Abstract:
The invention relates to a wireless communication device that is capable of communicating using a pole antenna in a first mode and a slot antenna in a second mode. The wireless communication device contains at least one conductive tab that provides an antenna. The tab(s) form a pole antenna, and the tabs may also be attached across a slot to form a slot antenna. The wireless communication device can communicate at different frequencies using the pole antenna in a first mode and the slot antenna in a second mode. The tab(s) may be attached across a slot created in a package to form a slot antenna, or the tab(s) may be attached to a slot that is created as part of the wireless communication device to form a slot antenna. The tab(s) and/or the slot may also contain an adhesive material to attach the wireless communication device to a package, container or other material. More than one slot may be provided to form a circularly polarized antenna. The wireless communication device can be placed inside a conductive package using a slot antenna to provide unshielded communications. The wireless communication device can be further adapted to detect when the package is opened and to communicate such information. The wireless communication devices can be printed or placed on a carrier or support, such as film, to be stamped onto packages in a manufacturing facility and/or assembly line. The carrier may be a conductive material in which tabs are formed as part of the carrier before the wireless communication device is attached.
Abstract:
The invention relates to a wireless communication device that attaches using magnetic force in whole or part to an article of manufacture, or other material having a magnetic surface portion. The wireless communication device contains a form of a magnet to provide magnetic force and attraction. A magnet can be a natural magnet, electromagnet or other type of material having magnetic properties. The wireless communication device may be detached from the article by altering the magnetic force created by its associated magnet. Altering is accomplished by using an external device or a device internal to the wireless communication device. The wireless communication device is also operable to receive and communicate information regarding the article to which it is attached remotely for identification, informative, and tracking purposes.