Abstract:
A combination EAS and UHF security tag that adds the ability to add item level UHF functionality to a retail tag and maintain the integrity of the EAS systems installed in the business and whereby the EAS and UHF security elements are substantially formed from a common conductive layer. This combination tag also includes the ability to change a tag from a "far-field read" tag to a "near-field read" tag.
Abstract:
Security labels and tags (100) including elements and methods of making them are disclosed. The elements are in the form of an oriented polymer layer (14), conductive traces (12, 16) clad to the polymer layer to form an open loop (24) forming a window (w) in the interior of the loop and an open support framework (102a - 102g) extending into the window to support the polymer layer in the window. In some embodiments the open support framework is in the form of parallel, interleaved linear extensions from the conductive traces which extend into the window. In other embodiments the open support framework is in a pattern of intersecting sections (e.g., a fishbone pattern) located in the window.