Patent Description:
There are many RFID tags known in the art. Once such RFID tag comprises a Visual Source Tag ("VST") Item Level Intelligence ("ILI") hard tag made by Sensormatic Electronics, LLC of Florida. The VST ILI hard tag consist of an RFID tag attached to Polyethylene Terephthalate ("PET") substrate and encased in an Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene ("ABS") plastic housing. The VST ILI hard tag is hard to defeat by malicious individuals (e.g., thieves). However, the VST ILI hard tag is difficult to remove at Point Of Sale ("POS") systems. In order to address these drawbacks of the VST ILI hard tag, swing tickets have been created that contain RFID tags on PET and imbedded in paper. The problem with the swing ticket configuration is that the swing ticket be easily removed from the retail item without damaging the same, which results in less security from theft.

Therefore, it makes sense to insert an RFID tag directly into the retail item that the RFID tag is intended to protect. One such solution involves incorporating the RFID tag in a thread that can be sewn into cloth. Theoretically, this is an inexpensive solution that uses standard sewing techniques. However, the standard sewing techniques tend to damage the RFID tag causing failure rates of <NUM>-<NUM>% that are not acceptable. Accordingly, a special machine has been employed required to install the RFID tag thread into cloth. In order to have physical strength, a wire is coated by a thick coating. Consequently, the RFID tag thread is able to be felt by someone touching the cloth and can be seen after the cloth has been ironed. In addition, this solution is relatively expensive.

Another solution includes placing RFID tags on care or brand labels of retail items. This label based solution has several drawbacks. For example, the care/brand labels have known locations and are easy to remove from the retail items using a cutting tool (e.g., scissors). Also, care/brand labels are usually small so the RFID tags antennas need to be meandered which reduces the RFID tag performance. If the care/brand label material has thickness or stiffness, then the care/brand labels will cause irritation to the individuals wearing the item. Finally, if the retail item is a garment for the upper body, then an individual might try to steal the garment by putting it on in a fitting room and wearing it out of the retail store without paying for the same. The back of a person's neck is a difficult location to try and read an RFID tag from an exit gate. Tag detection is much better if the RFID tag is installed in a seam of the garment. By placing the RFID tag in the seam of the garment may also cause additional issues, for example, being visible when a user wears the garment.

Further, other issues arise when a RFID tag is attached or placed within the garment, as the material and location of the garment itself, and/or a position of the RFID tag/garment on a person's body, may interfere with the communications of the RFID tag. For example, in some cases, the RFID tag may be placed and/or attached to a garment containing a substantial amount of interfering type material (e.g., a metallic jacket containing metal-coated plastics). As discussed above, in another example, the RFID tag may be attached or placed within the garment at a location near the thresholds of the readers (e.g., near a neck area of a top or near the ankle area of pants).

In view of these issues outlined above, there is a need for improvements in installing RFID tags in and/or onto products.

<CIT> discloses an RFID tag comprising a conductive trace (antenna and matching loop) formed on a film base. An IC is formed on the film base <NUM> and connected to the conductive trace. In accordance with the dielectric constant of the material of the item (e.g. rubber, plastic etc.) to which the tag is to be connected, the length of the conductive trace (matching loop) is adjusted using a cutter or the like.

<CIT> discloses a method of producing an RFID tag comprising obtaining a near-field-only RFID tag that does not function as a far field tag, forming a far field antenna by producing a conductive element and tuning it e.g. by trimming its length to account for the dielectric properties of the item to be tagged. The method also includes coupling the near-field-only tag and the conductive element to the item so that the tag functions in both a near field and far field. The amount of trimming of the conductive element is determined through testing.

<CIT> using a laser as an alternative to a cutter in order to trim the length of a conductive trace of an RFID tag.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for producing a radio frequency identification, RFID, tag according to claim <NUM>.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a system according to claim <NUM>. Preferred features are set out in the dependent claims.

Additional advantages and novel features of these aspects will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will become more apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following or upon learning by practice of the disclosure.

The novel features believed to be characteristic of implementations of the disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. In the descriptions that follow, like parts are marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same numerals, respectively. The drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale and certain figures may be shown in exaggerated or generalized form in the interest of clarity and conciseness. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further features and advances thereof, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description of illustrative implementations of the disclosure when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:.

The present solution may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present solution is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by this detailed description.

Furthermore, the described features, advantages and characteristics of the present solution may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, in light of the description herein, that the present solution can be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the present solution.

Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the indicated embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present solution.

The terms "memory," "memory device," "data store," "data storage facility" and the like each refer to a non-transitory device on which computer-readable data, programming instructions (e.g., instructions <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG> and <NUM> of <FIG>) or both are stored. Except where specifically stated otherwise, the terms "memory," "memory device," "data store," "data storage facility" and the like are intended to include single device embodiments, embodiments in which multiple memory devices together or collectively store a set of data or instructions, as well as individual sectors within such devices.

The present document concerns various solutions to address the drawbacks of conventional RFID tag solutions such as those disclosed in the background section of this document. One solution comprises a tag formed of a relatively thin, narrow, machine washable substrate on which electronic components are mounted or otherwise disposed. The substrate may also be lightweight and recyclable. The substrate may be any soft and/or flexible material which may include, but is not limited to, a fabric, a plastic, and/or a paper (e.g., Thermoplastic Polyurethane ("TPU"), silk, cloth/textile, polyester (e.g., Polyethylene terephthalate, "PET") and the like. The substrate may also be coated with a layer of a flexible fluid resistive material for protecting the same from damage due to fluid exposure. The layer of flexible fluid resistive material may be applied to both sides of the substrate. The flexible fluid resistive material can include, but is not limited to, a TPU material and/or a PET material. The flexible fluid resistive material may be a colored TPU which matches the color of items to which the tags are to be coupled. The flexible fluid resistive material may also be heat sensitive, whereby, as described below, one or more characteristics of the material (e.g., color, pattern, adhesion, etc.) may change when heat is applied to the flexible fluid resistive material. The electronic components can include, but are not limited to, a communication-enabled device having at least one antenna (e.g., an RFID enabled device). The tag is designed to be relatively thin so that it is hard to feel when incorporated into an item, but thick enough to withstand a certain number (e.g., <NUM>-<NUM>) of wash cycles.

A plurality of tags may be fabricated using a single piece of narrow substrate (e.g., a ribbon). In this case, the electronic components may be coupled to the narrow substrate so as to be separated from each other with equal or unequal amounts of substrate. A coating may be applied to the narrow substrate with the electronic components coupled thereto. The narrow substrate may then be rolled or wound onto a reel. The reel is then inserted into a machine (e.g., a ribbon dispensing machine) for incorporating tags with item(s). The spacing between the electronic components is selected so that the machine is able to cut the narrow substrate while installing the tags in or incorporating the tags with items without any damage thereto. The thickness of the narrow substrate is selected so that the machine is able to hold the narrow substrate under tension on the reel while installing the tags in the items.

In some scenarios (not according to the claims), the machine installation process involves: turning the reel by an amount that allows a portion of the narrow substrate that includes an electronic component to be rolled onto an item; cutting the narrow substrate at an end thereof so that a tag is placed or otherwise disposed on the item; and using a conventional sewing machine to sew at least one end of the tag onto the item. Notably, the tag is unable to be felt when sewn to the item.

In some scenarios (not according to the claims), the machine installation process involves: turning the reel by an amount that allows a portion of the substrate to be deposited with a conductive layer over all or at least part of the substrate; controlling a laser to remove (e.g., burning) a portion of the conductive layer (i.e., tuning); cutting the substrate (e.g., by a laser) at an end thereof so that a tag is placed or otherwise disposed on the item; and using a heat source (e.g., a laser) to melt/weld/adhere with or without an adhesive at least one side of the tag onto the item. In some implementations, the tag may be unable to be felt when affixed to the item.

In some scenarios (not according to the claims), the machine installation process involves: turning the reel by an amount that allows a portion of the substrate to be deposited with a conductive layer over all or at least part of the substrate; controlling a laser to remove (e.g., burning) a portion of the conductive layer (i.e., tuning); cutting the substrate (e.g., by a laser) at an end thereof so that a tag is placed or otherwise disposed on the item; using a heat source (e.g., a laser) to melt/weld/adhere with or without an adhesive at least one side of the tag onto the item; and using the same or different heat source to transform the visual appearance of the tag. In some cases, the tag may be unable to be felt and or seen when affixed to the item.

In some scenarios (not according to the claims), the machine installation process involves: a tray including a plurality of substrates; while being held stable, depositing a conductive layer over all or at least part of the substrate; controlling a laser to remove (e.g., burning) a portion of the conductive layer (i.e., tuning); using a heat source (e.g., a laser) to melt/weld/adhere with or without an adhesive at least one side of the tag onto the item; and using the same or different heat source to transform the visual appearance of the tag. In some cases, the tag may be unable to be felt and or seen when affixed to the item.

Another solution (not according to the claims) comprises forming tag antennas by sewing metal thread(s) directly into an item at production time and/or by printing or disposing metal trace(s) directly on the garment at production time. The length(s) of the metal thread(s)/trace(s) are dynamically selected or altered by a laser for optimizing tag performance in view of the item's dielectric and tuning properties. The item's dielectric and tuning properties include, but are not limited to, an impedance and/or capacitance. Next, the metal thread(s) or trace(s) is(are) sewn into, printed on, or disposed directly on the item. At least a communications enabled device is then attached to the item so as to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communication enabled device and the antenna(s). This technique for coupling a tag to an item provides a relatively inexpensive solution that is performed during the production of the item. Additionally, the metal thread(s) and/or trace(s) is(are) difficult to feel when incorporated into the item.

Another solution comprises forming tag antennas by tuning the tags during production specifically for a type of the items for which they will be placed in or on, and/or where on a body of the person the tag may be located when the item is worn by the person. As described above, the length(s), width(s) and height(s) of the conductive layer/trace(s) are dynamically selected or altered by a laser for optimizing tag performance in view of the item's dielectric and tuning properties. The item's dielectric and tuning properties include, but are not limited to, an impedance and/or capacitance of the material of the item and/or the placement of the tag on the item, and/or a diameter and/or size of a loop antenna.

In some scenarios, the communications enabled device is coated with a flexible fluid resistive material or other substance so that the same is machine washable and/or water resistant. Additionally or alternatively, the ends of the metal thread(s) are coated with a substance selected to reduce or eliminate irritation caused by the metal thread(s) to an individual using the item.

In some scenarios (not according to the claims) the tags may not be directly attached to an item, but may be first placed within a hard covering creating a hard tag. The hard tag may then be attached to an item. In one aspect of the disclosure, the tag may be attached to the hard covering using a heat source (e.g., a laser) to melt/weld/adhere with or without an adhesive at least one side of the tag onto the hard tag. In one aspect of the disclosure, the item affixed with the tag may include, but is not limited to, a garment, a box, and a physical item.

Notably, the present solution provides significantly thinner tags as compared to conventional solutions. Some conventional tags include tags that are formed on a flexible narrow substrate. The tags have a <NUM> inch thickness (<NUM> inch = <NUM>). The flexible narrow substrate is strong enough such that it cannot be torn by an individual, but can be cut using a razor or scissor. Accordingly, a plurality of tags are formed on a single piece of narrow substrate. The narrow substrate is cut to separate the tags from each other. The separated tag(s) is(are) then coupled to item(s). When cut, the tags fold up onto themselves which is undesirable since antenna lengths are shortened whereby tag performance is affected.

Other conventional tags include an array of RFID tags glued to a PET roll. The PET roll is <NUM> inches thick. The RFID tag is about <NUM> inches thick. Leading to a total tag thickness of <NUM> inches. This tag is too thick for garment applications since the tag causes discomfort and irritation to the wearer of the garment.

The automated production assembly of the present solution allows for tags with significantly reduced dimensions. The present solution employs a substrate with a thickness between <NUM> and <NUM> inches. Although thin, this substrate maintains enough physical strength to handle the tension required to maintain the substrate on the roll. Tags on the order of <NUM> inches and smaller are placed on this substrate (which may have a width of <NUM> inches). The total thickness of the substrate/tag assembly is much smaller than that of the conventional solutions.

A present solution provides a roll technology that addresses the drawbacks of the conventional tags which roll up onto themselves. The tags of the present solution maintain their straightness or planar profiles so as to keep the antennas at the proper lengths. The tags of the present solution are so thin that they are not seen or felt when integrated into seams or other points in fabric items. The substrate of the present solution can include, but is not limited to, paper, PEP, PVC, or polymer.

Further, the present solution provides for tags that are specifically tuned and matched for each type of item for which they are affixed based on a material of the item and/or tag and/or a location of the item when worn by a person and how such material and/or location affects the dielectric and tuning properties of the tag, and which addresses the drawbacks of the conventional tags which need to be turned after being manufactured and/or affixed to products.

Additionally, the present solution provides for tags that are attached to items using a heat source (e.g., using a laser, infrared ("IR"), and/or a light source (e.g., ultraviolet ("UV") light) to affix (e.g., heat welding, curing of an adhesive/glue applied to the tag and/or the item, etc.) the tags. As such, the current solution may avoid problems experienced by other typical attaching techniques, such as sewing, wherein the needle may hit the tag and destroy the operation of the tag.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is provided an illustration of an illustrative system <NUM> that is useful for understanding the present solution. The present solution is described herein in relation to a retail store environment. The present solution is not limited in this regard, and can be used in other environments. For example, the present solution can be used in distribution centers, factories and other commercial environments. Notably, the present solution can be employed in any environment in which items need to be located and/or tracked.

The system <NUM> is generally configured to allow inventory counts of items located within a facility. The items, for example, may be garments, box, and/or other product or item. As shown in <FIG>, system <NUM> comprises a Retail Store Facility ("RSF") <NUM> in which display equipment <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>M (collectively referred to as "<NUM>") is disposed. The display equipment is provided for displaying items <NUM><NUM>-<NUM>N (collectively referred to as "<NUM>"), <NUM><NUM>-<NUM>X (collectively referred to as "<NUM>") to customers of the retail store. The display equipment can include, but is not limited to, shelves, article display cabinets, promotional displays, fixtures and/or equipment securing areas of the RSF <NUM>. The RSF can also include emergency equipment (not shown), checkout counters, an EAS system (not shown), an RFID system, and/or an RFID/EAS system. Emergency equipment, checkout counters, video cameras, people counters, EAS systems, RFID systems, and/or RFID/EAS systems are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein.

At least one tag reader <NUM> is provided to assist in counting the items <NUM><NUM>-<NUM>N, <NUM><NUM>-116x located within the RSF <NUM>. The tag reader <NUM> comprises an RFID reader configured to read RFID tags. RFID readers are well known in the art. Any known or to be known RFID reader can be used herein without limitation. An illustrative tag reader will be discussed below in relation to <FIG>.

Tags <NUM><NUM>-<NUM>N (collectively referred to as "<NUM>"), <NUM><NUM>-<NUM>X (collectively referred to as "<NUM>") are respectively attached or coupled to the items <NUM><NUM>-<NUM>N, <NUM><NUM>-<NUM>X. The tags are described herein as comprising single-technology tags that are only RFID enabled. The present solution is not limited in this regard. The tags can alternatively or additionally comprise dual-technology tags that have both EAS and RFID capabilities.

Notably, the tag reader <NUM> is strategically placed at a known location within the RSF <NUM>. By correlating the tag reader's tag reads and the tag reader's known location within the RSF <NUM>, it is possible to determine the location of items <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>N, <NUM><NUM>,. , 116x within the RSF <NUM>. The tag reader's known coverage area also facilitates item location determinations. Accordingly, tag read information and tag reader location information is stored in a data store <NUM>. This information can be stored in the data store <NUM> using a server <NUM>. Servers are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is an illustration of an illustrative architecture for a tag <NUM>. Tags <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG> are the same as or similar to tag <NUM>. As such, the discussion of tag <NUM> is sufficient for understanding the tags <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>.

The tag <NUM> can include more or less components than that shown in <FIG>. However, the components shown are sufficient to disclose an illustrative embodiment implementing the present solution. Some or all of the components of the tag <NUM> can be implemented in hardware, software and/or a combination of hardware and software. The hardware includes, but is not limited to, one or more electronic circuits. The electronic circuit(s) may comprise passive components (e.g., capacitors and resistors) and active components (e.g., processors) arranged and/or programmed to implement the methods disclosed herein.

The hardware architecture of <FIG> represents a representative tag <NUM> configured to facilitate inventory management. In this regard, the tag <NUM> is configured for allowing data to be exchanged with an external device (e.g., tag reader <NUM> of <FIG> and/or server <NUM> of <FIG>) via wireless communication technology. The wireless communication technology can include, but is not limited to, a Radio Frequency Identification ("RFID") technology, a Near Field Communication ("NFC") technology, and/or a Short Range Communication ("SRC") technology. For example, one or more of the following wireless communication technologies (is)are employed: Radio Frequency ("RF") communication technology; Bluetooth technology; WiFi technology; and/or beacon technology. Each of the listed wireless communication technologies is well known in the art, and therefore will not be described in detail herein. Any known or to be known wireless communication technology or other wireless communication technology can be used herein without limitation.

The components <NUM>, <NUM> shown in <FIG> may be collectively referred to herein as electronic components <NUM>. The components <NUM>-<NUM> shown in <FIG> may be collectively referred to herein as a communication enabled device <NUM>, and include a memory <NUM> and a clock/timer <NUM>. Memory <NUM> may be a volatile memory and/or a non-volatile memory. For example, the memory <NUM> can include, but is not limited to, Random Access Memory ("RAM"), Dynamic RAM ("DRAM"), Static RAM ("SRAM"), Read Only Memory ("ROM") and flash memory. The memory <NUM> may also comprise unsecure memory and/or secure memory.

As shown in <FIG>, the communication enabled device <NUM> is electrically coupled or connected to one or more antenna(s) <NUM> for allowing data to be exchanged with the external device via a wireless communication technology (e.g., an RFID technology, an NFC technology and/or a SRC technology). The antenna(s) <NUM> is(are) configured to receive signals from the external device and/or transmit signals generated by the communication enabled device <NUM>. The antenna(s) <NUM> can comprise a near-field or far-field antenna. The antenna(s) include, but are not limited to, a chip antenna or a loop antenna.

The communication enabled device <NUM> also comprises a communication device (e.g., a transceiver or transmitter) <NUM>. Communication devices (e.g., transceivers or transmitters) are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. However, it should be understood that the communication device <NUM> generates and transmits signals (e.g., RF carrier signals) to external devices, as well as receives signals (e.g., RF signals) transmitted from external devices. In this way, the communication enabled device <NUM> facilitates the registration, identification, location and/or tracking of an item (e.g., item <NUM> or <NUM> of <FIG>) to which the tag <NUM> is coupled.

Item level information <NUM> and a unique identifier ("ID") <NUM> for the tag <NUM> can be stored in memory <NUM> of the communication enabled device <NUM> and/or communicated to other external devices (e.g., tag reader <NUM> of <FIG> and/or server <NUM> of <FIG>) via communication device (e.g., transceiver) <NUM>. For example, the communication enabled device <NUM> can communicate information specifying a timestamp, a unique identifier for an item, item description, item price, a currency symbol, size information, sale information, and/or location information to an external device. The external device (e.g., server) can then store the information in a database (e.g., database <NUM> of <FIG>) and/or use the information for various purposes.

The communication enabled device <NUM> also comprises a controller <NUM> (e.g., a CPU). The controller <NUM> can execute instructions <NUM> implementing methods for facilitating inventory counts and management. In this regard, the controller <NUM> includes a processor (or logic circuitry that responds to instructions) and the memory <NUM> includes a computer-readable storage medium on which is stored one or more sets of instructions <NUM> (e.g., software code) configured to implement one or more of the methodologies, procedures, or functions described herein. The instructions <NUM> can also reside, completely or at least partially, within the controller <NUM> during execution thereof by the tag <NUM>. The memory <NUM> and the controller <NUM> also can constitute machine-readable media. The term "machine-readable media", as used here, refers to a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions <NUM>. The term "machine-readable media", as used here, also refers to any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions <NUM> for execution by the tag <NUM> and that cause the tag <NUM> to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure.

The clock/timer <NUM> is configured to determine a date, a time, and/or an expiration of a pre-defined period of time. Technique for determining these listed items are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or to be known technique for determining these listed items can be used herein without limitation.

The tag <NUM> also comprises an optional location module <NUM>. The location module <NUM> is generally configured to determine the geographic location of the tag at any given time. For example, in some scenarios, the location module <NUM> employs Global Positioning System ("GPS") technology and/or Internet based local time acquisition technology. The present solution is not limited to the particulars of this example. Any known or to be known technique for determining a geographic location can be used herein without limitation including relative positioning within a facility or structure.

The tag <NUM> can also include an optional EAS component <NUM>. EAS components <NUM> are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or to be known EAS component can be used herein without limitation.

As shown in <FIG>, the tag <NUM> may also comprise a power source <NUM> and/or optional energy harvesting circuit <NUM>. The power source <NUM> can include, but is not limited to, a rechargeable battery and/or a capacitor. The energy harvesting circuit <NUM> is configured to harvest energy from one or more sources (e.g., heat, vibration, magnetic field, and/or RF energy) and to generate a relatively low amount of output power from the harvested energy. By employing multiple sources for harvesting, the device can continue to charge despite the depletion of a source of energy. Energy harvesting circuits are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or to be known energy harvesting circuit can be used herein without limitation.

The present solution is not limited to that shown in <FIG>. The tag <NUM> can have any architecture provided that it can perform the functions and operations described herein. For example, all of the components shown in <FIG> can comprise a single device (e.g., an Integrated Circuit ("IC")).

Referring now to <FIG>, there is provided a detailed block diagram of an illustrative architecture for a tag reader <NUM>. Tag reader <NUM> of <FIG> is the same as or similar to tag reader <NUM>. As such, the discussion of tag reader <NUM> is sufficient for understanding tag reader <NUM>.

Tag reader <NUM> may include more or less components than that shown in <FIG>. However, the components shown are sufficient to disclose an illustrative embodiment implementing the present solution. Some or all of the components of the tag reader <NUM> can be implemented in hardware, software and/or a combination of hardware and software. The hardware includes, but is not limited to, one or more electronic circuits. The electronic circuit may comprise passive components (e.g., capacitors and resistors) and active components (e.g., processors) arranged and/or programmed to implement the methods disclosed herein.

The hardware architecture of <FIG> represents an illustration of a representative tag reader <NUM> configured to facilitate inventory counts and management within an RSF (e.g., RSF <NUM> of <FIG>). In this regard, the tag reader <NUM> comprises an RF enabled device <NUM> for allowing data to be exchanged with an external device (e.g., tags <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>) via RF technology. The components <NUM>-<NUM> shown in <FIG> may be collectively referred to herein as the RF enabled device <NUM>, and may include a power source <NUM> (e.g., a battery) or be connected to an external power source (e.g., an AC mains).

The RF enabled device <NUM> comprises an antenna <NUM> for allowing data to be exchanged with the external device via RF technology (e.g., RFID technology or other RF based technology). The external device may comprise tags <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>. In this case, the antenna <NUM> is configured to transmit RF carrier signals (e.g., interrogation signals) to the listed external devices, and/or transmit data response signals (e.g., authentication reply signals) generated by the RF enabled device <NUM>. In this regard, the RF enabled device <NUM> comprises an RF transceiver <NUM>. RF transceivers are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. However, it should be understood that the RF transceiver <NUM> receives RF signals including information from the transmitting device, and forwards the same to a logic controller <NUM> for extracting the information therefrom.

The extracted information can be used to determine the presence, location and/or type of movement of a tag within a facility (e.g., RSF <NUM> of <FIG>). Accordingly, the logic controller <NUM> can store the extracted information in memory <NUM>, and execute algorithms using the extracted information. For example, the logic controller <NUM> can correlate tag reads with beacon reads to determine the location of the tags within the facility. Other operations performed by the logic controller <NUM> will be apparent from the following discussion.

Notably, memory <NUM> may be a volatile memory and/or a non-volatile memory. For example, the memory <NUM> can include, but is not limited to, a RAM, a DRAM, an SRAM, a ROM, and a flash memory. The memory <NUM> may also comprise unsecure memory and/or secure memory. The phrase "unsecure memory", as used herein, refers to memory configured to store data in a plain text form. The phrase "secure memory", as used herein, refers to memory configured to store data in an encrypted form and/or memory having or being disposed in a secure or tamper-proof enclosure.

Instructions <NUM> are stored in memory for execution by the RF enabled device <NUM> and that cause the RF enabled device <NUM> to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure. The instructions <NUM> are generally operative to facilitate determinations as to whether or not tags are present within a facility, where the tags are located within a facility, and/or which tags are in motion at any given time. Other functions of the RF enabled device <NUM> will become apparent as the discussion progresses.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is provided an illustration of an illustrative architecture for a tag <NUM>. Tag <NUM> may be the same as or similar to tag <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>N, <NUM><NUM>,. , 118x of <FIG> or tag <NUM> of <FIG>. As such, the discussion provided above in relation to tags <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is sufficient for understanding the operations of tag <NUM>. Notably, the tag <NUM> is designed to be relatively thin so that it is hard to feel when incorporated into an item (e.g., item <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>10rr, <NUM><NUM>,. , or 116x of <FIG>) to, but thick enough to withstand a certain number (e.g., <NUM>-<NUM>) of wash cycles. The item can include, but is not limited to, a cloth item, a paper item, and/or a plastic item.

As shown in <FIG>, tag <NUM> comprises a substrate <NUM> on which electronic components <NUM> are mounted, attached or disposed. The electronic components <NUM> can be the same as or similar to electronic components <NUM> of <FIG>. Accordingly, the electronic components <NUM> can include antenna(s), a communication enabled device, and/or an EAS component.

The substrate <NUM> is a relatively thin, narrow, light weight, recyclable and/or machine washable substrate. The substrate <NUM> can include, but is not limited to, any type of flexible material as described above, such as but not limited to a fabric, a silk, a cloth, a plastic, and/or a paper. The substrate <NUM> may comprise a polyester (e.g., PET) substrate. A thickness <NUM> of the substrate <NUM> is selected so that the substrate <NUM> has a physical strength that allows a machine to maintain tension on the same while incorporating or installing the tag on the item, and so that a metalized layer thereon creates antenna(s) for the tag. For example, thickness <NUM> can have a value between <NUM> inches and <NUM> inches. A width of the substrate <NUM> can be between <NUM> inches and <NUM> inches, which is small enough so that the tag is not felt by humans when incorporated into an item. The present solution is not limited to the particulars of this example. In another aspect of the disclosure, for example, the tag may be affixed to an item in a variety of locations by heat welding or curing of an adhesive that was applied to the tag.

In some scenarios, the substrate <NUM> and electronic components <NUM> are coated with a layer of a flexible fluid resistive material <NUM> for protecting the same from damage due to fluid exposure. The fluid resistive material <NUM> can include, but is not limited to, a TPU material and/or a PET material. The fluid resistive material <NUM> can be applied to either or both sides of the substrate. The fluid resistive material <NUM> may be colored to match the color of the item (e.g., item <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM><NUM>N, <NUM><NUM>,. , or 116x of <FIG>) to which the tag <NUM> is to be coupled. As described above, the fluid resistive material <NUM> can also be altered in appearance via a heat source. The appearance may be altered by changing from one color and/or pattern to another one of a variety of colors and/or patterns. For example, but not limited hereto, the fluid resistive material <NUM> can altered from a clear color to a purple and yellow polka dots.

As shown in <FIG>, the tag <NUM> has tolerance removal areas <NUM>, <NUM>. Each tolerance removal area <NUM>, <NUM> comprises an end portion of the substrate <NUM>. These end portions of the substrate <NUM> facilitate the cutting and coupling of the tag <NUM> to the item (e.g., via stitching and/or affixing by heat) without interference with and/or causing damage to the antenna(s). In some scenarios, additional substrate is provided on the elongate sides of the tag, as shown by arrows <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>.

In some scenarios (not according to the claims), the antenna(s) of the electronic components <NUM> are formed as conductive trace(s) via ink printing and/or deposition (e.g., sputter deposition). Ink printing and deposition processes are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. The conductive trace/ink/layer, as used throughout may be, but are not limited to, silver, copper, gold, aluminum, nickel, or various forms of carbon, either suspended as particles or dissolved in a solution.

The antenna(s) can be linear, serpentine or otherwise meandering. In some scenarios, a length <NUM> of the tag <NUM> can be in the range of <NUM>-<NUM> when the antenna(s) is(are) linear or comprise straight line(s). In contrast, length <NUM> can be in the range of <NUM>-<NUM> when the antenna(s) is(are) serpentine or otherwise meandering. A thickness of the antenna(s) should be as thin as possible provided that the tag <NUM> has enough physical strength to withstand a given pulling force and/or a given number of wash cycles.

The antenna(s) may be designed so that the tag's operating frequency is in a range of <NUM>-<NUM> (inclusive of <NUM> and <NUM>), a range of <NUM>-<NUM> (inclusive of <NUM> and <NUM>), a range of <NUM>-<NUM> (inclusive of <NUM> and <NUM>), or a range of <NUM>-<NUM> (inclusive of <NUM> and <NUM>). The antenna(s) may additionally or alternatively comprise tuning area(s) <NUM>, <NUM>. Each tuning area <NUM>, <NUM> comprises a portion of an antenna that can be modified for selectively and/or dynamically tuning an operating frequency of the tag (e.g., at the time of the tag's installation on the item in view of the item's dielectric and tuning properties). In another aspect of the disclosure, each tuning area <NUM>, <NUM> comprises a portion of an antenna that can be modified for selectively and/or dynamically tuning an operating frequency of the tag (e.g., at the time of manufacture based on the location and/or the item for which the tag will be affixed). The tuning area can be modified by removing the conductive material in a variety of directions. In accordance with the claims, the tuning area can be modified by partly decreasing a thickness of the conductive material in that area. Further, in accordance with the claims, the tuning area can be modified by partly decreasing a width of the conductive material in that area Further , in accordance with the claims, the tuning area can be modified by partly decreasing a height of the conductive material in that area. In an example not according to the claims, the tuning area can be modified by completely removing the conductive material in that area. In one example, for instance, the tuning area can be modified by the laser to remove material to increase a diameter of a conductive loop formed by the conductive material. In one aspect of the disclosure the tuning characteristics may be determined in advance of manufacturing the tags by determining the item for which the tags will be attached. In one aspect of the disclosure the tuning characteristics may be determined in real time of manufacturing the tags by adjusting the system remove a specific amount/location of conductive material based upon a final tuning.

A laser, razor or other device is used to precisely decrease the conductive material in the tuning area. In one aspect of the disclosure a camera, optical sensors, or alignment devices may be used to position the laser relative to the tuning area and/or the item to enable the laser to precisely remove conductive material at a specific location and/or to enable the laser to remove a precise amount of conductive material.

The items may be of the same type, but of different sizes. In this case, the tuning technique provides a way to optimize each stock-keeping unit in advance for the item to which the tag is to be installed on. The method to tune each antenna at installation time may be used if the volume was not high enough to produce separate stock-keeping units for each production run.

In other scenarios, the antenna(s) are formed by coupling physical wire(s) to the substrate <NUM>. Each wire may have a diameter between <NUM> and <NUM>, and a length between <NUM> and <NUM>. The thickness and/or length of the wire(s) can be decreased at installation time to facilitate the dynamic tuning of the tag's operating frequency in view of the item's dielectric and tuning properties.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is provided an illustration of an elongate narrow substrate <NUM> having a plurality of tags <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>N coupled thereto. The elongate narrow substrate can include, but is not limited to, ribbon. Each tag <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>N is the same as or similar to tag <NUM> of <FIG>. Thus, the discussion of tag <NUM> is sufficient for understanding tags <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM>,.

The tags <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>N are arranged on the substrate <NUM> so as to have equal spacing <NUM> between adjacent ones thereof. The adjacent tags are spaced apart from each other so that a portion of the substrate <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM> resides therebetween, respectively. The first tag <NUM><NUM> is also spaced from an end <NUM> of the substrate <NUM> by an amount defined by substrate portion <NUM><NUM>. Similarly, the last tag <NUM>N is spaced from an end <NUM> of the substrate <NUM> by an amount defined by substrate portion <NUM>N+<NUM>. The substrate portions <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>N+<NUM> may constitute tolerance removal areas of tags (e.g., tolerance removal areas <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>) as shown in <FIG>, or alternatively may be provided in addition to the tag tolerance removal areas.

As shown in <FIG>, each tag comprises two antennas <NUM> and a communication enabled device <NUM>. Each antenna <NUM> has a tuning area <NUM> or <NUM>. The antennas are the same as or similar to antenna(s) <NUM> of <FIG>. The tuning areas <NUM>, <NUM> are the same as or similar to tuning areas <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>. Each communication enabled device <NUM> is the same as or similar to communication enabled device <NUM> of <FIG>. Thus, the discussions provided above in relation to <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are sufficient for understanding components <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG>.

The present solution is not limited to the particulars of the architecture shown in <FIG>. In other scenarios, the tags are unequally spaced apart as shown in <FIG>.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is provided an illustration showing a reel <NUM> onto which the substrate <NUM> is rolled. The reel <NUM> may be used to incorporate tags with items (e.g., during a relatively high volume manufacturing process). For example, during an item manufacturing process, the reel <NUM> is turned so that a tag is rolled onto an item. The substrate <NUM> is then cut within the tag's tolerance removal area so that the tag remains on the item for attachment thereto. This process is repeated for each item that is to have a tag incorporated therein.

An illustration of an illustrative system <NUM> for integrating or incorporating tags into or with items is provided in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, system <NUM> comprises a dispensing machine <NUM>, a conveyer belt <NUM>, a tag reader <NUM>, a computing device <NUM>, a data store <NUM>, and a laser <NUM>. The tag reader <NUM> can be the same as or similar to tag reader <NUM> of <FIG>.

The dispensing machine <NUM> is configured to receive the reel <NUM> and/or a spool <NUM>, and rotate the reel/spool in two opposing directions. The rotation is achieved using gear(s) <NUM> and motor(s) <NUM>. The spool <NUM> can include, but is not limited to, a spool of metal thread. Metal thread is well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein.

As noted above, an elongate narrow substrate <NUM> is wound on the reel <NUM>. The elongate narrow substrate comprises a plurality of tags <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>N coupled thereto. The elongate narrow substrate with the plurality of tags may be coated using a flexible fluid resistive material (e.g., flexible resistive material <NUM> of <FIG>). The flexible fluid resistive material can have a color that matches a color of the item(s). As described above, the flexible fluid resistive material may also have characteristics (e.g., pattern, color, adhesion) that are alterable by a heat source (e.g., a laser, UV, and/or IR radiation). Each of the tags comprises at least one antenna <NUM> formed of a trace or wire disposed on the elongate narrow substrate, and a communication enabled device <NUM> coupled to the elongate narrow substrate so as to have an electrical coupling or connection with the at least one antenna.

During a manufacturing process, a conveyer belt <NUM> or an individual <NUM> moves an item <NUM> into proximity of the dispensing machine <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> then controls the dispensing machine <NUM> to turn the reel <NUM> by an amount that allows a portion of the ribbon <NUM> to be paid out. This portion of the ribbon <NUM> includes a tag comprising a communications enabled device and antenna(s).

The laser <NUM> is then controlled by the computing device <NUM> to tune the antenna(s) of the tag (e.g., by removing ends of antenna wires and/or by decreasing the trace thickness in tuning areas of the antenna(s)). The computing device <NUM> may comprise a camera, optical sensors, alignment devices, etc., to ensure the antenna is properly aligned and/or configured. The tuning is performed for optimizing tag performance in view of the item's dielectric and tuning properties. The item's dielectric and tuning properties can be obtained using a Look Up Table ("LUT") <NUM> and/or determined using sensor data generated by sensors <NUM>.

The ribbon <NUM> is then cut by the cutting mechanism <NUM> of the dispensing machine <NUM> so that the paid out portion of the ribbon is placed on or otherwise disposed on the item. The cutting mechanism <NUM> can include, but is not limited to, a razor and/or scissors. Razors and scissors are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. In another aspect of the disclosure, the ribbon <NUM> is then cut by the laser <NUM>.

The portion of the ribbon is then coupled to the item so that the tag is incorporated with or in the item. For example, a nozzle <NUM> dispenses an adhesive on the item <NUM> and/or portion of ribbon, and/or the tag, and a separate heating element <NUM> (e.g., UF, IR) applies heat to the adhesive located on the portion of ribbon and/or item <NUM> and/or tag, the laser <NUM> and/or the heating element <NUM> heat welds or cures the adhesive. Nozzles, heating elements, sewing machines, pushing devices, and metal threads are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. The present solution is not limited to the particulars of this example. The optical device <NUM> (e.g., camera, sensor, laser, and alignment device) may be used to precisely control the tuning and/or affixing to an item and/or altering the appearance of the tag.

In some scenarios, the portion of the elongate narrow substrate can be painted by a painting device <NUM> using paint with a color that matches a color of the item <NUM>. The paint can be applied prior to or subsequent to the cutting of ribbon <NUM>.

In some scenarios, exterior appearance of the tag can be altered by the laser <NUM> and/or the heating element <NUM>, such as by applying a sufficient amount of heat to change a heat-variable characteristic of a component of the tag.

At this time, proper operation of the tag may then optionally be validated. The validation can be achieved using the tag reader <NUM>. If the tag is operating properly, then other manufacturing operations are performed. In contrast, if the tag is not operating properly, then the tag is removed from the item, and a new tag is coupled to the item.

In some scenarios (not according to the claims), system <NUM> is additionally or alternatively configured to incorporate tags into items using a metal thread of spool <NUM> to form the tag antenna(s). For example, the computing device <NUM> performs operations to: determine the dielectric and tuning properties of the item using the LUT <NUM> or sensor data generated by sensor(s) <NUM>; and/or dynamically determine a length of each metal thread that is to be incorporated into the item <NUM> to optimize tag performance in view of dielectric and tuning properties of the item <NUM>. The cutting mechanism <NUM> creates at least one metal thread having the length that was dynamically determined. One or both ends of the metal thread may be coated with a substance selected to reduce or eliminate irritation caused by the metal thread to an individual using the item <NUM>.

The sewing machine <NUM> then sews the metal thread into the item <NUM> being produced to form at least one antenna (e.g., antenna(s) <NUM> of <FIG>) for the tag (e.g., tag <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>N, <NUM><NUM>,. , 118x, <NUM> of <FIG>). The nozzle <NUM> may then attach at least a communications enabled device (e.g., communications enabled device <NUM> of <FIG>) to the item <NUM> so as to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communications enabled device and the at least one antenna. The item <NUM> may have at least one alignment marking that can be used in the attaching to guide proper placement of the at least one communication enabled device on the item <NUM>. The alignment markings can include, but are not limited to, shape(s) or line(s) printed on the item (e.g., in a color different than the item's color), created by stitching (e.g., using thread in a color different than the item's color), and/or formed using die(s) (e.g., a die with a color different than the item's color). The communications enabled device may be encased with a flexible fluid resistive material, and/or attached to a piece of substrate prior to being attached to the item <NUM>.

At this point in the process, the tag reader <NUM> may validate that the tag is operating properly. The communications enabled device may be replaced with another communications enabled device when a validation is not made that the first tag is operating properly. Additionally or alternatively, the metal thread is replaced with another metal thread when a validation is not made that the first tag is operating properly.

In those or other scenarios (not according to the claims), system <NUM> is additionally or alternatively configured to incorporate tags into items using conductive trace(s) to form the tag antenna(s). For example, the computing device <NUM> performs operations to: determine the dielectric and tuning properties of the item using the LUT <NUM> or sensor data generated by sensor(s) <NUM>; and/or dynamically determine a length of each conductive trace to be formed directly on the item <NUM> to optimize tag performance in view of dielectric and tuning properties of the item <NUM>. Each conductive trace is disposed on the item being produced to form at least one antenna for a tag. The conductive traces can be printed on the item via a printer <NUM> or deposited on the item by the nozzle <NUM>. Printers and nozzles are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described here.

The nozzle <NUM> may then attach at least a communications enabled device (e.g., communications enabled device <NUM> of <FIG>) to the item <NUM> so as to form an electrical coupling or connection between the communications enabled device and the at least one antenna (e.g., inductive coupling). The item <NUM> may have at least one alignment marking that can be used in the attaching to guide proper placement of the at least one communication enabled device on the item <NUM>. The alignment markings can include, but are not limited to, shape(s) or line(s) printed on the item (e.g., in a color different than the item's color), shape(s) or line(s) created by stitching (e.g., using thread in a color different than the item's color), and/or shape(s) or line(s) formed using die(s) (e.g., a die with a color different than the item's color). The communications enabled device may be encased with a flexible fluid resistive material, and/or attached to a piece of substrate prior to being attached to the item <NUM>.

At this point in the process, the tag reader <NUM> may validate that the tag is operating properly. The communications enabled device may be replaced with another communications enabled device when a validation is not made that the first tag is operating properly. Additionally or alternatively, the conductive trace(s) is(are) tuned when a validation is not made that the first tag is operating properly.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is provided a detailed block diagram of an illustrative architecture for the computing device <NUM> of <FIG>. Computing device <NUM> may include more or less components than those shown in <FIG>. However, the components shown are sufficient to disclose an illustrative embodiment implementing the present solution. The hardware architecture of <FIG> represents one embodiment of a representative computing device configured to facilitate the incorporation of tags into and with items. As such, the computing device <NUM> of <FIG> implements at least a portion of a method for incorporating tags into or with items in accordance with the present solution.

Some or all the components of the computing device <NUM> can be implemented as hardware, software and/or a combination of hardware and software. The hardware includes, but is not limited to, one or more electronic circuits. The electronic circuits can include, but are not limited to, passive components (e.g., resistors and capacitors) and/or active components (e.g., amplifiers and/or microprocessors). The passive and/or active components can be adapted to, arranged to and/or programmed to perform one or more of the methodologies, procedures, or functions described herein.

As shown in <FIG>, the computing device <NUM> comprises a user interface <NUM>, a Central Processing Unit ("CPU") <NUM>, a system bus <NUM>, a memory <NUM> connected to and accessible by other portions of computing device <NUM> through system bus <NUM>, and hardware entities <NUM> connected to system bus <NUM>. The user interface can include input devices (e.g., a keypad <NUM> and/or a camera <NUM>) and output devices (e.g., a speaker <NUM>, a display <NUM>, and/or Light Emitting Diodes ("LEDs") <NUM>), which facilitate user-software interactions for controlling operations of the computing device <NUM>.

At least some of the hardware entities <NUM> perform actions involving access to and use of memory <NUM>, which can be a RAM, a disk driver and/or a Compact Disc Read Only Memory ("CD-ROM"). Hardware entities <NUM> can include a disk drive unit <NUM> comprising a computer-readable storage medium <NUM> on which is stored one or more sets of instructions <NUM> (e.g., software code) configured to implement one or more of the methodologies, procedures, or functions described herein. The instructions <NUM> can also reside, completely or at least partially, within the memory <NUM> and/or within the CPU <NUM> during execution thereof by the computing device <NUM>. The memory <NUM> and the CPU <NUM> also can constitute machine-readable media. The term "machine-readable media", as used here, refers to a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions <NUM>. The term "machine-readable media", as used here, also refers to any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions <NUM> for execution by the computing device <NUM> and that cause the computing device <NUM> to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure.

In some scenarios, the hardware entities <NUM> include an electronic circuit (e.g., a processor) programmed for facilitating the incorporation of tags into items. In this regard, it should be understood that the electronic circuit can access and run application(s) <NUM> installed on the computing device <NUM> that implement the present solution.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is provided a flow diagram of an illustrative method <NUM> for incorporation of tag(s) (e.g., tag(s) <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, and/or <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>N of <FIG>) into or with item(s) (e.g., item(s) <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>). For example, a tag is incorporated into a seam, a hem or an overlapping fabric edge finish of a garment or hat. The present solution is not limited to the particulars of this example. In another aspect of the disclosure, for example, the tag may be affixed to an item in a variety of locations by heat welding a layer of material of the tag to a portion of the item or curing of an adhesive that was applied to the tag.

Method <NUM> begins with <NUM> and continues with <NUM> where traces are printed on or wires are coupled to an elongate narrow substrate (e.g., substrate <NUM> of <FIG> or <NUM> of <FIG>) to form antennas (e.g., antenna(s) <NUM> of <FIG> or <NUM> of <FIG>) for the tags. At least one communications enabled device (e.g., communication enabled device <NUM> of <FIG> or <NUM> of <FIG>) is coupled to the narrow substrate in <NUM>. This coupling can be achieved via an adhesive and/or the application of heat.

Next in <NUM>, the narrow substrate is rolled onto a reel (e.g., reel <NUM> of <FIG>). The reel is inserted into a machine for use in incorporating tags into the item, as shown by <NUM>. The machine can include, but is not limited to, a dispensing machine (e.g., ribbon dispensing machine <NUM> of <FIG>). Dispensing machines are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. The reel may be rolled using gears (e.g., gear(s) <NUM> of <FIG>) and motors (e.g., motor(s) <NUM> of <FIG>). Gears and motors are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein.

In <NUM>, an item is placed in proximity to the machine. This can be achieved automatically by a conveyer belt (e.g., conveyer belt <NUM>) or manually by an individual (e.g., individual <NUM> of <FIG>). The item can be in a partially or fully manufactured state at this point in the process. The dielectric and tuning properties of the item are then determined in <NUM>. This determination can be made by a computing device using an LUT (e.g., LUT <NUM> of <FIG>) and/or sensor data (e.g., capacitive measurements) generated by sensors (e.g., sensors <NUM> of <FIG>) configured to sense dielectric and tuning properties of items. Techniques for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of items are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or to be known technique for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of items can be used herein.

The reel is then turned in <NUM> by an amount that allows a portion of the narrow substrate (e.g., portion <NUM><NUM> and at least portion of <NUM><NUM> of <FIG>) that includes a communications enabled device and the corresponding antenna(s) (e.g., tag <NUM><NUM> of <FIG>) to be paid out. The tag is dynamically tuned in <NUM> for optimizing tag performance in view of the item's dielectric and tuning properties determined in <NUM>. The tuning can be achieved by: (<NUM>) decreasing a thickness of the antenna trace(s) disposed on the narrow substrate (e.g., using a laser or razor); (<NUM>) decreasing a width of the antenna trace(s) disposed on the narrow substrate (e.g., using a laser or razor); (<NUM>) decreasing a height of the antenna trace(s) disposed on the narrow substrate (e.g., using a laser or razor); (<NUM>) (not according to the claims) removing a portion of the antenna trace(s) disposed on the narrow substrate (e.g., using a laser or razor); (<NUM>) (not according to the claims) clipping one or more ends of the antenna wires coupled to the narrow substrate; and/or (<NUM>) (not according to the claims) sewing metal thread(s) into the item at location(s) where the tag(s) are to reside. The metal thread(s) create capacitance and inductance that tune the tag's operating frequency.

Next in <NUM>, the narrow substrate is cut (e.g., in portion <NUM><NUM> of <FIG>) so as to cause the same to be placed on or otherwise disposed on the item. The cutting of the narrow substrate can be achieved via a cutting mechanism (e.g., cutting mechanism <NUM> of <FIG> or laser <NUM> of <FIG>) of the dispensing machine. The cutting mechanism can include, but is not limited to, a razor or scissors. The narrow substrate is then coupled to the item so as to incorporate the tag in or with the item, as shown by <NUM>. This coupling can be achieved via an adhesive, an application of heat, and/or stitching.

Upon completing <NUM>, operations are performed in <NUM> to validate that the tag is operating properly. The validation can be achieved using a tag reader (e.g., tag reader <NUM> of <FIG>). Tag readers are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. The tag reader can transmit interrogation signals to the tag, wait for a response signal from the tag, receive the response signal, and process the response signal. The proper operation of the tag may be validated when the response signal is received in a given amount of time after the interrogation signal transmission, and/or the response signal includes certain information (e.g., a tag identifier).

If a validation is not made that the tag is operating properly [<NUM>:NO], then method <NUM> continues with <NUM> where the tag is removed from the item and a new tag is coupled to the item. Once the new tag is coupled to the item, method <NUM> returns to <NUM> where operation of the new tag is tested during a validation process. In contrast, if a validation is made that the tag is operating properly [<NUM>:YES], then <NUM> is performed where method <NUM> ends or other actions are taken (e.g., finish manufacturing/fabricating the item and/or return to <NUM> to incorporate a tag in a next item).

In some cases, it may be undesirable to leave the tag attached to the item when it leaves a facility (e.g., RSF <NUM> of <FIG>). Accordingly, a tool (e.g., a heating element, stitching removal device, and/or a robot having an articulating arm with a grasper) may optionally be used to remove all or part of the tag from the item prior to when the item is removed from the facility.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is provided a flow diagram of an illustrative method <NUM> for incorporation of tag(s) (e.g., tag(s) <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, and/or <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>N of <FIG>) into or with item(s) (e.g., item(s) <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>). For example, a tag is incorporated into a seam, a hem or an overlapping fabric edge finish of a garment or hat. The present solution is not limited to the particulars of this example. In another aspect of the disclosure, for example, the tag may be affixed to an item in a variety of locations by heat welding to the item or curing of an adhesive that was applied to the tag.

Next in <NUM>, color is optionally added to a flexible fluid resistive material. The color may be selected so that the color of the flexible fluid resistive material matches the color of item(s) to which tag(s) is(are) to be coupled. The flexible fluid resistive material (colored or clear) may then optionally be used to coat the narrow substrate, antenna(s) and communication enabled device(s), as shown by <NUM>. In one aspect of the disclosure, the color or pattern may also be applied and/or altered by applying heat (e.g., laser <NUM> of <FIG> or heating <NUM> of <FIG>) to the flexible fluid resistive material.

In <NUM>, the narrow substrate is rolled onto a reel (e.g., reel <NUM> of <FIG>). The reel is inserted into a machine for use in incorporating tags into the item, as shown by <NUM>. The machine can include, but is not limited to, a dispensing machine (e.g., ribbon dispensing machine <NUM> of <FIG>). Dispensing machines are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. The reel may be rolled using gears (e.g., gear(s) <NUM> of <FIG>) and motors (e.g., motor(s) <NUM> of <FIG>). Gears and motors are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein.

In <NUM>, metal thread(s) is(are) optionally sewn into the item at location(s) where the tag(s) is(are) to be incorporated. The metal thread(s) create capacitance and inductance for tuning the tag(s) so as to provide optimized tag performance in view of the item's dielectric and tuning properties (e.g., impedance). The dielectric and tuning properties of the item are determined in <NUM>. This determination can be made by a computing device using an LUT (e.g., LUT <NUM> of <FIG>) and/or sensor data (e.g., capacitive measurements) generated by sensors (e.g., sensors <NUM> of <FIG>) configured to sense dielectric and tuning properties of items. Techniques for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of items are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or to be known technique for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of items can be used herein. The metal threads allow for custom tuning of each item by having different sized metal threads sewn into the items. The metal threads also provide a way to increase the capacitance or inductance from a simple trace/wire antenna so that it has better impedance matching with the communications enabled device and better RF performance.

In <NUM>, an item is placed in proximity to the machine. This can be achieved automatically by a conveyer belt (e.g., conveyer belt <NUM>) or manually by an individual (e.g., individual <NUM> of <FIG>). The item can be in a partially or fully manufactured state at this point in the process.

The reel is then turned in <NUM> by an amount that allows a portion of the narrow substrate (e.g., portion <NUM><NUM> and at least portion of <NUM><NUM> of <FIG>) that includes a communications enabled device and the corresponding antenna(s) (e.g., tag <NUM><NUM> of <FIG>) to be paid out. The antenna(s) are tuned in <NUM> for optimizing tag performance in view of the item's dielectric and tuning properties. The tuning can be achieved by decreasing a thickness, height, width or (not according to the claims) removal of the antenna trace(s) disposed on the narrow substrate (e.g., using a laser or razor), or (not according to the claims) clipping one or more ends of the antenna wires coupled to the narrow substrate(e.g., using a laser or razor).

In <NUM>, paint is optionally added to the paid out portion of the narrow substrate. <NUM> can be performed as an alternative to <NUM> where color is added to the flexible fluid resistive material. The paint is selected so that the color of the painted tag matches the color of the item. In one aspect of the disclosure the color or paint pattern may also be applied and/or altered by applying heat (e.g., laser <NUM> of <FIG> or heating <NUM> of <FIG>) to the flexible fluid resistive material.

In <NUM>, the narrow substrate is cut (e.g., in portion <NUM><NUM> of <FIG>) so as to cause the same to be placed on or otherwise disposed on the item. The cutting of the narrow substrate can be achieved via a cutting mechanism (e.g., cutting mechanism <NUM> of <FIG> or laser <NUM> of <FIG>) of the dispensing machine. The cutting mechanism can include, but is not limited to, a razor, laser or scissors. The narrow substrate is then coupled to the item so as to incorporate the tag in or with the item, as shown by <NUM>-<NUM>. As shown by <NUM>, at least one side of the narrow substrate is sewn or otherwise attached to the item (e.g., via an adhesive or an application of heat). Alternatively, the narrow substrate is pushed into the item. As shown by <NUM>-<NUM>, the narrow substrate may additionally or alternatively be enclosed within a cavity formed between the item and a layer of cloth. The layer of cloth can be coupled to the item via a sewing machine. In some scenarios (not according to the claims), a metal thread is sewn into the layer of cloth for tuning the operating frequency of the tag. Upon coupling the tag to the item and/or validating the tag's performance, <NUM> is performed where method <NUM> ends or other actions are taken (e.g., finish manufacturing/fabricating the item and/or return to <NUM> to incorporate a tag in a next item).

Referring now to <FIG>, there is provided a flow diagram of an illustrative method <NUM> (not according to the claims) for incorporation of tag(s) (e.g., tag(s) <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, and/or <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>N of <FIG>) into or with item(s) (e.g., item(s) <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG> and/or item <NUM> of <FIG>). For example, a tag is incorporated into a seam, a hem or an overlapping fabric edge finish of a garment or hat. The present solution is not limited to the particulars of this example. In another aspect of the disclosure, for example, the tag may be affixed to an item in a variety of locations by heat welding to the item or curing of an adhesive that was applied to the tag.

Method <NUM> begins with <NUM> and continues with <NUM> where an item (e.g., item <NUM> of <FIG>) is fully or partially produced. Alignment marking(s) is(are) optionally added to the item in <NUM>. The alignment markings can be used in a subsequent process to couple a tag (e.g., tag <NUM> of <FIG>) to the item. In this regard, the alignment markings can clearly show where the tag is to be placed on the item, and help guide such placement. The alignment markings can include, but are not limited to, shape(s) or line(s) printed on the item (e.g., in a color different than the item's color), created by stitching (e.g., using thread in a color different than the item's color), and/or formed using die(s) (e.g., a die with a color different than the item's color).

In <NUM>, a length of each metal thread that is to be incorporated into the item to form a tag antenna (e.g., antenna <NUM> of <FIG>) is dynamically determined. The length of each metal thread can be selected for optimizing tag performance based on the dielectric and tuning properties of the item (e.g., item <NUM> of <FIG>). The dielectric and tuning properties of the item may be determined by a computing device (e.g., computing device <NUM> of <FIG>) using an LUT (e.g., LUT <NUM> of <FIG>) and/or sensor data (e.g., capacitive measurements) generated by sensors (e.g., sensors <NUM> of <FIG>) configured to sense dielectric and tuning properties of items. Techniques for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of items are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or to be known technique for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of items can be used herein.

In <NUM>, metal thread(s) having the dynamically determined length(s) is(are) created. This can involve cutting piece(s) of metal thread from a spool of metal thread (e.g., spool <NUM> of <FIG>) using a cutting mechanism (e.g., cutting mechanism <NUM> of <FIG>) and/or tuning each piece of metal thread by cutting one or more ends thereof (e.g., using cutting mechanism <NUM> of <FIG> and/or a laser <NUM> of <FIG>). Ends of the metal thread(s) are optionally coated in <NUM> with a substance selected to reduce or eliminate irritation caused by the metal thread(s) to an individual using the item. The metal thread(s) is(are) then sewn by a sewing machine (e.g., sewing machine <NUM> of <FIG>) into the item being produced for forming tag antenna(s) (e.g., antenna(s) <NUM> of <FIG>), as shown by <NUM>. Notably, the metal thread(s) is(are) very difficult to feel in the item.

In <NUM>, at least a communication enabled device (e.g., communication enabled device <NUM> of <FIG>) is optionally encased with a flexible fluid resistive material (e.g., flexible fluid resistive material <NUM> of <FIG>). The flexible fluid resistive material may be clear or colored. The color of the flexible fluid resistive material may be selected so that it matches the color of the item to which the tag is being incorporated. The color may be added to the flexible fluid resistive material in <NUM>.

In <NUM>, the communication enabled device is optionally attached to a piece of substrate (e.g., PET or Mylar) (e.g., substrate <NUM> of <FIG>). This attachment can be achieved via an adhesive, an application of heat, and/or stitching. The piece of substrate is provided to facilitate the attachment of the communication enabled device to the item.

In <NUM>, the communication enabled device is attached to the item so as to form an electrical coupling, inductive coupling, or connection between the communication enabled device and the metal thread antenna(s). This attachment can be achieved via an adhesive, an application of heat and/or stitching.

If a validation is not made that the tag is operating properly [<NUM>:NO], then method <NUM> continues with <NUM> where the metal thread(s) and/or communications enabled device is(are) removed from the item and a new one(s) thereof is(are) coupled to the item. Additionally or alternatively, the antenna(s) is(are) tuned by removing at least a portion of each metal thread (e.g., by removing a free end of each metal thread). Once these actions are taken, method <NUM> returns to <NUM> where operation of the tag is tested during a validation process.

In contrast, if a validation is made that the tag is operating properly [<NUM>:YES], then <NUM> and/or <NUM> is(are) performed. In some cases, it may be undesirable to leave the tag attached to the item when it leaves a facility (e.g., RSF <NUM> of <FIG>). Accordingly, a tool (e.g., a heating element, stitching removal device, and/or a robot having an articulating arm with a grasper) may optionally be used in <NUM> to remove the communication enabled device, device mounting assembly and/or metal thread(s) from the item prior to when the item is removed from the facility. Subsequently, <NUM> is performed where method <NUM> ends or other actions are performed (e.g., finish manufacturing/fabricating the item and/or return to <NUM> to incorporate a tag in a next item).

Referring now to <FIG>, there is provided a flow diagram of an illustrative method <NUM> (not according to the claims) for incorporation of tag(s) (e.g., tag(s) <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, and/or <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>N of <FIG>) into or with item(s) (e.g., item(s) <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>). For example, a tag is incorporated into a seam, a hem or an overlapping fabric edge finish of a garment or hat. The present solution is not limited to the particulars of this example. In another aspect of the disclosure, for example, the tag may be affixed to an item in a variety of locations by heat welding to the item or curing of an adhesive that was applied to the tag.

Method <NUM> begins with <NUM> and continues with <NUM> where an item (e.g., item <NUM> of <FIG>) is fully or partially produced. Alignment marking(s) is(are) optionally added to the item in <NUM>. The alignment markings can include, but are not limited to, shape(s) or line(s) printed on the item (e.g., in a color different than the item's color), created by stitching (e.g., using thread in a color different than the item's color), and/or formed using die(s) (e.g., a die with a color different than the item's color). The alignment markings can be used in a subsequent process to couple a tag to the item. In this regard, the alignment markings can clearly show where some or all components of the tag are to be placed on the item, and help guide such placement.

In <NUM>, a length of each metal trace that is to be disposed directly on the item to form a tag antenna (e.g., antenna <NUM> of <FIG>) is dynamically determined. The length of each metal trace can be selected for optimizing tag performance based on the dielectric and tuning properties of the item. The dielectric and tuning properties of the item may be determined by a computing device (e.g., computing device <NUM> of <FIG>) using an LUT (e.g., LUT <NUM> of <FIG>) and/or sensor data (e.g., capacitive measurements) generated by sensors (e.g., sensors <NUM> of <FIG>) configured to sense dielectric and tuning properties of items. Techniques for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of items are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or to be known technique for sensing the dielectric and tuning properties of items can be used herein.

In <NUM>, metal trace(s) having the dynamically determined length(s) is(are) printed or otherwise disposed on the item so as to form the tag antenna(s). The metal trace(s) may optionally be tuned after being printed or otherwise disposed on the item. The tuning can be achieved by decreasing a thickness, width, height, or removal of a metal trace at one or more ends thereof (e.g., using a laser <NUM> of <FIG>). The metal traces can be formed of any suitable material, such as copper, silver, aluminum or any electrically-conductive material. The metal traces can be otherwise disposed on the item in accordance with any known or to be known deposition technique (e.g., sputtering, printing).

In <NUM>, at least a communication enabled device (e.g., communication enabled device <NUM> of <FIG>) is optionally encased with a flexible fluid resistive material (e.g., flexible fluid resistive material <NUM> of <FIG>). The flexible fluid resistive material may be clear or colored. The color of the flexible fluid resistive material may be selected so that it matches the color of the item to which the tag is being incorporated. The color may be added to the flexible fluid resistive material in <NUM>. In one aspect of the disclosure, the color or pattern may also be applied and/or altered by applying heat (e.g., laser <NUM> of <FIG> or heating <NUM> of <FIG>) to the flexible fluid resistive material.

In <NUM>, the communication enabled device is optionally attached to a piece of substrate (e.g., PET or Mylar) (e.g., substrate <NUM> of <FIG>). This attachment can be achieved via an adhesive, an application of heat, and/or stitching. The substrate can facilitate the attachment of the communication enabled device to the item.

In <NUM>, the communication enabled device is attached to the item so as to form an electrical coupling, inductive coupling, or connection between the communication enabled device and the metal trace antenna(s). This attachment can be achieved via an adhesive, an application of heat and/or stitching.

Upon completing <NUM>, operations are performed in <NUM> to validate that the tag is operating properly. The validation can be achieved using a tag reader (e.g., tag reader <NUM> of <FIG>) and/or computing device (e.g., computing device <NUM> of <FIG>). Tag readers are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. The tag reader can transmit interrogation signals to the tag, wait for a response signal from the tag, receive the response signal, and process the response signal. An output of the tag reader may optionally be provided to the computing device for processing. The proper operation of the tag may be validated when the response signal is received in a given amount of time after the interrogation signal transmission, and/or the response signal includes certain information (e.g., a tag identifier).

If a validation is not made that the tag is operating properly [<NUM>:NO], then method <NUM> continues with <NUM> where the communications enabled device is removed from the item and a new communications enabled device is coupled to the item. The antenna(s) may also be tuned in <NUM> by decreasing a thickness of each conductive trace of a given portion thereof (e.g., of a free end). Once the new tag is coupled to the item, method <NUM> returns to <NUM> where operation of the new tag is tested during a validation process.

Claim 1:
A method for producing a radio frequency identification, RFID, tag (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), comprising:
- attaching (<NUM>, <NUM>) a communications enabled device (<NUM>, <NUM>) to the substrate (<NUM>, <NUM>) so as to form an electrical connection between the communications enabled device (<NUM>, <NUM>) and a conductive trace of the substrate to form the tag (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>),
- determining (<NUM>, <NUM>), by a computing device (<NUM>), a characteristic of the conductive trace on a substrate (<NUM>, <NUM>) to be incorporated into an item (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) to configure a tag performance in view of at least one of a dielectric property or a tuning property of the item (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
- altering (<NUM>,<NUM>) the conductive trace on the substrate (<NUM>, <NUM>) by removing a portion of a conductive material in an area of the conductive trace from the substrate (<NUM>, <NUM>) to provide a tag that is specifically tuned and matched to the item (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>); and
wherein the removing the portion of the conductive material in an area of the conductive trace from the substrate (<NUM>, <NUM>) includes at least one of partly decreasing a thickness of the conductive trace, partly decreasing a width of the conductive trace, or partly decreasing a height of the conductive trace.