Patent ID: 7432817

Claim:
A cabinet for storage of at least one container having a tag associated therewith, said tag including a tag antenna coupled to an integrated circuit device having data related to a product stored in said container, said cabinet comprising, in combination: a framework defining a storage area having an opening, said container being disposed within said storage area with said tag antenna being accessible through said opening, a reader having a reader antenna disposed within said storage area, said reader antenna being accessible through said opening, a panel moveable mounted to said framework for closing said opening, said panel having a an inner side surface facing said opening when said panel is closed, and an RFID bridge antenna mounted to said inner side surface of said panel, said bridge antenna including at least two RF antenna elements coupled together by a conductor, said RF antenna elements being spaced apart and so positioned on said panel as to substantially align themselves one with each one of said tag and reader antennas when said panel is closed, thereby increasing the distance over which said tag can communicate with said reader.