Patent ID: 7535339
Filing Date: 2009-05-19
Classification: G01S,G06K,G06Q,G07C,G08B,H04L,H04Q,H04W,Y02D

Abstract:
1. A wireless sensor reader comprising: at least one antenna configured for communication with one or more radio frequency (RF) addressable sensors; a controller; a network communications module coupled to the controller, the network communications module having an interface for coupling to a communications network; a logic module coupled to the controller; and a user interface; wherein the logic module includes a sensor communications module for receiving sensor data from the one or more RF addressable sensors; wherein the wireless sensor reader is configured for common designation network communications; wherein the wireless sensor reader is capable of powering down to conserve energy and capable of powering up in response to an electronic signal; and wherein the wireless sensor reader comprises, (i) a transmitter and a first receiver, and (ii) a second receiver that is configured to screen a radio frequency transmission and provide, on the basis of specific data identified therein representing a common designation in common designation network communications, the electronic signal in order to power up the wireless sensor reader, the second receiver being adapted to draw less current than the first receiver while awaiting receipt of and listening for a radio frequency transmission.