RFID tag data affecting automation controller with internal database

The claimed subject matter provides a system and/or a method that facilitates utilizing a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag associated with an object. An RFID component can receive extended data from the RFID tag that identifies an operation. An automation device can then manipulate the object based at least in part upon the extended data and the identified operation. Moreover, a controller can be utilized to control the automation device, wherein the controller utilizes an internal database and/or data store to provide efficient access to specific information.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The claimed subject matter is related to RFID technology, and more specifically to RFID tags utilized within an industrial automation system.

BACKGROUND

An evolving technology that is rapidly gaining interest is Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), which leverages electronic data to mitigate data reading (e.g., scanning bar codes) and/or opening containers to obtain product information. RFID technology leverages electronic data and wireless communications for identification purposes. With RFID systems, electronic data typically is stored within an RFID tag, which can be formed from a small silicon chip and one or more antennas and affixed to a product. Reading from and/or writing to an RFID tag can be achieved through radio frequency (RF) based wireless communication via devices referred to as RFID readers. An RFID reader is a device that can be utilized to read and/or write RFID tag data, depending on read/write privileges.

In general, writing is utilized to add and/or modify product-specific information to an RFID tag, and reading is utilized to retrieve the information, for example, to provide for automatic product identification. In many instances, the electronic data written to and/or read from an RFID tag includes an Electronic Product Code (EPC), as well as other product-related data. The EPC, in general, is a unique number that is encoded (e.g., as a bit code) and embedded within the RFID tag (a small silicon chip with one or more antennas) affixed to an associated product. Typical EPC data can include information about the associated product (e.g., product type, date of manufacture, lot number, source data, destination data, unique product code, . . . ) and/or associated pallets, boxes, cases and/or container levels, for example.

In today's highly sophisticated, complex and intelligent industrial automation systems, RFID technology is becoming an increasingly important presence for logistics concerns, material handling and inventory management. Simply knowing that an object exists in a large warehouse is no longer sufficient. When implementing an RFID solution in a distribution center or a factory, it is customary to utilize three distinct platforms: an RFID reader/antenna (e.g., a fixed implementation), RFID “middleware” software running on a standard PC (Personal Computer), and an industrial controller (e.g., a PLC—Programmable Logic Controller). A traditional communications approach is to have the RFID reader connect to the controller via a network using, for example, RS-232 serial communications, Ethernet, or any of the field buses such as DeviceNet, ControlNet, etc. Thus, data read from the RFID tag can be utilized to provide a greater degree of certainty over what goes into a supply chain and how to manage raw materials, warehouse inventory, shipments, logistics, and/or various other aspects of manufacturing.

When passed through or scanned by a reader, an RFID tag emits stored electronic data such that the data can be retrieved by an RFID reader without unpacking the product or scanning barcode labels. Read information can be utilized to provide a greater degree of certainty over what goes into a supply chain and/or how to manage raw materials, warehouse inventory, shipments, logistics, and/or various other aspects of manufacturing. Yet, there is a need to provide techniques and/or methods in allowing the intelligent industrial automation systems leverage off such RFID technology.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of the innovation in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects described herein. This summary is not an extensive overview of the claimed subject matter. It is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of the claimed subject matter nor delineate the scope of the subject innovation. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the claimed subject matter in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject innovation relates to systems and/or methods that facilitate utilizing radio frequency identification (RFID) tag data with an automation device. An RFID component can transfer data from an RFID tag via wireless communication, wherein the RFID tag can include data that can be utilized by an automation device. The RFID tag data can include extended data and/or user defined data, wherein such data can define an operation and/or mechanism implemented by the automation device. The automation device can utilize the bits and/or numbers within the RFID tag data to directly or indirectly effect control output. For instance, the extended information can be routing information for an object associated with an RFID tag, wherein the object moves through transfer gates based at least in part upon the extended information. In another example, the extended information can be detailed process parameters for driving process automation control at a plurality of stations in a manufacturing application.

In accordance with one aspect of the claimed subject matter, the automation device can be controlled by a controller. The controller can include software and/or hardware components having inputs and/or outputs that can be programmed to deliver/receive automation manufacturing-related data. Moreover, the controller can include an internal database and/or data store that provide storage of data to invoke efficient access to RFID related information. For instance, the internal database and/or data store can store information such as, but not limited to, object history, a desired operation, a desired mechanism, location information, an intended customer, an authorized operator, etc. In accordance with another aspect of the claimed subject matter, the controller can receive external communications from a business system, wherein the business system can utilize the RFID tag data within the internal database.

In accordance with another aspect of the innovation described herein, the RFID tag data can be related to a plurality of operations, a portion of the plurality of operations, and a single operation that is controlled by at least one automation device. Furthermore, the extended data and/or user defined data included with the RFID tag can be re-written based at least part upon a completion and/or a portion of completion of a particular operation. The re-written extended data and/or user defined data can relate to a disparate operation and/or mechanism and/or a disparate automation device, and/or any combination thereof.

In accordance with another aspect of the claimed subject matter, the RFID tag can be a passive tag that utilizes ultra high frequency (UHF), wherein a power source is not included on the RFID tag. Moreover, the RFID tag data can include at least one of extended data, user defined data, tag identification, product data, reader identification, environment data, etc. The RFID tag can then be associated with an object and/or item, to which a particular operation and/or mechanism is to be invoked by the automation device. For example, the RFID tag can be associated with a pallet, a box, the object itself, etc. In other aspects of the claimed subject matter, methods are provided that facilitate utilizing radio frequency identification (RFID) tag data with an automation device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Now turning to the figures,FIG. 1illustrates a system100that facilitates utilizing radio frequency identification (RFID) tag data with an automation device. An RFID component104can transfer data from an RFID tag102via wireless communication, wherein the RFID tag102can include data that can be utilized by an automation device106. It is to be appreciated and understood that the RFID tag102can be a passive RFID tag, and in particular a passive UHF tag. The RFID component104can be, but is not limited to, various components that read, write, receive, and/or store electronic product data, such as, readers, writers and/or servers, and can be a handheld device or a fixed-mount device depending on the particular application. The RFID tag102can be utilized to store extended data and/or user defined data (also referred to as RFID tag data). This extended data and/or user defined data can be utilized to identify mechanisms and/or operations to be applied by the automation device106. It is to be appreciated that the automation device106can be, but is not limited to, a roller, a station, a welder, a scanner, a belt conveyor, a pump, a press, a fan, etc., or any other suitable device utilized in automation systems. In other words, the extended data and/or user defined data included with the RFID tag102can identify a mechanism and/or operation that is to be implemented by the automation device106. Furthermore, the automation device106is controlled by a controller108. It is to be appreciated that the controller108can contain software components and hardware components having inputs and/or outputs that can be utilized in connection with automating an industrial manufacturing device/process.

In one example, the RFID tag102can be on an object such that the tag can be programmed with user defined data that corresponds to manufacturing and/or processing of the object. It is to be appreciated that the RFID tag data can be utilized for at least a portion of the manufacturing process and/or operation. Thus, the RFID tag data can be employed through a complete set of stations, a portion of the stations, a portion of operations, etc. In particular, the RFID tag102can include data that relates to an operation and/or mechanism to be implemented by the automation device106controlled by at least one controller108. Upon completion of the operation and/or mechanism, the RFID tag data can be: 1) reused by automation devices, operations, mechanisms, stations, controllers, etc.; and/or 2) re-written with disparate extended data and/or user defined data that corresponds to a disparate operation and/or mechanism to be employed.

For example, an RFID tag102can be associated with a particular widget, wherein the RFID tag102includes extended data that identifies a specific operation and/or mechanism to be performed on the widget by the automation device. The RFID tag data can define a sequence of welding for the widget at two distinct welding stations, wherein the automation device106is a welder. The RFID tag data can identify an operation and/or mechanism for the welder in the first station and the second station or the RFID tag data can identify an operation and/or mechanism for the first station and be re-written by the RFID component104to update the RFID tag data for the second station. In another example, the widget can be on a conveyor belt system, wherein the automation device106can direct the transfer of such widget based at least in part upon the RFID tag102and extended data and/or user defined data. In other words, the RFID tag102and extended data can be utilized to facilitate transport and/or manipulation of an object.

FIG. 2illustrates a system200that facilitates manipulating an object via an automation device controlled by a controller with an internal database based at least in part upon RFID tag data. An object202can include an RFID tag204that can interact with an RFID component206via wireless communication, wherein RFID tag data can identify an operation and/or mechanism to be implemented by an automation device208. It is to be appreciated and understood that the RFID tag204can be a passive RFID tag, and in particular a passive UHF tag. The object202can be any suitable article associated with an automation system and/or process, wherein the object can be manipulated by the automation device208. For instance, the object202can be a box, a pallet, a good, a crate, an article of manufacture, etc. Moreover, the object202can include the RFID tag204by utilizing adhesive and/or any suitable attachment to the object202.

The automation device208can invoke an operation and/or mechanism on the object202based at least in part upon the RFID tag data (e.g., extended data, user defined data, identification data, . . . ), wherein the automation device208is controlled by a controller210. It is to be appreciated that the controller210can include software and/or hardware components, wherein inputs and/or outputs can be utilized in order to automate an industrial device and/or process. Furthermore, the controller210can include an internal database212that facilitates storing and/or accessing data to achieve efficiency and speed. The internal database212can include information about the object202such as, but not limited to, object history, desired operations, intended customer, authorized operator, etc. With the controller210having the internal database212, standardization and functionality can be enabled in the manufacturing process and/or automation system.

The internal database212can utilize common database technology for representing, configuring, editing, entering, and communicating the data contained therein. It is to be appreciated and understood that the internal database212can include object oriented methods for structuring data and methods that can be operated on such data. By creating the association of data record types to each other and to functions or business rules that could be programmed on the controller210, the controller210and associated automation device208can accomplish a plurality of jobs beyond conventional system program logic controller (PLC) based automation devices.

In addition, utilizing the internal database212within the controller210, the control programming can take advantage of direct access to the stored information for driving decisions, operations, mechanisms, manipulations, and controlling devices. By providing an on-board database such as the database212, the time and/or number of steps required to execute the desired automation functions is greatly reduced. Local automation programming can also advantageously utilize inherent information manipulation capabilities of such system200to directly access the data in a form and format more consistent with business data access (e.g., including structured and/or object oriented data representation and addressing).

FIG. 3illustrates a system300that facilitates controlling an object within a manufacturing application utilizing RFID tag data. A pallet302can be associated with an RFID tag304, wherein various operations and/or mechanism can be related thereto, and such operations and/or mechanisms can be implemented by various automation devices (not shown). Moreover, the pallet302can include various objects with respective RFID tags306, wherein each RFID tag can contain RFID tag data that relates to each object, and/or a portion of the objects. The RFID tag304can transfer RFID tag data, extended data, and/or user defined data via wireless communication to an RFID component308, wherein the RFID component308can cause various components310within automation to utilize such data. It is to be appreciated and understood that the RFID tags304and306can be passive RFID tags, and in particular, passive UHF tags. The RFID tag data (e.g., extended data, user defined data, etc.) can be utilized by at least one transfer gate312and/or at least one station314, wherein the transfer gate312can be considered an automation device and the station314can include at least one automation device. Furthermore, the various components310that can utilize the extended RFID tag data to influence the pallet302and/or various objects with respective RFID tags306can be controlled by a controller316that includes an internal data store318that stores RFID related information (e.g., object history, desired operations, intended customer, authorized operator, etc.).

For instance, the pallet302can be received at a docking location, wherein the RFID tag304can identify the pallet302and extended data and/or user defined data on the RFID tag304that relates to various operations (e.g., manipulations, moving, welding, pressing, fanning, heating, cooling, etc.) can be applied. Moreover, the stations314and/or transfer gates312can implement various operation(s) on the pallet302, the various objects with respective RFID tags306, and/or a portion of the various objects with respective RFID tags306. In one example, a crane (e.g., an automation device), can re-locate an object based at least in part upon the extended data contained within the RFID tag associated therewith.

It is to be appreciated that the RFID tag data (e.g., extended data, user defined data, identification data, etc.) can include direct routing and/or processing information for the objects306and/or a portion of the objects306. Thus, a reference back to an information store external to the objects306is not necessary. Moreover, as stated above, an automation device (not shown) can write to the extended space on the RFID tags to efficiently pass such information from one step in a process to the next.

The extended information can be related to routing information for the object as it moves through a set of material transfer gates312. Moreover the information can be detailed process parameters for driving process automation control at multiple stations314in a manufacturing application. In addition, it is to be appreciated and understood that the source of the information can be from the object itself in the form of a sensor (not shown) input into the RFID extended data space.

The affect on the automation systems and/or devices can be direct and/or indirect. In a direct effect scenario, the RFID tag data (e.g., bits and/or numbers in the extended information) can be directly utilized as the decision that drives control of outputs. For example, the bits can directly indicate the state of a digital output. If a bit in the extended data is true, then the output can be energized; and if the bit is false, it can be de-energized. In another example, the numbers and/or bits can directly command the value of an analog output or set point to a control loop.

In an indirect scenario, the bits and/or numbers in the extended data can select a decision or outcome that can drive control of outputs. For instance, one bit can indicate a set of desired outcomes for a single station314of automation such as diverting a package from a conveyor. Such actions can include the activations of several pieces of automation to accomplish, but can be triggered as a single outcome based on a single bit. In another example, the numbers and/or bits can indirectly be utilized to select an outcome from a pre-programmed set of responses in a particular piece of automation. For instance, this can be a station314that can do one of three manipulations with a tagged item. The automation can require a number larger than what can be represented by a single bit to indicate the selection of an outcome or operation that is to be performed by the claimed subject matter. In other words, the multiple bits in the RFID tag data can be utilized to select one of the three manipulations by implementing the multiple bits therein.

Furthermore, the controller316can utilize the internal data store318to store and/or access information carried in the RFID tag associated with the objects306. The data store318can store various data related to the system300, such as, but not limited to object history, desired operations, desired mechanisms, location information, intended customer, authorized operator, etc. The data store318can be, for example, either volatile memory or nonvolatile memory, or can include both volatile and nonvolatile memory. By way of illustration, and not limitation, nonvolatile memory can include read only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM), which acts as external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in many forms such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), Rambus direct RAM (RDRAM), direct Rambus dynamic RAM (DRDRAM), and Rambus dynamic RAM (RDRAM). The data store318of the subject systems and methods is intended to comprise, without being limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory. In addition, it is to be appreciated that the data store318can be a server, a database, a hard drive, and the like.

FIG. 4illustrates a system400that facilitates controlling an automation device with a controller having an internal database by implementing the use of RFID tag data. An object402can be identified by an RFID tag404, wherein such RFID tag404can communicate via wireless communication with an RFID component406. The RFID tag404can be, for instance, a passive UHF tag. The RFID component406can receive data included with the RFID tag404that can be utilized to identify an operation and/or mechanism to be implemented on the object402by an automation device408. The automation device408can be controlled by a controller410that contains an internal database412. It is to be appreciated that the object402, the RFID tag404, the RFID component406, the automation device408, the controller410, and the database412can be substantially similar to the components described in previous figures.

The controller410can further utilize any suitable communications (e.g., internal and/or external) from a business system414. The business system414can further include various other databases and/or methods consistent to inter-data communications. For example, such techniques can include the utilization of extensible markup language (XML) for formatting requests and/or transactions associated with the business system414. In addition, standard definitions can be included such as business to manufacturing markup language (B2MML) to define information that can be passed to and from such a manufacturing database. It is to be appreciated that the transactions can carry the desired manufacturing operations and/or orders as well as response and status from the automation controller as to the state of the object, equipment, automation device, requested operation, etc.

FIG. 5illustrates an RFID tag500in accordance with the claimed subject matter. It is to be appreciated and understood that the tag500can be a passive RFID tag, and in particular a passive UHF tag. The tag500can include a single antenna502(or multiple antennas) (denoted ANTENNA) that facilitates communicating signals and data with an RFID reader (or reader/writer) (not shown). The tag500also includes a tag IC504that provides onboard processing of the data and signals. In support thereof, the tag IC504further includes a processor506(e.g., a digital signal processor-DSP) that facilitates data and signal processing and storage, and a transceiver508that interfaces to the antenna502for communications of the data and signals. It is to be appreciated that the tag500can be a passive tag (e.g., no internal power supply) and/or an active tag, such that a power source (not shown) (e.g., a coin cell, capacitor) is provided.

FIG. 6illustrates an exemplary RFID data packet600that includes extended data which can be utilized by an automation device controlled by a controller with an internal database. The RFID data packet600can be related to a passive RFID tag, and in particular a passive UHF tag. The packet600can include a tag ID602that uniquely identifies the tag; however, this is not a requirement. Product data604is included that describes the product to which the RFID tag is attached or associated. The packet600also includes extended data and/or user defined data608. The extended data and/or user defined data608can be utilized to encode information that can be directly and/or indirectly utilized by automation devices that operate on the product and/or object. For example, the extended data and/or user defined data608can be routing information for an object and/or detailed process parameters for driving process automation control. Reader ID data610can be received from the reader from which the generated frequency can be known. Environmental data612can also be communicated, since the tag IC can interface to one or more environmental sensors (e.g., temperature, pressure, humidity, shock, vibration, . . . ). Other data can also be communicated via the packet600, according to the particular application

FIG. 7illustrates an application of an RFID system700in accordance with at least one aspect of the claimed subject matter. WhileFIG. 7illustrates products being moved by a conveyor belt system702, it will be appreciated that the claimed subject matter works equally well in other applications such as a forklifts, trucks, line, manual movement of goods, etc. A plurality of RFID R/W devices (a first reader704, and a second reader706) are employed to detect the presence of a plurality of RFID tags. While the RFID devices (704and706) are shown as overhead devices, it should be understood that the devices can be located anywhere, provided the range of coverage is appropriate for the particular purpose. For example, the devices (704and706) can be underneath, on the side and or in various locations throughout the environment. Each of the RFID R/W devices (704and706) transmits respective signals (710and712) that can be constant, intermittent, or periodically transmitted, such as when activated by a sensor device.

As a pallet of products708is moved (e.g., by a conveyor belt system702or other suitable means), the products move within the read range of the second RFID R/W reader706. RFID tags associated with respective products, a few of which are illustrated at714, are activated by the corresponding emitted signal712, and respond via respective return signals716communicated to the second RFID R/W device706. It is to be appreciated and understood that the RFID tags can be passive RFID tags, and in particular passive UHF tags. As the conveyor belt system702and associated pallet of products708move though the environment, the products enter the range of the first RFID R/W device704, and the associated return signals will be transmitted in a similar manner. As the pallet of products708is moving, the RFID tags are constantly activated (for passive devices) and providing information concerning at least one parameter associated with the RFID R/W device (e.g., signal strength, origin, . . . ) and/or operating conditions.

FIG. 8illustrates a block diagram of an RFID system800having a plurality of stations that interact with a plurality of objects having respective RFID tags. It is to be appreciated and understood that the RFID tags can be passive RFID tags, and in particular passive UHF tags. When an RFID component802(e.g., an RFID reader) reads RFID tags, a read signal is broadcast from the RFID component802that energizes and/or causes to be received RFID tag data from all tags in a given range thereof. Thus, the RFID component802can receive data from a large number of tags for which data is not desired. Not only does this impose additional processing requirements on the RFID component802, but it can also negatively impact network bandwidth between the RFID component802and a remote system. Thus, a filter component808can interface the RFID component802and process the RFID tag data to filter out tag signals that are unwanted. Note that the filter component808can also be made internal to the RFID component802.

The system can also include a network810on which is disposed an automation device806and/or a plurality of automation devices that can utilize the RFID tag data in order to identify an operation and/or mechanism to be performed upon an object. Moreover, a controller814(e.g., a PLC) can also be disposed on the network810in control of an automated process such as moving product down an assembly line. The controller814can include an internal data store812, where such data store can store any data suitable to be utilized in conjunction with the implementation of an RFID tag such as, but not limited to, object history, desired operations, intended customer, authorized operator, etc. A transceiver816provides wireless network communications between the network810and the RFID component802such that location data and tag data can be communicated to the data store812and/or the controller814.

Illustrated are objects818(denoted OBJECT1, OBJECT2, and OBJECT3) and associated RFID tags (denoted RFID TAG1, RFID TAG2, and RFID TAG3) in respective stations (STATION A, STATION B, AND STATION C). The user desires to read a tag820of a first object822in station A, yet receives in addition thereto data from a second tag824of a second object826in station B and a third tag828of a third object830in a station C. The location system806can facilitate the determination of location data of the reader802such that in this example, the user is determined to be closer to station A.

It can already be known from prior tag scans and/or user input information, for example, that the first object822is associated with station A, the second object826is associated with station B, and the third object830is associated with station C. Accordingly, any other tag data received by the reader802indicating that the tag (824and828) is associated with an object that is not in station A can be filtered without further processing. Similarly, as the user moves the mobile reader that contains the RFID component802closer to station B, the tag data that is received from object tags in station A and station C can be filtered out from further consideration.

FIG. 9illustrates a system900that facilitates utilizing RFID tag data with an automation device. The system900can employ intelligence to facilitate utilizing RFID extended data to identify an operation implemented by an automation device. The system900can include an RFID tag902, an RFID component904, an automation device906, and a controller908that can all be substantially similar to respective components, devices, controllers, and tags described in previous figures. The system900further includes an intelligent component910. The intelligent component910can be utilized by the automation device906to facilitate implementation of the RFID tag data (e.g., extended data, user defined data, . . . ). For example, the intelligent component910can infer the operation and/or mechanisms to be instantiated upon an object associated with the RFID tag902, filtering signals, location, etc.

A presentation component912can provide various types of user interfaces to facilitate interaction between a user and any component associated with the system900. As depicted, the presentation component912is a separate entity that can be utilized with the automation device906. However, it is to be appreciated that the presentation component912and/or similar view components can be incorporated into the automation device906and/or a stand-alone unit. The presentation component912can provide one or more graphical user interfaces (GUIs), command line interfaces, and the like. For example, a GUI can be rendered that provides a user with a region or means to load, import, read, etc., data, and can include a region to present the results of such. These regions can comprise known text and/or graphic regions comprising dialogue boxes, static controls, drop-down-menus, list boxes, pop-up menus, as edit controls, combo boxes, radio buttons, check boxes, push buttons, and graphic boxes. In addition, utilities to facilitate the presentation such vertical and/or horizontal scroll bars for navigation and toolbar buttons to determine whether a region will be viewable can be employed. For example, the user can interact with one or more of the components coupled to the automation device906.

The user can also interact with the regions to select and provide information via various devices such as a mouse, a roller ball, a keypad, a keyboard, a pen and/or voice activation, for example. Typically, a mechanism such as a push button or the enter key on the keyboard can be employed subsequent entering the information in order to initiate the search. However, it is to be appreciated that the claimed subject matter is not so limited. For example, merely highlighting a check box can initiate information conveyance. In another example, a command line interface can be employed. For example, the command line interface can prompt (e.g., via a text message on a display and an audio tone) the user for information via providing a text message. The user can than provide suitable information, such as alpha-numeric input corresponding to an option provided in the interface prompt or an answer to a question posed in the prompt. It is to be appreciated that the command line interface can be employed in connection with a GUI and/or API. In addition, the command line interface can be employed in connection with hardware (e.g., video cards) and/or displays (e.g., black and white, and EGA) with limited graphic support, and/or low bandwidth communication channels.

FIGS. 10-12illustrate methodologies in accordance with the claimed subject matter. For simplicity of explanation, the methodologies are depicted and described as a series of acts. It is to be understood and appreciated that the subject innovation is not limited by the acts illustrated and/or by the order of acts, for example acts can occur in various orders and/or concurrently, and with other acts not presented and described herein. Furthermore, not all illustrated acts may be required to implement the methodologies in accordance with the claimed subject matter. In addition, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that the methodologies could alternatively be represented as a series of interrelated states via a state diagram or events.

FIG. 10illustrates a methodology1000for utilizing RFID tag data with an automation device. At reference numeral1002, a signal can be received at an RFID component from an RFID tag. The RFID component can be, but is not limited to, various components that read, write, receive, and/or store electronic product data, such as, readers, writers and/or servers, and can be a handheld device or a fixed-mount device depending on the particular application. It is to be appreciated and understood that the RFID tag can be a passive RFID tag, and in particular a passive UHF tag. The RFID tag can be utilized to store extended data and/or user defined data (also referred to as RFID tag data). At reference numeral1004, the data from the RFID tag can be decoded and/or translated. At reference numeral1006, the data (e.g., extended data and/or user defined data) can be utilized to identify mechanisms and/or operations to be applied by the automation device and/or a controller that controls an automation device. It is to be appreciated that the automation device can be, but is not limited to, a roller, a station, a welder, a scanner, a belt conveyor, a pump, a press, a fan, etc., or any other suitable device utilized in automation systems.

FIG. 11illustrates a methodology1100that facilitates optimizing the efficiency of an automation device implementing RFID tag data. At reference numeral1102, an external communications can be received relating to an RFID tag and/or a plurality of RFID tags. The RFID tag can be associated with at least one object and/or portion of objects that are related to an automation system and/or manufacturing process. It is to be appreciated and understood that the RFID tag can be a passive RFID tag, and in particular a passive UHF tag. At reference numeral1104, an internal database and/or data store within a controller can provide information related to the RFID tag and/or associated object. The controller can include hardware and/or software that utilize inputs and/or outputs, wherein the controller can be programmed to deliver automation. The internal database can include information about the object such as, but not limited to, object history, desired operations, intended customer, authorized operator, etc. With the controller utilizing the internal database, standardization and functionality can be advantageous in the manufacturing process and/or automation system. At reference numeral1106, information from the internal database can be utilized with RFID technology and automation for efficient implementation.

For instance, the control programming can take advantage of direct access to the stored information for driving decisions, operations, mechanisms, manipulations, and controlling devices. By providing an on-board database such as the database, the time and/or number of steps required to execute the desired automation functions is greatly reduced. Local automation programming can also advantageously utilize inherent information manipulation capabilities of such system to directly access the data in a form and format more consistent with business data access.

FIG. 12illustrates a methodology1200for utilizing RFID tags in association with an automation device and a controller. At reference numeral1202, a plurality of RFID signals related to RFID tags can be received, wherein the RFID tags can be associated with an object, a plurality of objects, and/or a portion of objects. At reference numeral1204, any suitable filter, decode, and/or translate technique(s) can be implemented on the RFID signals received. At reference numeral1206, a determination can be made whether the extended data within the RFID tag is to directly or indirectly influence an automation system, automation device, station, process, etc. If the influence is direct, the method continues at reference numeral1210, where the bits and/or numbers within the extended data and/or user defined data drives control of an output. If the influence is indirect, the method continues at reference numeral1208, where the bits and/or numbers associated with the extended data and/or user defined data can select a decision to drive control of an output.

At reference numeral1212, the automation device and/or automation can be controlled by a controller that contains an internal database and/or data store. The internal database can include information about the object such as, but not limited to, object history, desired operations, intended customer, authorized operator, etc. With a controller utilizing an internal database and/or data store, the efficiency of incorporating RFID tag data can be increased dramatically. At reference numeral1214, a determination can be made whether there is another automation device that is to utilize the extended data and/or user defined data associated with the RFID tag to implement an operation and/or mechanism on an object. If there is another automation device, the process can continue at reference numeral1202.

In order to provide additional context for implementing various aspects of the claimed subject matter,FIGS. 13-14and the following discussion is intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable computing environment in which the various aspects of the subject innovation may be implemented. While the claimed subject matter has been described above in the general context of computer-executable instructions of a computer program that runs on a local computer and/or remote computer, those skilled in the art will recognize that the subject innovation also may be implemented in combination with other program modules. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, components, data structures, etc., that perform particular tasks and/or implement particular abstract data types.

Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the inventive methods may be practiced with other computer system configurations, including single-processor or multi-processor computer systems, minicomputers, mainframe computers, as well as personal computers, hand-held computing devices, microprocessor-based and/or programmable consumer electronics, and the like, each of which may operatively communicate with one or more associated devices. The illustrated aspects of the claimed subject matter may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where certain tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. However, some, if not all, aspects of the subject innovation may be practiced on stand-alone computers. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in local and/or remote memory storage devices.

With reference again toFIG. 13, the exemplary environment1300for implementing various aspects of the invention includes a computer1302, the computer1302including a processing unit1304, a system memory1306and a system bus1308. The system bus1308couples system components including, but not limited to, the system memory1306to the processing unit1304. The processing unit1304can be any of various commercially available processors. Dual microprocessors and other multi-processor architectures may also be employed as the processing unit1304.

The system bus1308can be any of several types of bus structure that may further interconnect to a memory bus (with or without a memory controller), a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety of commercially available bus architectures. The system memory1306includes read-only memory (ROM)1310and random access memory (RAM)1312. A basic input/output system (BIOS) is stored in a non-volatile memory1310such as ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, which BIOS contains the basic routines that help to transfer information between elements within the computer1302, such as during start-up. The RAM1312can also include a high-speed RAM such as static RAM for caching data.

The computer1302further includes an internal hard disk drive (HDD)1314(e.g., EIDE, SATA), which internal hard disk drive1314may also be configured for external use in a suitable chassis (not shown), a magnetic floppy disk drive (FDD)1316, (e.g., to read from or write to a removable diskette1318) and an optical disk drive1320, (e.g., reading a CD-ROM disk1322or, to read from or write to other high capacity optical media such as the DVD). The hard disk drive1314, magnetic disk drive1316, and optical disk drive1320can be connected to the system bus1308by a hard disk drive interface1324, a magnetic disk drive interface1326and an optical drive interface1328, respectively. The interface1324for external drive implementations includes at least one or both of Universal Serial Bus (USB) and IEEE 1394 interface technologies. Other external drive connection technologies are within contemplation of the subject invention.

A number of program modules can be stored in the drives and RAM1312, including an operating system1330, one or more application programs1332, other program modules1334, and program data1336. All or portions of the operating system, applications, modules, and/or data can also be cached in the RAM1312. It is appreciated that the invention can be implemented with various commercially available operating systems or combinations of operating systems.

A user can enter commands and information into the computer1302through one or more wired/wireless input devices, e.g., a keyboard1338and a pointing device, such as a mouse1340. Other input devices (not shown) may include a microphone, an IR remote control, a joystick, a game pad, a stylus pen, touch screen, or the like. These and other input devices are often connected to the processing unit1304through an input device interface1342that is coupled to the system bus1308, but can be connected by other interfaces, such as a parallel port, an IEEE 1394 serial port, a game port, a USB port, an IR interface, etc.

A monitor1344or other type of display device is also connected to the system bus1308via an interface, such as a video adapter1346. In addition to the monitor1344, a computer typically includes other peripheral output devices (not shown), such as speakers, printers, etc.

The computer1302may operate in a networked environment using logical connections via wired and/or wireless communications to one or more remote computers, such as a remote computer(s)1348. The remote computer(s)1348can be a workstation, a server computer, a router, a personal computer, portable computer, microprocessor-based entertainment appliance, a peer device, or other common network node, and typically includes many or all of the elements described relative to the computer1302, although, for purposes of brevity, only a memory/storage device1350is illustrated. The logical connections depicted include wired/wireless connectivity to a local area network (LAN)1352and/or larger networks, e.g., a wide area network (WAN)1354. Such LAN and WAN networking environments are commonplace in offices and companies, and facilitate enterprise-wide computer networks, such as intranets, all of which may connect to a global communications network, e.g., the Internet.

When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer1302is connected to the local network1352through a wired and/or wireless communication network interface or adapter1356. The adaptor1356may facilitate wired or wireless communication to the LAN1352, which may also include a wireless access point disposed thereon for communicating with the wireless adaptor1356.

When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer1302can include a modem1358, or is connected to a communications server on the WAN1354, or has other means for establishing communications over the WAN1354, such as by way of the Internet. The modem1358, which can be internal or external and a wired or wireless device, is connected to the system bus1308via the serial port interface1342. In a networked environment, program modules depicted relative to the computer1302, or portions thereof, can be stored in the remote memory/storage device1350. It will be appreciated that the network connections shown are exemplary and other means of establishing a communications link between the computers can be used.

Referring now toFIG. 14, there is illustrated a schematic block diagram of an exemplary computing environment1400in accordance with the subject invention. The system1400includes one or more client(s)1402. The client(s)1402can be hardware and/or software (e.g., threads, processes, computing devices). The client(s)1402can house cookie(s) and/or associated contextual information by employing the invention, for example.

The system1400also includes one or more server(s)1404. The server(s)1404can also be hardware and/or software (e.g., threads, processes, computing devices). The servers1404can house threads to perform transformations by employing the invention, for example. One possible communication between a client1402and a server1404can be in the form of a data packet adapted to be transmitted between two or more computer processes. The data packet may include a cookie and/or associated contextual information, for example. The system1400includes a communication framework1406(e.g., a global communication network such as the Internet) that can be employed to facilitate communications between the client(s)1402and the server(s)1404.

Communications can be facilitated via a wired (including optical fiber) and/or wireless technology. The client(s)1402are operatively connected to one or more client data store(s)1408that can be employed to store information local to the client(s)1402(e.g., cookie(s) and/or associated contextual information). Similarly, the server(s)1404are operatively connected to one or more server data store(s)1410that can be employed to store information local to the servers1404.

The framework1406can also include a subnetwork1412, for example, that can be implemented as in an assembly line environment. The subnetwork1412can have disposed thereon as nodes, a controller1414(e.g., a PLC) that controls a reader module1416and a reader/writer module1418both of which can read RFID tags, and the latter of which can write data to the RFID tags. The controller1414can include an internal database1424to store RFID tag data information as described above. The controller1414, reader module1416and reader/writer module1418can be provided in a rack configuration at selected locations. Alternatively or in combination therewith, the subnetwork1412can also include a second reader module1420as a wired or wireless node (or client) that is positioned (fixed or mobile) to read RFD tags, as needed. Similarly, the subnetwork1412can also support a reader/writer module1422as a wired and/or wireless client node for reading and writing data and signals to RIFD tags that come within a coverage area.