INTERMEC IP CORP. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160086003 | METHOD AND APPARATUS TO MITIGATE MULTIPATH IN RFID - A distance between at least one antenna of an interrogation system and a transponder, such as an RFID tag, is determined based on derivatives with respect to frequency of the phase and the signal strength of responses transmitted by the transponder and received at the at least one antenna. The derivatives of the phase and the signal strength facilitate compensating for sources of multipath interference. Determining changes in distance may further facilitate determining location, speed, or bearing of the transponder by the interrogation system. | 03-24-2016 |
20140320649 | RFID TAG READER STATION WITH IMAGE CAPABILITIES - A system and method is provided for image surveillance of areas of interest for items having radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. These areas of interest are often times unmonitored due to privacy concerns. The present invention discloses an image surveillance system and method, that upon indication of an RFID tag coming within proximity of a portal system having an RFID reader, records one or more images of the area of interest, so as to capture a subject associated with the RFID tagged item moving into or through the area of interest. Such applications for embodiments of the present invention are directed to monitor items of interest in retail stores, restaurants, shipping and receiving locations, and other public areas. | 10-30-2014 |
20140292491 | RFID TAGS WITH CDMA COMMUNICATION CAPABILITIES - An apparatus for use in an RFID data collection system includes an antenna portion for wirelessly exchanging signals and a memory portion for storing RFID data. A signal processing portion is coupled among the antenna portion and the memory portion. The signal processing portion is configured to receive RFID data and to at least encode or decode the received RFID data via at least one spreading code, such as a mutually orthogonal code. Other configurations are also disclosed. | 10-02-2014 |
20140278391 | APPARATUS AND METHOD TO CLASSIFY SOUND TO DETECT SPEECH - Audio frames are classified as either speech, non-transient background noise, or transient noise events. Probabilities of speech or transient noise event, or other metrics may be calculated to indicate confidence in classification. Frames classified as speech or noise events are not used in updating models (e.g., spectral subtraction noise estimates, silence model, background energy estimates, signal-to-noise ratio) of non-transient background noise. Frame classification affects acceptance/rejection of recognition hypothesis. Classifications and other audio related information may be determined by circuitry in a headset, and sent (e.g., wirelessly) to a separate processor-based recognition device. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267609 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ENHANCING DIMENSIONING, FOR EXAMPLE VOLUME DIMENSIONING - A dimensioning system can include stored data indicative of coordinate locations of each reference element in a reference image containing a pseudorandom pattern of elements. Data indicative of the coordinates of elements appearing in an acquired image of a three-dimensional space including an object can be compared to the stored data indicative of coordinate locations of each reference element. After the elements in the acquired image corresponding to the reference elements in the reference image are identified, a spatial correlation between the acquired image and the reference image can be determined. Such a numerical comparison of coordinate data reduces the computing resource requirements of graphical comparison technologies. | 09-18-2014 |
20140247315 | MOBILE PRINTER WITH OPTIONAL BATTERY ACCESSORY - A mobile printer comprising a printer body and a printer door is provided. The printer body typically has a recessed area that is sized to receive a media roll. The media roll typically has a void interior portion that is sized to receive one or more batteries that provide power to the mobile printer. Further, the printer door is operatively coupled to the printer body. When in an open position, the printer door typically allows for placement of a media roll from a side of the mobile printer into the recessed area. When closed, however, the media roll is typically retained in place relative to the printer body and the media from the media roll is captured for printing. | 09-04-2014 |
20140236474 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS TO DETERMINE PHYSICAL LOCATION AND ROUTING WITHIN A FIELD OF LOW POWER BEACONS - A non-time of flight or time of arrival position location system for accurate determination of a user's location in an enclosed, indoor, or covered environment can include a number of beacons mounted in an arrangement within the environment. Each of the beacons is mounted in a known location and transmits a broadcast signal containing a unique identifier that identifies the originating beacon. A handheld electronic device including a receiver and a communicably coupled processor can receive broadcast signals from at least some of the number of beacons, iteratively determine a vector quantity corresponding to each of the received signals, and sum the resultant vector quantities to determine an updated position. The iterative process can be repeated until consecutive iterations yield an updated position that falls within a defined threshold. | 08-21-2014 |
20140191913 | TECHNIQUES FOR STANDARDIZING ANTENNA ARCHITECTURE - Technology for standardizing an antenna design for a computing device includes an antenna element in the shape of an object that is commonly useful with multiple, different computing products. For example, in one embodiment the antenna element is a bracket for holding a stylus or other object within a stylus chamber that is associated with the computing device. The dimension and composition of the antenna remain relatively constant to provide a consistent radiation pattern requiring little or no redesign when implemented across the different products, since it may be placed at an edge of a device, by a stylus holder, or similar, common location that is a distance from a ground plane and device circuitry. | 07-10-2014 |
20140136208 | SECURE MULTI-MODE COMMUNICATION BETWEEN AGENTS - A system to assist in secure multi-mode communication is described. The system can receive communications from a source agent in a source communication mode, authenticate the source agent, and determine a recipient communication mode associated with the recipient agent. The system then transforms the communication from the first communication mode to the second communication mode based on the recipient agent and/or the content of the communication and provides the communication to the recipient agent in the recipient communication mode. | 05-15-2014 |
20140108010 | VOICE-ENABLED DOCUMENTS FOR FACILITATING OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES - A voice-enabled document system facilitates execution of service delivery operations by eliminating the need for manual or visual interaction during information retrieval by an operator. Access to voice-enabled documents can facilitate operations for mobile vendors, on-site or field-service repairs, medical service providers, food service providers, and the like. Service providers can access the voice-enabled documents by using a client device to retrieve the document, display it on a screen, and, via voice commands initiate playback of selected audio files containing information derived from text data objects selected from the document. Data structures that are components of a voice-enabled document include audio playback files and a logical association that links the audio playback files to user-selectable fields, and to a set of voice commands. | 04-17-2014 |
20140084068 | MULTIPLE FOCUSABLE FIELDS OF VIEW, SUCH AS A UNIVERSAL BAR CODE SYMBOL SCANNER - A device permitting multiple focusable fields of view, such as a universal bar code scanner that can read bar code symbols at both near and far distances for a range of X-dimensions, is described. The scanner uses an adjustable optical imaging system that has at least two different focused fields of view. In one embodiment, the optimal field of view for a target object can be automatically selected with the use of a range finder. | 03-27-2014 |
20140078515 | OPTICAL GRID ENHANCEMENT FOR IMPROVED MOTOR LOCATION - Methods for performing a scheme that results in a refined measurement pattern within an optical grid are provided. Physically adjusting spacing of elements within an optical grid to achieve enhanced resolution is historically unfeasible, as reduction of the spacing causes light sensors of the optical grid to pick up false signals when reading light beams. Technology introduced by the present invention generates a virtual reduced spacing of the elements within the optical grid by using two signals that are slightly different. These slightly different signals can accomplish, at least, quarter-grid spacing resolution within the optical grid. Additionally, the enhanced resolution derived from the virtual reduced spacing is employed to govern movement of a motor. The motor movement is in response to one or more changes of direction such that the motor is operating in its linear range. Advantageously, the virtual reduced spacing allows for substantial movement in a non-linear phase, while only limited movement in a linear phase is necessary to locate accurately a target within the optical grid. | 03-20-2014 |
20140075846 | ACCESS DOOR WITH INTEGRATED SWITCH ACTUATOR - An apparatus and method are disclosed for creating an integrated access door and switch actuator. The integrated access door and switch actuator are created from a single composite material. The composite material is flexible to allow movement, but is also durable to provide a protective covering. The integrated access door and switch actuator include a living hinge, which allows the access door to move to an open and closed position while the switch actuator is stationary in a fixed position. | 03-20-2014 |
20140049635 | VOLUME DIMENSIONING SYSTEM CALIBRATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Various corporate, industry, and regulatory guidelines, best practices and standards are used in establishing acceptable levels of accuracy for volume dimensioning systems used in commerce. A volume dimensioning system can determine at least one distortion value that is indicative of an amount of distortion present in the system and responsive to the amount of distortion, autonomously alter or adjust the units of accuracy of information reported by the system. Such alteration or adjustment of units of accuracy may be performed based on an assessment of the distortion relative to a number of distortion thresholds. Responsive to the assessment, the volume dimensioning system can adjust a unit of accuracy in a representation of volume dimensioning related information. | 02-20-2014 |
20140049120 | TRIGGER DEVICE FOR MOBILE COMPUTING DEVICE - A mobile computing device includes a processor and a trigger device operatively attached to the mobile computing device and configured to generate a mechanical vibration pattern for selectively actuating the mobile computing device. A trigger interface, illustratively an accelerometer, is configured to convert the mechanical vibration pattern into an electrical signal pattern. The processor is configured to actuate a mobile computing function depending on the mechanical vibration pattern generated by the trigger device. A table of properties stored in memory correlates the mechanical vibration generated by the trigger device with a specific mobile computing function. The trigger device may include a plurality of trigger parts; and the mechanical vibration pattern generated by the trigger device may include multiple bits of data generated by the plurality of trigger parts. The mobile computing device may be in a candy bar, clam shell, or other form factor and may include a removable handle. | 02-20-2014 |
20140002365 | DUAL SCREEN DISPLAY FOR MOBILE COMPUTING DEVICE | 01-02-2014 |
20140002337 | SINGLE-HANDED FLOATING DISPLAY WITH SELECTABLE CONTENT | 01-02-2014 |
20130332996 | SYSTEM AND PROCESS FOR MANAGING NETWORK COMMUNICATIONS - A communication protocol and system is disclosed for network communications between a data service residing on a client that provides network communications between one or more mobile applications on a source and a network based on a process number. The shared data service communicates with a data service plug-in on the server side associated with the process number, in order to handle requests from the mobile applications that access the network through the data service. Predetermined network connection, priority, and additional rules can be used to control what plug-in can be reached through what type of network connection. | 12-12-2013 |
20130332524 | DATA SERVICE ON A MOBILE DEVICE - A data service residing on a client of a mobile computing device is disclosed for enabling network communications between a plurality of mobile applications on the device and a network for a process number. The data service communicates with a data service plug-in on the server side associated with the process number, in order to handle requests from the business applications that access the network through the data service. The data service is configured to accept commands from the plurality of mobile applications using a text-based mark-up language and handles typical communication needs of business applications, such as sending and receiving data. | 12-12-2013 |
20130332511 | COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL AND SYSTEM FOR NETWORK COMMUNICATIONS - A communication protocol and system is disclosed for network communications between a data service residing on a client that provides network communications between one or more mobile applications on a mobile computing device and a network based on a process number. The shared data service communicates with a data service plug-in on the server side associated with the process number, in order to handle requests from the mobile applications that access a plug-in associated with the process number through the data service. The communication connection between the mobile application and the data plug may be managed by a set of rules defined for that network communication. | 12-12-2013 |
20130306728 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO READ MACHINE-READABLE SYMBOLS - Systems and methods of reading machine-readable symbols are provided. A method of reading a machine-readable symbol includes emitting by a first source outgoing electromagnetic energy comprising wavelengths in a first portion of the electromagnetic spectrum towards a target comprising the machine-readable symbol. Incoming electromagnetic energy comprising wavelengths in a second portion of the electromagnetic spectrum reflected or emitted by the machine-readable symbol are discerned by a global shutter sensor after transmission through at least a first portion of a color filter array having a plurality of portions. | 11-21-2013 |
20130293540 | DIMENSIONING SYSTEM CALIBRATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods of determining the volume and dimensions of a three-dimensional object using a dimensioning system are provided. The dimensioning system can include an image sensor, a non-transitory, machine-readable, storage, and a processor. The dimensioning system can select and fit a three-dimensional packaging wireframe model about each three-dimensional object located within a first point of view of the image sensor. Calibration is performed to calibrate between image sensors of the dimensioning system and those of the imaging system. Calibration may occur pre-run time, in a calibration mode or period. Calibration may occur during a routine. Calibration may be automatically triggered on detection of a coupling between the dimensioning and the imaging systems. | 11-07-2013 |
20130293539 | VOLUME DIMENSIONING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods for volume dimensioning packages are provided. A method of operating a volume dimensioning system may include the receipt of image data of an area at least a first three-dimensional object to be dimensioned from a first point of view as captured using at least one image sensor. The system can determine from the received image data a number of features in three dimensions of the first three-dimensional object. Based at least on part on the determined features of the first three-dimensional object, the system can fit a first three-dimensional packaging wireframe model about the first three-dimensional object. The system can display of an image of the first three-dimensional packaging wireframe model fitted about an image of the first three-dimensional object on a display device. | 11-07-2013 |
20130243512 | PRINTER WITH LABEL SELF-STRIPPING MECHANISM - A printer is described herein that is equipped to internally remove the backings off of self-adhesive label paper, exposing an adhesive layer when ejected from the printer. A user desiring to print some sort of indicia on the self-adhesive paper need only initiate printing, and a label with exposed adhesive is ejected from the printer. A print side of the paper is split from a backing inside the printer pulling preceding print sides and backings at certain tensions, thereby creating a particularly effective separation angle. A ribbon break shaft and one or more rollers create the correct tension in the print sides, while a platen roller and cantilever leaf spring create the correct tension in the backings. In some embodiments, the optimal separation angle lies between 19 and 25 degrees. | 09-19-2013 |
20130220157 | Method and Apparatus for Improving Registration and Skew End of Line Checking in Production - System, method, article for determining registration and/or skew errors in a print medium with respect to a printing element includes a print medium including a two-dimensional pattern including a grid within a geometric shape. The grid has a plurality of vertical and horizontal lines, the intersection of each forming a cross-hair defining an X-Y positional data point; the collection of data points defining a data set. The geometric shape is in the form of a two-dimensional target having a plurality of concentric rings; an innermost one enclosing at least one of the X-Y positional data points in the data set. The printing element provides a marker onto the print medium. The positional location of the marker with respect to the one of the at least one enclosed X-Y positional data point defines a directional displacement vector for correcting registration and/or skew error between the print medium and the printing element. | 08-29-2013 |
20130163773 | CLOSED-LOOP ACTIVE NOISE REDUCTION SYSTEM, SUCH AS FOR A THERMAL PRINTER - A system and method for reduce noise emitted by a printer are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a sound detector disposed proximate to a noise source detects a measured noise signal, which is analyzed to determine one or more resonant frequencies thereof. A feedback signal is determined based on the analyzed noise signal and is used to generate a compensated signal 180 degrees out of phase with the feedback signal. The compensated signal is output proximate to the noise source. | 06-27-2013 |
20130155766 | PHASE CHANGE MEMORY DEVICES, METHOD FOR ENCODING, AND METHODS FOR STORING DATA - Phase change memory cells including a phase change media can be encoded using a source of energy that is not integral with the memory cell. External sources of energy include thermal heads, such as those used in direct thermal printing or thermal transfer printing and sources of electromagnetic radiation, such as lasers. Such types of phase change memory devices can be associated with substrates that include thermochromic materials or are suitable for thermal transfer printing so that the memory cells can be encoded and print media applied to the substrate using the same source of thermal energy. | 06-20-2013 |
20130153658 | SNAP-ON MODULE FOR SELECTIVELY INSTALLING RECEIVING ELEMENT(S) TO A MOBILE DEVICE - An apparatus and method for selectively attaching sensor(s) or antenna(s) to a mobile device at a convenient location are provided. The mobile device includes a body and a processing unit housed within the body for running an application, where the body includes a forward end and a rearward end that supports engagement with a charging dock. In addition, the rearward end accepts engagement of a snap-on module that physically assembles to and electronically interfaces with the mobile device. The antennas or sensors are externally mounted to the mobile device at a location proximate to the forward end of the body. Further, these antennas or sensors are interconnected to the snap-on module using media-routing conduit(s) that are configured to carry signals from the antennas or sensors to the snap-on module for distribution as an input to the application running on the processing unit. | 06-20-2013 |
20130057753 | TWO-DIMENSIONAL IMAGER WITH SOLID-STATE AUTO-FOCUS - An imaging system having a solid-state auto focusing system advantageously images broadband light reflected from an object to be imaged using a lens objective having chromatic aberration, which focuses different colors of light at different focal planes. Using the color information in the focal planes in conjunction with an object distance determined by a range finder, a luminance plane is constructed that has a focused image of the object. The system provides the focused image of the object without the use of any moving parts. | 03-07-2013 |
20130043314 | MOTION TOLERANT BAR CODE READER - A 2D bar code reader with improved motion tolerance is presented. The 2D bar code reader includes a lens configuration that enhances chromatic aberration to separate the focal planes on which bar code images from two different color components of a light will be focused. An imager interprets one of the focal planes as the image and the other one as noise to be ignored. In addition, the increased depth of field generated by the chromatic aberration allows for a larger aperture stop setting and quicker shutter speed, thereby improving motion tolerance. | 02-21-2013 |
20120319845 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STEALTH TRACKING - A shipping and tracking system has a number of tracking stations that are geographically distributed. The tracking stations gather information from shipping items processed by the shipping and tracking system. The shipping and tracking system provides an enhanced level of security for selected shipping items. The enhanced level of security for the selected shipping items is based at least on the information gathered at the tracking stations. The enhanced security is provided in such a way that personnel of the shipping and delivery system cannot physically discern whether or not a shipping item is being shipped with enhanced security. | 12-20-2012 |
20120281624 | USE OF WIRELESS CIRCUIT-SWITCHED CONNECTIONS FOR TRANSFERRING INFORMATION REQUIRING REAL-TIME OPERATION OF PACKET-SWITCHED MULTIMEDIA SERVICES - A system includes a terminal, a wireless access network, a multimedia core network and a network device, which connects the wireless access network to the multimedia core network, expanded location updating to the registration procedure of the multimedia core network, and performs double registration of the user to the multimedia core network. The terminal performs expanded location updating relaying the registration point identity of the multimedia core network, the user's phone number and the private user identity to the network device in connection with normal location updating signaling. In the double registration performed by the network device, two addresses are registered for the user of the terminal, one of which is associated with the domain name of the terminal in question or a numeric IP address, and the other to a domain name of the network device or a numeric IP address. | 11-08-2012 |
20120281623 | USE OF WIRELESS CIRCUIT-SWITCHED CONNECTIONS FOR TRANSFERRING INFORMATION REQUIRING REAL-TIME OPERATION OF PACKET-SWITCHED MULTIMEDIA SERVICES - A system includes a terminal, a wireless access network, a multimedia core network and a network device, which connects the wireless access network to the multimedia core network, expanded location updating to the registration procedure of the multimedia core network, and performs double registration of the user to the multimedia core network. The terminal performs expanded location updating relaying the registration point identity of the multimedia core network, the user's phone number and the private user identity to the network device in connection with normal location updating signaling. In the double registration performed by the network device, two addresses are registered for the user of the terminal, one of which is associated with the domain name of the terminal in question or a numeric IP address, and the other to a domain name of the network device or a numeric IP address. | 11-08-2012 |
20120229259 | STOCHASTIC COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION (RFID) TAGS BASED ON COALITION FORMATION, SUCH AS FOR TAG-TO-TAG COMMUNICATION - Data carriers (such as RFID tags) are formed into clusters of data carriers. Each cluster has at least one bridge data carrier that can communicate with a bridge data carrier of another cluster, thereby allowing data carriers in each cluster to communicate directly or indirectly with each other using a stochastic communication protocol method. Direct tag-to-tag communication capability is provided between data carriers in each cluster and/or between clusters. The data carriers can backscatter and modulate a carrier wave from a source, thereby using the backscattered and modulated carrier wave to convey data to each other. | 09-13-2012 |
20120212844 | LINEAR ACTUATOR ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - A linear actuator assembly is provided, the assembly including a linear actuator, an elongated guide spaced in parallel alignment with the linear actuator and a movable carriage disposed therebetween. The carriage includes a first notch to receive a rod of the linear actuator and a second notch to receive the guide. The carriage remains in direct and continuous contact with the linear actuator and the guide at the first notch and second notch, respectively, when the carriage moves linearly back and forth along a travel axis. | 08-23-2012 |
20120193420 | SYSTEM FOR GENERATING AN EXTENDED SPECULAR LIGHTING FIELD - A system for generating an extended specular lighting field for reading symbols on a reflective background surface is described. A scanner generates illumination for illuminating the symbols. Reflection of the illumination incident upon the reflective surface is retroreflected onto the symbols on the reflective surface. Reflection of the retroreflected light by the reflective surface is received by the scanner for processing information about the symbols. By using the reflective surface to help illuminate the symbols, an ordinary scanner can be used to read the symbols. | 08-02-2012 |
20120190353 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC SELECTION OF DATA AND TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICE PROVIDERS - Communication service providers systems are dynamically selected for use by a subscriber device such as cellular telephone, other mobile device, or landline telephone based on the current location of the subscriber device and automatically comparing communication service characteristics of the communication service provider systems to determine the least expensive or otherwise preferable service provider. The communication service characteristics may include items such as current usage rates, signal strength, available bandwidth and network speed. Once a communication service provider system is selected, service provider identification information is automatically communicated to the subscriber device to enable seamless or nearly seamless switching to the selected communication service provider system, even while a current communication session is in progress using another communication service provider system. | 07-26-2012 |
20120176461 | MOBILE PRINTER WITH OPTIONAL BATTERY ACCESSORY - A mobile printer comprising a printer body and a printer door is provided. The printer body has a recessed area that is sized to receive a media roll. The media roll has a void interior portion that is sized to receive one or more batteries that provide power to the mobile printer. Further, the printer door is operatively coupled to the printer body. When in an open position, the printer door allows for placement of a media roll from a side of the mobile printer into the recessed area. When closed, however, the media roll is retained in place relative to the printer body and the media from the media roll is captured for printing. | 07-12-2012 |
20120176227 | METHOD AND APPARATUS TO MITIGATE MULTIPATH IN RFID - A distance between at least one antenna of an interrogation system and a transponder, such as an RFID tag, is determined based on derivatives with respect to frequency of the phase and the signal strength of responses transmitted by the transponder and received at the at least one antenna. The derivatives of the phase and the signal strength facilitate compensating for sources of multipath interference. Determining changes in distance may further facilitate determining location, speed, or bearing of the transponder by the interrogation system. | 07-12-2012 |
20120139711 | METHOD AND APPARATUS TO ESTIMATE THE NUMBER OF TRANSPONDERS IN A FIELD - A total number of transponders in an interrogation field is estimated or determined based on demodulated baseband direct and quadrature components from a plurality of collided responses from multiple transponders, including collided responses from which information encoded therein cannot be recovered, and would conventionally be discarded. A query or Q value may be set without an a priori knowledge of the actual number or even approximate number of transponders in the field of the interrogator or reader. Such may allow transponders to be quickly and efficiently singulated, for example in a single pass, and information read from and/or written to singulated transponders. | 06-07-2012 |
20110187507 | AUTOMATIC DATA COLLECTION DEVICE, METHOD AND ARTICLE - A radio frequency identification system comprises a radio-frequency identification substrate and an interrogator. In one embodiment, the radio-frequency identification substrate comprises a plurality of radio-frequency identification devices. In one embodiment, a controller on the substrate controls a first one of the plurality of radio-frequency identification devices based on a state of a second one of the plurality of radio-frequency identification devices. In one embodiment, an antenna system includes an S-shaped portion electrically coupled to an integrated circuit along a central portion of the S-shaped portion. Adjusting the parameters of the segments making up the S-shaped portion controls performance characteristics of a radio-frequency identification device. | 08-04-2011 |
20110183714 | Wireless Device Grouping Via Common Attribute - The present invention enables users of wireless devices to configure a service by automatic connection through the use of a local environmental indication of an identification code such as a barcode. The identification code represents a service that is a labor carried out among a group of two or more devices for the benefit of one or more devices in the group. An indication of an identification code is input to at least one device representing a service over a wireless link among at least a first and second device. At least one service relationship such as sender, receiver, transceiver, or relay is identified for each of a first and second device, and the devices are automatically configured into their respective service relationships utilizing the identification code. | 07-28-2011 |
20110181650 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REGISTERING AND MAINTAINING REGISTRATION OF A MEDIUM IN A CONTENT APPLICATOR - A content applicator receives a continuous medium and applies content to segments of the continuous medium. The content applicator includes a sensor array, a controller subsystem, and a print station. The sensor array scans the continuous medium as the continuous medium moves along a medium transport pathway. The controller subsystem receives scan information from the sensor array and uses the scan information to establish and maintain registration between the continuous medium and the print station. | 07-28-2011 |
20110088979 | CARGO TRANSPORTER WITH AUTOMATIC DATA COLLECTION DEVICES - A cargo transportation device includes a lift assembly for raising and lowering cargo and an operator cabin in which an operator controls the lift assembly. A load backrest is coupled to the cabin, and an automatic data collection device, which is configured to interrogate wireless communication devices, is coupled to the load backrest. The cargo transportation device includes a computing device having logic for controlling the automatic data collection device and logic for controlling the lift assembly, and a display device in communication with the computing device. The display device is coupled to the cabin and configured to provide the operator with information from the computing device. | 04-21-2011 |
20110057603 | SMART BATTERY CHARGER - A smart battery charger is provided that includes one or more sensors to identify a particular battery, generate a usage profile for the battery over time, and develop a charging strategy that maximizes the useful life of the battery. The useful life of the battery may be maximized by minimizing the charge on the battery over the course of the battery's life. The charge may be minimized by delayed charging and undercharging. | 03-10-2011 |
20100328073 | METHOD AND SYSTEM TO DETERMINE THE POSITION, ORIENTATION, SIZE, AND MOVEMENT OF RFID TAGGED OBJECTS - A method and system of determining spatial identification of an object, such as orientation, size, location, range, and/or movement, using an RFID system is disclosed. An RFID system can comprise one or more RFID reader receiving antennas that query one or more RFID tags coupled to the object. The measurement of the phase of the tag responses at the reader antennas and phase differentials as a function of distance, frequency, and time are the basis of spatial identification. The system can work with conventional Gen 2 tags and readers without modification of the tags or protocol. | 12-30-2010 |
20100314448 | DYNAMIC FOCUS CALIBRATION, SUCH AS DYNAMIC FOCUS CALIBRATION USING AN OPEN-LOOP SYSTEM IN A BAR CODE SCANNER - A system and method for recalibrating a bar code scanner or other optical system is described. In some cases, the system dynamically adjusts the focal length of a lens assembly based on open-loop process, such as based on feedback related to a distance between the lens assembly and an imaged object. In some cases, the system dynamically adjusts the lens assembly in order to provide auto focusing or zoom adjustment | 12-16-2010 |
20100277318 | RFID TAG SYSTEM WITH BLOCK CODING, SUCH AS SPACE-TIME BLOCK CODING - An apparatus for use in an RFID data collection system includes an antenna portion for wirelessly exchanging signals and a memory portion for storing RFID data. A signal processing portion is coupled among the antenna portion and the memory portion. The signal processing portion is configured to receive RFID data and to at least encode or decode the received RFID data via space-time block codes (STBC). For example, an RFID tag employs two spatially separated antennas and circuitry for transmitting to an RFID reader data stored in tag memory as STBC encoded data. Other configurations are also disclosed. | 11-04-2010 |
20100277289 | Device and Method for Suppressing a Transmitted Signal in a Receiver of an RFID Writing/Reading Device - A device for operating an RFID writing/reading device with transmitted signal suppression includes the RFID writing/reading device and a reflection modulator. The RFID writing/reading device includes a transmitter, a receiver with a signal processor, a directional coupler with a first, a second, a third and a fourth port, and an antenna. The reflection modulator is connected to the fourth port of the directional coupler. The reflection modulator includes a first setting element and a second setting element. The reflection modulator is configured to reflect a copy of a transmitted signal from the RFID writing/reading device, the amplitude and phase of which copy have been weighted, to the directional coupler. The directional coupler is configured to add the weighted copy of the transmitted signal to a received signal from the antenna in the directional coupler. | 11-04-2010 |
20100220894 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GEOMETRICAL MEASUREMENT USING AN OPTICAL DEVICE SUCH AS A BARCODE AND/OR RFID SCANNER - A system and method are described for determining the dimensions of items using an optical device, such as a barcode and/or RFID tag reader, for example. The dimensions of the field of view of the optical device are established, indexed by distance, and the dimensions of items in the field of view of the optical device are determined as a percentage of the full field of view of the optical device at the appropriate distance. | 09-02-2010 |
20100200727 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOFOCUSING AN OPTICAL SYSTEM THROUGH IMAGE SPECTRAL ANALYSIS - A system and method of autofocusing an optical system uses transforms of images or portions of images formed by the optical system. A detector is used to capture images at different positions relative to the optical system. Transforms and blur spread parameters are calculated for the images for use in determining a position to which the detector should be moved to autofocus the system. | 08-12-2010 |
20100188225 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF READING RFID TAGS AT HIGH SPEEDS - Processing a transponder signal received from a transponder may include providing a first signal that is in-phase with the transponder signal and a second that is off-phase with the first signal. A first transformed signal is generated using the first signal, where the first transformed signal has a first characteristic equal to the first characteristic of the first signal and a second characteristic different from the second characteristic of the first signal. A second transformed signal is generated using the second signal, where the second transformed signal has a first characteristic equal to the first characteristic of the second signal and a second characteristic different from the second characteristic of the second signal. Information incorporated in the transponder signal is obtained using a combination of the first transformed signal and the second transformed signal. | 07-29-2010 |
20100188197 | FINDING SENSOR DATA IN AN RFID NETWORK - A system and method of selectively reading sensor data from a memory device is able to search the memory device for an indicator that identifies the sensor data, and read only the sensor data identified by the indicator from the memory device. In this way, interrogating devices are able to sort through sensor data stored in a network of memory devices, such as an RFID network, and report specific data of interest despite the existence of a variety of data types in the network. In some embodiments, flags are stored and associated with specific types of data, such as various sensor data, thereby allowing numerous memory devices and sensors to operate and be read efficiently in the same environment. | 07-29-2010 |
20100153062 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LASER RANGE-FINDING - A system and method is described for determining a distance to a desired target via correlating a pulse modulated signal with its corresponding reflected signal, while compensating for noise error in the reflected signal to allow for a more precise distance determination. Further details and features are described herein. | 06-17-2010 |
20100103053 | CIRCULARLY POLARIZED ANTENNA - A circularly polarized antenna includes a generally helical wire defining a generally cylindrical passage having a first end and a second end. A first ground plane is proximate the first end of the generally cylindrical passage and has a width substantially equal to a diameter of the generally cylindrical passage. A cable extends through the generally cylindrical passage and is electrically coupled to the first ground plane and to the generally helical wire proximate the first end. | 04-29-2010 |
20100102931 | WIRELESS TRANSPONDER SYSTEM WITH POLARIZATION MODULATION - A wireless transponder system includes at least one antenna configured to send transponder signals. The wireless transponder system also includes a wireless transponder circuit coupled to the at least one antenna, the wireless transponder circuit having a first state for sending transponder signals of a first polarization type and a second state for sending transponder signals of a second polarization type different than the first polarization type, and the wireless transponder circuit configured to encode information in a sequence of the transponder signals of the first polarization type alternating with the transponder signals of the second polarization type. | 04-29-2010 |
20100082996 | METHOD, APPARATUS AND ARTICLE FOR OFF-LINE CERTIFICATION IN MOBILE APPLICATIONS - A tamper-resistant certification device receives a certified digital time stamp from a trusted third party, resets a time function and produces a time stamp receipt in an on-line mode; The tamper-resistant certification device receives a digital file from a mobile computing device, and produces a certified digitally signed digital file including a copy of the digital file, time stamp receipt and temporal offset in an off-line mode to evidence the content of the digital file within a defined tolerance of a day and/or time. A processor may be portioned into tamper and non-tamper resistant portions. | 04-01-2010 |
20100071072 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING ACCESS TO LICENSE PROTECTED ASSETS USING USING RFID TECHNOLOGY - Access to a license protected asset is limited by storing license information associated with the asset on at least one radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. Access to the asset is allowed only upon successful retrieval and verification of the license information by a device having at least one RFID reader. | 03-18-2010 |
20100045859 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DISPLAY SCREEN FLICKER DETECTION AND CORRECTION - An improved display screen flicker detection and correction system. The system includes a flicker detection component. A test pattern is placed on a display screen to be tested and corrected. The flicker detection component is placed on or near the display screen. The flicker detection component senses the change in light level that results from the flickering screen. The display system is then adjusted to minimize flicker. | 02-25-2010 |
20090303045 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STEALTH TRACKING - A shipping and tracking system has a number of tracking stations that are geographically distributed. The tracking stations gather information from shipping items processed by the shipping and tracking system. The shipping and tracking system provides an enhanced level of security for selected shipping items. The enhanced level of security for the selected shipping items is based at least on the information gathered at the tracking stations. The enhanced security is provided in such a way that personnel of the shipping and delivery system cannot physically discern whether or not a shipping item is being shipped with enhanced security. | 12-10-2009 |
20090237223 | RFID TAG COMMUNICATION TRIGGERED BY SENSED ENERGY - An RFID tag is equipped with an energy sensor for receiving an appropriate energy signal or registering an appropriate temperature/environmental level. The RFID tag only responds to a query from an RFID reader if the sensor receives the appropriate stimulation. | 09-24-2009 |
20090219158 | RFID TAGS WITH ENHANCED RANGE AND BANDWIDTH OBTAINED BY SPATIAL ANTENNA DIVERSITY - Spatial antenna diversity is used with RFID tags to reduce sensitivity to multi-path fading. RFID tags can use a single multi-port chip or multiple multi-port chips. The ports of the chip or chips are coupled to separated feedpoints on one or more antennas. | 09-03-2009 |
20090212111 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING ERASURES IN A 2D SYMBOL - A system and method for identifying erasures in a 2D symbol is disclosed. One embodiment of a method for marking a codeword as an erasure in a Quick Response code (QR code) captured by a bar code reader includes, identifying the scrambling mask used for encoding the data in the QR code. A location of the codeword in the QR code corresponds with a portion of the scrambling mask. The codeword comprises multiple codeword bits and the portion of the scrambling mask comprises multiple mask bits. The method further includes, generating an unscrambled codeword by performing a logical operation between each of the multiple codeword bits and each of the multiple mask bits, generating a reference matrix by applying the scrambling mask to a uniform matrix, and/or comparing the unscrambled codeword with the reference matrix to determine whether the codeword is the erasure. | 08-27-2009 |
20090210940 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USING RFID TAG PROXIMITY TO GRANT SECURITY ACCESS TO A COMPUTER - A system and method of granting and removing a user's security access to applications on a computer using proximity of authorized RFID tags is disclosed. A user having an authorized RFID tag that is located near the computer will be granted access to pre-authorized applications. | 08-20-2009 |
20090207024 | UTILIZATION OF MOTION AND SPATIAL IDENTIFICATION IN MOBILE RFID INTERROGATOR - A system and method of using motion or spatial identification technology with a mobile RFID reader to detect whether an RFID tag is part of a forklift load or other ambulatory space includes determining if a tag is within a defined space or if a tag is in motion relative to a mobile RFID reader. The system and method determines whether a particular RFID tag is part of a forklift load/space, has been added to or removed, is an extraneous tag, etc. | 08-20-2009 |
20090190831 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LOCATING A TARGET REGION IN AN IMAGE - A system and method for locating a target region in an image is disclosed. In one embodiment a method includes automatically locating a signature field in a target region of an image captured by a barcode reader, where the target region includes rectangular boundaries defined by graphical delimiters in the image. One embodiment of the method includes, generating a binary-colored image, optionally performing de-speckling, generating a search pattern comprising multiple search locations that spatially correspond with pixels in the image, identifying a darker-shaded pixel in the multiple search pixels as a candidate pixel that is a portion of one of multiple graphical delimiters, analyzing colors of neighboring pixels of the candidate pixel to compute a weight value of the candidate pixel, and/or saving the candidate pixel as a located graphical delimiter of multiple graphical delimiters if the weight value of the candidate pixel exceeds or approximates a weight threshold. | 07-30-2009 |
20090189816 | NEAR-FIELD AND FAR-FIELD ANTENNA-ASSEMBLY AND DEVICES HAVING SAME - Systems, methods, and devices wirelessly communicate in a near-field region and a far-field region. A device may include a near-field antenna and a far-field antenna. The device may be configured to selectively operate in a near-field mode, employing the near-field antenna, and/or in a far-field mode, employing the far-field antenna, and/or in a joint mode, employing both the near-field antenna and the far-field antenna separately or concurrently. One type of device may be a wireless communications data-reader device configured for both near-field and far-field communications. Another type of device may be a wireless communications data-provider device configured for both near-field and far-field communications. | 07-30-2009 |
20090184802 | METHOD, APPARATUS, AND SYSTEM FOR RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION (RFID) TAG ASSOCIATION AND RELATIVE POSITIONING - Obscured radio frequency identification (RFID) tags are indirectly read by an RFID reader. Other tags operate to relay the information associated with the obscured tags from one tag to another, until the associated information is ultimately received by the RFID reader from a tag in direct communication with the RFID reader. The tags may be adapted to store the received information associated with the obscured tags and then to encode this associated information and resident information in return signal(s) transmitted to the RFID reader and/or to other tag(s). The RFID reader is adapted to decode the received return signals to obtain the information encoded therein, and to process the decoded information to identify irrelevant tags and obscured tags. | 07-23-2009 |
20090131074 | UTILIZING LOCATION-BASED DATA TO MANIPULATE POWER STATES OF EMBEDDED DEVICES - One or more media is provided for performing a method of utilizing location-based data to manipulate power states of one or more embedded devices on a mobile device. Initially, location-based data from a positioning system (GPS satellite) is received. Generally, the location-based data relates to a global position of the mobile device. The location-based data may then be applied to a set of positional rules, which includes comparing the position-based data against the one or more predefined positional coordinates. Accordingly, the appropriate power level of one or more embedded devices may be determined. Further, if the determination indicates that a present power level of the embedded devices conflicts with the determined appropriate power state, the power state of the conflicting embedded devices is manipulated consistent with the positional rule. As such, this configuration provides for a useful power-management scheme that preserves battery life. | 05-21-2009 |
20090128926 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MOVING A LENS USING SHAPE MEMORY MATERIALS - An imaging apparatus comprises an image pickup and a lens. A shape memory actuator is coupled to the lens and configured to move the lens relative to the image pickup. | 05-21-2009 |
20090128509 | EXTERNALLY RECONFIGURABLE INPUT SYSTEM - An externally reconfigurable input system for an electronic device is provided. The input system has the flexibility of receiving input via an input interface with the guidance of key-based substrate overlay positioned proximate a sensor array that is coupled to a printed wiring assembly. An input correlation component receives signals generated by the sensor array in response to displacement of one or more keys associated with the key-based substrate. The key-based substrate overlay is removable so as to be reconfigured. | 05-21-2009 |
20090128334 | RFID Tag Reader Station With Image Capabilities - A system and method is provided for image surveillance of areas of interest for items having radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. These areas of interest are often times unmonitored due to privacy concerns. The present invention discloses an image surveillance system and method, that upon indication of an RFID tag coming within proximity of a portal system having an RFID reader, records one or more images of the area of interest, so as to capture a subject associated with the RFID tagged item moving into or through the area of interest. Such applications for embodiments of the present invention are directed to monitor items of interest in retail stores, restaurants, shipping and receiving locations, and other public areas. | 05-21-2009 |
20090114727 | LASER BARCODE SCANNER EMPLOYING HETERODYNING TECHNIQUES - A system and method of scanning machine-readable symbols with a signal source modulated by a local oscillator to create by heterodyne mixing upconverted signals at the sum and difference frequencies of the local oscillator frequency and the frequency of the time-varying reflectance off the scanned symbols is disclosed. The reflected heterodyned signal is detected by a receiver. Ambient noise is filtered out from the reflected signal, and the received signal at the sum and difference frequencies is processed. | 05-07-2009 |
20090108997 | SYSTEM, DEVICES, AND METHOD FOR ENERGIZING PASSIVE WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATION DEVICES - Systems, methods, and devices wirelessly energize passive wireless data communication devices. In one embodiment, remotely powered wireless transmission power sources are actuated by a user. Upon actuation, a selected wireless transmission power source transmits electromagnetic energization energy into a volume of space, thereby energizing passive wireless data communication devices therein. The user may use a hand-held portable automatic data collection device to interrogate the wireless data communication devices and may use the automatic data collection device to remotely actuate the selected wireless transmission power source. | 04-30-2009 |
20090085749 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR WIRELESSLY MARKING MEDIA - A media marking transponder system includes a media fastener and a wireless transponder circuit coupled to the media fastener. The antenna for the wireless transponder circuit has a first effective length when no piece of media is fastened to the media fastener and a second, different effective length when at least one piece of media is fastened to the media fastener. | 04-02-2009 |
20090059842 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES THAT DYNAMICALLY ESTABLISH A SENSOR NETWORK - A wireless sensor network includes a network sink node and a plurality of cluster nodes. The cluster nodes are configured to pass communications upstream and downstream. Each cluster node has a communication range, or coverage area. A cluster node is configured to communicate with sensor nodes within the coverage area of cluster node. The sensor nodes are configured to register with at least one cluster node. The cluster nodes are configured to register with the network sink. Identifiers for the sensor nodes may be dynamically generated. Identifiers for the cluster nodes may be dynamically generated. | 03-05-2009 |
20090058634 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR COLLECTING DATA FROM WIRELESS SENSOR NODES - A data request from a requesting device is received at a network of wireless sensor nodes. The data request is then forwarded through the network of wireless sensor nodes to a source wireless sensor node, where data responsive to the data request is generated. A reply including the responsive data is then forwarded along at least two communication paths through the network of wireless sensor nodes back to the requesting device. | 03-05-2009 |
20090044021 | METHOD, APPARATUS AND ARTICLE FOR OFF-LINE CERTIFICATION IN MOBILE APPLICATIONS - A tamper-resistant certification device receives a certified digital time stamp from a trusted third party, resets a time function and produces a time stamp receipt in an on-line mode; The tamper-resistant certification device receives a digital file from a mobile computing device, and produces a certified digitally signed digital file including a copy of the digital file, time stamp receipt and temporal offset in an off-line mode to evidence the content of the digital file within a defined tolerance of a day and/or time. A processor may be portioned into tamper and non-tamper resistant portions. | 02-12-2009 |
20090014525 | MACHINE-READABLE SYMBOL READER AND METHOD EMPLOYING AN ULTRACOMPACT LIGHT CONCENTRATOR WITH ADAPTIVE FIELD OF VIEW - An optoelectronic reader for reading machine-readable symbol such as barcode symbols employs a detection sub-system having an RX concentrator. The detection subsystem may include an N-tuple RX concentrator. The RX concentrator may define an optical path for light to illuminate the machine-readable symbol. | 01-15-2009 |
20080315994 | Method, Apparatus, and System for Selecting and Locating Objects Having Radio Frequency Identification (Rfid) Tags - A carrier structure has a plurality of cells. A corresponding plurality of objects having data carriers, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, is placed in each cell. Each cell has an indicator associated therewith and is defined by walls that substantially prevent waves (such as RF waves) from propagating between cells. A control module is coupled to the carrier structure and is operative to selectively activate individual ones of the indicators. An automatic data collection device (such as an RFID reader) interrogates the data carriers of the objects placed in the cells, and the data carriers can provide response signals to the data collection device. The control module also monitors the response signals using an antenna present in each cell. If the data collection device selects a particular one of the responsive data carriers, the data collection device provides a notification signal to the control module to notify the control module of the selection. The control module then identifies and selects the cell of an object of interest having the selected data carrier affixed thereon, and initiates activation of the indicator associated with the selected cell, thereby identifying the location of the object of interest. | 12-25-2008 |
20080267537 | Noise Reduction by Image Subtraction in an Automatic Data Collection Device, Such as an Image Acquisition Device - An automatic data collection device ( | 10-30-2008 |
20080259111 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REGISTERING AND MAINTAINING REGISTRATION OF A MEDIUM IN A CONTENT APPLICATOR - A content applicator receives a continuous medium and applies content to segments of the continuous medium. The content applicator includes a sensor array, a controller subsystem, and a print station. The sensor array scans the continuous medium as the continuous medium moves along a medium transport pathway. The controller subsystems receives scan information from the sensor array and uses the scan information to establish and maintain registration between the continuous medium and the print station. | 10-23-2008 |
20080252424 | Stochastic Communication Protocol Method and System For Radio Frequency Identification (Rfid) Tags Based on Coalition Formation, Such as For Tag-To-Tag Communication - Data carriers (such as RFID tags) are formed into clusters of data carriers. Each cluster has at least one bridge data carrier that can communicate with a bridge data carrier of another cluster, thereby allowing data carriers in each cluster to communicate directly or indirectly with each other using a stochastic communication protocol method. Direct tag-to-tag communication capability is provided between data carriers in each cluster and/or between clusters. The data carriers can backscatter and modulate a carrier wave from a source, thereby using the backscattered and modulated carrier wave to convey data to each other. | 10-16-2008 |
20080227611 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CREATING A CONTINUOUS STREAM OF ENVELOPES - A system and method is provided for creating a continuous stream of envelopes. Envelopes are constructed in a manner that uses existing presses and manufacturing equipment to create a stream of envelopes that are connected together. The envelopes are created from the joining of two or more layers of materials and can be shaped into various forms. The stream of envelopes may be printed using existing industrial printers in a continuous process. Subsequently, the stream of envelopes can be separated into individual envelopes. | 09-18-2008 |
20080227411 | WIRELESS TRACTOR-TRAILER COMMUNICATIONS - Computer-readable media, systems, and methods for wirelessly communicating between a tractor and a set of trailers in a tractor-trailer environment are described. In embodiments, a tractor wireless communication device associated with a tractor is initialized and associated with a tractor initialization time. Additionally, a trailer wireless communication device associated with at least one trailer is initialized and associated with a trailer initialization time. In various embodiments, it is determined whether the tractor wireless communication device and the trailer wireless communication device are in physical proximity by comparing initialization times. Further, in various embodiments, tractor-trailer information events are communicated wirelessly between a tractor and a trailer. | 09-18-2008 |
20080223935 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS FOR READING MACHINE-READABLE CHARACTERS AND HUMAN-READABLE CHARACTERS - Systems, devices, and methods for automatic data collection. An automatic data collection system includes an image capture subsystem and a processor subsystem. The automatic data collection system is operable to decode machine-readable symbols in a machine-readable symbol reading mode, and to automatically switch from a machine-readable symbol reading mode to an optical character recognition mode in response to information encoded in a machine-readable symbol. In some embodiments, the automatic data collection system is further operable to perform optical character recognition on human-readable symbols in a human-readable symbol reading mode. | 09-18-2008 |