Flexible embedded security tag

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a flexible security tag comprising: an elongate inlay portion; a loop antenna mounted on the elongated inlay portion; a conductive member extending longitudinally across the elongated inlay portion, spaced apart from and inductively coupled to the loop antenna; and a radio frequency identification (RFID) circuit mounted to the loop antenna. The flexible security tag is encapsulated within an elongate textile protective sleeve.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 369,919, filed on July 29, 2022, entitled “FLEXIBLE EMBEDDED SECURITY TAG,” and U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 339,122, filed on June 21, 2023, entitled “FLEXIBLE EMBEDDED SECURITY TAG,” which are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to security tags, such as electronic article surveillance tags, that may be attached to or incorporated into articles, such as textiles or other merchandise. Background Art

[0004] Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems are commonly used in retail stores and other locations to prevent unauthorized removal of goods from a protected area. Typically, a detection system is deployed at the exit of a protected area and includes one or more transmitters and antennas ("pedestals") capable of generating an electromagnetic field across the exit (called an "interrogation zone"). The items to be protected are tagged with security tags (such as radio frequency identification (RFID) and / or acousto-magnetic (AM) tags), also called EAS tags, which, when activated, generate a response signal when passing through the interrogation zone. An antenna and receiver in the same or another "pedestal" detect the response signal and generate an alarm.

[0005] Additionally, permanent hidden / embedded tags in goods can be used for other purposes, such as, but not limited to, circular economy applications (new business models like renting clothes or selling second-hand clothes of known authenticity and origin). In many cases, the same tag can be used for multiple purposes: security (anti-theft), circular economy, supply chain management, and inventory management.

[0006] One disadvantage of using EAS tags and other security tags to mark goods for the purpose of theft prevention is that the tag itself is usually visible to the thief. In many cases, shoplifters are able to locate the EAS tag and simply remove, disable or shield the EAS tag element to evade detection by the detection system.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for improved security labels. Summary of the invention

[0008] The following presents a simplified summary of one or more aspects in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is neither intended to identify key or important elements of all aspects, nor to delineate the scope of any or all aspects. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as a prelude to a more detailed description that is presented later.

[0009] The present disclosure provides systems, apparatus, and methods for providing security tags that are inserted into articles of apparel.

[0010] In one aspect, a security tag includes: an elongated inlay portion; a loop antenna mounted on the elongated inlay portion; a conductive member extending longitudinally across the elongated inlay portion, spaced apart from and inductively coupled to the loop antenna; and a radio frequency identification (RFID) circuit mounted to the loop antenna. The security tag is enclosed within an elongated textile protective sleeve.

[0011] To accomplish the foregoing and related ends, the one or more aspects include the features hereinafter fully described and particularly pointed out in the claims. The following description and the accompanying drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative features of the one or more aspects. However, these features are indicative of only a few of the various ways in which the principles of the various aspects may be employed, and this description is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The disclosed aspects will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are provided to illustrate rather than limit the disclosed aspects, in which like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

[0013] Figure 1 is a diagram of an illustrative architecture of a system according to some aspects of the present invention;

[0014] Figure 2 is a partially cutaway isometric view of an example architecture for a portion of a tag according to aspects of the present invention;

[0015] Figure 3 According to some aspects of the present invention Figure 2 A side view of an example architecture of;

[0016] Figure 4 According to some aspects of the present invention Figure 2 A top view of the example architecture;

[0017] Figure 5 According to some aspects of the present invention Figure 2 Bottom view of the example architecture;

[0018] Figure 6According to some aspects of the present invention Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the example architecture;

[0019] Figure 7 is an isometric view of an alternative example architecture for a portion of a tag according to aspects of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 8 According to some aspects of the present invention Figure 7 A side view of an example architecture of;

[0021] Fig. 9 According to some aspects of the present invention Figure 7 A top view of the example architecture;

[0022] Fig.10 According to some aspects of the present invention Figure 7 Bottom view of the example architecture;

[0023] Fig.11 According to some aspects of the present invention Figure 7 An exploded diagram of the example architecture;

[0024] Fig.12 is a perspective view of an example tag with a welded sleeve according to some aspects of the present invention; and

[0025] Fig.13 is a top view of yet another alternative example architecture of a tag according to aspects of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The detailed description set forth below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is intended as a description of various configurations and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the concepts described herein may be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the various concepts. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts may be practiced without these specific details. In some examples, well-known components may be shown in block diagram form to avoid obfuscating the concepts.

[0027] Aspects of the present disclosure provide a security tag, such as a passive RFID tag, that is designed to physically withstand the tensile forces, compressive forces, and / or frictional forces that occur when the security tag is positioned and affixed to an item of merchandise, but is sufficiently flexible and / or soft so that it is not noticeable to a person wearing the item of merchandise. Additionally, in one aspect, the security tag, which may optionally be waterproof, is configured to be incorporated into an interface between different layers of an item of merchandise, such as a garment or clothing. Furthermore, the security tag may be unobtrusively disposed within the item of merchandise so as to be hidden from view.

[0028] Turning now to the drawings, example aspects are depicted with reference to one or more components described herein, where components in dashed lines may be optional.

[0029] Reference now Figure 1 , a schematic illustration of an illustrative system 100 that can be used to understand various aspects of the present invention is provided. Various aspects of the present invention are described herein with respect to a retail store environment. Various aspects of the present invention are not limited in this regard and can be used in other environments. For example, various aspects of the present invention can be used in distribution centers, factories, and other commercial environments. It is worth noting that various aspects of the present invention can be employed in any environment where it is necessary to locate and / or track objects and / or merchandise.

[0030] The system 100 is generally configured to allow for: (a) improved inventory counting and monitoring of objects and / or merchandise located within a facility, and (b) improved customer experience. Figure 1 As shown, the system 100 includes display devices 1021-102 disposed therein. M A retail store facility ("RSF") 128. Display equipment is provided for displaying objects (or merchandise) 1101-1102 to customers of the retail store. N , 1161-116 X The display equipment may include, but is not limited to, shelves, item display cabinets, promotional displays, fixtures, and / or equipment securing areas of the RSF 128. The RSF 128 may also include emergency equipment (not shown), checkout counters, cameras, people counters, and conventional EAS systems that are well known in the art and therefore will not be described herein.

[0031] At least one tag reader 120 is provided to assist in counting and tracking objects 1101-110 within the RSF 128. N , 1161-116 X The tag reader 120 may include an RFID reader configured to read an RFID tag. Such tag reading may include the tag reader 120 receiving a unique identifier of the corresponding RFID tag 112, which may be associated with an identifier of the object 110 to which the RFID tag 112 is attached.

[0032] RFID tag 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X Attached to objects 1101-110 respectively N , 1161-116 X , as described below. The attachment can be achieved by configuring the structure of the RFID tag to achieve the attachment. RFID tag 1121-112 N, 1181-118 X A dual technology tag having both EAS and RFID capabilities as described herein may alternatively or additionally be included. In examples of the technology disclosed herein, the RFID tag is sewn or otherwise affixed to an object 110, such as to an interface between fabric / cloth layers of the object 110, which may be clothing or may be another retail item, such as a handbag, backpack, etc.

[0033] It is worth noting that the tag reader 120 can be placed at a known location within the RSF 128, such as at an exit / entrance. By correlating the RFID tag readings of the tag reader 120 with the known location of the tag reader 120 within the RSF 128, the objects 1101, ..., 110 N ,1161,...,116 X Approximate location within RSF 128. The known coverage area of ​​tag reader 120 also facilitates object location determination. Therefore, RFID tag read information and tag reader location information are stored in data storage area 126. This information can be stored in data storage area 126 using server 124 and network 144 (e.g., intranet and / or Internet). In addition, tag reader 120 or another computer device (such as but not limited to a point of sale terminal) can read the corresponding RFID tag 112 during the checkout or payment process and confirm that the object 110 to which the RFID tag 112 is attached is the object being paid for in the checkout or point of sale transaction.

[0034] System 100 may also include a mobile communication device ("MCD") 130. MCD 130 includes, but is not limited to, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a desktop computer, a personal digital assistant, and / or a wearable device (e.g., a smart watch). According to some examples, MCD 130 has software applications installed thereon that are operable to: facilitate providing various information 134-142 to individual 152; and / or facilitate a sales or purchase transaction.

[0035] The MCD 130 is generally configured to provide visual and / or audible output of item level information 134 , accessory information 136 , related product information 138 , discount information 140 , and / or customer-related information 142 .

[0036] The MCD 130 may also be configured to read barcodes and / or RFID tags 112. Information obtained from the barcode and / or RFID tag readings may be transmitted from the MCD 130 to the server 124 via the network 144. Similarly, the stored information 134-142 is provided from the server 124 to the MCD 130 via the network 144. The network 144 includes an intranet and / or the Internet.

[0037] The server 124 may Figure 1 The server 124 is shown as being local to the facility 128 or remote from the facility 128. It should be understood that the server 124 is configured to: write data to the storage area 126, the RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X and / or MCD 130 and reading data therefrom; using data from data storage area 126, RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X and / or MCD 130 to perform language and currency conversion operations; perform data analysis based on inventory information 134, tag read information, MCD tracking information, and / or information 134-142; perform image processing using images captured by camera 148; and / or determine the RFID tags 1121-112 using beacons 146, tag readers 120, or other devices with known locations and / or antenna patterns N , 1181-118 X and / or the location of the MCD 130 in the RSF 128 .

[0038] In some examples, one or more beacons 146 that transmit RF signals other than RFID interrogation signals (e.g., a second RF signal) are placed to cover an area of ​​interest (which in some cases may also be covered by a tag reader 120 placed to cover the RFID interrogation zone), for example, at a portal (such as an entrance or exit) of a retail facility 128.

[0039] The server 124 updates the information 134-142 output from the MCD 130 and / or the tag reader 120 and / or any other terminal and / or point of sale device that interacts with the RFID tag 112. Such information updates may be performed periodically in response to instructions received from an associated person (e.g., a retail store employee 132), in response to detected changes in the merchandise level 134, accessories 136, and / or related product information 138, in response to detection of an individual approaching the RFID tag, and / or in response to any motion or movement of the RFID tag. For example, if a certain product is on sale, the sale price of the product is sent to the MCD 130 via the network 144 and / or the RFID tag 112 / 118. The sale price is then output from the MCD 130. It should be noted that aspects of the invention are not limited to the details of this example.

[0040] although Figure 1A single MCD 130 and / or a single server 124 is shown in FIG. 1 , but aspects of the present invention are not limited in this regard. It is contemplated that more than one computing device may be implemented. Furthermore, aspects of the present invention are not limited to Figure 1 An illustrative system architecture is described.

[0041] In some aspects, during operation of the system 100, the content displayed on the display screen of the MCD 130 is dynamically controlled based on various tag or item-related and / or customer-related information (e.g., a mobile device identifier, a mobile device location in the RSF 128, and / or a customer loyalty level). The tag or item-level information 134 may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: first information indicating that the RFID tag 112 / 118 is in motion or that the object is being picked up by the individual 152, second information indicating the current location of the RFID tag 112 / 118 and / or the MCD 130, third information indicating an accessory or associated product of the object to which the mobile RFID tag is coupled, and / or fourth information indicating the relative position of the accessory and the mobile RFID tag 112 / 118 and / or the relative position of the associated product and the mobile RFID tag 112 / 118. The first, second, and fourth information may be derived based on sensor data generated by a sensor local to the RFID tag. In other words, in some cases, the RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X One or more sensors are included to detect its current location, detect any individuals in its vicinity, and / or detect any motion or movement thereof. Sensors include (but are not limited to) inertial measurement units ("IMU"), vibration sensors, light sensors, accelerometers, gyroscopes, proximity sensors, microphones, and / or beacon communication devices. The third information can be stored locally on the RFID tag as information 136, 138 or in the remote data storage area 126.

[0042] In some scenarios, the MCD 130 facilitates the server 124 to (a) detect when the individual 152 enters the RSF 128, (b) track the individual's movement through the RSF 128, (c) detect when the individual 152 is in proximity to an object to which the RFID tag 112 / 118 is coupled, (d) determine that the RFID tag 112 / 118 is being picked up or moved by the individual 152 based on a timestamped pattern of movement of the MCD 130 and a timestamped pattern of movement of the RFID tag 112 / 118, and / or (e) determine an association between the moved RFID tag 112 / 118 and the individual 152.

[0043] When the RFID tag 112 / 118 is detected to be moving, the server 124 may, in some scenarios, obtain customer-related information (such as a loyalty tier) 142 associated with the individual 152. This information may be obtained from the individual's MCD 130 and / or the data store 126. The customer-related information 142 is then used to retrieve discount information 140 for the object to which the RFID tag 112 / 118 is coupled. The retrieved discount information is then transmitted from the server 124 to the individual's MCD 130. The individual's MCD 130 may output the discount information in a visual format and / or an audible format. Other information may also be transmitted from the server 124 to the individual's MCD 130. The other information includes, but is not limited to, merchandise tier information 134, accessory information 136, and / or related product information 138.

[0044] In those or other scenarios, sensors embedded in RFID tags 112 / 118 detect when an individual 152 is handling an object into which an RFID tag 112 / 118 is inserted. Upon such detection, the RFID tag 112 / 118 retrieves the unique identifier of the object from its local memory and wirelessly transmits it to the tag reader 120. The tag reader 120 then passes the information to the server 124. The server 124 uses the unique identifier of the object and the merchandise / accessory relationship information (e.g., table) 136 to determine whether there are any accessories associated with it. If no accessories exist for the object, the server 124 uses the merchandise level information 134 to determine one or more characteristics of the object. For example, the object includes a particular brand of product. The server 124 then uses the merchandise / related product information (e.g., table) 138 to identify: other products of the same type with the same characteristics; and / or other products that are commonly used in conjunction with the object. The related product information of the identified related products is then retrieved and provided to the MCD 130. The MCD 130 may output the related product information in a visual format and / or an audible format. Individual 152 may conduct user-software interaction with MCD 130 to obtain further information related to the product of interest. The inventive solution is not limited to the details of this scenario.

[0045] refer to Figures 2 to 6 , shows an example architecture of a security tag 200. RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X The same or similar to the security tag 200. Therefore, the discussion of the security tag 200 is sufficient to understand Figure 1 RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 XIn some embodiments, security tag 200 may be configured to perform operations such as, but not limited to, the following: (a) minimize power usage to extend the life of the power source (e.g., a battery or capacitor), (b) minimize conflicts with other tags so that only tags of interest can be seen at a given time, and / or (c) optimize useful information within the inventory system (e.g., communicating useful change information to a tag reader).

[0046] It is worth noting that the security tag 200 is designed to be relatively thin and relatively flexible so that when inserted into a commodity (e.g., Figure 1 Objects 1101,...,110 N , 1161,..., or 116 X ), but strong enough to withstand a certain number of (e.g., one or more) washing cycles. The object may include, but is not limited to, clothing.

[0047] Security tag 200 may include, for example, a semiconductor integrated circuit 208, such as an RFID chip, which provides the above-described RFID-based functionality, electrically connected to a tunable antenna 204 that enables circuit 208 to receive and / or transmit signals, and mounted to inlay 202. Tunable antenna 204 (such as Figure 2 The loop antenna 204 shown in the figure can be tuned to a desired operating frequency by adjusting the length of the antenna. The range of operating frequencies may vary. For example, in one embodiment, the loop antenna 204 can be tuned to operate within the RFID operating frequency.

[0048] The tunable antenna 204 of the security tag 200 may be formed as a conductive trace via etching, printing or other patterning methods. The conductive trace / layer may be, but is not limited to, aluminum, copper, silver, tin or graphene.

[0049] The tunable antenna 204 can be designed so that the operating frequency of the tag is in the range of 840-960 MHz (including 840 and 960), the range of 860-940 MHz (including 860 and 940), the range of 865-868 MHz (including 865 and 868) or the range of 902-928 MHz (including 902 and 928).

[0050] The tunable antenna 204 may additionally include a conductive member 206 configured to electrically couple with the tunable antenna 204, such as via an inductor. The conductive member 206 may extend longitudinally across substantially the entire length of the security tag 200. In other words, the longitudinal length of the conductive member 206 is greater than the longitudinal length of the inlay 202, which provides increased flexibility and a softer feel to the security tag 200 as compared to other security tags where the inlay extends substantially the length of the tag. The conductive member 206 may be fabricated by positioning the conductive wire adjacent to the tunable antenna 204 mounted on the inlay 202, such as spaced apart from the tunable antenna 204, for example, on opposite sides of the inlay 202.

[0051] The materials used for the conductive member 206 may include, but are not limited to, nylon, cotton, wool, polyester, or other synthetic materials coated with a conductive material. However, in various embodiments, the conductive member 206 may be made of a wire, such as a copper wire, a steel wire, or the like. In some embodiments, the conductive member 206 may include several conductive threads that are rotated together. In an exemplary embodiment, the conductive member 206 may include one or more threads having desired resistance / durability and tensile strength properties and one or more threads having desired conductive properties. In one aspect, the conductive member 206 may include nylon coated with silver. In another aspect, the conductive member 206 may include a metal strip or a metal foil, and the metal strip or the metal foil is preferably made by die cutting.

[0052] In some aspects, but not limited thereto, the conductive member 206 can extend in a longitudinal direction along the security tag 200 and can have a diameter of approximately 100 microns.

[0053] Additionally, security tag 200 further includes an elongated sleeve 210 that substantially encapsulates inlay 202, loop antenna 204, and conductive member 206. Sleeve 210 may be formed of a fabric or plastic material, and may be a single piece wrapped around the inner components and sealed or secured together on one side, or two opposing pieces sealed or secured together on each side.

[0054] Inlay 202, on which semiconductor integrated circuit 208 and tunable antenna 204 are mounted, can be a relatively thin, narrow, lightweight, recyclable and / or machine washable substrate. In one aspect, inlay 202 can be an elongated inlay 202 having a length substantially equal to or slightly greater than the length of tunable antenna 204. In other words, as described above, the longitudinal length of inlay 202 is significantly less than the longitudinal length of conductive member 206 and security tag 202. In one aspect, conductive member 206 can have a length that is significantly greater (approximately 2 to 8 times) than the length of inlay portion 202 and the length of the conductive traces of loop antenna 204. In one aspect, the longitudinal length of elongated inlay portion 202 and the longitudinal length of loop antenna can be substantially equal.

[0055] Inlay 202 may include, but is not limited to, any type of flexible material, such as, but not limited to, polyimide (PI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), and / or paper. In some aspects, inlay 202 may include a polyester (e.g., PET) substrate. The thickness of inlay 202 is selected so that inlay 202 has a physical strength that allows a threshold amount of stretching and / or compression to be maintained on security tag 200 when the tag is attached to object 110 / 116. For example, but not limited to, the thickness may have a value between about 10um and about 200um. It should be noted that additional layers may be added to inlay 202 to protect loop antenna 204 during cleaning. These additional layers may increase the thickness of inlay 202 to at least 200um. In addition, for example, but not limited to, the width of inlay 202 may be between about 2.5mm and about 5mm, which is small enough that when tag 200 is inserted into an object, humans will not feel the tag. It should be understood that aspects of the present invention are not limited to the details of this example.

[0056] In various aspects of the invention, the security tag 200 can be flexible, bendable, stretchable, or otherwise configured and / or constructed to withstand deformation. In addition, for example but not limited to this, the width of the security tag 200 can be between 3.5mm and 6mm, and the length of the security tag 200 can be between 80mm and 145mm, which is small enough that when the tag is inserted into the commodity, the human will not feel the tag. Aspects of the present invention are not limited to the details of this example. Moreover, the flexibility of the security tag 200 allows the security tag 200 to be constructed and arranged so that the above-mentioned deformation does not negatively affect the function and operation of the electronic components disposed within the security tag 200. In some aspects, the electronic components are positioned on one side away from the center of the security tag 200 so that a suture channel can be created for securely attaching the security tag 200 to clothing.

[0057] In some aspects, the security tag 200 can be manufactured to meet environmental sustainability standards. For example, in some aspects, natural fiber fabrics, recycled materials, or bio-based materials can be used as the inlay layer 202 (or as a part of the inlay layer 202), so that the security tag 200 incorporates less plastic material than traditional security tags. For example, the security tag 200 can be manufactured using a natural fiber fabric substrate that is sustainable in nature, especially if the fabric is non-polyester. Recycled materials can include, but are not limited to, recycled polyester or recycled paper, and biomaterials can include, but are not limited to, biopolymers and paper.

[0058] More specifically refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 In some cases, the semiconductor integrated circuit 208, the tunable antenna 204, and the inlay 202 can be coated with a layer of flexible, fluid-resistant material 302 to protect them from damage due to fluid exposure. The resistive material can include, but is not limited to, a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material, a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material, a copolyamide, and / or a copolyester. Generally, the fluid-resistant material can be any waterproof material to protect the electronic components (e.g., by hermetically sealing the electronic components), which can be coated in an industrial process (such as an adhesive coating) and is safe and acceptable in the textile industry (e.g., an Oeko-tex 100 certified material). In addition, the selected fluid-resistant material should be able to withstand exposure to washing, bleaching, and softening chemicals.

[0059] The fluid resistant material can be applied to either or both sides of the semiconductor integrated circuit 208, the tunable antenna 204, and the inlay 202. The fluid resistant material can change appearance via a heat source. The appearance can be changed by changing from one color and / or pattern to another of a plurality of colors and / or patterns. In one aspect, if a thin material is used for the elongated sleeve 210 and if the sleeve 210 does not sufficiently hide the electronic components, the fluid resistant material can be colored or patterned to hide the electronic components of the inlay 202 from view.

[0060] More specifically refer to Figure 5 , the conductive member 206 is cut or formed from two spaced-apart portions. In one aspect, the spaced region between the two portions of the conductive member 206 is adjacent to the semiconductor integrated circuit 208. Thus, the conductive member 206 comprises a radiator of an RFID antenna. For example, as described above, suitable metallic yarns for making the conductive member 206 include silver-coated nylon or polyester yarns or stainless steel yarns, such as, for example, Bekinox VN or ShieldEx 1172 layers with stainless steel yarns. It should be noted that aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to these specific materials.

[0061] Based on this configuration of the conductive member 206, inductive coupling of the conductive member 206 with the loop antenna 204 occurs during operation of the security tag 200. In at least one aspect, the inductive coupling type is based on the principle that a magnetic field generated by a high-frequency wave from the antenna induces a current when passing through the conductive member 206 of the security tag 200, and is adopted in the 900 MHz frequency band. In addition, the inductive coupling type has a feature that the magnetic field is absorbed by metal.

[0062] like Figure 5 As shown, the conductive member 206 can be cut substantially in the middle of the security tag 200, thereby producing a first portion 206a of the conductive member having a first end 502 and a second portion 206b of the conductive member having a second end 504. The first end 502 of the first threaded portion 206a is spaced apart from the second end 504 of the second threaded portion 206b in the longitudinal direction. In one aspect, this gap can achieve significant improvements in the sensitivity and performance of the security tag 200.

[0063] In summary, the security tag 200 can be produced by combining different materials and / or component layers, such as an antenna strip 204 attached to an inlay 202, an intermediate layer that may include a semiconductor integrated circuit 208 electrically connected to a loop antenna 204, both of which are attached to the inlay 202 and may be electrically connected to a conductive member 206, for example via inductive coupling, and an outer layer including an optional plastic material, such as TPU, and an elongated protective sleeve 210, such as formed of a fabric, which covers the semiconductor integrated circuit 208, the loop antenna 204, and the conductive member 206. The sleeve 210 may include an ultrasonically weldable thermoplastic material, such as, but not limited to, a combination of nylon, polyester, and cotton, etc. Advantageously, the loop antenna 204 is designed to be very narrow compared to a typical RFID antenna. Although the sleeve 210 in this example is shown as a top layer, it should be understood that the outer layer may alternatively or additionally include a bottom layer. In other words, the sleeve 210 is elongated and substantially encapsulates the semiconductor integrated circuit 208, the loop antenna 204, and the conductive member 206. In one embodiment, the elongated sleeve 210 comprises a single textile sleeve having a first longitudinal side fixedly attached to an opposing second longitudinal side.

[0064] However, it should be understood that the various layers may be manufactured and / or assembled in a different manner and / or in a different order and / or by different entities (e.g., antenna manufacturer, tag manufacturer, tag converter entity).

[0065] refer to Figures 7 to 11, an example of an alternative architecture of security tag 700 is similar to security tag 200, for example, formed as described above with respect to the components of layers 202, 204, 206, and 210. However, in this exemplary architecture, conductive member 702 is continuous. It should be noted that, in general, Figure 5 The conductive feature 206 shown in FIG. 7 having a gap substantially in the middle (between the first portion 206 a and the second portion 206 b ) may provide better performance than a continuous conductive member 702 .

[0066] However, it should be understood that the various layers can be manufactured and / or assembled in different ways and / or in different orders and / or by different entities (e.g., antenna manufacturers, tag manufacturers, tag converter entities). Thus, the methods and structures herein provide a flexible, fabric-like narrow security tag 200 that can be easily and effectively attached (sewn) to the space between the seams connecting two adjacent material layers of clothing. The two layers of clothing can be sewn together by an overlock seam. However, in various aspects, the security tag 200 can be sewn, glued or welded to any other part of the clothing.

[0067] refer to Fig.12 , the finished welded security tag, such as security tag 200 (or security tag 700), includes electronic components positioned on one side 1202 away from the center of security tag 200, so that a continuous sewing channel 1204 can be created to ensure that security tag 200 is attached to clothing. In other words, because the electronic components are located on one side of security tag 200, when security tag 200 is attached to clothing, the electronic components are less likely to be damaged by the sewing needle.

[0068] Fig.13 is a top view of yet another alternative architecture for a tag according to aspects of the present invention.

[0069] Fig.13 The security tag 1300 shown in FIG. 1 is similar to the security tags 200 and 700 described herein. In one aspect, the security tag 1300 may also have a narrow and long shape. In one aspect, the elongated sleeve ( Fig.131304, and the dipole radiator region of antenna 1306. In one embodiment, the elongated sleeve comprises a single textile sleeve having a first longitudinal side fixedly attached to an opposing second longitudinal side. Inlay 1302 may include an RFID dipole inlay portion. The conductive element (such as antenna 1306) is typically a conductive thin strip made of, for example, etched metal (such as aluminum or copper). In one aspect, a semiconductor integrated circuit can be mounted directly to the impedance matching loop portion of antenna 1304. The first dipole radiator region 1306a and the second dipole radiator region 1306 can extend longitudinally from the loop portion 1304 through opposing sides of the elongated inlay portion 1302.

[0070] In addition, for example and without limitation, the width of security tag 1300 can be about 0.5 mm, and the length of security tag 1300 can be about 94 mm, which is small enough that a human cannot feel the tag when inserted into a commodity. In some aspects, inlay 1302 can include a PET substrate. In one aspect, the width of security tag 1300 can be about 2 mm, wherein the distance between antenna portion 1304, 1306 and each opposing edge of inlay portion 1302 is about 0.75 mm. Aspects of the invention are not limited to the details of this example.

[0071] The disclosed aspects provide a soft, easy to attach, unobtrusive, high-performance, durable and economical RFID security tag. In one aspect, such a tag can be attached to the overlock seam of an article. The disclosed aspects replace most of the PET inlay with a conductive textile fiber antenna in the core of a fabric sleeve. Advantageously, the disclosed aspects enable thin, light, single-layer clothing to be marked, which is difficult to mark with any existing marking solution. As another advantage, the disclosed tags provide better feel, appearance and performance compared to traditional security tags. In addition, for example, the described aspects can be implemented as RFID tags that can be embedded in clothing (or other textile goods) and used for RFID inventory management, RFID loss prevention (anti-theft), RFID-assisted self-checkout, e-commerce and RFID-assisted return management. RFID tags can be unobtrusively embedded in clothing, including thin and light single-layer clothing. Alternatively or additionally, RFID tags can be attached to articles using an insertion process that is efficient and utilizes existing processes. Alternatively or additionally, RFID tags can withstand industrial washing processes used in clothing manufacturing processes. Alternatively or additionally, the RFID tag is conformable and has a textile feel, making it comfortable for the wearer of the apparel item. Alternatively or additionally, the RFID tag has relatively high RF performance (compared to other flexible tags). Alternatively or additionally, the RFID tag can be formed using existing manufacturing processes, and the materials and manufacturing processes used to manufacture the tag can be economical.

[0072] In other words, one aspect of a security tag includes: an elongated inlay portion; a loop antenna mounted on the elongated inlay portion; a conductive member extending longitudinally across the elongated inlay portion, spaced apart from and inductively coupled to the loop antenna; and a radio frequency identification (RFID) circuit mounted to the loop antenna. The security tag is enclosed within an elongated textile protective sleeve.

[0073] In one or any combination of these aspects, the conductive member has a first longitudinal length that is significantly greater than a second longitudinal length of the elongated inlay portion and a third longitudinal length of the loop antenna.

[0074] In one or any combination of these aspects, the second longitudinal length of the elongated inlay portion and the third longitudinal length of the loop antenna are substantially equal.

[0075] In one or any combination of these aspects, the conductive member extends continuously through the security tag.

[0076] In one or any combination of these aspects, the conductive member extends in a longitudinal direction along the flexible security tag, wherein the conductive member includes a first threaded portion having a first end and a second threaded portion having a second end, and wherein the first end of the first threaded portion is spaced apart from the second end of the second threaded portion in the longitudinal direction.

[0077] In one or any combination of these aspects, the conductive member includes at least one of: a conductive thread, a conductive fiber, a yarn, a printed ink, a conductive fabric, a wire, or a metal strip.

[0078] In one or any combination of these aspects, the conductive member comprises nylon coated with silver.

[0079] In one or any combination of these aspects, the elongated textile protective sleeve includes a single textile sleeve having a first longitudinal side fixedly attached to an opposing second longitudinal side.

[0080] In one or any combination of these aspects, the loop antenna, the conductive member, and the RFID circuit are positioned on a side away from a center of the security tag.

[0081] In one or any combination of these aspects, the elongated textile protective sleeve includes a single textile sleeve having a first longitudinal side fixedly attached to an opposing second longitudinal side on a first longitudinal tag side away from a center of the security tag. The loop antenna, the conductive member, and the RFID circuit are positioned on the second longitudinal tag side opposite the first longitudinal tag side.

[0082] In one or any combination of these aspects, the security tag further includes a coating at least partially covering the RFID circuit and the loop antenna.

[0083] In one or any combination of these aspects, the coating comprises a layer of plastic material.

[0084] In one or any combination of these aspects, the security tag is configured to be positioned in an interface space between two layers of clothing.

[0085] In one or any combination of these aspects, the security tag is configured to be positioned on top of an overlock seam of a garment.

[0086] The previous description is provided so that any technician in the field can practice the various aspects described herein. Various modifications to these aspects will be obvious to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applicable to other aspects. A full scope consistent with the language claims is given, wherein a reference to an element in the singular form does not wish to represent "there is and only one" (unless explicitly stated), but represents "one or more". The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, example or explanation". Any aspect described herein as "exemplary" does not have to be interpreted as being superior to or superior to other aspects. Unless otherwise clearly stated, the term "some" refers to one or more. Combinations such as "at least one of A, B or C", "one or more of A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", "one or more of A, B and C" and "A, B, C or any combination thereof" include any combination of A, B and / or C, and may include multiple A, multiple B or multiple C. Specifically, combinations such as "at least one of A, B, or C," "one or more of A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B and C," "one or more of A, B, and C," and "A, B, C, or any combination thereof" may be A only, B only, C only, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C, wherein any such combination may contain one or more members of A, B, or C. All structural and functional equivalents of the elements throughout the various aspects described in this disclosure that are known or later known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. In addition, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly stated in the claims. Words such as "module," "mechanism," "element," "device," and the like may not replace the word "component." As such, any claim element should not be interpreted as a component plus function unless the element is explicitly stated using the phrase "component for..."

Claims

1. A flexible safety label, comprising: an elongated inlay portion; a loop antenna mounted on the elongated inlay portion; a conductive member extending longitudinally across the elongated inlay portion, spaced apart from the loop antenna and inductively coupled to the loop antenna; and A radio frequency identification (RFID) circuit is mounted to the loop antenna, wherein the flexible security tag is enclosed within an elongated textile protective sleeve.

2. The flexible security tag of claim 1 wherein the conductive member has a first longitudinal length that is significantly greater than a second longitudinal length of the elongated inlay portion and a third longitudinal length of the loop antenna.

3. The flexible security tag of claim 2 wherein the second longitudinal length of the elongated inlay portion and the third longitudinal length of the loop antenna are substantially equal.

4. The flexible security tag of claim 1 wherein the conductive member extends continuously across the flexible security tag.

5. The flexible security tag according to claim 1, wherein the conductive member extends in a longitudinal direction along the flexible security tag, wherein the conductive member includes a first threaded portion having a first end and a second threaded portion having a second end, and wherein the first end of the first threaded portion is spaced apart from the second end of the second threaded portion in the longitudinal direction.

6. The flexible security tag of claim 1, wherein the conductive member comprises at least one of: a conductive thread, a conductive fiber, a yarn, a printed ink, a conductive fabric, a wire, or a metal strip.

7. The flexible security tag of claim 5 wherein the conductive member comprises nylon coated with silver.

8. The flexible security tag of claim 1 wherein the elongated textile protective sleeve comprises a single textile piece having a first longitudinal side fixedly attached to an opposing second longitudinal side.

9. The flexible security tag of claim 1, wherein the loop antenna, the conductive member, and the RFID circuit are positioned on a side away from a center of the flexible security tag.

10. A flexible security tag according to claim 1, wherein the slender textile protective sleeve includes a single textile piece having a first longitudinal side, the first longitudinal side is fixedly attached to an opposite second longitudinal side on a first longitudinal tag side away from the center of the flexible security tag, and wherein the loop antenna, the conductive member and the RFID circuit are positioned on the second longitudinal tag side opposite to the first longitudinal tag side.

11. The flexible security tag of claim 1 further comprising a coating at least partially covering the RFID circuit and the loop antenna.

12. A flexible security tag as claimed in claim 11 wherein the coating comprises a layer of plastics material.

13. The flexible security tag of claim 1, wherein the flexible security tag is configured to be positioned in an interface space between two layers of clothing.

14. The flexible security tag of claim 1, wherein the flexible security tag is configured to be positioned on top of an overlock seam of a garment.

15. A flexible security label, comprising: an elongated inlay portion; a loop antenna mounted on the elongated inlay portion; a conductive member extending longitudinally across the elongated inlay portion and spaced apart from and inductively coupled to the loop antenna, wherein the conductive member has a first longitudinal length that is substantially greater than a second longitudinal length of the elongated inlay portion; and A radio frequency identification (RFID) circuit is mounted to the loop antenna.

16. The flexible security tag of claim 15 wherein the flexible security tag is enclosed within an elongated textile protective sleeve.

17. The flexible security tag of claim 15 wherein the first longitudinal length of the conductive member is substantially greater than a third longitudinal length of the loop antenna.

18. The flexible security tag of claim 17 wherein the second longitudinal length of the elongated inlay portion and the third longitudinal length of the loop antenna are substantially equal.

19. The flexible security tag of claim 15 wherein the conductive member extends continuously across the flexible security tag.

20. A flexible security tag according to claim 15, wherein the conductive member extends in a longitudinal direction along the flexible security tag, wherein the conductive member includes a first threaded portion having a first end and a second threaded portion having a second end, and wherein the first end of the first threaded portion is spaced apart from the second end of the second threaded portion in the longitudinal direction.

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