ZIH Corp. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20150235574 | FOLDABLE LABEL AND RELATED APPARATUS - A foldable label is provided that includes a first portion including a first length defined by opposing ends of the first portion and a first width defined by opposing sides of the first portion, a second portion including a second length defined by opposing ends of the second portion and a second width defined by opposing sides of the second portion, and a third portion surrounding the second portion on both sides and one end. The third portion may be attached to the second portion along both sides. The second length may be substantially equal to the first length and the second width may be substantially equal to the first width. An apparatus may be configured to receive a printed, peeled label and to facilitate the folding of the label. | 08-20-2015 |
20140365415 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREDICTING A CRITERIA OF INTEREST - A method for predicting a criteria of interest based upon tag location data, derived tag location data, statistical data or the like corresponding to an object. The method may include receiving an input that defines one or more objects and one or more criteria of interest. Further, the method may include accessing tag location data, derived tag location data or the like for the object. The method may also include generating a prediction for a criteria of interest for at least one of the one or more criteria of interest for at least one of the one or more objects, wherein the a prediction for a criteria of interest is generated based on at least one of tag location data, derived tag location data or the like for the one or more objects related to the one or more criteria of interest. An associated apparatus, computer program product and system are also provided. | 12-11-2014 |
20140364975 | METHOD, APPARATUS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR COMBINED TAG AND SENSOR BASED PERFORMANCE MODELING USING REAL-TIME DATA FOR PROXIMITY AND MOVEMENT OF OBJECTS - Systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer readable media are disclosed for providing performance modeling by combining tags and sensors providing real time data on movement and proximity of tagged objects. In one embodiment, a method is provided for monitoring a participant that at least includes correlating at least one tag to the participant; receiving blink data transmitted by the at least one tag; determining tag location data based on the blink data; correlating a sensor to the participant; and receiving sensor derived data. The method further includes receiving participant role data; comparing the tag location data to participant dynamics/kinetics models based at least in part on the participant role data; and determining the participant location data based on comparing the tag location data and the sensor derived data to the participant dynamics/kinetics models. | 12-11-2014 |
20140364973 | METHOD, APPARATUS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR MONITORING HEALTH, FITNESS, OPERATION, OR PERFORMANCE OF INDIVIDUALS - Provided herein are systems, methods and computer readable media for monitoring the health and fitness of an individual. An example method comprises correlating a tag and a sensor to the individual, receiving tag derived data indicative of a location for the individual, and receiving sensor derived data indicative of at least one of a health, a fitness, an operation level, or a performance level for the individual. The method further comprises comparing the tag location data of the tag derived data to individual dynamics/kinetics models and comparing the sensor derived data to at least one of health models, fitness models, operation level models, or performance level models. A HFOP status is then determined for the individual based on the comparing the tag location data to individual dynamics/kinetics models and on the comparing the sensor derived data to at least one of health models, fitness models, operation level models, or performance level models. | 12-11-2014 |
20140361909 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ACTIVITY DETERMINATION BASED ON HUMAN FRAME - Systems and related methods providing for determining activities of individuals are discussed herein. Circuitry may be configured to wirelessly receive tag signals from a plurality of RF location tags. Two or more of the RF location tags may be positioned on an individual, such as at positions that may at least partially define a human frame. The circuitry may be configured to correlate the two or more RF location tags with the individual. Location data for each of the two or more RF location tags may be determined based on the received tag signals. An activity of the individual may be determined based on the location data. In some embodiments, one or more activities involving multiple individuals may be determined based on RF location tags and sensors positioned on each of the multiple individuals. Furthermore, sensor data from the sensors may be communicated over the UWB channel. | 12-11-2014 |
20140327927 | MOBILE PRINTER NETWORKING AND INTERFACING - Provided herein are devices, methods and other means, including those related to printers, as well as computer readable media for storing code to execute instructions for a device, and other systems for providing and supporting mobile printing and other types of devices. The printer, for example, can be coupled with one or more docks and/or other accessory devices, examples of which are also discussed herein. | 11-06-2014 |
20140240753 | Methods, Apparatuses, And Computer Program Products For Implementing Cloud Connected Printers And An Adaptive Printer-Based Application Framework - Methods, apparatuses, and computer program products are provided to facilitate connections between devices, such as a printer and a cloud-based server, and to implement an adaptive application framework. In the context of an apparatus, a printer is provided comprising communications circuitry configured to facilitate communications with a network; and processing circuitry configured to transmit a connection request to the network; receive requested connection parameters from the network; transmit printer connection parameters to the network; and establish a first secure connection between the printer and the network. The printer comprising processing circuitry further configured to receive requested connection parameters comprising at least a signed security certificate and a DNS name for a server on the network and to verify the signed security certificate and the DNS name for the server. The printer comprising processing circuitry further configured to transmit printer connection parameters comprising at least a signed security certificate for the printer. The printer comprising processing circuitry further configured to receive a request from the network to establish one or more communication channels over the first secure connection. | 08-28-2014 |
20140217175 | Radio Frequency Identification Tagging - A RFID tag or label comprises a RFID tag module (comprising an electronic identification circuit and a coupling means) and an antenna structure coupled to the coupling means. The RFID tag module is separate from, separable or arranged to be severable from, the antenna structure. The tag module can be placed in or on an object and the antenna structure in or on packaging material for use with the object. A patch antenna type RFID tag antenna structure has a ground plane spaced from the patch antenna so as to increase the range of the tag. The ground plane is not substantially larger than, and electrically insulated from, the patch antenna. The ground plane is flexible, so the RFID tag structure can be worn by a human, and can be incorporated into a piece of clothing. A RFID antenna structure for use with a tag reader is made flat and robust so that it can be mounted on the ground to be walked upon or driven over. A bi-directional YAGI type RFID tag antenna structure has director elements on two opposite sides so that the YAGI antenna radiates in two opposite directions. An object includes a gain increasing metallic structure for increasing the gain of a RFID tag when placed near the object so as to form a RFID tag antenna structure. | 08-07-2014 |
20140185072 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PRINTING HTML CONTENT - A method, apparatus, and computer program product are described herein for generating printer commands for controlling a printing device, based on HTML. More specifically, the example embodiments of the system described herein provide for receiving HTML representing a label that comprises, in some examples, a barcode or other print content, transforming the HTML to a printer control language, and rasterizing the image on a printing device in preparation for printing, all while preserving barcode print quality and high speed printing and scanning. | 07-03-2014 |
20140153026 | ETHERNET AND USB POWERED PRINTERS AND METHODS FOR SUPPLYING ETHERNET AND USB POWER TO A PRINTER - Communication port powered printers and methods of powering of printers that support high speed printing and/or data intensive printing are discussed herein. Some embodiments may provide for a power storage unit within the printer device that is able be charged during non-printing periods and provide for necessary energy bursts to support such higher powered processes. Some embodiments may provide for devices and methods that allow for printers to operate with main power provided by conventional power mains and for back-up or secondary power to be supplied by the communication port. Some embodiments may further provide for configuration settings in printer control electronics based on available power from the communication port. | 06-05-2014 |
20140132399 | Apparatus and Method for Communicating with an RFID Transponder - A system having a UHF RFID transceiver is adapted to communicate exclusively with a single electro-magnetically coupled transponder located in a predetermined confined transponder operating region. The system includes a near field coupling device comprising a plurality of lines connected in parallel with an unmatched load. The near field coupling device may be formed, for example on a printed circuit board with a plurality of electrically interconnected traces and a ground plane. The system establishes, at predetermined transceiver power levels, a mutual electro-magnetic coupling which is selective exclusively for a single transponder located in a defined transponder operating region. Also included are methods for selective communication with the transponder in an apparatus such as a printer-encoder. | 05-15-2014 |
20140071020 | Near Field Coupling Devices and Associated Systems and Methods - A near-field coupling device that may facilitate communications with a transponder is provided. The near-field coupling device may include a ground plane, a dielectric substrate, one or more conductive strips and a terminating load. The conductive strips together with the ground planes form coupling elements. The near-field coupling device further includes one or more switching elements for selectively connecting and disconnecting the coupling elements with a transceiver. The connected coupling elements define a total characteristic impedance. Using the switching element, the ratio between the total characteristic impedance of the connected coupling elements and the terminating load may be changed in order to adjust the distribution of an electromagnetic field along the coupling elements according to the type and position of the transponder to be processed. | 03-13-2014 |
20140061318 | XML PRINTER SYSTEM - An XML processing system for use in a barcode printer apparatus includes a computer system operatively coupled to the barcode printer apparatus. The computer system further includes an XML processor configured to receive, parse, and process an XML input data stream and obtain schema identified in the XML data stream from a schema repository. Alternatively, the system includes a SAX processor configured to receive and process the XML input data stream, a ZPL processor configured to receive and process a format template, a variable data integrator configured to develop an association between the XML data contained in the XML input data stream and the format template, a formatting engine configured to format the associated XML data according to a format governed by the format template, and a barcode rendering engine configured to receive the associated and formatted XML data and generate a bit map representative of the bar code label. | 03-06-2014 |
20140049796 | XML SYSTEM - An XML system is configured to print bar code labels, tags, tickets, cards, or other media, and/or encode RFID devices embedded in media, based upon an extensible markup language (XML) input data stream. The XML system includes a computer system having a memory subsystem, a communication interface operatively coupled to a network, an XML processor configured to receive and process the XML input data stream, and an extensible stylesheet language transformation (XSLT) processor configured to either obtain a stylesheet identified in the XML data stream or obtain the stylesheet from a stylesheet repository. The XSLT processor transforms data in the XML input data stream into transformed XML data based upon the stylesheet obtained. Also included is an extensible stylesheet language formatting object (XSLFO) processor configured to format the transformed XML data into formatted XML data based upon XSLFO instructions contained in the stylesheet, and a rendering subsystem configured to receive the formatted XML data and generate a printable representation of the bar code label, tag, ticket, card, other media, and/or generate encoding information for an RFID device. | 02-20-2014 |
20140009768 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PRINTHEAD CONTROL - A method, apparatus, and computer program product are described herein for controlling a printing device. In an example embodiment, a print line is divided into frames and frame dot states are determined based on neighboring frame dot states. Maximum motor speeds of the printing device may be adjusted so that actual motor speeds change gradually during printing. The print engine may detect a printhead type by sending a signal to the printhead and receiving a response. | 01-09-2014 |
20140002243 | Spatially Selective UHF Near Field Microstrip Coupler Device And RFID Systems Using Device | 01-02-2014 |
20130342862 | GLOBAL PRINTING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RENDERING ENCODING SCHEME INDEPENDENT LABELS HAVING SERIALIZATION DATA - A system and method for parsing data formatted in a plurality of encoding schemes at a printer is provided. The method comprises receiving serialization data from at least one host computer at a printer where at least a portion of the serialization data is encoded in at least one encoding scheme. The method also includes converting the data into a first encoding scheme. The method also includes parsing the converted data into an array of combining semantic clusters based on a plurality of rules, each combining semantic cluster comprising a plurality of code points. The method also includes generating a plurality of labels for printing based on the array of combining semantic clusters where each of the plurality of labels are printed such that one or more elements within the array are at least one of incremented or decremented. | 12-26-2013 |
20130336699 | PORTABLE PRINTER - Devices, systems and methods for a portable printer are provided. Personnel utilize features of the printer to manage products, store information on labels, and aid in shipping. A low battery shut-off feature shuts down the printer at a set battery power percentage; a battery charge control feature controls battery charging to stay within a set range of state of charge values to ensure longer battery life; a ribbon cartridge insertion feature allows for easy replacement of the ribbon cartridge; ribbon cartridge locating features lock the ribbon cartridge into place for printing; a ribbon guiding feature adjusts the ribbon during printing to reduce wrinkles; an RFID coupler mounting feature mounts and shields an RFID coupler inside the printer; a media guide locking feature fixes the media position to prevent misalignment; and a media alignment feature allows the user to properly align the media with the printhead during installation. | 12-19-2013 |
20130268946 | COMPUTER LANGUAGE TRANSLATION FILTER - Provided herein are devices, systems, methods and various means, including those related to translating command and other types of computer instructions being transmitted to a destination processor from a language that is non-native to the destination processor to a language that is native to the destination processor. Some embodiments discussed herein can include a processing filter that is configured to identify whether incoming instructions are formatted in a translatable non-native language of the destination processor and, if so, process the non-native commands into native commands. The processed, native commands can then be relayed to the destination processor by some embodiments discussed herein. The processing filter can be implemented in a manner that is portable and independent of any specific framework and/or programming language. For example, the processing functionality (including the identification and translation features discussed herein) can be implemented in the same device as the destination processor and/or at a system remote from the destination device (e.g., at a remote host system). | 10-10-2013 |
20130260117 | FLEXIBLE SOFT-FEELING IDENTIFICATION DEVICE - Identification devices (e.g., wristbands) including a face stock comprising a tough polyolefin material and a flexible vinyl layer are provided. A direct thermal chemistry layer can be deposited directly onto a top surface of the face stock or alternatively a pre-print color layer can be depositing directly onto the top surface of the face stock and the direct thermal chemistry layer can be deposited/located onto the free side of the pre-print layer. The flexible vinyl layer can be adhered to a bottom side of the face stock via an adhesive tie-layer sandwiched between the bottom side of the face stock and the flexible vinyl layer. If desired, an anti-cling layer can also be incorporated into the identification devices. | 10-03-2013 |
20130244872 | DIRECT THERMAL MEDIA AND REGISTRATION SENSOR SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USE IN A COLOR THERMAL PRINTER - Provided is a direct thermal media containing a regular repeating pattern of color-forming thermally-imageable stripes printed parallel to the print head element line and a system for using such direct thermal media in color direct thermal printers including an optical registration system optimized for use with this media and an image processing unit that monitors the position of the stripe pattern relative to the print head and synchronizes the start of the printing process. This direct thermal media together with the optical registration system and image processing unit comprise an operative system in that the design of the thermal media, the optical registration system and image processing unit used to control printing are optimized for use with each other. This system may be utilized, for example, in color thermal printers for documents, receipts, tags, tickets or labels. | 09-19-2013 |
20130234833 | IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM - A method of identifying a plurality of transponders, the method comprising receiving at an interrogator one or more data transmission blocks from each transponder, wherein the first data block contains a uniquely detectable transponder identity and zero or more further data blocks defining a set of data blocks making up a transponder transmission. The first data transmission block also contains in transmission block number; one or more further data transmission blocks containing additional block data and a respective transmission block number; the block number being changed, by decrement or increment, automatically as each data block is transmitted. | 09-12-2013 |
20130219093 | Electrically Configurable Option Board Interface - A Main Logic Board having an electrically configurable option board interface (ECOBI) to facilitate connection of option boards into apparatus for providing optional functions. Once connected to the host, an Option board provides identification (ID) data to the main logic board host processor. The host processor determines the interface configuration necessary to enable communication between the host and the option board based on the option board ID, then configures electrically configurable interface circuitry for operational compatibility. The option board may provide an interface driver directly to the host for configuration of the interface. The interface may comprise a standard interface protocol such as PCI or USB that the host configures through the same connection to the option board. | 08-22-2013 |
20130215467 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPLEMENTING NEAR FIELD COMMUNICATIONS WITH A PRINTER - Aspects of the disclosure provide systems, methods, and apparatuses for leveraging near field communications (NFC) in conjunction with printer devices. Examples of the disclosure provide for novel methods of interfacing with printers configured to use near field communications using NFC enabled readers and output media. Examples include using a smart phone to access data stored on an NFC tag associated with the printer. The data provided by the NFC tag may include printer status information, printer configuration information, network information, or other data relating to operation and maintenance of the printer. The printer may also encode the NFC tag dynamically, including encoding data to NFC tags included on print media. The printer may encode an NFC tag associated with media with a variety of information in support of various use cases. | 08-22-2013 |
20130206174 | DUAL USE CLEANING APPARATUS AND METHOD - The present invention provides a cleaning assembly for use in a media processing device. In various embodiments, the cleaning assembly includes a first roller that at least partially engages a second roller, and a transport path that passes between the first roller and the second roller. There may also be a third collection roller that at least partially engages the second roller. The third collection roller may also engage a drive assembly that may be used to drive a media substrate along the transport path. In one embodiment, the second roller defines a surface adherence that is greater than a surface adherence of the first roller and the third collection roller defines a surface adherence that is greater than the surface adherence of the second roller and the drive assembly. As a result, the present invention provides a cleaning assembly capable of cleaning the drive assembly and opposed surfaces of a media substrate in a single pass. | 08-15-2013 |
20130193209 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND ASSOCIATED RFID ANTENNAS FOR PROCESSING A PLURALITY OF TRANSPONDERS - An RFID system for selectively communicating with a targeted transponder from among a group of multiple adjacent transponders is provided. The RFID system may include a transponder conveyance system adapted to transport at least one targeted transponder from a group of multiple adjacent transponders through a transponder encoding area along a feeding direction and an antenna having a resonant inductor and a ferrite material, wherein the ferrite material at least partially covers the resonant inductor and defines an exposed portion of the resonant inductor. In one antenna-transponder alignment, the exposed portion extends substantially parallel to the feeding direction. | 08-01-2013 |
20130182289 | XML PRINTER SYSTEM WITH RFID CAPABILITY - An XML system is configured to encode RFID devices embedded in media, based upon an extensible markup language (XML) input data stream. The computer system further includes an XML processor configured to receive and process a format template, associate the XML data contained in the XML input data stream and the format template, a formatting engine configured to format the associated XML data according to a format governed by the format template, and/or generate encoding information for an RFID device. | 07-18-2013 |
20130177343 | Tri-State Detector - Provided herein are devices, systems, methods and various means, including those related to printer systems and, more particularly, relate to methods, apparatuses, systems and other means for monitoring a printer ribbon. Some embodiments use a multi-element detector, which is configured to detect a particular type of light emitted from a light emitter. The multi-state detector can include two sensors, one of which includes a polarizer filter that blocks polarized light. Embodiments can be used to determine, among other things, whether or not a printer ribbon is installed in a printer without the use of a snap plate. | 07-11-2013 |
20130169996 | ENHANCED PRINTER FUNCTIONALITY WITH DYNAMIC IDENTIFIER CODE - An apparatus may comprise a code output device and a processor configured to detect a first apparatus condition indication, generate a first dynamic identifier code representative of a first apparatus condition in response to detecting the first apparatus condition indication, output the first dynamic identifier code to the code output device, detect a second apparatus condition indication, generate a second dynamic identifier code representative of a second apparatus condition in response to detecting the second apparatus condition indication, wherein the second dynamic identifier code is different than the first dynamic identifier code, and output the second dynamic identifier code to the code output device. Associated methods, computer program products, and systems are also provided. | 07-04-2013 |
20130138391 | PLATEN WRAP DETECTION - Provided herein are devices, systems, methods and various means, including those related to linerless printers that are configured to detect an existing or potential platen wrap condition and, in response stop printing, as well as printers that may include a relatively narrow and long landing pad configured to receive and deliver to a user media that has been printed. | 05-30-2013 |
20130120797 | RFID UHF STRIPLINE ANTENNA-COUPLER - A system having a multi-coupler array is provided. Each coupler is configured to communicate with a targeted transponder from among a group of multiple adjacent transponders. The couplers may each include one or more conductive strips, at least one terminating load, a dielectric material, a first ground plane, and a second ground plane. Each of the conductive strips can extend between the first and second ground planes and the dielectric material from an input end connected to a transceiver to a loaded end connected to the terminating load. The conductive strips may be configured to propagate electromagnetic fields concentrated in a near field region of the conductive strips in a direction generally perpendicular to the conductive strips to couple with a targeted transponder. The coupler may include an enclosure for directing the electromagnetic fields. The conductive strip may have a tapered or non-linear profile such as a modified bow-tie profile. | 05-16-2013 |
20130113858 | MEDIA PROCESSING DEVICE WITH ENHANCED MEDIA AND RIBBON LOADING AND UNLOADING FEATURES - A device for processing media may include a printhead pressure adjustment assembly including a barrel and a biasing element configured to apply a biasing force to the printhead, where the biasing force may be adjustable in response to the barrel being rotated about its axis. The printhead pressure adjustment assembly may further include a threaded insert received within the barrel and configured to move axially within the barrel in response to the barrel being rotated. The printhead pressure adjustment assembly may further include a cup received within the barrel and attached to the biasing element. The adjustment assembly may include a spring disposed between the threaded insert and the cup, where the spring is compressed in response to the barrel being rotated in a first direction and the spring is decompressed in response to the spring being rotated in a second direction. | 05-09-2013 |
20130108346 | LABEL PEELING, UNIVERSAL PRINTHEADS AND RELATED METHODS | 05-02-2013 |
20130099878 | STRUCTURES FOR REGISTRATION ERROR COMPENSATION - Metallization layer structures for reduced changes in radio frequency characteristics due to registration error and associated methods are provided herein. An example resonator includes a first conductive layer defining an error limiting feature and a second conductive layer. The resonator further includes at least one communication feature configured to electrically couple the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer at a communication position. The error limiting feature is configured to reduce changes in radio frequency characteristics of the resonator due to registration error. Methods of manufacturing resonators are also provided herein. | 04-25-2013 |
20130094032 | APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR CALIBRATION OF A MEDIA PROCESSING DEVICE - A method, apparatus, and system for calibration of a media processing device are provided. The method may include providing a calibration sub-routine where the calibration sub-routine includes a plurality of calibration operations to be performed in sequence. The method may further include associating an audible note with each calibration operation and generating the audible note for each calibration operation as each respective calibration operation is performed, where the audible note is generated by a frequency of operation of a motor. The audible note associated with one calibration operation may be different from the audible note associated with another calibration operation. | 04-18-2013 |
20130040564 | NEAR FIELD COUPLING DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A near-field coupling device that may facilitate communications with a transponder is provided. The near-field coupling device may include a ground plane, a dielectric substrate, one or more conductive strips and a terminating load. The conductive strips together with the ground planes form coupling elements. The near-field coupling device further includes one or more switching elements for selectively connecting and disconnecting the coupling elements with a transceiver. The connected coupling elements define a total characteristic impedance. Using the switching element, the ratio between the total characteristic impedance of the connected coupling elements and the terminating load may be changed in order to adjust the distribution of an electromagnetic field along the coupling elements according to the type and position of the transponder to be processed. | 02-14-2013 |
20120314235 | GLOBAL PRINTING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USING SAME - A system and method for parsing data formatted in a plurality of encoding schemes at a printer is provided. The method comprises receiving data from at least one host computer at the printer, wherein at least a portion of the data is encoded in a plurality of encoding schemes. The method also includes determining a parser state of the data based on a plurality of characters and/or at least one printer control command associated with the plurality of encoding schemes. | 12-13-2012 |
20120306625 | ENHANCED IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM - A method and an identification system used for communicating between a reader and a plurality of transponders are disclosed. The reader has a transmitter for transmitting a signal and each transponder includes a receiver for receiving the reader signal and a transmitter for generating a transponder signal. When the reader recognises a transponder signal from one of the transponders it immediately issues a mute instruction, muting all other active transponders and passing control to the said transponder, without the need for a specifically timed acknowledgement to the said controlling transponder. The reader may issue a single disable/wakeup instruction which disables the controlling transponder returning control to the reader and reactivated all muted (but not disabled) transponders. | 12-06-2012 |
20120257918 | MEDIA PROCESSING DEVICE AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS - A device for processing media may include a modular design configured with a consumable support assembly configured to load a consumable supply spool and a consumable take-up spool into a device. Embodiments may include a printhead assembly that is structured to be removably received into a printhead guide and movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The printhead assembly may include a cooling channel configured to receive a cooling air flow. The printhead assembly may be easily removed from a media processing device and, when installed, engaged with the platen in response to a lid of the media processing device being closed. | 10-11-2012 |
20120226907 | Method and Apparatus For Article Authentication - An authentication method for authenticating an article in a device includes the steps of (a) reading an identification number stored on the article, (b) reading an authentication number stored on the article, (c) determining an input number based at least in part on the identification number, (d) applying an authentication function to the input number to calculate an output number, (e) determining that the article is authentic only if the authentication number corresponds to the output number, and (f) permitting use of the article in the device if the article is authentic, and disabling use of the article in the device if the article is not authentic. | 09-06-2012 |
20120212306 | ISOLATION DEVICES THAT PASS COUPLER OUTPUT SIGNALS - Various embodiments are directed to isolation devices, systems, methods and various means, for isolating ignition causing signals and/or explosions from hazardous or explosive environments. | 08-23-2012 |
20120207528 | PRINTER AND ASSOCIATED EJECTION ASSEMBLY - An ejection assembly for a printer is provided, the ejection assembly being disposed downstream of a print head in order to receive web from the print head. The ejection assembly can include an ejection roller and a door having a closed configuration and an open configuration. The door can be biased toward the closed configuration and toward the ejection roller. Upon rotation of the ejection roller, the ejection roller can force the door from the closed configuration to the open configuration and can eject web past the door from the printer. In some embodiments, the ejection roller is rotated one full cycle, the ejection roller permits accumulation of web received from the print head and subsequently forces the door from the closed configuration to the open configuration and ejects the accumulated web past the door from the printer. Also provided are a corresponding printer and method. | 08-16-2012 |
20120176224 | SPATIALLY SELECTIVE UHF NEAR FIELD MICROSTRIP COUPLER DEVICE AND RFID SYSTEMS USING DEVICE - A system having a UHF RFID transceiver is adapted to communicate exclusively with a single electro-magnetically coupled transponder located in a predetermined confined transponder operating region. The system includes a near field coupling device comprising a plurality of lines connected in parallel with an unmatched load. The near field coupling device may be formed, for example on a printed circuit board with a plurality of electrically interconnected traces and a ground plane. The system establishes, at predetermined transceiver power levels, a mutual electro-magnetic coupling which is selective exclusively for a single transponder located in a defined transponder operating region. Also included are methods for selective communication with the transponder in an apparatus such as a printer-encoder. | 07-12-2012 |
20120170079 | Detection Of UTF-16 Encoding In Streaming XML Data Without A Byte-Order Mark And Related Printers, Systems, Methods, And Computer Program Products - Provided are printers and other electronic devices, systems, methods, and computer program products that automatically detect and determine UTF-16 encoding schemes and endiannesss thereof in an incoming XML data steam for XML declarations without a UTF-16 byte-order mark (BOM) or encoding declaration. This allows for the automatic and unambiguous accurate detection of UTF-16 encoded XML data within a mixed encoding environment, such as from multiple sources using more than one encoding scheme, even when XML data does not start with a BOM or encoding declaration. | 07-05-2012 |
20120141184 | PRINTER WITH PRINTHEAD ASSEMBLY, CLUTCH ASSEMBLY, AND PRINTER RIBBON TRANSPORT ASSEMBLY - A printer may include a printhead assembly a clutch assembly, and/or a printer ribbon transport assembly. The printhead assembly may include a printhead biasing assembly defining a biasing ramp which may be configured to apply a biasing force to a printhead support bracket so as to at least partially counteract a ribbon force. The clutch assembly may be configured to supply or take-up a printer ribbon with first and second spool engagement members of different diameters that frictionally engage first and second friction members. The printer ribbon transport assembly may include a rotation lock mechanism configured to prevent rotation of a ribbon take-up core when the take-up core is disengaged from a drive assembly so as to prevent a loss in ribbon tension. | 06-07-2012 |
20120119011 | MEDIA LOAD DAMPER GUIDE FOR PRINTERS - Embodiments of the present invention are related to a media transport assembly for printers, such as a kiosk printer. The media transport assembly may comprise a biased guide roller structured to dampen media tension shocks, discontinuities, or variations. Other embodiments of the present invention may also provide a media transport assembly configured to allow increased flexibility in media supply roll mounting and for easy loading and threading of the media. | 05-17-2012 |
20120108170 | MULTI-ELEMENT RFID COUPLER - An RFID communication system comprising a near field coupler that is capable of selectively communicating with a targeted transponder positioned among a group of multiple adjacent transponders. The coupler is configured to receive communication signals from a transceiver and transmit the signals to a targeted transponder in a transponder operating region. The coupler includes a number of radiating elements spaced apart and a switching element. The switching element selectively couples one or more of the radiating elements to the transceiver. The coupled elements transmit the signals into the transponder operating region by emanating a near field effect. The pattern of the near field effect may be adjusted by changing the combination of the coupled radiating elements. | 05-03-2012 |
20120038951 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING WITH AN RFID TRANSPONDER - A system having a UHF RFID transceiver is adapted to communicate exclusively with a single electro-magnetically coupled transponder located in a predetermined confined transponder operating region. The system includes a near field coupling device comprising a plurality of lines connected in parallel with an unmatched load. The near field coupling device may be formed, for example on a printed circuit board with a plurality of electrically interconnected traces and a ground plane. The system establishes, at predetermined transceiver power levels, a mutual electro-magnetic coupling which is selective exclusively for a single transponder located in a defined transponder operating region. Also included are methods for selective communication with the transponder in an apparatus such as a printer-encoder. | 02-16-2012 |
20120031981 | VISUAL IDENTIFICATION TAG DEACTIVATION - A device for deactivating an RFID portion on an identification tag and indicating that the RFID portion is deactivated. The present invention addresses current privacy concerns regarding potential use of RFID technology after the point of sale. The device for deactivating the RFID portion of an identification tag provides visual indication that the RFID portion is deactivated. The visual indication occurs without the use of additional equipment or electronics. The visual indication component of the present invention is easy to interpret, so that a viewer will be able to quickly determine whether the RFID portion of the identification tag has been deactivated. | 02-09-2012 |
20120019363 | DUAL TRANSPONDER RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION - Embodiments are discussed herein related to radio frequency identification (“RFID”) and, more particularly, to systems, methods, apparatuses, computer readable media products and other means for integrating two transponders into a tag, where each transponder functions independent from and does not couple with the other transponder. In some embodiments, one of the transponders can be a near field RFID transponder and the other a far field transponder. The near field RFID transponder can be used to, among other things, authenticate the far field RFID transponder. In some embodiments, the far field RFID transponder can be encoded to transmit generic information, while the near field RFID transmits more detailed or user-specific information. Additionally, in some embodiments, the near field and far field RFID transponders can operate in accordance with the same wireless protocol and include their own circuitry and antenna. | 01-26-2012 |
20110303752 | XML PRINTER SYSTEM WITH RFID CAPABILITY - An XML system is configured to print bar code labels, tags, tickets, cards, or other media, and/or encode RFID devices embedded in media, based upon an extensible markup language (XML) input data stream. The XML system includes a computer system operatively coupled to a network. The computer system further includes an XML processor configured to receive, parse, and process an XML input data stream and obtain schema identified in the XML data stream from a schema repository. The XML processor validates the XML data stream based upon the schema obtained. Also included is an XSLT processor configured to obtain a stylesheet identified in the XML data stream from a stylesheet repository. The XSLT processor transforms data in the XML input data stream into transformed XML data based upon the stylesheet obtained. Also, an XSLFO processor formats the transformed XML data into formatted XML data based upon XSLFO instructions contained in the stylesheet. A barcode rendering subsystem then receives the formatted XML data and generates a bit map representative of the bar code label. Alternatively, the system includes an XML processor configured to receive and process the XML input data stream, a ZPL processor configured to receive and process a format template, a variable data integrator configured to develop an association between the XML data contained in the XML input data stream and the format template, a formatting engine configured to format the associated XML data according to a format governed by the format template, and a barcode rendering engine configured to generate a printable representation of the bar code label, tag, ticket, card, other media, and/or generate encoding information for an RFID device. | 12-15-2011 |
20110285765 | MOBILE PRINTER NETWORKING AND INTERFACING - Provided herein are devices, methods and other means, including those related to printers, as well as computer readable media for storing code to execute instructions for a device, and other systems for providing and supporting mobile printing and other types of devices. The printer, for example, can be coupled with one or more docks and/or other accessory devices, examples of which are also discussed herein. | 11-24-2011 |
20110273860 | PRINTER MOBILITY AND SCALABILITY - Provided herein are devices, methods and other means, including those related to printers, as well as computer readable media for storing code to execute instructions for a device, and other systems for providing and supporting mobile printing and other types of devices. The circuit boards of a device can each be dedicated to different types of functionality and be installed into the device without the use of fasteners. In some embodiments, the printer's housing can include a base portion and a defining portion, where the defining portion largely defines the printer's shape, size and aesthetics and the base portion defines the printer's minimum size. Also provided herein is a removable belt clip that may be affixed to a portable printer and/or other device. | 11-10-2011 |
20110266352 | RFID TAG WITH REDUCED DETUNING CHARACTERISTICS - An RFID tag and an RFID access card configured to reduce detuning effects from a typical RFID environment. The present invention provides an RFID tag that is specifically configured to reduce the detuning effects caused by initiating communication between an RFID tag and an RFID tag reader in the presence of materials such as metal, liquid, and the human body. In one embodiment, the present invention provides an RFID tag comprising an electronic circuit portion attached to a main antenna body portion, the main antenna body portion having two opposite side portions, which are substantially symmetrical with respect to one another, wherein each side portion extends outwardly to form a generally side-oriented v-shape. | 11-03-2011 |
20110250000 | MEDIA PROCESSING DEVICE WITH ENHANCED MEDIA AND RIBBON LOADING AND UNLOADING FEATURES - A device for processing media may include a front panel, a rear panel, a side panel, a support surface, and an access door assembly. The access door assembly may be pivotally coupled to the support surface and may include a major door pivotally coupled to a minor door. The minor door may be movable from an operational position to a minor support position and the major door may be movable from the operational position to a major support position in which the major door is positioned against and supported by the support surface. The side panel may define an imaginary plane that extends upward beyond the support surface and the access door assembly may be sized to be supported on the support surface without crossing the imaginary plane. | 10-13-2011 |
20110169615 | ADAPTIVE CONTROL FOR IMPROVED RFID TRANSPONDER READ AND WRITE PERFORMANCE - System, methods and computer program product are provided for an adaptive control for adjusting the electromagnetic interrogation signal of an RFID transceiver where said signal is used to read and/or write to an RFID transponder, or to adjust the gain of the RFID transceiver, or adjust both the gain and the signal strength. The system includes a RFID transceiver having at least a transmitter portion and a receiver portion and capable of generating electromagnetic signals, a signal-to-noise ratio module, and an adaptive control module that adjusts the power of the electromagnetic signal of the transmitter portion or the gain of the receiver portion according to the signal-to-noise ratio of a first electromagnetic signal. In one embodiment the system may be employed in printer-encoder devices for reading or encoding RFID transponders during a printing process. | 07-14-2011 |
20110140859 | RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION TAGGING - A RFID tag or label comprises a RFID tag module (comprising an electronic identification circuit and a coupling means) and an antenna structure coupled to the coupling means. The RFID tag module is separate from, separable or arranged to be severable from, the antenna structure. The tag module can be placed in or on an object and the antenna structure in or on packaging material for use with the object. A patch antenna type RFID tag antenna structure has a ground plane spaced from the patch antenna so as to increase the range of the tag. The ground plane is not substantially larger than, and electrically insulated from, the patch antenna. The ground plane is flexible, so the RFID tag structure can be worn by a human, and can be incorporated into a piece of clothing. A RFID antenna structure for use with a tag reader is made flat and robust so that it can be mounted on the ground to be walked upon or driven over. A bi-directional YAGI type RFID tag antenna structure has director elements on two opposite sides so that the YAGI antenna radiates in two opposite directions. An object includes a gain increasing metallic structure for increasing the gain of a RFID tag when placed near the object so as to form a RFID tag antenna structure. | 06-16-2011 |
20110074553 | PRINTER ENCODER ADAPTED FOR POSITIONING ABOARD A MOBILE UNIT - A printer/encoder system is provided for mounting to a mobile unit, such as a forklift-type vehicle. The printer/encoder system is adapted for printing and encoding one or more media units that may be stored in a media supply assembly of the printer/encoder system. The printer/encoder system may be mounted to the mobile unit using a mobile unit mounting assembly having a shock resistance system for protecting at least portions of the printer/encoder system from mechanical shocks or vibrations that are commonly associated with mobile unit movement. The printer/encoder system may include an encoder assembly structured to encode a transponder, such as a radio frequency identification (RFID) transponder, on a media unit. The printer/encoder system may include an encoder assembly having a modular design. | 03-31-2011 |
20100214115 | VISUAL IDENTIFICATION TAG DEACTIVATION - A device for deactivating an RFID portion on an identification tag and indicating that the RFID portion is deactivated. The present invention addresses current privacy concerns regarding potential use of RFID technology after the point of sale. The device for deactivating the RFID portion of an identification tag provides visual indication that the RFID portion is deactivated. The visual indication occurs without the use of additional equipment or electronics. The visual indication component of the present invention is easy to interpret, so that a viewer will be able to quickly determine whether the RFID portion of the identification tag has been deactivated. | 08-26-2010 |
20100092201 | PAPER PROFILE AND READING SYSTEMS - Methods, systems, computer readable media and other means for generating a profile for a particular type of media are provided. The profile represents a set of preferred printing parameters to be used to achieve a target print quality for a reference printing device. The profile may be used by other non-reference printing devices in order to optimize printing for that type of media. For each non-reference printing device, an offset may be established that represents the differences between the non-reference and the reference printing devices. A processor of the non-reference printing device may identify the type of media and the profile for that media and then adjust the printing parameters for the non-reference printing device based on the profile and the offset in order to optimize the print quality. The profile may also include a parameter that is based on a temperature coefficient associated with the type of printer. | 04-15-2010 |
20090188529 | DUAL USE CLEANING APPARATUS AND METHOD - The present invention provides a cleaning assembly for use in a media processing device. In various embodiments, the cleaning assembly includes a first roller that at least partially engages a second roller, and a transport path that passes between the first roller and the second roller. There may also be a third collection roller that at least partially engages the second roller. The third collection roller may also engage a drive assembly that may be used to drive a media substrate along the transport path. In one embodiment, the second roller defines a surface adherence that is greater than a surface adherence of the first roller and the third collection roller defines a surface adherence that is greater than the surface adherence of the second roller and the drive assembly. As a result, the present invention provides a cleaning assembly capable of cleaning the drive assembly and opposed surfaces of a media substrate in a single pass. | 07-30-2009 |
20090175643 | APPARATUS FOR REDUCING FLASH FOR THERMAL TRANSFER PRINTERS - The present disclosure is directed to a printing assembly that includes an image transfer station and a blower configured to intermittently provide a cooling stream of air to a product being printed upon. The blower may include a centrifugal fan and may have a single plenum providing air to two nozzles. The nozzles may be positioned such that the air targets the edges of the product to facilitate removal of the intermediate transfer media from the targeted areas and reduce the occurrence of flash. The blower may be configured to provide air when the product is expelled from the transfer assembly or while the intermediate transfer media is peeled from the product, but not to provide air when the product is being received by the transfer assembly. The printing assembly may include sensors and control circuitry for detecting the position of the product and controlling the blower accordingly. | 07-09-2009 |
20090009288 | Radio Frequency Identification Tagging - A Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag has an electronic identification circuit coupled to an antenna, wherein the RFID tag is arranged to communicate with a RFID tag reader via the antenna, using RF energy. The tag comprises means sensitive to light (such as a photodiode, phototransistor, photocell or a solar cell) for controlling (in particular inhibiting) communication between the RFID tag reader and the RFm tag. The tag can for example be embedded in or on a high-value object such as a banknote. The existence of the banknote cannot be detected e.g. by criminals in the absence of light (e.g. while the banknote is located in a wallet), but the authenticity of the banknote can be verified in legitimate use. | 01-08-2009 |
20090008448 | SPATIALLY SELECTIVE UHF NEAR FIELD MICROSTRIP COUPLER DEVICE AND RFID SYSTEMS USING DEVICE - A system having a UHF RFID transceiver is adapted to communicate exclusively with a single electro-magnetically coupled transponder located in a predetermined confined transponder operating region. The system includes a near field coupling device comprising a plurality of lines connected in parallel with an unmatched load. The near field coupling device may be formed, for example on a printed circuit board with a plurality of electrically interconnected traces and a ground plane. The system establishes, at predetermined transceiver power levels, a mutual electromagnetic coupling which is selective exclusively for a single transponder located in a defined transponder operating region. Also included are methods for selective communication with the transponder in an apparatus such as a printer-encoder. | 01-08-2009 |