Smart twine, smart thread, and method of making same

Abstract

A smart twine including a radiofrequency identification (RFID) tape assembly is disclosed. The smart twine may include at least one base thread helically entwined with at least one RFID tape assembly. The RFID tape assembly may include a carrier tape of at least 2 layers sandwiching, spaced apart plurality of elongated RFID tags aligned in the longitudinal direction of the carrier tape, wherein each elongated RFID tag: comprises two elongated polymeric layers sandwiching at least one RFID antenna, and said each RFID tag is adhered to at least one layer of said at least 2 layers.

Description

SMART TWINE, SMART THREAD, AND METHOD OF MAKING SAMECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of IL Patent Application No. 301813, titled "SMART TWINE, SMART THREAD, AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME", filed March 29, 2023. The contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to flexible or elastic thread housing radiofrequency identification tags and a twine comprising such thread rendering to the twine, a smart twine.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a technology used to track items or people in a variety of applications. It works by using small electronic devices that contain a chip and an antenna - the tags. These tags can be read by an RFID reader, which is then used to identify the item or person. RFID is used for a variety of purposes, such as tracking inventory in a warehouse, monitoring the movement of patients in a hospital, and providing access control for buildings and vehicles.

[0004] Twines and threads are normally packed in bales or spools. The bales or spools are labeled and marked with any known identification tag, such as, barcodes, Q-codes, radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags, and the like.

[0005] Smart Twine is a product that combines sensors and other hardware with an Internet of Things (loT) platform such as RFID tags. It is a connected device that allows users to monitor, track, and optionally control things like temperature, humidity, light exposure, and more. It can be used to monitor and manage your inventory, farm, or other environment.

[0006] A bale with identification tags is a bale comprising a smart twine. Such a bale may comprise hay, cotton or straw, which is typically used for agricultural purposes. The bale is marked with identification tags such as RFID tags that include information such as the type of hay or straw, the date of harvest, the location of the farm, the name of the grower, and other relevant details.

[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for smart twines or threads that can resist and survive the harsh baling process and withstand the challenges associated with entwining the RFID tags with an ordinary twine. Such twines or smart twines can be tracked.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Some aspects of the invention are directed to a radiofrequency identification (RFID) tape assembly, that may include: a carrier tape of at least 2 layers sandwiching, spaced apart plurality of elongated RFID tags aligned in the longitudinal direction of the carrier tape, wherein each elongated RFID tag: comprises two elongated polymeric layers sandwiching at least one RFID antenna, and each RFID tag is adhered to at least one layer of the at least 2 layers.

[0009] In some embodiments, each elongated polymeric layer may include, at least one of: Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polyethylene (PE), machine direction oriented Polypropylene (MDO) and Bi-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP). In some embodiments, a thickness of each layer of the carrier tape of the carrier tape, is between 5 to 500 pm.

[0010] In some embodiments, a ratio between a width of each layer of the carrier tape and a width of the RFID tag may be at least 2. In some embodiments, each RFID tag is adhered to the layer of the carrier tape such that a margin of at least *4 (quarter) of the width of the layer of the carrier tape is left from one side of the carrier tape.

[0011] In some embodiments, a ratio between the width and the maximum thickness of the RFID tape assembly may be between 2 to 100. In some embodiments, the carrier tape may include Polyethylene (PE), high density PE (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyamide.

[0012] Some additional aspects of the invention may be directed to a smart twine comprising: at least one base thread; and at least one RFID tape assembly according to any one of the embodiments disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one base thread and the at least one RFID tape assembly may be helically entwined together.

[0013] In some embodiments, a ratio between the weight per meter of the smart and the number of twists of at least one RFID tape assembly and the at least one base thread, per meter may be between 4.8 to 9.

[0014] In some embodiments, one meter of smart twine may include between 1.01 to 1.03 meters of the at least one base thread and between 1.01 to 1.15 meters of the at least one RFID tape assembly.

[0015] Some additional aspects of the invention may be directed to a method of making an RFID tape assembly, comprising: (a) receiving a plurality of RFID antennas; (b) sandwiching each RFID antenna between two elongated polymeric layers, to make a plurality of RFID tags; (c) gluing the plurality RFID tags to a first longitudinal portion of a carrier tape such that each RFID tag is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the carrier tape; and (d) folding a second longitudinal portion of the carrier tape over the first longitudinal portion to form the RFID tape assembly.

[0016] In some embodiments, the method may further include gluing the second portion to the first portion. In some embodiments, gluing the plurality RFID tags may include leaving a margin of at least 1 / 8 of the width of the carrier tape, between each RFID tag and an edge of the carrier tape. In some embodiments, gluing the plurality RFID tags may include, gluing each RFID tag longitudinally between two zones devoid of said RFID tag.

[0017] In some embodiments, each elongated polymeric layer may include, at least one of, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polyethylene (PE), machine direction oriented Polypropylene (MDO), and Bi-Oriented Polypropylene (BBOP). In some embodiments, a thickness of each layer of the carrier tape, may be between 5 to 500 pm. In some embodiments, the carrier tape may be selected from: Polyethylene (PE), high density PE (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyamide.

[0018] Some additional aspects of the invention may be directed to a package that may include: a material bound by: a non-smart twine; and a smart twine comprising one or more radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags. In some embodiments, a ratio between a length Ls of said smart twine and the length LNS of the non-smart twine may be determined as a function of a number of knotters in a packing machine binding said package, the packages’ height, and the package’ length.

[0019] In some embodiments, the packing machine is a double knotter packing machine, and wherein said ratio may be determined according to equation:where, n is the number of knotters, L is the package’s length and H is the package’s height.

[0020] In some embodiments, the packing machine is a single knotter packing machine, and wherein said ratio amy be determined according to equation:where, n is the number of knotters.

[0021] In some embodiments, the ratio may be between 0.03 to 0.5.

[0022] In some embodiments, smart twine may include: at least one base thread; and at least one RFID tape assembly accoridng to any one of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0023] In some embodiments, the material may be a compacted fibrous material and the package is a bale.

[0024] Some additional aspects of the invention may be directed to a kit of spools, that may include: spools of non-smart twines; and spools of smart twines comprising one or more radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags, wherein a ratio between a total length Ls of said smart twine and a total length LNS of said non-smart twine is between 0.03 to 0.5.

[0025] In some embodiments, a ratio between a number of spools of smart twines to a number of spools of non-smart twines may be 1:17 to 1:2. In some embodiments, the smart twine comprises: at least one base thread; and at least one RFID tape assembly according to any one of the embodiments disclosed herein.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The subject matter regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. The invention, however, both as to organization and method of operation, together with objects, features, and advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0027] Figs 1A, IB, 1C, ID and IE are illustrations and images of RFID tape assembly, smart twine, and a spool of smart twines according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0028] Fig. 2 is a method of making an RFID tape assembly according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0029] Fig. 3 is an image of an RFID tag and RFID tags protected by a protective cover according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0030] Figs. 4A and 4B are images of two steps in the method of making an RFID tape assembly according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0031] Fig. 5 shows illustrations of a front view, top view, and a perspective view of a bale according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0032] Figs. 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D are illustrations of bales according to some embodiments of the invention; and

[0033] Figs. 7A and 7B are illustrations of kits according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0034] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0035] One skilled in the art will realize the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The foregoing embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects illustrative rather than limiting of the invention described herein. Scope of the invention is thus indicated by the appended claims, rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein.

[0036] Some aspects of the invention may be directed to trackable twines, threads and tape assembly, that include RFID tags. The RFID tags may be integrated inside each tape assembly and entwined in each twine such that the RF capabilities of the tag are kept whileensuring that the tags are inseparable from the thread / twine. Therefore, the method ensures that all elements in the RFID antenna of the tag are not deformed.

[0037] As used herein a “thread” refer to a longitudinal flexible material in a form of a filament, a tape, a fiber, and the like, used for twining twines.

[0038] In one embodiment an RFID tag is a passive RFID tag. In one embodiment an RFID tag is an active RFID tag. In one embodiment an RFID tag is an assembly known to a person of skill in the art. In one embodiment an RFID tag comprises at least one antenna and possibly, a chip, a circuit, a battery, an additional antenna, and the like. In one embodiment an RFID tag comprises at least one antenna and possibly, a chip, a circuit, a battery, an additional antenna, and the like encapsulated or covered by a film. In one embodiment, an RFID tag is uniformly encapsulated or covered by a film. In one embodiment, each of the RFID components within the RFID tag, contacts a film.

[0039] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a protecting and stabilizing structure to an RFID tag or an array of RFID tags. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a physical protecting layer and stabilizing structure to an RFID tag or an array of RFID tags. In some embodiments, the present invention provides means for securing an RFID tag or an array of RFID tags on a package such as a bale. In some embodiments, the present invention provides means for securing an RFID tag or an array of RFID tags on packaging material such as but not limited to a net, a thread, and / or a twine. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a structure protecting the integrity of an RFID tag or an array of RFID tags that are bent or entwined in the process of assimilating or implementing the tags in a structure or a package requiring that the tags or a portion thereof are bent or entwined such as RFID tags assimilated or implemented in a wire, a net or a twine. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a structure protecting the integrity of an RFID tag or an array of RFID tags that are bent or entwined in the process of assimilating or implementing the RFID tags in a structure requiring that the tags are bent or entwined such as RFID tags assimilated or implemented in or around a structure, or a wrapping / packaging material such as but not limited to a rod or twine or a wire.

[0040] As used herein, “a package” may refer to any structure that packs material, such as, a bale, a box, an envelope, and the like. A package according to embodiments of theinvention may be bound by one or more twines, for example, using a packing / binding system.

[0041] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a structure protecting the integrity of an RFID tag or an array of RFID tags wherein the RFID tag or its antenna forms a loop. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a solution that ensures that RFID tags included in a smart twine binding a single bale do cross each other, thus interfering with the RF properties of the RFID tag. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a structure protecting the integrity of an RFID tag or an array of RFID tags wherein the RFID tag or its antenna forms a loop while entwined. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a continuous threaded structure protecting the integrity of an RFID tag or an array of RFID tags wherein the RFID tag or its antenna forms a loop. In one embodiment, an entwined RFID tag or an array of entwined RFID form / s a loop. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a structure protecting the integrity of an array or a chain of RFID tags wherein each RFID tag of the RFID tags and / or its / their antenna / s bends and / or forms a loop.

[0042] In some embodiments, the structure is a case covering or engulfing an RFID tag. In some embodiments, the structure is a non-conductive case covering or engulfing an RFID tag. In some embodiments, the structure is a conductive case covering or engulfing an RFID tag. In some embodiments, conductive is electrically conductive. In some embodiments, each RFID tag of an array of RFID tags within a single housing or protective structure is separated from the remaining RFID tags. In one embodiment, at least 200-4000, 500-2000, 750-1500, RFID tags are housed on a continuous protective / engulfing structure (e.g., in a single spool) or covering as described herein. In some embodiments, each RFID tag of an array of RFID tags within a single housing or protective structure is electrically separated from the remaining RFID tags. In some embodiments, RFID tag or an array of RFID tags within housing or protective structure form an RFID tape assembly. In some embodiments, RFID tags in a single RFID tape assembly are located at spaced intervals or spaced apart. In some embodiments, in the tape assembly, each RFID tag of a plurality of RFID tags is spaced apart from a neighboring RFID tape. In some embodiments, each RFID tag is a solitary RFID tag and is spaced apart from a neighboring RFID tag. In some embodiments, each RFID tag of an array of RFID tags is encapsulated or wholly covered by a tape as described herein. In some embodiments, each RFID tag of an array of RFID tags is encapsulated orwholly covered in an RFID tape assembly. In some embodiments, multiple assemblies of RFID tag / s or encapsulated RFID tag / s are characterized by RFID tags or encapsulated RFID tags spaced apart or located at spaced intervals placed or carried on an additional carrying tape (continuous tape which carries multiple encapsulated RFID tags) or layer, further encapsulating: the plurality of the already encapsulated or covered RFID tags or the multiple assemblies. In some embodiments, an RFID tape assembly comprises multiple RFID tags or encapsulated RFID tags spaced apart or located at spaced intervals placed or carried on an additional carrying tape (continuous tape which carries multiple encapsulated RFID tags) or layer, further encapsulating: the plurality of the already encapsulated or covered RFID tags or the multiple assemblies. In one embodiment, RFID tags are incorporated and spaced at a given and specific interval for varying applications on the continuous length of the RFID tape assembly.

[0043] In one embodiment, 2-10000 RFID tags are housed on a continuous protective / engulfing structure or covering as described herein. In one embodiment, 2-5000 RFID tags are housed on a continuous protective / engulfing structure or covering as described herein. In one embodiment, 10-5000 RFID tags are housed on a continuous protective / engulfing structure or covering as described herein. In one embodiment, 50-10000 RFID tags are housed on a continuous protective / engulfing structure or covering as described herein. In one embodiment, 2-10000 RFID tags are housed on a continuous protective / engulfing structure or covering as described herein. In one embodiment, 100-10000 RFID tags are housed on a continuous protective / engulfing structure or covering as described herein. In one embodiment, 100-5000 RFID tags are housed on a continuous protective / engulfing structure or covering as described herein. In one embodiment, 50-2000 RFID tags are housed on a continuous protective / engulfing structure or covering as described herein. In one embodiment, 50-5000 RFID tags are housed on a continuous protective / engulfing structure or covering as described herein. In one embodiment, a continuous protective / engulfing structure or covering as described herein is a single continuous protective / engulfing structure or covering as described herein. In one embodiment, a continuous protective / engulfing structure or covering as described herein is a single continuous protective / engulfing thread or covering as described herein.

[0044] Reference is now made to Figs 1A, IB, 1C, ID, and IE which are illustrations and images of RFID tape assemblies, smart twine, and a bale of smart twines according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0045] An RFID tape assembly 50 may include a carrier tape 55 of at least 2 layers 55A and 55B (illustrated in Fig. IB) sandwiching a plurality of spaced apart RFID tags 60 aligned with the longitudinal direction of the carrier tape. In some embodiments, RFID tag 60 is adhered, connected or glued to at least one layer of said at least 2 layers, using adhesive layer 68. In some embodiments, each RFID tag 60 comprises two elongated polymeric layers 65 sandwiching at least one RFID antenna. Tag 60 may further include additional RFID components, for example, a chip, a circuit, a battery, an additional antenna, and the like. RFID tag 60 may be an active RFID tag, a passive RFID tag, or a chipless RFID tag. In some embodiments, the structure of tape assembly 50 may allow to helically entwine or twist RFID tape assembly 50 with at least one additional base or base layer (e.g., tape) in a way that will prevent the damage and / or bending of the RFID antenna included in elongated RFID tags 60, thereby protecting, maintaining or preserving their electromagnetic properties and characterizations. In some embodiments, RFID tag is elongated RFID tag.

[0046] As used herein a ‘tape’ or a ‘tape-like structure’ is defined as a substantially elongated and flexible structure having a width-to-maximum thickness ratio of 5 to 500 or 5-250 or 5-100 or 5-50 or 5-25 or 5-15 or 5-10, or for example, at least 7, at least 10 or more. In some embodiments, a tape’s width may be at least an order, or even two, or three, orders of magnitude higher than the tape’s thickness. Some nonlimiting examples for tapes may include width of 5 to 50 mm, and thickness of 5 pm to 1 mm, as discussed herein below.

[0047] In some embodiments, the thickness of RFID tape assembly 50 may vary from it sides to the middle section, since at the middle RFID tape assembly 50 may include 5 layers, two layers of carrier tape 55, two polymeric layers 65 sandwiching at least an RFID antenna 60. At the the sides RFID tape assembly 50 may include only two layers of carrier tape 55, as illustrated in Figs. IB and 1C. Therefore, RFID tape assembly 50 may be characterized by a varying thickness, and wherein the ratio between the width of RFID tape assembly 50 to the maximum thickness of RFID tape assembly 50, is between 2 to 100, for example, between 2 to 10, between 5 to 20, between 10 to 40, between 30 to 50, between 60 to 90, between 70 to 100, and any value or range in between.

[0048] In some embodiments, each RFID tag of a plurality of RFID tags 60 may be spaced apart, therefore RFID tape assembly 50 may be composed of a zone comprising RFID tag 60 longitudinally flanked by two zones 52 devoid of RFID tag 60. In some embodiments, the length of each zone 52 is between 30 to 250 cm, for example, between 50 to 220 cm, between 70 to 200 cm, between 90 to 180 cm or any value in between.

[0049] In some embodiments, an “RFID tape assembly” comprises or consists of a continuous tape or a layer / s encapsulating / protecting / engulfing / covering a plurality of RFID tags. In some embodiments, a “RFID tape assembly” comprises carrier tape 55. In some embodiments, a “RFID tape assembly” comprises a polymeric layer 65. In some embodiments, a “RFID tape assembly” comprises a plurality of RFID tag 60 as described herein. In some embodiments, a “RFID tape assembly” comprises layers 55 A and / or 55B. In some embodiments, a “RFID tape assembly” comprises carrier tape 55. In some embodiments, a “RFID tape assembly” comprises adhesive layer 68. In some embodiments, at least some of said RFID tags comprise microchips 69 electrically connected to RFID antenna 66, illustrated in Fig. 3. In some embodiments, RFID antenna 66 is a substantially flat antenna and the width of RFID tag 60 may be at least 1.5 wider than the width of RFID antenna 66. In a nonlimiting example, the width of RGID tag 60 may be between 5 to 6 mm, and the width of RFID antenna 66 may be between 2 to 4 mm.

[0050] In some embodiments, carrier tape 55 may include any suitable tape made from artificial (e.g., a polymer) or natural (e.g., silk, cotton, etc.) material. In a nonlimiting example, a polymeric carrier tape 55 may include Polyethylene (PE), high density PE (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide (e.g., nylon), and the like.

[0051] In some embodiments, the thickness of each layer 55A / 55B of carrier tape 55, is between 5 to 500 pm, for example, between 5 to 50 pm, 10 to 100 pm, 20 to 150 pm, 50 to 200 pm, 75 to 300 pm, 100 to 400 pm, 100 to 500 pm, and any value in between. In some embodiments, the width of each layer 55A / 55B of carrier tape 55 is between 4 to 100 mm. For example, the width of each layer 55A / 55B of carrier tape 55 may be between 5 to 50 mm, 10 to 60 mm, 20 to 70 mm, 30 to 80 mm, 40 to 90 mm and any range in between. In a nonlimiting example, the stretch ratio of carrier tape 55 is between 1:3 to 1:15 and any ratio in between (e.g., 1:5 to 1:13, 1:8 to 1:14, 1:10 to 1:13 and any range in between).

[0052] In some embodiments, RFID tag 60 is a substantially flat element having a width- to-thickness ratio of 3-300, 3-150, 3-100, 3-50 or at least 3, for example, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 10 or any value and range in between.

[0053] In some embodiments, two elongated polymeric layers 65 sandwiching an RFID antenna 66 may be made from at least one of, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polyethylene (PE), machine direction oriented Polypropylene (MDO), Bi-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) and the like. In some embodiments, the ratio between a width of each layer 55A / 55B of carrier tape 55 and the width of elongated RFID tag 60 is at least 2, for example, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 10, or more.

[0054] In some embodiments, each elongated RFID tag 60 is glued / adhered to layer 55A and / or 55B of carrier tape 55 such that a margin ‘m’ of at least *4 of the width ‘d’ of layer 55A and / or 55B is left from one side of carrier tape 55, as illustrated in Fig. 1C. In some embodiments, adhesive layer 68 gluing tags 60 to layer 55A and / or 55B may be selected from: hot melt adhesive, PSA (Pres sure- sensitive adhesive), tacky layer in / on the carrier tape and any other adhesive.

[0055] In some embodiments, the width of RFID tape assembly 50 may be at least twice (e.g., at least 2.5, 3, time) wider than the width of tag 60. In a non-limiting example, the width of RFID tape assembly 50 may be between 10 to 15 mm, and the width of RFID tag 60 may be 5 to 7.5 mm.

[0056] In some embodiments, RFID tape assembly 50 may be entwined in a smart twine or a smart thread, for example, a smart twine 100 illustrated in Figs. ID and IE. Smart twine / thread 100 may include at least one base thread 10 and at least one RFID tape assembly 50. In some embodiments, at least one base thread 10 and at least one RFID tape assembly 50 are helically entwined together. In a nonlimiting example, the helically entwined RFID tape assembly 50 may be twisted between 10 to 70 twists per meter (TPM), for example, 10 to 30 TPM, 15 to 35 v, 20 to 40 TPM, 20 to 25 TPM, 30 to 50 v, 25 to 60 TPM, 30 to 70 TPM and any range in between. The thinner the smart twine the higher is the number of TPM.

[0057] In some embodiments, the number of twists per meter may be determined based on the weight per meter of smart twine / thread 100. In some embodiments, the ratio between the weight per meter of smart twine / thread 100 to the number of TPM may be between 4.8 to 9.Some nonlimiting examples may include twine 100 having 125 m / Kg (e.g., 125 meters weight 1 Kg) may have between 22 to 26 TPM, twine 100 having 140 m / Kg may include between 24 to 28 TPM, and twines having between 170-250 m / Kg may include between 28 to 34 TPM. In some embodiments, the number of TPM may be determined to prevent the bending of RFID antennas 66 included in elongated RFID tags 60, thereby maintaining their electromagnetic properties and characterizations.

[0058] In some embodiments, the diameter of the twists may further be selected such that the RF properties of RFID antennas 66 are kept. Therefore, no plastic deformation and / or damaging bending is formed in RFID antennas 66 during the twining of smart twine lOO.In some embodiments, each 1 meter of twine 100 may include between 1.01 to 1.03 meters of at least one base thread 10 and between 1.01 to 1.15 meters of RFID tape assembly 50.

[0059] In some embodiments, base thread 10 may include any suitable artificial (e.g., a polymer) or natural (e.g., silk, cotton, etc.) material. In a nonlimiting example, a polymeric base thread may include Polyethylene (PE), high density PE (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide (e.g., nylon), and the like. In a nonlimiting example, the stretch ratio of base thread 10 is between 1:7 to 1:15 and any ratio in between.

[0060] In some embodiments, smart twine 100 consists of a single RFID tape assembly 50. In some embodiments, smart twine 100 may include two to more RFID tape assemblies 50 entwined such that there is no overlapping between RFID tags 60 of different RFID tape assemblies 50. Therefore, in a single smart twine 100, there will a minimal longitudinal distance (e.g., 1 mm, 1 cm, 50 cm, 90 cm, 100 cm or more) between two neighboring RFID tags 60 of two different RFID threads 50.

[0061] In some embodiments, smart twine 100 may be packed in a bale, such as, the bale illustrated in Fig. IE.

[0062] Reference is now made to Fig. 2 which is a flowchart of a method of making an RFID tape assembly according to some embodiments of the invention. In step 210, a plurality of RFID antennas may be received. In some embodiments, RFID antennas 66 may be elongated RFID antennas having width of 1 to 25 mm and an aspect ratio of between 1:7 to 1:50, for example, 1:10 to 1:40, 1:20 to 1:35, 1:10 to 1:20 and any range in between.

[0063] In step 220, each RFID antenna may be sandwiched between two elongated polymeric layers, to make a plurality of elongated RFID tags. A nonlimiting example, forthe making of elongated RFID tags is illustrated in Fig. 3. RFID antenna 66 (I) may be attached to a first elongated polymeric layer 65 (II) to be covered by an additional elongated polymeric layer 65 (III). For example, RFID antenna 66 may be glued / adhered (e.g., using a nonconductive glue) to polymeric layer 65. In another example, RFID tag 60 may be fabricated by extruding two polymeric layers 65 while introducing RFID antenna 66 during the extrusion. In yet another example, RFID antenna 66 may be laminated or pressed between two polymeric layers 65.

[0064] In step 230, the plurality elongated RFID tags may be glued / adhered to a first longitudinal portion of a carrier tape such that each RFID tag is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the carrier tape, as illustrated in Fig. 3A. In some embodiments, plurality elongated RFID tags 60 may be glued / adhered to a first longitudinal portion 56 of carrier tape 10 such that a margin m of at least 1 / 8 of the width ‘D’ of carrier tape 55, is left between each elongated RFID tag and an edge of carrier tape 57. In some embodiments, gluing the plurality elongated RFID tags comprises, gluing each RFID tag longitudinally between two zones devoid of said RFID tag. For example, sones 52, illustrated in Figs. 1A and IB, of between 30 to 250 cm may be kept between two consecutive RFID tag 60.

[0065] In some embodiments, each RFID tag 60 may be glued / adhered using adhesive 68, selected from hot melt adhesive, PSA (Pres sure- sensitive adhesive), tacky layer in / on the carrier tape, and / or any other glue / adhered or adhesive.

[0066] In step 240, a second longitudinal portion of the carrier tape may be folded over the first longitudinal portion to form the RFID tape assembly. For example, second portion 57, illustrated in Fig. 4A may be folded over portion 56 (as shown by the arrow). Thereby, portions 56 and 57 become layers 55A and 55B (illustrated in Fig. IB) respectively. An image of a nonlimiting example for RFID tape assembly 50 is shown in Fig. 4B. In some embodiments, second portion 57 may be glued / adhered to the first portion 56, using for example, hot melt adhesive, PSA (Pressure-sensitive adhesive), tacky layer in / on the carrier tape, and any other adhesives.

[0067] In some embodiments, at least one RFID tape assembly 50 may be entwined with at least one base thread 10 to form a smart twine, using any known twining method. In some embodiments, at least one RFID tape assembly 50 is entwined with at least one twine devoid of an RFID tag. In some embodiments, at least one RFID tape assembly 50 is entwined withat least one twine devoid of an RFID tag thereby forming a smart twine. In one embodiment, a smart twine comprises at least one a non-identifying filament (devoid of an RFID tags) and a single RFID tape assembly which incorporating the RFID tags at spaced intervals, wherein the non-identifying filament and the RFID tape assembly (identifying filament) are wound together. In one embodiment, RFID tape assembly is or comprises an identifying filament. Reference is now made to Fig. 5 which shows illustrations of front view, top view and perspective view of a bale according to some embodiments of the invention. A bale 500 may include a compacted fibrous material 510. The compacted fibrous material may be hay, straw, grass, and the like. Fibrous material 510 of bale 500 may be bound or packaged by both a non-smart twine 120 (twine devoid of an RFID tag) and a smart twine 100. Fibrous material 510 of bale 500 may be bound or packaged by a smart twine 100. Smart twine 100 may include one or more tags 60 as discussed hereinabove.

[0068] In some embodiments, non-smart twine 120 may include two or more threads entwined together, such as, base thread 10 discussed herein above. In some nonlimiting examples, non-smart twine 120 may include between 2 to 150 threads, for example, 5 to 100, 10 to 70, 20 to 120 and any value in between.

[0069] In some embodiments, a ratio between a length Ls of the smart twine and the length LNS of the non-smart twine (regular twine or a twine devoid of RFID tags) in a bale or any other packages to be labeled with RFID tags is determined as a function of a number of knotters in the packaging / baling machine or the number of sperate twines tying the packages, the package’s s height, and the package’s length, for example, using equations 1A for a single knotter and IB for double knotter.

[0070] where, n is the number of knotters, L is the package’s (e.g., bale) length and H is the package's (e.g., bale) height. As further illustrated in Fig. 5 VV is the bale’s width.

[0071] Table 1 summarizes some nonlimiting examples of dimensions of bales and the corresponding number of knotters.Table 1

[0072] Table 2, show Ls / LNS ratios for various package / bales calculated using equation (1).Table 2

[0073] Therefore, the ratio Ls / LNS is between 0.03 to 0.16.

[0074] In some embodiments, when a single knotter machine is used Ls / LNSIS between 0.1 to 0.5.

[0075] Reference is now made to Figs. 6A, 6B, 6C and 6D, which are illustrations of various bales according to some embodiments of the invention. As should be understood by one skilled in the art, the bales of Figs. 6A, 6B, 6C and 6D are given as nonlimiting examples of any package / structure to be labeled with a plurality of RFID tags. Fig. 6A shows a bale 600A bound by 4 twines. Bale 600A comprises compacted fibrous material 610A bound by 3 nonsmart twine 120 tied by 3 knots and one smart twine 100 tied by a knot. Fig. 6B shows a bale 600B bound by 6 twines. Bale 600B comprises compacted fibrous material 610B bound by 5 non- smart twine 120 tied by 5 knots and one smart twine 100 tied by a knot. Fig. 6C shows a bale 600C bound by 6 twines. Bale 600C comprises compacted fibrous material 610C bound by 5 non- smart twine 120 tied by 5 knots and one smart twine 100 tied by a knot. Fig. 6D shows a bale 600D bound by 6 twines. Bale 600D comprises compacted fibrous material 610D bound by 5 non-smart twine 120 tied by 5 knots and one smart twine 100 tied by a knot.

[0076] In some embodiments, bales 500 and 600A-600D represent any form of packing of various items and materials. In some nonlimiting example, the same binding method disclosed herein above for binding bales, can be used also for binding packages, boxes, and the like.

[0077] In some embodiments, two or more RFID tags 60 may be included in a single smarttwine 100 lopping a single bale 500 or 600A-600D. Therefore, each bale 500 or 600A-600D may be tagged with more than one RFID tag 60. In some embodiments, all the RFID tags of a single bale 500 or 600A-600D may be identical may store the same information. Alternatively, at least two RFID tags 60 may each store a different ID information, for example, by include two different RFID antennas 66.

[0078] In some embodiments, a smart twine is loaded into an agricultural baler or an industrial packing system. In one embodiment, a knotter system such as of an agricultural baler uses a smart twine as described herein as a binding material. In one embodiment, a knotter system such as of an agricultural baler or an industrial packing system uses both a smart twine and a non-smart twine (a twine devoid of an RFID tag) in a length ratio as described herein. In one embodiment, a knotter system such as of an agricultural baler or an industrial packing system uses a smart twine as described herein as a binding material to bind the formed bale and tie a knot in the binding material.

[0079] In some embodiments, a single knotter system of one of, a single baler or a single industrial packing system comprises a supply roll of smart-twine and a supply roll of non- smart twine. In some embodiments, a knotter system combines binding smart-twine (e.g., smart-twine 100) and non-smart twine (e.g., non-smart twine 120)- to bind the formed bale or package to be RFID tagged. In some embodiments, a “RFID tape assembly” (e.g., RFIDtape assembly 50) within a smart twine comprises RFID tags (e.g., RFID tags 60) at spaced intervals along the RFID tape assembly. In some embodiments, a smart twine comprising an RFID tape assembly, comprises RFID tags at spaced intervals along the smart twine.

[0080] In some embodiments, separated knotters within the knotting system loop both smart twine 100 and non-smart twine 120 around bale 500, or 600A-600D, or a package. In some embodiments, knotters within the knotting system guide separately both smart twine 100 and non-smart twine 120 around a bale 500, or 600A-600D or a package. In some embodiments, knotters within the knotting system form a loop in smart twine 100, and loops in non-smart twine 120, or in the combination of smart and non-smart twines encircling the bale or package including by forming a knot. In some embodiments, knotters within the knotting system are used as known in the art.

[0081] In one embodiment, the number of supply rolls of smart twines 100 and non-smart twines 120 and their respective length and the length ratio between smart and non-smart twines is determined according to the teachings provided hereinabove and the number of knotters used. For example, the ratio between the length of smart and non-smart twines provided to a single or double knotter system is between 0.03 to 0.16.

[0082] In some embodiments, smart twine 100 is incorporated only in a supply roll intended for a first side of the bale (e.g., an upper side of the bale when exiting the knotter system). In some embodiments, smart twine 100 and non-smart twine 120 are incorporated in supply rolls intended for the first side of the bale. In some embodiments, supply roll intended for the second side of the bale, opposite to the first side, comprise non-smart twine 120 and is devoid of smart twine.

[0083] In one embodiment, RFID tags are incorporated and spaced at a given and specific interval for varying applications on the continuous length of the RFID tape assembly.

[0084] In one embodiment, a twine comprising a plurality of threads comprises at least one filament, wherein the at least one filament comprises or consists the RFID tape assembly (carrying the encapsulated RFID). In one embodiment, the phrase “smart filament” is equal and can be exchanged with the phrase “RFID tape assembly”. In one embodiment, a plurality of filaments comprising at least one smart filament (while the remaining majority of filaments are devoid of RFIS tags) are wound into a smart twine.

[0085] In some embodiments, two separate supply rolls (e.g., spools) may be mounted on the knotter system. A first supply roll may provide smart twine 100 and a second supply roll may provide non-smart twine 120. In some embodiments, more than one second supply roll of non-smart twine 120 may be mounted on the knotter system, since the consumption of non-smart twine 120 is at least 6 times higher than the consumption of smart twine, when twining a single bale. For example, for every supply roll / spool of smart twine 100, between 6 to 33 supply rolls / spools may be provided to the knotter system.

[0086] In some embodiments, the bales or packages (e.g., bales 500 and 600A-600D) may be identified by a RFID reader communicating with a controller for identifying and authenticating the ID of the bale. The RFID reader may be configured to read information stored on RFID tag 60, and send this information to the controller. In a nonlimiting example, RFID tag 60 may be a passive tag and the RFID reader may be an Active Reader Passive Tag (ARPT) system.

[0087] In some embodiments, the RFID reader may be assembled on the baler, the industrial packing system, in a granary, a warehouse and the like.

[0088] Some additional aspects of the invention may be directed to a kit of spools (e.g., pallet), illustrated in Figs 7A and 7B. A kit 700A or 700B may include spools 720 of non- smart twines (e.g., twines 120) and spools 710 comprising smart twines (e.g., smart twines 100). In some embodiments, a ratio between a total length Ls of said smart twine and a total length LNS of said non-smart twine, in the entire kit / pallet, is between 0.03 to 0.5.

[0089] Kit 700A may include 15 spools 720 and a single spool 710. Kit 700N may include 45 spools 720 and tree spools 710. As should be appreciated by the one skilled in the art the ratio of 1:15 of smart spools 710 to non-smart spools 720 is given an example only and other ratios are within the scope of the invention.

[0090] In some embodiments, the kit may include at least one spool 710 comprising smart twine 100 for every 2 to 20, spools 720 comprising non-smart twines 120. In some embodiments, the kit may include at least one spool 710 comprising smart twine 100 for every 2 to 10, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, spools 720 comprising non-smart twines 120. In some embodiments, the ratio between the spools may be determined based on the type of knotter (single or double) and the size of the bale / package to be bind.

[0091] Unless explicitly stated, the method embodiments described herein are not constrained to a particular order or sequence. Furthermore, all formulas described herein are intended as examples only and other or different formulas may be used. Additionally, some of the described method embodiments or elements thereof may occur or be performed at the same point in time.

[0092] While certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes, and equivalents may occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.

[0093] Various embodiments have been presented. Each of these embodiments may of course include features from other embodiments presented, and embodiments not specifically described may include various features described herein.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A radiofrequency identification (RFID) tape assembly, comprising: a continuous carrier tape of at least 2 layers sandwiching, spaced apart a plurality of elongated RFID tags aligned in the longitudinal direction of the carrier tape, wherein each elongated RFID tag: comprises two elongated polymeric layers sandwiching at least one RFID antenna, and said each RFID tag is adhered to at least one layer of said at least 2 layers of said continuous carrier tape.

2. The RFID tape assembly of claim 1, wherein each elongated polymeric layer comprises at least one of: Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polyethylene (PE), machine direction oriented Polypropylene (MDO) and Bi-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP).

3. The RFID tape assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein a thickness of each layer of the carrier tape of said carrier tape, is between 5 to 500 pm.

4. The RFID tape assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a ratio between a width of each layer of said carrier tape and a width of said RFID tag is at least 2.

5. The RFID tape assembly of claim 4, wherein each RFID tag is adhered to said layer of the carrier tape such that a margin of at least *4 of the width of said layer of said carrier tape is left from one side of said carrier tape.

6. The RFID tape assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a ratio between the width and the maximum thickness of the RFID tape assembly is between 2 to 100.

7. The RFID tape assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein said carrier tape includes Polyethylene (PE), high density PE (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyamide.

8. A smart twine comprising: at least one base thread; and at least one RFID tape assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and wherein said at least one base thread and said at least one RFID tape assembly are helically entwined together.

9. The smart twine of claim 8, wherein a ratio between the weight per meter of the smart and the number of twists of at laest one RFID tape assembly and the at least one base thread, per meter is between 4.8 to 9.

10. The smart twine according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein each meter of smart twine comprises between 1.01 to 1.03 meters of the at least one base thread and between 1.01 to 1.15 meters of the at least one RFID tape assembly.

11. A method of making an RFID tape assembly, comprising:(a) receiving a plurality of RFID antennas;(b) sandwiching each RFID antenna between two elongated polymeric layers, to make a plurality of RFID tags;(c) gluing the plurality RFID tags to a first longitudinal portion of a carrier tape such that each RFID tag is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the carrier tape; and(d) folding a second longitudinal portion of the carrier tape over the first longitudinal portion to form the RFID tape assembly.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising gluing the second portion to the first portion.

13. The method of claim 11 or claim 12, wherein gluing the plurality RFID tags comprises leaving a margin of at least 1 / 8 of the width of the carrier tape, between each RFID tag and an edge of the carrier tape.

14. A method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein gluing the plurality RFID tags comprises, gluing each RFID tag longitudinally between two zones devoid of said RFID tag.

15. A method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein each elongated polymeric layer comprises, at least one of, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polyethylene (PE), machine direction oriented Polypropylene (MDO), and Bi- Oriented Polypropylene (BBOP).

16. A method according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein a thickness of each layer of the carrier tape, is between 5 to 500 pm.

17. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the carrier tape is selected from: Polyethylene (PE), high density PE (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyamide.

18. A package comprising: a material bound by: a non-smart twine; and a smart twine comprising one or more radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags, wherein a ratio between a length Ls of said smart twine and the length LNS of said non-smart twine is determined as a function of a number of knotters in a packing machine binding said package, the packages’ height, and the package’ length.

19. The package of claim 18, wherein said packing machine is a double knotter packing machine, and wherein said ratio is determined according to equation:where, n is the number of knotters, L is the package’s length and H is the package’s height.

20. The package of claim 19, wherein said packing machine is a single knotter packing machine, and wherein said ratio is determined according to equation:Ls =1LNS (n~ 1) where, n is the number of knotters.

21. The package of claim 20, wherein said ratio is between 0.03 to 0.5.

22. The package according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein said smart twine comprises: at least one base thread; and at least one RFID tape assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and wherein said at least one base thread and said at least one RFID tape assembly are helically entwined together.

23. The package according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the material is a compacted fibrous material and the package is a bale.

24. A kit of spools, comprising: spools of non-smart twines; andspools of smart twines comprising one or more radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags, wherein a ratio between a total length Ls of said smart twine and a total length LNS of said non-smart twine is between 0.03 to 0.5.

25. The kit of spools of claim 24, wherein a ratio between a number of spools of smart twines to a number of spools of non-smart twines is 1:17 to 1:2.

26. The kit of spools of claim 24 or claim 25, wherein said smart twine comprises: at least one base thread; and at least one RFID tape assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and wherein said at least one base thread and said at least one RFID tape assembly are helically entwined together.

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