled to the item; replacing the communication-enabled device with another communication-enabled device when verification that the tag operates properly is not made; and / or tuning at least one antenna by removing a portion of at least one metal wire or replacing at least one metal wire with another metal wire when verification that the first tag operates properly is not made.

[0010] An implementation system includes at least one device that performs the following operations: dynamically determines the length of each metal wire to be incorporated into an article to optimize tag performance taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of the article; produces at least one metal wire having the dynamically determined length; stitches the at least one metal wire into the article being produced to form at least one antenna for a first tag; and attaches at least a communication-enabling device to the article to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication-enabling device and the at least one antenna.

[0011] Alternatively or in addition, the method includes: determining, by a computing device, the dielectric and tuning properties of an article using a lookup table or sensor data; dynamically determining, by a computing device, the length of each conductive trace to be formed directly on the article to optimize tag performance taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of the article; forming each of the conductive traces on the article being produced to form at least one antenna for a first tag; and attaching at least a communication-enabling device to the article to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication-enabling device and the at least one antenna.

[0012] In some scenarios, the method further includes: adding at least one alignment mark on the article, wherein the at least one alignment mark can be used to attach to guide proper placement of at least one communication-enabled device on the article; covering the communication-enabled device with a flexible fluid resistive material before attaching; and attaching the communication-enabled device to a substrate before attaching.

[0013] In those or other scenarios, the method also includes: verifying that the first tag operates properly after the first tag has been coupled to the item; replacing the communication-enabled device with another communication-enabled device when the verification that the first tag operates properly is not made; and tuning at least one conductive trace when the verification that the first tag operates properly is not made.

[0014] An implementation system includes at least one device that performs the following operations: dynamically determines the length of each conductive trace to be formed directly on the article to optimize tag performance taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of the article; forms each of the conductive traces on the article being produced to form at least one antenna for a first tag; and attaches at least a communication-enabling device to the article to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication-enabling device and the at least one antenna.

[0015] After the first tag has been coupled to the item, the device may further verify that the first tag is operating properly. In the event that verification that the first tag is operating properly is not made, the communication-enabled device may be replaced by another communication-enabled device. In the event that verification that the first tag is operating properly is not made, the conductive trace may be tuned in addition or alternatively. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The inventive solution will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like items throughout.

[0017] Figure 1 is a diagram of an illustrative architecture for a system.

[0018] Figure 2 is a diagram of an illustrative architecture for labels.

[0019] Figure 3 is a diagram of an illustrative architecture for a tag reader.

[0020] 4A-4B (collectively referred to herein as "FIG. 4") provide diagrams showing an illustrative architecture for tags.

[0021] FIG5 provides an illustration of another illustrative architecture for tags.

[0022] Figures 6 to 8 An illustration useful for understanding the solution of the present invention is provided wherein multiple labels are formed on a narrow substrate.

[0023] Figure 9 An illustration is provided showing a narrow substrate (with a label coupled thereto) wound onto a reel.

[0024] Figure 10 A diagram is provided showing an instructional system for incorporating a label into an article.

[0025] Figure 11 supply Figure 10 A more detailed block diagram of the computing device shown in .

[0026] Figures 12 to 15 Each provides a flow chart of an illustrative method for incorporating a tag into or with an article. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] It will be readily understood that the components of the embodiments generally described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings may be arranged and designed in a variety of different configurations. Therefore, the following more detailed description of the various embodiments shown in the figures is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but is merely illustrative of various embodiments. Although various aspects of the embodiments are presented in the figures, the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale unless otherwise indicated.

[0028] The inventive solution may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the inventive solution. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects as illustrative only and not restrictive. The scope of the inventive solution is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by this detailed description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are intended to be embraced within their scope.

[0029] Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all features and advantages that may be realized with the present invention should be or are present in any single embodiment of the present invention. Rather, language referring to features and advantages should be understood to mean that a particular feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, discussion of features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.

[0030] Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the inventive solution may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognize, in light of this description, that the inventive solution may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other cases, additional features and advantages may be identified in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the inventive solution.

[0031] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the indicated embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the inventive solution. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0032] As used in this document, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. As used in this document, the term "including" means "including but not limited to."

[0033] The terms "memory," "memory device," "data storage area," "data storage facility," etc., each refer to a device or apparatus having computer-readable data, programming instructions (e.g., Figure 2 Instruction 222, Figure 3 322 and Figure 11 Unless specifically stated otherwise, the terms "memory," "memory device," "data storage," "data storage facility," and the like are intended to encompass single device embodiments, embodiments in which multiple memory devices together or collectively store a set of data or instructions, and individual partitions within such devices.

[0034] This document relates to various solutions for addressing the shortcomings of conventional RFID tag solutions, such as those disclosed in the background section of this document. One solution includes a tag formed from a relatively thin, narrow, machine-washable substrate on which the electronic components are mounted or otherwise disposed. The substrate can also be lightweight and recyclable. The substrate can include, but is not limited to, fabric, plastic, and / or paper. The substrate can include a polyester (e.g., PET) substrate and / or a layer coated with a flexible fluid-resistive material to protect the substrate from damage caused by fluid exposure. The flexible fluid-resistive material can include, but is not limited to, a thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU") material and / or a PET material. The flexible fluid-resistive material can be a colored TPU that matches the color of the item to which the tag will be coupled. The electronic components can include, but are not limited to, a communication-enabled device (e.g., an RFID-enabled device) having at least one antenna. The tag is designed to be relatively thin so that it is difficult to feel when incorporated into an item, but thick enough to withstand a certain number of wash cycles (e.g., 2 to 5).

[0035] Multiple labels can be manufactured using a single narrow substrate (e.g., a strip). In this case, the electronic components can be coupled to the narrow substrate so that they are separated from each other by equal or unequal amounts of substrate. A coating can be applied to the narrow substrate with the electronic components coupled thereto. The narrow substrate can then be rolled or wound onto a reel. The reel is then inserted into a machine (e.g., a strip dispensing machine) to merge the label with the item. The spacing between the electronic components is selected so that the machine can cut the narrow substrate while installing the label in the item or merging the label with the item without causing any damage. The thickness of the narrow substrate is selected so that the machine can hold the narrow substrate on the reel under tension while installing the label in the item.

[0036] In some cases, the machine installation process involves: rotating a reel an amount that allows a portion of a narrow substrate containing electronic components to be wound onto the article; cutting the narrow substrate at its end so that the label is placed or otherwise positioned on the article; and sewing at least one end of the label to the article using a conventional sewing machine. Notably, the label cannot be felt while being sewn to the article.

[0037] Another solution includes forming the tag antenna by sewing a metal wire directly into the article and / or by printing or placing a metal trace directly on the garment during production time. The length of the metal wire / trace is dynamically selected to optimize the tag performance, taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of the article. The dielectric and tuning properties of the article include, but are not limited to, impedance and / or capacitance. Next, the metal wire or trace is sewn into the article, printed on the article, or placed directly on the article. At least a communication enabling device is then attached to the article to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication enabling device and the antenna. This technique for coupling the tag to the article provides a relatively inexpensive solution that is performed during the production of the article. Additionally, the metal wire and / or trace is difficult to feel when incorporated into the article.

[0038] In some cases, the communication-enabled device is coated with a flexible fluid-resistant material or other substance so that it is machine washable and / or water-resistant. Additionally or alternatively, the ends of the metal wires are coated with a substance selected to reduce or eliminate irritation caused by the metal wires to an individual using the article.

[0039] Notably, the present solution provides significantly thinner tags compared to conventional solutions. Some conventional tags include a label formed on a flexible narrow substrate. The label has a thickness of 0.005 inches. The flexible narrow substrate is strong enough that it cannot be torn by an individual, but can be cut using a razor or scissors. Therefore, multiple tags are formed on a single narrow substrate. The narrow substrate is cut to separate the tags from each other. The separated tags are then coupled to the item. When cut, the tag folds onto itself, which is undesirable because the antenna length is shortened, thereby affecting the tag performance.

[0040] Other conventional labels include an array of RFID tags glued to a PET roll. The PET roll is 0.002 inches thick. The RFID tags are approximately 0.008 inches thick, resulting in a total tag thickness of 0.015 inches. This tag is too thick for clothing applications because the tag causes discomfort and irritation to the wearer of the clothing.

[0041] The automated production assembly of the inventive solution allows for labels of significantly reduced size. The inventive solution utilizes a substrate having a thickness between 0.0001 and 0.0005 inches. Despite being thin, this substrate maintains sufficient physical strength to handle the tension required to maintain the substrate on the roll. Labels of approximately 0.001 inches and smaller are placed on this substrate, which may have a width of 0.001 inches. The overall thickness of the substrate / label assembly is much less than that of conventional solutions.

[0042] The inventive solution offers a wrap-around technology that addresses the shortcomings of conventional tags that roll onto themselves. The inventive solution's tag maintains its straight or flat profile to keep the antenna at the proper length. The inventive solution's tag is so thin that it is not visible or felt when integrated into a seam or other point in a fabric item. The inventive solution's substrate can include, but is not limited to, paper, PEP, PVC, or a polymer.

[0043] Descriptive System

[0044] Reference Figure 1 , provides an illustration of an illustrative system 100 suitable for understanding the present invention. The present invention is described herein with respect to a retail store environment. The present invention is not limited in this regard and can be used in other environments. For example, the present invention can be used in distribution centers, factories, and other commercial environments. It is important to note that the present invention can be used in any environment where it is necessary to locate and / or track items.

[0045] The system 100 is generally configured to allow for inventory counting of items located within a facility. Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the system 100 includes display devices 1021, . . . , 102 disposed therein. M (collectively referred to as "102") is a retail store facility ("RSF") 128. Display equipment is provided for displaying items 1101 to 110 to customers of the retail store. N (collectively referred to as "110"), 1161 to 116 X (collectively referred to as "116"). Display equipment may include, but is not limited to, shelves, product display cabinets, promotional displays, lighting fixtures, and / or equipment mounting areas of the RSF 128. The RSF may also include emergency equipment (not shown), checkout counters, EAS systems (not shown), RFID systems, and / or RFID / EAS systems. Emergency equipment, checkout counters, cameras, people counters, EAS systems, RFID systems, and / or RFID / EAS systems are well known in the art and, therefore, will not be described further herein.

[0046] At least one tag reader 120 is provided to facilitate tagging of items 1101 to 110 located within the RSF 128.N , 1161 to 116 X Counting is performed. The tag reader 120 includes an RFID reader configured to read RFID tags. RFID readers are well known in the art. Any known or future known RFID reader may be used herein, but is not limited thereto. Figure 3 An illustrative tag reader is discussed.

[0047] Tags 1121 to 112 N (collectively referred to as "112"), 1181 to 118 X (collectively referred to as "118") are attached or coupled to items 1101 to 110 N , 1161 to 116 X Tags are described herein as comprising single-technology tags that are only RFID-enabled. The present invention is not limited in this respect. Tags may alternatively or additionally comprise dual-technology tags that have both EAS and RFID capabilities.

[0048] Notably, tag readers 120 are strategically placed at known locations within RSF 128. By correlating the tag readings of the tag readers with the known locations of the tag readers within RSF 128, it is possible to determine the location of items 1101, ..., 110 N 、1161、...、116 X The location within RSF 128. The known coverage area of ​​the tag reader also facilitates the determination of the item's location. Therefore, the tag read information and the tag reader's location information are stored in data storage area 126. Such information can be stored in data storage area 126 using server 124. Servers are well known in the art and therefore will not be described herein.

[0049] Reference Figure 2 , there is a diagram of an illustrative architecture for tag 200. Figure 1 The labels 112, 118 are the same or similar to the label 200. Therefore, the discussion of the label 200 is more useful for understanding Figure 1 The labels 112, 118 are sufficient.

[0050] The label 200 may include Figure 2 More or fewer components than those shown in the embodiment of the present invention may be used. However, the components shown are sufficient to disclose an illustrative embodiment of implementing the present invention. Some or all of the components of the tag 200 may be implemented in hardware, software, and / or a combination of hardware and software. Hardware includes, but is not limited to, one or more electronic circuits. The electronic circuits may include passive components (e.g., capacitors and resistors) and active components (e.g., processors) arranged and / or programmed to implement the methods disclosed herein.

[0051] Figure 2 The hardware architecture of FIG. 2 represents a representative tag 200 configured to facilitate inventory management. In this regard, the tag 200 is configured to allow communication with an external device (e.g., Figure 1 The tag reader 120 and / or Figure 1 The wireless communication technology may include, but is not limited to, radio frequency identification ("RFID") technology, near field communication ("NFC") technology, and / or short range communication ("SRC") technology. For example, one or more of the following wireless communication technologies may be employed: radio frequency ("RF") communication technology; Bluetooth technology; WiFi technology; and / or beacon technology. Each of the listed wireless communication technologies is well known in the art and will therefore not be described in detail herein. Any known or future known wireless communication technology or other wireless communication technology may be used herein, but is not limited thereto.

[0052] Figure 2 The components 204 , 244 shown in may be collectively referred to herein as electronic components 250 . Figure 2 Components 206-212 shown in the figure may be collectively referred to herein as communication-enabled device 204 and include memory 208 and clock / timer 212. Memory 208 may be volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. For example, memory 208 may include, but is not limited to, random access memory ("RAM"), dynamic RAM ("DRAM"), static RAM ("SRAM"), read-only memory ("ROM"), and flash memory. Memory 208 may also include unsecured memory and / or secure memory.

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG, the communication-enabled device 204 is electrically coupled or connected to one or more antennas 214 for enabling data exchange with external devices via wireless communication technology (e.g., RFID technology, NFC technology, and / or SRC technology). The antennas 214 are configured to receive signals from the external device and / or transmit signals generated by the communication-enabled device 204. The antennas 214 may include near-field or far-field antennas. Antennas include, but are not limited to, chip antennas or loop antennas.

[0054] The communication-enabled device 204 also includes a communication device (e.g., a transceiver or transmitter) 206. Communication devices (e.g., a transceiver or transmitter) are well known in the art and therefore will not be described herein. However, it should be understood that the communication device 206 generates and transmits signals (e.g., RF carrier signals) to external devices, and receives signals (e.g., RF signals) transmitted from external devices. In this way, the communication-enabled device 204 facilitates the communication of items (e.g., items) to which the tag 200 is coupled. Figure 1Registration, identification, location and / or tracking of items 110 or 112).

[0055] The item-level information 226 and unique identifier ("ID") 224 for the tag 200 may be stored in the memory 208 of the communication-enabled device 204 and / or communicated to other external devices (e.g., a transceiver) via the communication device (e.g., transceiver) 206. Figure 1 The tag reader 120 and / or Figure 1 For example, the communication-enabled device 204 may communicate information specifying a timestamp, a unique identifier for the item, an item description, an item price, a currency symbol, size information, sales information, and / or location information to the external device. The external device (e.g., a server) may then store the information in a database (e.g., Figure 1 database 126) and / or use the information for various purposes.

[0056] The communication-enabled device 204 also includes a controller 210 (e.g., a CPU). The controller 210 can execute instructions 222 that implement the method for facilitating inventory counting and management. In this regard, the controller 210 includes a processor (or logic circuitry that responds to instructions), and the memory 208 includes a computer-readable storage medium on which is stored one or more sets of instructions 222 (e.g., software code) configured to implement one or more of the methods, procedures, or functions described herein. The instructions 222 can also reside completely or at least partially within the controller 210 during execution thereof by the tag 200. The memory 208 and the controller 210 can also constitute machine-readable media. As used herein, the term "machine-readable medium" refers to a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated cache memory and server) that stores one or more sets of instructions 222. As used herein, the term "machine-readable medium" also refers to any medium capable of storing, encoding, or carrying a set of instructions 222 for execution by the tag 200 and causing the tag 200 to perform any one or more of the methods of the present disclosure.

[0057] The clock / timer 212 is configured to determine the date, time, and / or expiration of a predefined time period. Techniques for determining these listed items are well known in the art and, therefore, will not be described herein. Any known or future known techniques for determining these listed items may be used herein, but are not limited thereto.

[0058] The tag 200 also includes an optional location module 230. The location module 230 is generally configured to determine the geographic location of the tag at any given time. For example, in some scenarios, the location module 230 utilizes Global Positioning System ("GPS") technology and / or Internet-based local time acquisition technology. The present invention is not limited to the details of this example. Any known or future known technology for determining geographic location may be used herein, including, but not limited to, relative positioning within a facility or structure.

[0059] The tag 200 may also include an optional EAS component 244. The EAS component 244 is well known in the art and will therefore not be described herein. Any known or future known EAS component may be used herein, but is not limited thereto.

[0060] like Figure 2 As shown in , the tag 200 may also include a power source 236 and / or an optional energy harvesting circuit 232. The power source 236 may include, but is not limited to, a rechargeable battery and / or a capacitor. The energy harvesting circuit 232 is configured to harvest energy from one or more sources (e.g., heat, vibration, magnetic field, and / or RF energy) and generate a relatively low amount of output power from the harvested energy. By employing multiple sources for harvesting, the device can continue to charge even if the energy source is depleted. Energy harvesting circuits are well known in the art and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or future known energy harvesting circuit may be used herein, but is not limited thereto.

[0061] The solution of the present invention is not limited to Figure 2 The tag 200 may have any architecture as long as it can perform the functions and operations described herein. For example, Figure 2 All components shown in may comprise a single device (eg, an integrated circuit ("IC")).

[0062] Reference Figure 3 , provides a detailed block diagram of an illustrative architecture for tag reader 300. Figure 1 The tag reader 120 is the same as or similar to the tag reader 200. Therefore, the discussion of the tag reader 200 is sufficient for understanding the tag reader 120.

[0063] The tag reader 300 may include a Figure 3More or fewer components than those shown in the example embodiment may be used. However, the components shown are sufficient to disclose an illustrative embodiment of implementing the present invention. Some or all of the components of the tag reader 300 may be implemented in hardware, software, and / or a combination of hardware and software. Hardware includes, but is not limited to, one or more electronic circuits. The electronic circuits may include passive components (e.g., capacitors and resistors) and active components (e.g., processors) arranged and / or programmed to implement the methods disclosed herein.

[0064] Figure 3 The hardware architecture representation is configured to facilitate RSF (e.g., Figure 1 128) within the RSF 128). In this regard, the tag reader 200 includes an RF enabling device 350 for allowing communication with an external device (e.g., Figure 1 Tags 112, 118) exchange data. Figure 3 The components 304-316 shown in may be collectively referred to herein as RF enabled device 350, and may include a power source 312 (eg, a battery) or be connected to an external power source (eg, AC mains).

[0065] RF enabled device 350 includes an antenna 302 for allowing data to be exchanged with an external device via RF technology (eg, RFID technology or other RF based technology). The external device may include Figure 1 112, 118. In this case, the antenna 302 is configured to transmit an RF carrier signal (e.g., an interrogation signal) to the listed external devices and / or transmit a data response signal (e.g., an authentication reply signal) generated by the RF-enabled device 350. In this regard, the RF-enabled device 350 includes an RF transceiver 308. RF transceivers are well known in the art and, therefore, will not be described further herein. However, it should be understood that the RF transceiver 308 receives the RF signal containing information from the transmitting device and forwards it to the logic controller 310 for extraction of the information therefrom.

[0066] The extracted information can be used to determine the location of the tag in the facility (e.g. Figure 1 The logic controller 310 may store the extracted information in the memory 304 and execute algorithms using the extracted information. For example, the logic controller 310 may correlate tag readings with beacon readings to determine the location of the tag within the facility. Other operations performed by the logic controller 310 will be apparent from the following discussion.

[0067] It is worth noting that the memory 304 can be a volatile memory and / or a non-volatile memory. For example, the memory 304 can include, but is not limited to, RAM, DRAM, SRAM, ROM, and flash memory. The memory 304 can also include unsecured memory and / or secure memory. As used herein, the phrase "unsecured memory" refers to memory configured to store data in plain text. As used herein, the phrase "secure memory" refers to memory configured to store data in encrypted form and / or memory having or being housed in a secure or tamper-resistant housing.

[0068] Instructions 322 are stored in memory for execution by RF-enabled device 350 and cause RF-enabled device 350 to perform any one or more of the methods disclosed herein. Instructions 322 generally operate to facilitate determinations regarding: whether a tag is present within a facility, where a tag is located within the facility, and / or which tags are in motion at any given time. Additional functionality of RF-enabled device 350 will become apparent as the discussion proceeds.

[0069] Descriptive labeling schema

[0070] 4, there is a diagram of an illustrative architecture for a tag 400. The tag 400 may be used with Figure 1 Tags 1121, ..., 112 N 、1181、...、118 X or Figure 2 Therefore, the discussion provided above with respect to tags 112, 118, 200 is sufficient to understand the operation of tag 400. It is worth noting that tag 400 is designed to be relatively thin so that when incorporated into an article (e.g., Figure 1 Items 1101, ..., 110 N , 1161, ... or 116 X ) in a washing cycle, but is thick enough to withstand a certain number of wash cycles (e.g., 2 to 5 times). The article may include, but is not limited to, a cloth article, a paper article, and / or a plastic article.

[0071] As shown in FIG4A , the tag 400 includes a substrate 402 on which an electronic component 404 is mounted, attached, or disposed. The electronic component 404 may be Figure 2 Thus, electronic component 404 may include an antenna, a communication enabling device, and / or an EAS component.

[0072] The substrate 402 is a relatively thin, narrow, lightweight, recyclable, and / or machine washable substrate. The substrate 402 may include, but is not limited to, fabric, plastic, and / or paper. The substrate 402 may include a polyester (e.g., PET) substrate. The thickness 408 of the substrate 402 is selected so that the substrate 402 has a physical strength that allows a machine to maintain tension on it while incorporating or mounting the tag on an article, and so that the metallized layer thereon creates an antenna for the tag. For example, the thickness 408 may have a value between 0.0001 inches and 0.0025 inches. The width of the substrate 402 may be between 0.001 inches and 0.002 inches, which is small enough that the tag is not felt by a person when incorporated into an article. The present invention is not limited to the details of this example.

[0073] In some cases, the substrate 402 and the electronic components 404 are coated with a layer of flexible fluid resistive material 406 to protect the substrate 402 and the electronic components 404 from damage caused by fluid exposure. The fluid resistive material 406 may include, but is not limited to, TPU material and / or PET material. The fluid resistive material 406 may be colored to match the item to which the tag 400 is to be coupled (e.g., Figure 1 Items 1101, ..., 110 N , 1161, ... or 116 X ) color matching.

[0074] As shown in FIG4B , the tag 400 has tolerance removal areas 410, 414. Each tolerance removal area 410, 414 comprises an end portion of the substrate 402. These end portions of the substrate 402 facilitate cutting the tag 400 and coupling it to an article (e.g., via sewing) without interfering with and / or causing damage to the antenna. In some cases, additional substrate is provided on the elongated sides of the tag, as shown by arrows 500, 502 of FIG5 .

[0075] In some cases, the antenna of the electronic component 404 is formed as a conductive trace via ink printing and / or deposition (e.g., sputter deposition). Ink printing and deposition processes are well known in the art and, therefore, will not be described herein. The antenna can be linear, serpentine, or otherwise meandering. In some cases, when the antenna is linear or includes a straight line, the length 420 of the tag 400 can be in the range of 140 to 170 mm. In contrast, when the antenna is serpentine or otherwise meandering, the length 420 can be in the range of 60 to 150 mm. The thickness of the antenna should be as thin as possible, provided that the tag 400 has sufficient physical strength to withstand a given pulling force and / or a given number of wash cycles.

[0076] The antenna can be designed so that the tag's operating frequency is in the range of 840 to 960 MHz (inclusive), 860 to 940 MHz (inclusive), 865 to 868 MHz (inclusive), or 902 to 928 MHz (inclusive). The antenna may additionally or alternatively include tuning regions 412, 416. Each tuning region 412, 416 comprises a portion of the antenna that can be modified to selectively and / or dynamically tune the tag's operating frequency (e.g., to account for the dielectric and tuning properties of the item when the tag is mounted on the item). The tuning region can be modified by reducing the thickness of the conductive material in the region. A laser, razor, or other device can be used to precisely reduce the thickness of the conductive material in the tuning region.

[0077] If all items have similar dielectric properties, then this type of tuning technique may not be necessary. However, items may be of the same type but of different sizes. In this case, tuning techniques provide a way to pre-optimize each inventory unit for the item to which the tag will be installed. If the volume is insufficient to produce a separate inventory unit for each production run, then a method of tuning each antenna at installation time can be used.

[0078] In other scenarios, the antenna is formed by coupling physical wires to the substrate 402. Each wire can have a diameter between 0.1 mm and 1 mm, and a length between 100 mm and 160 mm. The thickness and / or length of the wires can be reduced at installation time to facilitate dynamic tuning of the tag's operating frequency taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of the item.

[0079] Reference Figure 6 , providing a plurality of tags 4001, 4002, ..., 400 coupled thereto N 600. The elongated narrow substrate may include, but is not limited to, a strip. Each tag 4001, 4002, ..., 400 N 4 is the same as or similar to the label 400 of FIG. Therefore, the discussion of label 400 is helpful for understanding labels 4001, 4002, ..., 400 N is enough.

[0080] Tags 4001, 4002, ..., 400 N The tags are arranged on the substrate 600 so as to have equal spacing 602 between adjacent tags. The adjacent tags are spaced apart from each other so that a portion of the substrate 6002, 6003, 6004, respectively, resides therebetween. The first tag 4001 is also spaced apart from the end 604 of the substrate 600 by an amount defined by the substrate portion 6001. Similarly, the last tag 600 NThe substrate portion 600 is spaced apart from the end 606 of the substrate 600. N+1 The substrate portion 6001, ..., 600 N+1 Can be constructed as Figure 7 4B ) or, alternatively, may be provided in addition to the label tolerance removal areas shown in FIG.

[0081] like Figure 7 As shown in FIG, each tag includes two antennas 700 and a communication enabling device 702. Each antenna 700 has a tuning region 704 or 706. Figure 2 The tuning regions 704, 706 are the same or similar to the tuning regions 412, 416 of FIG. 4. Each communication enabled device 702 is connected to Figure 2 Therefore, the discussion provided above regarding 204, 214, 412, 416 is helpful for understanding Figure 7 Components 700 to 706 are sufficient.

[0082] The solution of the present invention is not limited to Figures 6 to 7 In other contexts, labels such as Figure 8 The shown are not equally spaced.

[0083] Reference Figure 9 , provides an illustration showing a reel 900 onto which a substrate 600 is wound. Reel 900 can be used to incorporate a label with an item (e.g., during a relatively high-volume manufacturing process). For example, during the item manufacturing process, reel 900 is rotated so that the label is wound onto the item. Substrate 600 is then cut within the tolerance removal area of ​​the label so that the label remains on the item to which it is attached. This process is repeated for each item to have a label incorporated therein.

[0084] Figure 10 An illustration of an illustrative system 1000 for integrating a tag into or incorporating it into an article is provided in FIG. Figure 10 As shown in FIG. 1 , system 1000 includes a dispensing machine 1004, a conveyor belt 1010, a tag reader 1018, a computing device 1020, a data storage area 1022, and a laser 1026. The tag reader 1018 can be connected to Figure 3 The tag reader 300 is the same or similar.

[0085] The dispensing machine 1004 is configured to receive the reel 900 and / or the shaft 1050 and rotate the reel / spindle in two opposite directions. Rotation is achieved using a gear 1006 and a motor 1008. The shaft 1050 may include, but is not limited to, a wire shaft. Wires are well known in the art and will therefore not be described further herein.

[0086] As mentioned above, the elongated narrow substrate 600 is wound on a reel 900. The elongated narrow substrate includes a plurality of tags 4001, ..., 400 coupled thereto. N A flexible fluid resistive material (e.g., flexible resistive material 406 of FIG. 4 ) can be used to coat an elongated, narrow substrate having a plurality of tags. The flexible fluid resistive material can have a color that matches the color of the item. Each of the tags includes at least one antenna 700 formed from a trace or wire disposed on the elongated, narrow substrate, and a communication-enabled device 702 coupled to the elongated, narrow substrate to electrically couple or connect to the at least one antenna.

[0087] During the manufacturing process, conveyor belt 1010 or individual 1014 moves item 1012 into proximity with dispensing machine 1004. Computing device 1020 then controls dispensing machine 1004 to rotate reel 900 an amount that allows for the payout of a portion of strip 600. This portion of strip 600 contains a tag that includes a communication-enabling device and an antenna.

[0088] Laser 1026 can then be controlled by computing device 1020 to tune the tag's antenna (e.g., by removing the end of the antenna wire and / or by reducing the trace thickness in the antenna's tuning region). Tuning is performed to optimize tag performance, taking into account the item's dielectric and tuning properties. The item's dielectric and tuning properties can be obtained using a lookup table ("LUT") 1024 and / or determined using sensor data generated by sensor 1016. Other devices can be used to tune the tag. These other devices include, but are not limited to, a razor and / or a sewing machine.

[0089] The strip 600 is then cut by a cutting mechanism 1030 of the dispensing machine 1004 so that the released portion of the strip is placed on or otherwise disposed on an article. The cutting mechanism 1030 may include, but is not limited to, a razor and / or scissors. Razors and scissors are well known in the art and therefore will not be described herein.

[0090] The portion of the strip is then coupled to the article, such that the tag is integrated with or incorporated into the article. For example, nozzle 1028 dispenses adhesive onto article 1012 and / or the portion of the strip, a heating element (not shown) applies heat to the portion of the strip and / or article 1012, a sewing machine 1032 sews at least a portion of the portion of the strip to article 1012, a pushing device 1034 pushes at least a portion of the portion of the strip into article 1012, and / or the sewing machine 1032 encloses the portion of the strip within a cavity formed between article 1012 and a fabric layer (not shown). The fabric layer may include a metal wire (not shown) that is used to tune the operating frequency of the tag disposed on the portion of the strip. Nozzles, heating elements, sewing machines, pushing devices, and metal wire are well known in the art and will not be described further herein. The inventive solution is not limited to the details of this example.

[0091] In some scenarios, portions of the elongated, narrow substrate may be sprayed by spraying device 1034 using a paint having a color that matches the color of item 1012. The paint may be applied before or after the cutting of strip 600.

[0092] At this point, the proper operation of the tag can then optionally be verified. Verification can be accomplished using a tag reader 1018. If the tag is operating properly, other manufacturing operations are performed. In contrast, if the tag is not operating properly, the tag is removed from the item and a new tag is coupled to the item.

[0093] In some scenarios, system 1000 is additionally or alternatively configured to incorporate a tag into an item using a wire from spool 1050 to form a tag antenna. For example, computing device 1020 performs operations to: determine the dielectric and tuning properties of the item using LUT 1024 or sensor data generated by sensor 1016; and / or dynamically determine the length of each wire to be incorporated into item 1012 to optimize tag performance taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of item 1012. Cutting mechanism 1030 produces at least one wire having the dynamically determined length. One or both ends of the wire may be coated with a substance selected to reduce or eliminate irritation caused by the wire to an individual using item 1012.

[0094] Sewing machine 1032 then stitches the metal thread into the article 1012 being produced to form a seal for a label (e.g., Figure 2 Tags 1121, ..., 112 N 、1181、...、118 X , 200) of at least one antenna (e.g., Figure 2 The nozzle 1028 may then connect at least one communication-enabled device (e.g., Figure 2The communication-enabled device 204 (e.g., a communication-enabled device 204) is attached to the article 1012 to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication-enabled device and the at least one antenna. The article 1012 may have at least one alignment mark that can be used during attachment to guide proper placement of the at least one communication-enabled device on the article 1012. Alignment marks may include, but are not limited to, shapes or lines printed on the article (e.g., in a color different from the article), created by sewing (e.g., using thread of a color different from the article), and / or formed using a die (e.g., a die having a color different from the article). The communication-enabled device may be coated with a flexible fluid resistive material and / or attached to a substrate before being attached to the article 1012.

[0095] At this point in the process, the tag reader 1018 can verify that the tag is operating properly. If the first tag is not verified to be operating properly, the communication-enabled device can be replaced with another communication-enabled device. Additionally or alternatively, if the first tag is not verified to be operating properly, the metal wire can be replaced with another metal wire.

[0096] In those or other scenarios, system 1000 is additionally or alternatively configured to incorporate the tag into the item using conductive traces to form the tag antenna. For example, computing device 1020 performs operations to: determine the dielectric and tuning properties of the item using LUT 1024 or sensor data generated by sensor 1016; and / or dynamically determine the length of each conductive trace to be formed directly on item 1012 to optimize tag performance taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of item 1012. Each conductive trace is positioned on the item being produced to form at least one antenna for the tag. The conductive traces may be printed on the item via printer 1038 or deposited on the item by nozzle 1028. Printers and nozzles are well known in the art and, therefore, will not be described further herein.

[0097] Nozzle 1028 may then place at least the communication-enabled device (e.g., Figure 2 The communication-enabled device 204 (e.g., a communication-enabled device 204) is attached to the article 1012 to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication-enabled device and the at least one antenna. The article 1012 may have at least one alignment mark that can be used to guide proper placement of the at least one communication-enabled device on the article 1012. Alignment marks may include, but are not limited to, shapes or lines printed on the article (e.g., in a color different from the article), shapes or lines created by sewing (e.g., using thread of a color different from the article), and / or shapes or lines formed using a die (e.g., a die having a color different from the article). The communication-enabled device may be coated with a flexible fluid resistive material and / or attached to a substrate before being attached to the article 1012.

[0098] At this point in the process, the tag reader 1018 can verify that the tag is operating properly. In the event that the first tag is not verified to be operating properly, the communication-enabled device can be replaced with another communication-enabled device. Additionally or alternatively, in the event that the first tag is not verified to be operating properly, the conductive trace is tuned.

[0099] Reference Figure 11 , provided for Figure 10 A detailed block diagram of an illustrative architecture of a computing device 1020 is provided. The computing device 1020 may include Figure 11 More or fewer components may be shown. However, the components shown are sufficient to disclose an illustrative embodiment for implementing the solution of the present invention. Figure 11 The hardware architecture of represents one embodiment of a representative computing device configured to facilitate incorporation of tags into and with articles. Thus, Figure 11 The computing device 1020 implements at least a part of the method for incorporating a tag into or with an article according to the inventive solution.

[0100] Some or all of the components of computing device 1020 may be implemented as hardware, software, and / or a combination of hardware and software. Hardware includes, but is not limited to, one or more electronic circuits. Electronic circuits may include, but are not limited to, passive components (e.g., resistors and capacitors) and / or active components (e.g., amplifiers and / or microprocessors). Passive and / or active components may be adapted, arranged, and / or programmed to perform one or more of the methods, procedures, or functions described herein.

[0101] like Figure 11 , computing device 1020 includes a user interface 1102, a central processing unit ("CPU") 1106, a system bus 1110, a memory 1112 connected to and accessible by other portions of the computing device 1020 through the system bus 1110, and hardware entities 1114 connected to the system bus 1110. The user interface may include input devices (e.g., a keypad 1150 and / or a camera 1158) and output devices (e.g., a speaker 1152, a display 1154, and / or a light emitting diode ("LED") 1156) that facilitate user-software interaction for controlling the operation of the computing device 1020.

[0102] At least some of the hardware entities 1114 perform actions involving accessing and using memory 1112, which may be RAM, a disk drive, and / or a compact disk read-only memory ("CD-ROM"). The hardware entities 1114 may include a disk drive unit 1116, which includes a computer-readable storage medium 1118 on which is stored one or more sets of instructions 1120 (e.g., software code) configured to implement one or more of the methods, procedures, or functions described herein. The instructions 1120 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the memory 1112 and / or within the CPU 1106 during execution thereof by the computing device 1020. The memory 1112 and the CPU 1106 may also constitute machine-readable media. As used herein, the term "machine-readable medium" refers to a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers) storing one or more sets of instructions 1120. As used herein, the term "machine-readable medium" also refers to any medium capable of storing, encoding, or carrying a set of instructions 1120 for execution by the computing device 1020 and causing the computing device 1020 to perform any one or more of the methods of the present disclosure.

[0103] In some cases, the hardware entity 1114 includes electronic circuitry (e.g., a processor) programmed to facilitate incorporation of the tag into an item. In this regard, it should be understood that the electronic circuitry can access and run an application 1124 installed on the computing device 1020 that implements the present invention.

[0104] Illustrative Methods for Incorporating Labels into / With Articles

[0105] Reference Figure 12 , provides a way to add tags (e.g. Figure 1 Tags 112, 118, Figure 2 200, 400 of FIG. 4 and / or Figure 6 4001, ..., 400 N ) is incorporated into an article (e.g. Figure 1 110, 116) or incorporated with the article. For example, the label is incorporated into the seam, hem or overlapping fabric hem of clothing or hats. The present invention is not limited to the details of this example.

[0106] Method 1200 begins at 1202 and continues to 1204, where traces are printed on an elongated, narrow substrate (e.g., substrate 402 of FIG. 4 or Figures 6 to 7 600) or wire coupled to an elongated narrow substrate to form an antenna for a tag (e.g., Figure 2 Antenna 214 or Figure 7 At 1206, at least one communication-enabled device (e.g., Figure 2 The communication enabling device 204 or Figure 7 702) is coupled to a narrow substrate. Such coupling can be achieved via adhesive and / or application of heat.

[0107] Next, at 1208, the narrow substrate is wound onto a reel (e.g., Figure 9 The reel is inserted into a machine for use in incorporating the label into an article, as shown by 1210. The machine may include, but is not limited to, a dispensing machine (e.g., Figure 10 Strip dispensing machine 1004). Dispensing machines are well known in the art and therefore will not be described herein. Gears (e.g., Figure 10 1006) and a motor (e.g., Figure 10 The motor 1008 of the invention is used to wind the spool. Gears and motors are well known in the art and therefore will not be described in detail herein.

[0108] At 1212, the item is placed near the machine. This can be done automatically via a conveyor (e.g., conveyor 1010) or by an individual (e.g., Figure 10 The article may be partially or fully manufactured at this point in the process. The dielectric and tuning properties of the article are then determined in 1214. This may be accomplished manually by a computing device using a LUT (e.g., Figure 10 1024) and / or by sensors configured to sense dielectric and tuning properties of the item (e.g., Figure 10 This determination is made based on sensor data (e.g., capacitive measurements) generated by sensor 1016. Techniques for sensing dielectric and tuning properties of an item are well known in the art and, therefore, will not be described herein. Any known or future known techniques for sensing dielectric and tuning properties of an item may be used herein.

[0109] Then, at 1216, the reel is rotated to allow the release of a device containing a communication-enabled device and a corresponding antenna (e.g., Figures 6 to 7 A portion of a narrow substrate of a label 4001) (e.g., Figures 6 to 7The tag is dynamically tuned at 1218 to optimize tag performance taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of the item determined at 1214. Tuning can be accomplished by: (1) reducing the thickness of an antenna trace disposed on a narrow substrate (e.g., using a laser or razor); (2) trimming one or more ends of the antenna wire coupled to the narrow substrate; and / or (3) stitching a metal wire into the item at the location where the tag resides. The metal wire creates capacitance and inductance that tune the tag's operating frequency.

[0110] Next, in 1220, the narrow substrate is cut (e.g., Figures 6 to 7 6002) so that it is placed on the article or otherwise positioned on the article. The cutting mechanism of the dispensing machine (e.g., Figure 10 The narrow substrate is cut by a cutting mechanism 1030. The cutting mechanism may include, but is not limited to, a razor or scissors. The narrow substrate is then coupled to an article to incorporate the label into or with the article, as shown by 1222. This coupling may be achieved via adhesive, application of heat, and / or stitching.

[0111] After completing 1222, operations are performed in 1224 to verify that the tag is operating properly. A tag reader (e.g., Figure 10 Verification is achieved using a tag reader 1018 (e.g., a tag reader). Tag readers are well known in the art and will not be described further herein. The tag reader may transmit an interrogation signal to the tag, wait for a response signal from the tag, receive the response signal, and process the response signal. When the response signal is received within a given amount of time after the interrogation signal is transmitted, proper operation of the tag may be verified, and / or the response signal may contain specific information (e.g., a tag identifier).

[0112] If no verification is made that the tag is operating properly [1226: No], then method 1200 continues to 1228, where the tag is removed from the item and a new tag is coupled to the item. Once the new tag is coupled to the item, method 1200 returns to 1224, where the operation of the new tag is tested during the verification process. In contrast, if verification is made that the tag is operating properly [1226: Yes], then 1230 is performed, where method 1200 ends or takes other actions (e.g., completing the manufacture / production of the item and / or returning to 1204 to incorporate the tag into the next item).

[0113] In some cases, after an item leaves a facility (e.g. Figure 1Therefore, tools (e.g., a heating element, a seam removal device, and / or a robot having an articulated arm with a gripper) may optionally be used to remove all or part of the tag from the item before removing the item from the facility.

[0114] Reference Figure 13 , provides a way to add tags (e.g. Figure 1 Tags 112, 118, Figure 2 200, 400 of FIG. 4 and / or Figure 6 4001, ..., 400 N ) is incorporated into an article (e.g. Figure 1 110, 116) or incorporated with the article. For example, the label is incorporated into the seam, hem or overlapping fabric hem of clothing or hats. The present invention is not limited to the details of this example.

[0115] Method 1300 begins at 1302 and continues to 1304, where traces are printed on an elongated, narrow substrate (e.g., substrate 402 of FIG. 4 or Figures 6 to 7 600) or wire coupled to an elongated narrow substrate to form an antenna for a tag (e.g., Figure 2 Antenna 214 or Figure 7 At 1306, at least one communication-enabled device (e.g., Figure 2 The communication enabling device 204 or Figure 7 702) is coupled to a narrow substrate. Such coupling can be achieved via adhesive and / or application of heat.

[0116] Next, in 1308, color is optionally added to the flexible fluid resistive material. The color can be selected so that the color of the flexible fluid resistive material matches the color of the item to which the tag will be coupled. The flexible fluid resistive material (colored or transparent) can then optionally be used to coat the narrow substrate, antenna, and communication-enabling device, as shown by 1310.

[0117] At 1312, the narrow substrate is wound onto a reel (e.g., Figure 9 The reel is inserted into a machine for use in incorporating the label into the article, as shown by 1314. The machine may include, but is not limited to, a dispensing machine (e.g., Figure 10 Strip dispensing machine 1004). Dispensing machines are well known in the art and therefore will not be described herein. Gears (e.g., Figure 10 1006) and a motor (e.g., Figure 10 The motor 1008 of the invention is used to wind the spool. Gears and motors are well known in the art and therefore will not be described in detail herein.

[0118] At 1316, a metal wire is optionally sewn into the item at the location where the tag will be incorporated. The metal wire creates capacitance and inductance for tuning the tag to provide optimized tag performance taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties (e.g., impedance) of the item. The dielectric and tuning properties of the item may be determined at 1316. This may be determined by a computing device using a LUT (e.g., Figure 10 1024) and / or by sensors configured to sense dielectric and tuning properties of the item (e.g., Figure 10 This determination is made based on sensor data (e.g., capacitive measurements) generated by sensors 1016 of the embodiment of the present invention. Techniques for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of an item are well known in the art and, therefore, will not be described herein. Any known or future known techniques for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of an item may be used herein. Metal wire allows for custom tuning of each item by sewing different sized wires into the item. Metal wire also provides a way to increase the capacitance or inductance of a simple trace / wire antenna to provide better impedance matching with a communication-enabled device and better RF performance.

[0119] At 1318, the item is placed near the machine. This can be done automatically via a conveyor (e.g., conveyor 1010) or by an individual (e.g., Figure 10 The item may be partially or fully manufactured at this point in the process.

[0120] Then, at 1320, the reel is rotated to allow the release of a device containing a communication-enabled device and a corresponding antenna (e.g., Figures 6 to 7 A portion of a narrow substrate of a label 4001) (e.g., Figures 6 to 7 The amount of the portion 6001 and at least a portion of 6002 is reduced. The antenna is optionally tuned at 1322 to optimize tag performance taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of the item. Tuning can be achieved by reducing the thickness of the antenna trace disposed on the narrow substrate (e.g., using a laser or a razor) or by trimming one or more ends of the antenna wire coupled to the narrow substrate.

[0121] At 1324, paint is optionally added to the discharge portion of the narrow substrate. 1324 can be performed as an alternative to 1308, where color is added to the flexible fluid resistive material. The paint is selected so that the color of the sprayed label matches the color of the item.

[0122] At 1326, the narrow substrate (e.g., Figures 6 to 7 6002) so that it is placed on the article or otherwise positioned on the article. The cutting mechanism of the dispensing machine (e.g., Figure 10The narrow substrate is cut using a cutting mechanism (1030). The cutting mechanism may include, but is not limited to, a razor or scissors. The narrow substrate is then coupled to an article to incorporate the tag into or merge with the article, as shown by 1328 through 1334. As shown by 1328, at least one side of the narrow substrate is sewn or otherwise attached to the article (e.g., via adhesive or application of heat). Alternatively, the narrow substrate is pushed into the article. As shown by 1330 through 1334, the narrow substrate may additionally or alternatively be enclosed within a cavity formed between the article and the fabric layer. The fabric layer may be coupled to the article via a sewing machine. In some scenarios, a metal thread is sewn into the fabric layer for tuning the operating frequency of the tag. After coupling the tag to the article and / or verifying the performance of the tag, 1336 is executed, where method 1300 ends or other actions are taken (e.g., completing the manufacture / production of the article and / or returning to 1304 to incorporate the tag into the next article).

[0123] In some cases, after an item leaves a facility (e.g. Figure 1 Therefore, tools (e.g., a heating element, a seam removal device, and / or a robot having an articulated arm with a gripper) may optionally be used to remove all or part of the tag from the item before removing the item from the facility.

[0124] Reference Figure 14 , provides a way to add tags (e.g. Figure 1 Tags 112, 118, Figure 2 200, 400 of FIG. 4 and / or Figure 6 4001, ..., 400 N ) is incorporated into an article (e.g. Figure 1 Items 110, 116 and / or Figure 10 1012) or incorporated with the article. For example, the label is incorporated into the seam, hem or overlapping fabric hem of clothing or hats. The present invention is not limited to the details of this example.

[0125] Method 1400 begins at 1402 and continues to 1404, where an article (e.g., Figure 10 1012). At 1406, alignment marks are optionally added to the article. The alignment marks can be used in subsequent processes to attach labels (e.g., Figure 2The label 200 is coupled to the article. In this regard, alignment marks can clearly show where the label is to be placed on the article and help guide such placement. Alignment marks can include, but are not limited to, shapes or lines printed on the article (e.g., in a color different from the article), created by stitching (e.g., using thread of a color different from the article), and / or formed using a die (e.g., a die having a color different from the article).

[0126] At 1408, a tag antenna (e.g., Figure 2 The length of each metal wire can be selected for use based on the item (e.g., Figure 10 The performance of the tag can be optimized by adjusting the dielectric and tuning properties of the item 1012). Figure 10 The computing device 1020) uses a LUT (e.g., Figure 10 1024) and / or by sensors configured to sense dielectric and tuning properties of the item (e.g., Figure 10 The dielectric and tuning properties of the item are determined based on sensor data (e.g., capacitive measurements) generated by sensors 1016. Techniques for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of an item are well known in the art and will not be described herein. Any known or future known techniques for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of an item may be used herein.

[0127] At 1410, a metal wire having a dynamically determined length is produced. This may involve using a cutting mechanism (e.g., Figure 10 The cutting mechanism 1030) is used to cut the wire from the rotating shaft (e.g., Figure 10 1050) by cutting the metal wire segment and / or by cutting one or more ends thereof (e.g., using Figure 10 The cutting mechanism 1030 and / or Figure 10 Each wire segment is tuned by a laser 1026 (e.g., a laser beam). At 1412, the ends of the wire are optionally coated with a substance selected to reduce or eliminate irritation caused by the wire to an individual using the article. The wire is then sewn by a sewing machine (e.g., Figure 10 The sewing machine 1032) sews the metal thread into the produced article to form the tag antenna (e.g., Figure 2 214), as shown by 1414. It is worth noting that metal wires are extremely difficult to feel in an object.

[0128] At 1416, at least the communication-enabled device (eg, flexible fluid resistive material 406 of FIG. 4A ) is optionally coated with a flexible fluid resistive material. Figure 2The communication-enabled device 204 of the flexible fluid resistive material may be transparent or colored. The color of the flexible fluid resistive material may be selected so that it matches the color of the item into which the tag is incorporated. At 1416, color may be added to the flexible fluid resistive material.

[0129] At 1418, the communication-enabled device is optionally attached to a piece of substrate (e.g., PET or Mylar) (e.g., substrate 402 of FIG. 4A ). This attachment can be achieved via adhesive, application of heat, and / or stitching. A piece of substrate is provided to facilitate attachment of the communication-enabled device to an item.

[0130] At 1420, the communication-enabled device is attached to the article to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication-enabled device and the wire antenna. This attachment may be achieved via adhesive, application of heat, and / or sewing. The electrical coupling may include, but is not limited to, inductive coupling.

[0131] After completing 1420, operations are performed in 1422 to verify that the tag is operating properly. A tag reader (e.g., Figure 10 Verification is achieved using a tag reader 1018 (e.g., a tag reader). Tag readers are well known in the art and will not be described further herein. The tag reader may transmit an interrogation signal to the tag, wait for a response signal from the tag, receive the response signal, and process the response signal. When the response signal is received within a given amount of time after the interrogation signal is transmitted, proper operation of the tag may be verified, and / or the response signal may contain specific information (e.g., a tag identifier).

[0132] If verification that the tag is operating properly is not made [1424: No], method 1400 continues to 1426, where the wires and / or communication-enabled devices are removed from the item and new wires and / or communication-enabled devices are coupled to the item. Additionally or alternatively, the antenna is tuned by removing at least a portion of each wire (e.g., by removing the free end of each wire). Once these actions are taken, method 1400 returns to 1422, where the tag's operation is tested during the verification process.

[0133] In contrast, if verification is made that the tag is operating properly [1424: YES], then 1428 and / or 1430 are performed. In some cases, after the item leaves the facility (e.g., Figure 1When the RSF 128 is present, it may not be desirable to have the tag attached to the item. Therefore, at 1522, a tool (e.g., a heating element, a seam removal device, and / or a robot having an articulated arm with a gripper) may optionally be used to remove the communication-enabling device, the device mounting assembly, and / or the wire from the item before removing the item from the facility. Subsequently, execution proceeds to 1430, where the method 1400 ends or performs other actions (e.g., completing the manufacture / production of the item and / or returning to 1402 to incorporate the tag into the next item).

[0134] Reference Figure 15 , provides a way to add tags (e.g. Figure 1 Tags 112, 118, Figure 2 200, 400 of FIG. 4 and / or Figure 6 4001, ..., 400 N ) is incorporated into an article (e.g. Figure 1 110, 116) or incorporated with the article. For example, the label is incorporated into the seam, hem or overlapping fabric hem of clothing or hats. The present invention is not limited to the details of this example.

[0135] Method 1500 begins at 1502 and continues to 1504, where an article (e.g., Figure 10 Item 1012). At 1505, alignment marks are optionally added to the item. Alignment marks may include, but are not limited to, shapes or lines printed on the item (e.g., in a color different from the item), created by sewing (e.g., using thread of a color different from the item), and / or formed using a die (e.g., a die of a color different from the item). The alignment marks may be used in a subsequent process to couple the tag to the item. In this regard, the alignment marks may clearly indicate where some or all components of the tag will be placed on the item and help guide such placement.

[0136] At 1506, dynamically determining a tag antenna (e.g., Figure 2 The length of each metal trace of the antenna 214 can be selected to optimize the tag performance based on the dielectric and tuning properties of the item. Figure 10 The computing device 1020) uses a LUT (e.g., Figure 10 1024) and / or by sensors configured to sense dielectric and tuning properties of the item (e.g., Figure 10The dielectric and tuning properties of the item are determined based on sensor data (e.g., capacitive measurements) generated by sensors 1016. Techniques for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of an item are well known in the art and will not be described herein. Any known or future known techniques for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of an item may be used herein.

[0137] At 1508, a metal trace having a dynamically determined length is printed or otherwise placed on the article to form the tag antenna. The metal trace may optionally be tuned after being printed or otherwise placed on the article. The metal trace may be tuned by reducing the thickness of the metal trace at one or more ends (e.g., using a Figure 10 The tuning is achieved by laser 1026). The metal traces can be formed of any suitable material, such as copper. The metal traces can also be deposited on the article according to any known or future known deposition technique (e.g., sputtering).

[0138] At 1510, at least the communication-enabled device (eg, a device 400 of FIG. 4A ) is optionally coated with a flexible fluid resistive material (eg, flexible fluid resistive material 406 of FIG. 4A ). Figure 2 The communication-enabled device 204 of the tag is provided. The flexible fluid resistive material can be transparent or colored. The color of the flexible fluid resistive material can be selected so that it matches the color of the item into which the tag is incorporated. At 1510, color can be added to the flexible fluid resistive material.

[0139] At 1512, the communication-enabled device is optionally attached to a substrate (e.g., PET or polyester film) (e.g., substrate 402 of FIG. 4A ). This attachment can be achieved via adhesive, application of heat, and / or stitching. The substrate can facilitate attachment of the communication-enabled device to the article.

[0140] At 1514, the communication-enabled device is attached to the article to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication-enabled device and the metal trace antenna. This attachment may be achieved via adhesive, application of heat, and / or sewing. The electrical coupling may include, but is not limited to, inductive coupling.

[0141] After completing 1514, operations are performed in 1516 to verify that the tag is operating properly. A tag reader (e.g., Figure 10 tag reader 1018) and / or a computing device (e.g., Figure 10Authentication is performed using a computing device 1020 (e.g., a computer). Tag readers are well known in the art and will not be described further herein. The tag reader may transmit an interrogation signal to the tag, wait for a response signal from the tag, receive the response signal, and process the response signal. The output of the tag reader may optionally be provided to a computing device for processing. When a response signal is received within a given amount of time after the interrogation signal is transmitted, proper operation of the tag may be verified, and / or the response signal may contain specific information (e.g., a tag identifier).

[0142] If no verification is made that the tag is operating properly [1518: No], method 1500 continues to 1520, where the communication-enabled device is removed from the item and a new communication-enabled device is coupled to the item. At 1520, the antenna may also be tuned by reducing the thickness of each conductive trace of a given portion of the antenna (e.g., the free end). Once the new tag is coupled to the item, method 1500 returns to 1516, where the operation of the new tag is tested during the verification process.

[0143] In contrast, if verification is made that the tag is operating properly [1518: YES], then 1522 and / or 1524 are performed. In some cases, after the item leaves the facility (e.g., Figure 1 128), it may not be desirable to have the tag attached to the item. Therefore, at 1522, a tool (e.g., a heating element, a patch removal device, and / or a robot having an articulated arm with a gripper) may optionally be used to remove the communication-enabling device, the device mounting assembly, and / or the wire from the item before removing the item from the facility. Subsequently, execution proceeds to 1524, where method 1500 ends or performs other actions (e.g., completing manufacturing / making the item and / or returning to 1502 to incorporate the tag into the next item).

[0144] Although the inventive solution has been illustrated and described with respect to one or more embodiments, equivalent changes and modifications will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding this specification and the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, although particular features of the inventive solution may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several embodiments, these features may be combined with one or more other features of other embodiments, as may be desired and advantageous for any given or specific application. Therefore, the breadth and scope of the inventive solution should not be limited by any of the embodiments described above. Rather, the scope of the inventive solution should be defined in accordance with the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for integrating a tag with an item, comprising: dynamically determining, by a computing device, during the manufacturing process of an article, the length of each metal wire to be incorporated into the article to optimize tag performance taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of the article; During the manufacture of the article, at least one metal wire having said length is produced; During the manufacturing process of the article, sewing the at least one metal thread into the article being produced to form at least one antenna for the first tag; as well as After sewing the at least one metal wire into the article, at least a communication-enabled device is attached to the article to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication-enabled device and the at least one antenna.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining dielectric and tuning properties of the article using a lookup table or sensor data before dynamically determining the length of the at least one metal wire.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising adding at least one alignment mark on the article, the at least one alignment mark being usable in the attaching to guide proper placement of the communication-enabled device on the article.

4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising coating one or both ends of the at least one metal wire with a substance selected to reduce or eliminate irritation caused by the at least one metal wire to an individual using the article.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising covering the communication-enabled device with a flexible fluid resistive material prior to the attaching.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising attaching the communication-enabled device to a substrate prior to the attaching.

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising verifying that the first tag operates properly after the first tag has been coupled to the item.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising replacing the communication enabled device with another communication enabled device when verification is not made that the first tag is operating properly.

9. The method of claim 7, further comprising tuning the at least one antenna by removing a portion of the at least one metal wire or replacing the at least one metal wire with another metal wire when verification that the first tag is operating properly is not made.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein attaching is performed while the article is being manufactured.

11. A method for integrating a tag with an item, comprising: dynamically determining, by a computing device, the thickness of a conductive trace to be formed directly on an article to optimize tag performance taking into account dielectric and tuning properties of the article; forming each of the conductive traces on the article being produced to form at least one antenna for a first tag; as well as After forming each of the conductive traces, at least a communication-enabled device is attached to the article to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication-enabled device and the at least one antenna.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising determining dielectric and tuning properties of the item using a lookup table or sensor data before dynamically determining the thickness of the conductive trace.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising adding at least one alignment mark on the article, the at least one alignment mark being usable in the attaching to guide proper placement of the communication-enabled device on the article.

14. The method of claim 11, further comprising covering the communication-enabled device with a flexible fluid resistive material prior to the attaching.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising attaching the communication-enabled device to a substrate prior to the attaching.

16. The method of claim 11, further comprising verifying that the first tag operates properly after the first tag has been coupled to the item.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising replacing the communication enabled device with another communication enabled device when verification is not made that the first tag is operating properly.

18. The method of claim 16, further comprising tuning the conductive trace when verification is not made that the first tag is operating properly.

19. The method of claim 11, wherein dynamically determining, forming, and attaching are performed while the article is being manufactured.

20. A system for integrating a tag with an item, comprising: At least one device that performs the following operations: dynamically determining the length of each metal wire to be incorporated into the article during its manufacture to optimize tag performance taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of the article; During the manufacture of the article, at least one metal wire having said length is produced; During the manufacturing process of the article, sewing the at least one metal thread into the article being produced to form at least one antenna for the first tag; as well as After sewing the at least one wire to the article, at least a communication-enabled device is attached to the article to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication-enabled device and the at least one antenna.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein the dielectric and tuning properties of the article are determined using a lookup table or sensor data prior to dynamically determining the length of the at least one metal wire.

22. The system of claim 20, wherein the article has at least one alignment mark, the at least one alignment mark being usable for the attachment to guide proper placement of the communication-enabled device on the article.

23. The system of claim 20, wherein one or both ends of the at least one metal wire are coated with a substance selected to reduce or eliminate irritation caused by the at least one metal wire to an individual using the article.

24. The system of claim 20, wherein the communication-enabled device is coated with a flexible fluid resistive material.

25. The system of claim 20, wherein the communication-enabled device is attached to a substrate prior to being attached to the item.

26. The system of claim 20, wherein after the first tag has been attached to the item, the at least one device further verifies that the first tag is operating properly.

27. The system of claim 26, wherein the communication enabled device is replaced with another communication enabled device when verification that the first tag is operating properly is not made.

28. The system of claim 26, wherein the at least one metal wire is replaced with another metal wire when verification that the first tag is operating properly is not made.

29. The system of claim 20, wherein the first tag is integrated with the item while the item is manufactured.

30. A system for integrating a tag with an item, comprising: At least one device that performs the following operations: Dynamically determining the thickness of conductive traces to be formed directly on an item to optimize tag performance taking into account the dielectric and tuning properties of the item; forming each of the conductive traces on the article being produced to form at least one antenna for a first tag; as well as After forming each of the conductive traces, at least a communication-enabled device is attached to the article to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication-enabled device and the at least one antenna.

31. The system of claim 30, wherein the dielectric and tuning properties of the item are determined using a lookup table or sensor data prior to dynamically determining the thickness of the at least one conductive trace.

32. The system of claim 30, wherein at least one alignment mark is provided on the article, the at least one alignment mark being usable in the attaching to guide proper placement of the at least one communication-enabled device on the article.

33. The system of claim 30, wherein the communication-enabled device is coated with a flexible fluid resistive material.

34. The system of claim 30, wherein the communication-enabled device is attached to a substrate prior to being attached to the item.

35. The system of claim 30, wherein after the first tag has been coupled to the item, the at least one device further verifies that the first tag is operating properly.

36. The system of claim 35, wherein the communication enabled device is replaced with another communication enabled device when verification that the first tag is operating properly is not made.

37. The system of claim 36, wherein the at least one conductive trace is tuned when no verification is made that the first tag is operating properly.

38. The system of claim 30, wherein the first tag is attached to the article while the article is being manufactured.

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