CA2366140A1 - System for detecting and controlling zonal transitions of objects - Google Patents
System for detecting and controlling zonal transitions of objects Download PDFInfo
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- CA2366140A1 CA2366140A1 CA002366140A CA2366140A CA2366140A1 CA 2366140 A1 CA2366140 A1 CA 2366140A1 CA 002366140 A CA002366140 A CA 002366140A CA 2366140 A CA2366140 A CA 2366140A CA 2366140 A1 CA2366140 A1 CA 2366140A1
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- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
- G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
- G07C9/20—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass
- G07C9/28—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass the pass enabling tracking or indicating presence
Description
SYSTEM FOR DETECTING AND CONTROLLING ZONAL
TRANSITIONS OF OBJECTS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention pertains to the field of electronic monitoring of object movement between specified regions.
BACKGROUND
There are a number of electronic devices that can be used to identify and track the movement of people and objects. Such devices may be useful in electronic animal identification, baggage tracking, parcel tracking, inventory management applications, asset identification and tracking, and other applications involving identification and tracking of people and things. For example, these applications may involve transmitting stored information from a RFID
tag, memory card or microprocessor card to an exciter/reader system in close proximity with these units. Also, these applications may involve writing information to a unit.
Radio frequency identification tags are frequently used for personal identification in automated gate sentry applications protecting secured buildings or areas. These tags often take the form of access control cards. Information stored on the radio frequency identification tag identifies the person seeking access to the secured building or area. Older automated gate sentry applications require the person accessing the building to insert or swipe their identification tag into or through a reader for the system to read the information from the identification tag.
Newer radio frequency identification tag systems allow the radio frequency identification tag to be read at a short distance using radio frequency data transmission technology, thereby eliminating the need to insert or swipe an identification tag into or through a reader. Most typically, the user simply holds or places the radio frequency identification tag near a base station, which is coupled to a security system securing the building or area. The base station transmits an excitation signal to the radio frequency identification tag that powers circuitry contained on the radio frequency identification tag. The circuitry, in response to the excitation signal, communicates stored information from the radio frequency tag to the base station, which receives and decodes the information. The information read is used by the security system to determine if access is appropriate. Also, radio frequency identification tags may be written remotely by an excitation signal appropriately modulated in a predetermined manner.
These types of tracking systems may be also used to track the movement of people and things.
For example, PCT Patent Application Number PCT/US99/20685 provides an object tracking and IO control system that is particularly suited to implementation at an automobile dealership. The system includes a Key Track system adapted to control access to and log the check out and check in of keys to vehicles on the lot. RFID tags are provided on the vehicles and tag readers are embedded at selected locations within the dealership parking lot to detect movement of vehicles.
In one embodiment, the lot is subdivided into zones and the readers are located at transitions regions between the zones. Information about the check out and check in of keys from the Key Track system is combined and integrated with information about the movement of vehicles about the lot to reach conclusions regarding authorised movement to provide useful information to dealership management.
In addition, U.S. Patent No. 4,275,385 discloses a personnel locator system using a periodic unique infrared identification code emitted from a battery-powered transmitter unit to identify the person carrying the transmitter unit to an overhead infrared receiver as the person enters the receiver's monitoring zone. The transmitter unit identification code together with the receiver identification code is communicated to a common control unit which displays the location of all of the transmitter units. Additionally, the system controls electronic locks for restricting access of users to certain locations or equipment.
Furthermore, there are credit card-sized devices having memory, processing logic or other digital and analog electronics which are commonly known as microprocessor cards or "smart cards".
Typically, microprocessor cards may be programmed to perform a wide variety of functions. For example, a single microprocessor card may be programmed to open doors as a key, store medical information and serve as an electronic credit card and may contain data about the cardholder.
There a particular types of smart cards that require contact with a reader device in order to transfer information, however certain types of smart cards, commonly known as contactless smart cards, can communicate data with a reader device via a wireless radio frequency (RF), inductive or similar communication link that does not require electrical (galvanic) contact between the smart card and reader device.
For example, smart farecards have been used for, among other purposes, payment of mass-transit fares. A patron can purchase a farecard having a certain denomination or value that corresponds to an account balance. To board a mass-transit vehicle, the patron places the farecard in the vicinity of the reader device. Via wireless or otherwise contactless communication between the reader and farecard, the reader device detects the presence of the farecard, identifies the account associated with that farecard, and debits the account balance. If the account balance is greater than the fare, the reader indicates such and allows the patron to board the vehicle. The transaction may include other steps as welt, such as confirming the authenticity of the farecard.
In some mass-transit systems, patrons must also present their farecards to the reader device upon exiting the vehicle. Such systems are sometimes referred to as check-in check-out (CICO) systems because a patron must use the reader both upon entering or checking into the vehicle and exiting or checking out of the vehicle. A CICO system can base the fare upon distance travelled, travel zones crossed or time elapsed.
While each of the above mentioned types of electronic card systems provide the desired results, these electronic cards can be used by any person if for example they are misplaced or stolen. In order to prevent this situation, these cards may have information imprinted thereon including pictures for example thereby identifying the authorised user. However, this only allows a particular card to be used by one person and it thus cannot be reused easily.
Therefore there is a need for an improved electronic card for use with object tracking and identification incorporating an adjustable image display.
TRANSITIONS OF OBJECTS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention pertains to the field of electronic monitoring of object movement between specified regions.
BACKGROUND
There are a number of electronic devices that can be used to identify and track the movement of people and objects. Such devices may be useful in electronic animal identification, baggage tracking, parcel tracking, inventory management applications, asset identification and tracking, and other applications involving identification and tracking of people and things. For example, these applications may involve transmitting stored information from a RFID
tag, memory card or microprocessor card to an exciter/reader system in close proximity with these units. Also, these applications may involve writing information to a unit.
Radio frequency identification tags are frequently used for personal identification in automated gate sentry applications protecting secured buildings or areas. These tags often take the form of access control cards. Information stored on the radio frequency identification tag identifies the person seeking access to the secured building or area. Older automated gate sentry applications require the person accessing the building to insert or swipe their identification tag into or through a reader for the system to read the information from the identification tag.
Newer radio frequency identification tag systems allow the radio frequency identification tag to be read at a short distance using radio frequency data transmission technology, thereby eliminating the need to insert or swipe an identification tag into or through a reader. Most typically, the user simply holds or places the radio frequency identification tag near a base station, which is coupled to a security system securing the building or area. The base station transmits an excitation signal to the radio frequency identification tag that powers circuitry contained on the radio frequency identification tag. The circuitry, in response to the excitation signal, communicates stored information from the radio frequency tag to the base station, which receives and decodes the information. The information read is used by the security system to determine if access is appropriate. Also, radio frequency identification tags may be written remotely by an excitation signal appropriately modulated in a predetermined manner.
These types of tracking systems may be also used to track the movement of people and things.
For example, PCT Patent Application Number PCT/US99/20685 provides an object tracking and IO control system that is particularly suited to implementation at an automobile dealership. The system includes a Key Track system adapted to control access to and log the check out and check in of keys to vehicles on the lot. RFID tags are provided on the vehicles and tag readers are embedded at selected locations within the dealership parking lot to detect movement of vehicles.
In one embodiment, the lot is subdivided into zones and the readers are located at transitions regions between the zones. Information about the check out and check in of keys from the Key Track system is combined and integrated with information about the movement of vehicles about the lot to reach conclusions regarding authorised movement to provide useful information to dealership management.
In addition, U.S. Patent No. 4,275,385 discloses a personnel locator system using a periodic unique infrared identification code emitted from a battery-powered transmitter unit to identify the person carrying the transmitter unit to an overhead infrared receiver as the person enters the receiver's monitoring zone. The transmitter unit identification code together with the receiver identification code is communicated to a common control unit which displays the location of all of the transmitter units. Additionally, the system controls electronic locks for restricting access of users to certain locations or equipment.
Furthermore, there are credit card-sized devices having memory, processing logic or other digital and analog electronics which are commonly known as microprocessor cards or "smart cards".
Typically, microprocessor cards may be programmed to perform a wide variety of functions. For example, a single microprocessor card may be programmed to open doors as a key, store medical information and serve as an electronic credit card and may contain data about the cardholder.
There a particular types of smart cards that require contact with a reader device in order to transfer information, however certain types of smart cards, commonly known as contactless smart cards, can communicate data with a reader device via a wireless radio frequency (RF), inductive or similar communication link that does not require electrical (galvanic) contact between the smart card and reader device.
For example, smart farecards have been used for, among other purposes, payment of mass-transit fares. A patron can purchase a farecard having a certain denomination or value that corresponds to an account balance. To board a mass-transit vehicle, the patron places the farecard in the vicinity of the reader device. Via wireless or otherwise contactless communication between the reader and farecard, the reader device detects the presence of the farecard, identifies the account associated with that farecard, and debits the account balance. If the account balance is greater than the fare, the reader indicates such and allows the patron to board the vehicle. The transaction may include other steps as welt, such as confirming the authenticity of the farecard.
In some mass-transit systems, patrons must also present their farecards to the reader device upon exiting the vehicle. Such systems are sometimes referred to as check-in check-out (CICO) systems because a patron must use the reader both upon entering or checking into the vehicle and exiting or checking out of the vehicle. A CICO system can base the fare upon distance travelled, travel zones crossed or time elapsed.
While each of the above mentioned types of electronic card systems provide the desired results, these electronic cards can be used by any person if for example they are misplaced or stolen. In order to prevent this situation, these cards may have information imprinted thereon including pictures for example thereby identifying the authorised user. However, this only allows a particular card to be used by one person and it thus cannot be reused easily.
Therefore there is a need for an improved electronic card for use with object tracking and identification incorporating an adjustable image display.
This background information is provided for the purpose of making known information believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance to the present invention. No admission is necessarily intended, nor should be construed, that any of the preceding information constitutes prior art against the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide a system for detecting and controlling zonal transitions of objects. In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for detecting and controlling zonal transitions of one or more objects within a predefined area comprising two or more zones, said system comprising: one or more memory means for storing information relating to said object including a unique identification number; an adjustable electronic display for displaying information relating to the object to which the portable unit is connected; transmitting and receiving means for communication with one or more reader units;
and a control means for controlling the functionality of the portable unit, wherein said control means is in electronic communication with said one or more memory means, said adjustable electronic display and said transmitting and receiving means enabling transfer of information therebetween; one or more reader units positioned at predetermined locations within the predefined area comprising a means for communication with the one or more portable units; and a database system for storing, managing and analysing information relating to said objects, wherein said database system comprises a means for communication with the one or more reader units for detecting zonal transitions of objects within the predefined area.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Figure 1 illustrates a schematic of the components of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 illustrates a schematic of the components of a portable unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide a system for detecting and controlling zonal transitions of objects. In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for detecting and controlling zonal transitions of one or more objects within a predefined area comprising two or more zones, said system comprising: one or more memory means for storing information relating to said object including a unique identification number; an adjustable electronic display for displaying information relating to the object to which the portable unit is connected; transmitting and receiving means for communication with one or more reader units;
and a control means for controlling the functionality of the portable unit, wherein said control means is in electronic communication with said one or more memory means, said adjustable electronic display and said transmitting and receiving means enabling transfer of information therebetween; one or more reader units positioned at predetermined locations within the predefined area comprising a means for communication with the one or more portable units; and a database system for storing, managing and analysing information relating to said objects, wherein said database system comprises a means for communication with the one or more reader units for detecting zonal transitions of objects within the predefined area.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Figure 1 illustrates a schematic of the components of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 illustrates a schematic of the components of a portable unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a system for detecting and controlling zonal transitions of one or more objects within a predefined area, wherein said area comprises two or more zones. In one embodiment of the present invention and with reference to Figure 1, the system comprises: a portable unit 10 wherein a portable unit can be connected to each object and the portable unit 10 comprises one or more memory means 20; an adjustable electronic display 30;
transmitting and receiving means 40; and a control means 50. The system of the present invention further comprises one or more reader units 60 positioned at predetermined locations within the predefined area and a database system 80 for storing, managing and analysing information relating to said objects.
In one embodiment of the present invention, each reader unit can establish a communication field 70 enabling the communication between a portable unit 10 and a reader unit 60.
In addition, each reader unit 60 is interconnected with the database system 80 via a communication link 90, enabling the transfer of information between the one or more reader units GO
and the database system 80. The database system, by correlating the position of each of the reader units with the detection of the one or more portable units, can establish the zonal position of a portable unit and hence the object to which it is attached.
Portable Unit In one embodiment of the present invention, a portable unit comprises one or more memory means for storing information relating to said object including a unique identification number; an adjustable electronic display for displaying information relating to the object to which the portable unit is connected; transmitting and receiving means for communication with one or more reader units and a control means for controlling the functionality of the portable unit. Each of these components is in electronic communication with one another in order to provide a means for the transfer of information between the multiple components of a portable unit.
In one embodiment the memory means can be incorporated into a microprocessor card otherwise known as a "smart card" which can comprise a region of permanent memory and a region of transitory memory. For example, information which is contained in the permanent memory can comprise a plurality of instructions that relate to the control of the adjustable electronic display and the control of the modulation and demodulation of signals transmitted between a portable unit and a reader unit. The permanent memory of a portable unit can also comprise a unique identification number enabling the identification of a particular portable unit by a reader unit independent of the object to which it is attached. The transitory memory can comprise information that relates to the object to which the portable unit is connected, for example, the name of the object possibly including graphical images of the same, the security level attributed to the object, biometric identification. In addition, it may contain information relating to payment of fees for access to particular zones by the object, for example electronic ticket information. In one embodiment, this transitory information can be encoded into the memory means of a portable unit using for an encoding device, for example. In one embodiment, this information can be modified during a communication session between said portable unit and a reader unit or both.
In one embodiment, the unique identification number of a particular portable unit can be in the form of an RFID (radio frequency identification) tag that is incorporated into the portable unit.
As is known to a worker skilled in the art, many RFID tags are passive devices that store a unique code and are powered by capturing a fraction of the energy radiated by a reader unit when the tag is in the vicinity said reader unit. More specifically, RFID tags typically comprise a small antenna coupled to an integrated circuit chip, which includes a memory for storing an identification code and perhaps other information in addition to controlling mechanisms for transmitting the code to be received by a reader unit. Active RFID tags are also available as alternatives to passive tags. Generally, active tags have an on board power source and many are able to receive and store data as well as communicate data to a reader, as do passive tags. Each of these types of RFID tags can be incorporated into the present invention.
In one embodiment, the adjustable electronic display presents information relating to the object to which the portable unit is connected, wherein this information can be stored in the memory means of the portable unit. The adjustable electronic display device can be selected from a number of display systems for example LCD (liquid crystal display), LED (light emitting diode) and electrophoretic displays such as E-inkTM or Smart PaperTM. Other electronic display systems that provide the ability to adjust the information being presented and can be constructed in a compact form, would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment the adjustable electronic display is selected such that the power consumption of the adjustable electronic display is minimal. For example the display can be selected such that minimal or no power consumption is required by the adjustable electronic display when the image is static and power consumption occurs primarily during the adjustment of the display image. In a preferred embodiment, an adjustable electronic display for use with the present invention formed using E-inkTM or Smart PaperTM.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the adjustable electronic display can be used to present a plurality of information. This information can be determined based on the application of the system according to the present invention. For example, this information can be alphanumeric and/or image identification of the object with which a particular portable unit is associated, the security clearance of the associated object, the current location status of the object or any other type of information which would be appropriate for the intended use of the system.
In one embodiment of the present invention receiving and transmitting means are provided in the form of an antenna as would be known to a worker skilled in the art. Using this type of device the communication between a portable device and a reader unit is performed using electromagnetic radiation projected and received by an antenna. In one embodiment, there are a number of antennas associated with one particular portable unit, wherein one antenna can be associated with an RFID tag and a further antenna can be associated with an integrated circuit being a component of a microprocessor card, for example.
In one embodiment, a portable unit further comprises a control means that can be a component of an integrated circuit, wherein said control means controls the functionality of the portable unit.
For example the control means can access information contained within the memory means for instructions to enable the communication between a portable unit and a reader unit. The control means further controls the information which is transmitted to the adjustable electronic display and thus monitors and amends the display based on information contained within the memory means of the portable unit or based on information transmitted by a reader device. The control means can also regulate a plurality of additional functions of the portable unit as would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the elements of a portable unit can be provided in a plurality of forms by means of a number of different components. In addition, a number of elements of a portable unit may be provided by one component, for example, an integrated circuit chip can incorporate a memory means, a transmitting and receiving means and a control means, thus enabling these functions to be provided by a single component.
In one embodiment of the present invention and with reference to Figure 2, a portable unit 10 can be separated into two main components, these being the main housing 100 and an integrated circuit card 200. The main housing 100 comprises an adjustable electronic display 110 and a radio frequency identification chip 120. The integrated circuit card 200 comprises one or more integrated circuit chips 210, 220 and a power source 230. In addition, this embodiment incorporates two antennas 140, 240 into the portable unit, wherein one antenna 140 provides a means for communication with the RFID chip 120 and the other antenna 240 provides a means for communication with the components of the integrated circuit card 200.
These two main components can be separate entities and prior to deployment of the portable unit, the integrated circuit card 200 can be inserted into the main housing 100. Optionally, a portable unit 10 can be fabricated such that the integrated circuit card 200 and the main housing 100 are constructed as a single entity.
As would be known to a worker skilled in the art, an integrated circuit chip can be a contact chip which requires electrical (galvanic) contact in order for information to be transferred or a contactless chip which can transmit and receive information in a wireless manner using for example electro-magnetic radiation. The choice of the type of integrated circuit chip can be based on, for example, the application for which the device is being used or the frequency of use of the device.
In one embodiment of the present invention, a portable unit can comprise both a contact integrated circuit chip and a contactless integrated circuit chip. For example, the contact chip can contain information relating to the fuctionality of the adjustable electronic display, wherein this information may be adjusted only when the portable unit is associated with another object.
Furthermore, the contactless integrated circuit chip may contain information which is required by reader units on a frequent basis, for example information relating to electronic ticketing, security clearance or identification information. There are plurality of manufacturers of integrated circuit chips which may be incorporated into the present invention. These manufacturers can be for example, MikronTM, MotorolaTM or SiemensTM.
In one embodiment, the main housing of a portable unit is foamed using polycarbonate (PC), polyvinylchloride (PVC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrol (ABS), fibreglass, carbon fibre or any other material which is resilient, lightweight and non-conductive as would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment of the present invention, a portable unit is constructed such that it is approximately the size of a typical employee identification card. In addition, a portable unit is constructed such that the weight of the device is minimal, thereby allowing for a clipping device to secure a portable unit to a person's jacket, for example.
The present invention provides a system for detecting and controlling zonal transitions of one or more objects within a predefined area, wherein said area comprises two or more zones. In one embodiment of the present invention and with reference to Figure 1, the system comprises: a portable unit 10 wherein a portable unit can be connected to each object and the portable unit 10 comprises one or more memory means 20; an adjustable electronic display 30;
transmitting and receiving means 40; and a control means 50. The system of the present invention further comprises one or more reader units 60 positioned at predetermined locations within the predefined area and a database system 80 for storing, managing and analysing information relating to said objects.
In one embodiment of the present invention, each reader unit can establish a communication field 70 enabling the communication between a portable unit 10 and a reader unit 60.
In addition, each reader unit 60 is interconnected with the database system 80 via a communication link 90, enabling the transfer of information between the one or more reader units GO
and the database system 80. The database system, by correlating the position of each of the reader units with the detection of the one or more portable units, can establish the zonal position of a portable unit and hence the object to which it is attached.
Portable Unit In one embodiment of the present invention, a portable unit comprises one or more memory means for storing information relating to said object including a unique identification number; an adjustable electronic display for displaying information relating to the object to which the portable unit is connected; transmitting and receiving means for communication with one or more reader units and a control means for controlling the functionality of the portable unit. Each of these components is in electronic communication with one another in order to provide a means for the transfer of information between the multiple components of a portable unit.
In one embodiment the memory means can be incorporated into a microprocessor card otherwise known as a "smart card" which can comprise a region of permanent memory and a region of transitory memory. For example, information which is contained in the permanent memory can comprise a plurality of instructions that relate to the control of the adjustable electronic display and the control of the modulation and demodulation of signals transmitted between a portable unit and a reader unit. The permanent memory of a portable unit can also comprise a unique identification number enabling the identification of a particular portable unit by a reader unit independent of the object to which it is attached. The transitory memory can comprise information that relates to the object to which the portable unit is connected, for example, the name of the object possibly including graphical images of the same, the security level attributed to the object, biometric identification. In addition, it may contain information relating to payment of fees for access to particular zones by the object, for example electronic ticket information. In one embodiment, this transitory information can be encoded into the memory means of a portable unit using for an encoding device, for example. In one embodiment, this information can be modified during a communication session between said portable unit and a reader unit or both.
In one embodiment, the unique identification number of a particular portable unit can be in the form of an RFID (radio frequency identification) tag that is incorporated into the portable unit.
As is known to a worker skilled in the art, many RFID tags are passive devices that store a unique code and are powered by capturing a fraction of the energy radiated by a reader unit when the tag is in the vicinity said reader unit. More specifically, RFID tags typically comprise a small antenna coupled to an integrated circuit chip, which includes a memory for storing an identification code and perhaps other information in addition to controlling mechanisms for transmitting the code to be received by a reader unit. Active RFID tags are also available as alternatives to passive tags. Generally, active tags have an on board power source and many are able to receive and store data as well as communicate data to a reader, as do passive tags. Each of these types of RFID tags can be incorporated into the present invention.
In one embodiment, the adjustable electronic display presents information relating to the object to which the portable unit is connected, wherein this information can be stored in the memory means of the portable unit. The adjustable electronic display device can be selected from a number of display systems for example LCD (liquid crystal display), LED (light emitting diode) and electrophoretic displays such as E-inkTM or Smart PaperTM. Other electronic display systems that provide the ability to adjust the information being presented and can be constructed in a compact form, would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment the adjustable electronic display is selected such that the power consumption of the adjustable electronic display is minimal. For example the display can be selected such that minimal or no power consumption is required by the adjustable electronic display when the image is static and power consumption occurs primarily during the adjustment of the display image. In a preferred embodiment, an adjustable electronic display for use with the present invention formed using E-inkTM or Smart PaperTM.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the adjustable electronic display can be used to present a plurality of information. This information can be determined based on the application of the system according to the present invention. For example, this information can be alphanumeric and/or image identification of the object with which a particular portable unit is associated, the security clearance of the associated object, the current location status of the object or any other type of information which would be appropriate for the intended use of the system.
In one embodiment of the present invention receiving and transmitting means are provided in the form of an antenna as would be known to a worker skilled in the art. Using this type of device the communication between a portable device and a reader unit is performed using electromagnetic radiation projected and received by an antenna. In one embodiment, there are a number of antennas associated with one particular portable unit, wherein one antenna can be associated with an RFID tag and a further antenna can be associated with an integrated circuit being a component of a microprocessor card, for example.
In one embodiment, a portable unit further comprises a control means that can be a component of an integrated circuit, wherein said control means controls the functionality of the portable unit.
For example the control means can access information contained within the memory means for instructions to enable the communication between a portable unit and a reader unit. The control means further controls the information which is transmitted to the adjustable electronic display and thus monitors and amends the display based on information contained within the memory means of the portable unit or based on information transmitted by a reader device. The control means can also regulate a plurality of additional functions of the portable unit as would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the elements of a portable unit can be provided in a plurality of forms by means of a number of different components. In addition, a number of elements of a portable unit may be provided by one component, for example, an integrated circuit chip can incorporate a memory means, a transmitting and receiving means and a control means, thus enabling these functions to be provided by a single component.
In one embodiment of the present invention and with reference to Figure 2, a portable unit 10 can be separated into two main components, these being the main housing 100 and an integrated circuit card 200. The main housing 100 comprises an adjustable electronic display 110 and a radio frequency identification chip 120. The integrated circuit card 200 comprises one or more integrated circuit chips 210, 220 and a power source 230. In addition, this embodiment incorporates two antennas 140, 240 into the portable unit, wherein one antenna 140 provides a means for communication with the RFID chip 120 and the other antenna 240 provides a means for communication with the components of the integrated circuit card 200.
These two main components can be separate entities and prior to deployment of the portable unit, the integrated circuit card 200 can be inserted into the main housing 100. Optionally, a portable unit 10 can be fabricated such that the integrated circuit card 200 and the main housing 100 are constructed as a single entity.
As would be known to a worker skilled in the art, an integrated circuit chip can be a contact chip which requires electrical (galvanic) contact in order for information to be transferred or a contactless chip which can transmit and receive information in a wireless manner using for example electro-magnetic radiation. The choice of the type of integrated circuit chip can be based on, for example, the application for which the device is being used or the frequency of use of the device.
In one embodiment of the present invention, a portable unit can comprise both a contact integrated circuit chip and a contactless integrated circuit chip. For example, the contact chip can contain information relating to the fuctionality of the adjustable electronic display, wherein this information may be adjusted only when the portable unit is associated with another object.
Furthermore, the contactless integrated circuit chip may contain information which is required by reader units on a frequent basis, for example information relating to electronic ticketing, security clearance or identification information. There are plurality of manufacturers of integrated circuit chips which may be incorporated into the present invention. These manufacturers can be for example, MikronTM, MotorolaTM or SiemensTM.
In one embodiment, the main housing of a portable unit is foamed using polycarbonate (PC), polyvinylchloride (PVC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrol (ABS), fibreglass, carbon fibre or any other material which is resilient, lightweight and non-conductive as would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment of the present invention, a portable unit is constructed such that it is approximately the size of a typical employee identification card. In addition, a portable unit is constructed such that the weight of the device is minimal, thereby allowing for a clipping device to secure a portable unit to a person's jacket, for example.
Reader Unit In one embodiment of the present invention, a reader unit is capable of communication with each portable unit within the system in addition to the database system. This enables the information collected by a reader unit from each of the portable units to be transmitted to the database system. A reader unit can also transmit instructions or information to a portable unit, wherein these transmissions can be instructions for the performance of a particular action. For example, these instructions can be to change the adjustable display or to amend the information which is stored by the memory means associated with the portable unit.
In one embodiment of the present invention, a reader unit can communicate with a portable unit in a contact or contactless manner, wherein the mode of communication is determined by the type of integrated circuit which is associated with the portable unit as previously described. For example, a contact reader can have a slot or any other type of configuration as would be known to a worker skilled in the art, providing a means for establishing electrical contact between the portable unit and the reader unit. In this manner a reader unit can inter ogate the portable unit for required information and can transmit information to the portable unit in response to the previously acquired information. In a preferred embodiment, the communication between a reader unit and a portable unit is performed in a contactless manner. For example, the reader unit can produce a communication field of electro-magnetic radiation wherein this field provides a means for the transfer of information between a portable unit and a reader unit as would be known to a worker skilled in the art. In one embodiment, the contactless communication between a reader unit and a portable unit can be designed to be compatible with many different wireless communication standards, for example, BluetoothTM, WiFi 802.11a-g, or Home RF.
In addition, the communication field produced by a reader unit can further enable a passive integrated circuit or RFID tag within a portable unit, to generate power to enable it to function, as would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment, the process of information transfer between the reader units and the database system can be performed in a number of different formats. For example, each reader unit can be hardwired to the database system by means of ether cabling, for example, enabling information transfer. In addition, a wireless communication network can be established for communication using for example, BluetoothT'", WiFi 802.11a-g, or Home RF. The selection of the method of communication between the reader units and the database system can be determined by the application of use of the present invention. For example, if the system is being used in a permanent manner and the reader units will be located at specific locations for extended periods of time, a hardwired system may be the most cost effective. However, if the system is being operated at a particular site for a short period of time, wireless communication between the reader units and the database system may be more effective.
In one embodiment, the information gathered by the reader units may be transferred to an intermediate location prior to transmission to the database system. In this type of configuration a main node can receive information from the reader units and subsequently transmit this information to the database system, thereby reducing the transmissions received by the database system. This type of configuration may be convenient if the database system is remotely located in relation to the reader units. The main node can communicate with the reader units using the method as previously described for communication with the database system. In addition, the main node can communicate with the remotely located database system using for example the Internet, wherein said main node gains access to the Internet through an Internet gateway which may be configured as a wireless or hardwired gateway as would be understood by a worker skilled in the art. Security of the information transmitted over the Internet can be provided using Internet information transfer protocols, for example Secure Sockets Layer (SSL).
Database System In one embodiment of the present invention, the database system contains a plurality of information relating to the objects, portable units and reader units of the present invention. This information can be original information in addition to supplemental information obtained during communication sessions between reader units and portable units. For example, the information contained within the database system comprises the location and identification of each reader unit, the identification of each portable unit and information relating to the objects with which a portable unit is associated. Through the con elation of information relating to the location of the reader units and the portable units identified by particular reader units, the database system can calculate the zonal location of each portable unit within the predefined area.
In one embodiment, the database system comprises means for controlling a plurality of access points in relation to zonal transition areas, for example door locks, alarm systems and the like.
By the determination of the location of a particular portable unit in relation to a zonal transition area identified by a reader unit, the database system can evaluate the access rights of the portable unit and hence the object with which it is associated, for entrance into the adjacent zone associated with the zonal transition area. If for example, the object does not have access rights for the adjacent zone, the database system can keep the "door" locked, or activate an alarm system to indicate unauthorised entrance attempt.
In one embodiment, the original information relating to an object can be the security clearance or access rights of this object to particular zones within the predetermined area. Therefore, the database system, upon identification of a particular portable unit and hence the associated object, can determine if this object has access rights to a particular zone or a connected zone. In this manner the system according to the present invention can provide security within the predetermined area.
In one embodiment, the database system can be located at the site of the deployment of the present invention or can equally well be remotely located in relation to the deployment site. For example, the use of a remotely or locally situated database system can be determined based on the permanence of the use or the scale of use of the system of the present invention. It would be obvious to a worker skilled in the art that the functionality of a single database system can be optimised in relation to the quantity of reader units and portable units with which it is associated.
This form of optimisation provides a means for effectively utilising the computational capabilities of a database system, while not over loading the system resulting in diminished performance. This optimisation of a system according to the present invention can determine if it is more effective to have a remote or locally situated database system. If, for example a remotely located database system is selected, a single database system can be associated with multiple deployment sites.
In one embodiment, the database system can operate using an application like BeehiveT"' in order to manage the information relating to the original object information and the supplemental information collected by the reader units during communication sessions with the plurality of portable units. The BeehiveTM application comprises a SQL (structured query language) database and a plurality of active server pages. This type of database system application can also be based on and integrated into a MicrosoftTM platform. In addition, alternate configurations of the database system can incorporate JavaTM programming incorporated into an OracleTM
database. Further configurations of the database system would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the database system can be mufti-tiered, wherein computational actions are performed by one tier of the database system and the storage of the plurality of information is performed by a further tier of the database system. This type of multi-tiering of the database system would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the database system further correlates the plurality of information relating to the zonal tracking of each portable unit including zonal transitions, thereby enabling the complete history of the movement of each portable unit to be monitored.
Encoding Device In one embodiment of the present invention, an encoding device is used to encode information onto the one or more integrated circuits incorporated into a particular portable unit. This encoded information typically comprises data relating to the object with which the particular portable unit is to be associated. For example, encoding devices providing the required functionality for the present invention are produced by Gemplus International SA and Verifone Ltd. Other encoding devices which may be incorporated into the present invention would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment, the data encoded on the portable unit can comprise alpha-numerical information, graphical or image information, executable programs wherein parameters for execution can be provided by a reader unit during communication with the portable unit, or any other information which may be relevant to the object in question or information required for a particular application. During communication with reader units and the database system this encoded information may be amended. As would be known to a worker skilled in the art information relating to the function of the various components of a portable unit are permanently contained within the integrated circuits and this information cannot be modified after it is installed.
In one embodiment, the method of encoding which is used by an encoding device is directly related to the type integrated circuit which it is encoding, for example, contact or contactless integrated circuits. Applicable forms of the encoding device for each of these types of encoding procedures would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
Uses of the System Security Application In one embodiment, the system of the present invention can be used to provide security within a building or other area where there are a plurality of different zones, wherein each of these different zones may require a particular level of security clearance in order for access to be granted. For example a facility of this type may be an airport, a research and development facility, a nuclear power plant, government agency facilities or other similar locations where security is essential. In this type of application at a facility, portable units can be associated with both visitor and employees, thereby providing a means for monitoring the zonal transitions of individuals within the facility, in addition to providing access, if appropriate, to zones within the facility.
For example, in this type of application of the system, a portable unit can be associated with a particular person and this unit can be encoded with the personal information of the wearer, for example name, occupation, employee number, security clearance level, picture, biometric identification and/or any other personal information which may be relevant to the desired application. Using the system of the present invention, the tracking of zonal transitions of a person and providing access to particular zones within the area or building based on the security clearance of the person is possible. The system can monitor the tonal location of a plurality of people within a predefined area through the communication between reader units and portable units. Since the location of each reader unit is predetermined, the location of a portable unit can be determined based on the identification of the reader unit with which it communicates. Upon identification of the portable unit and hence the person using it, the system can provide access to an adjacent zone if an acceptable clearance level is provided. This access to the adjacent zone can be provided by unlocking a door, for example. If for example, a person accidentally gains access to a zone for which they do not have security clearance, the system can deny any further tonal transition of this person thereby isolating said person within said zone.
The adjustable electronic display associated with the portable unit can display selected pieces of the individual's personal information for visual examination by security personnel thereby enabling the verification of the appropriate owner of a particular portable unit. For example, this displayed information can comprise a picture, name, security clearance level, employee number or any other type of information enabling easy visual identification. In addition, if during communication between a portable unit and a reader unit, it is established that the individual associated with the portable unit does not have security clearance to access the adjacent zone, the reader unit can send instructions to the portable unit to modify the adjustable electronic display to indicate that access is denied. In this manner, it is again easy for visual evaluation of the security clearance of an individual by security personnel, for example.
In one embodiment, a biometric identification device can be associated with each transition zone, thereby enabling the verification of the person associated with a particular portable unit. In this manner the personal information encoded on the portable device can be correlated with the biometric identification information acquired at the zonal transition area, prior to authorisation of a zonal transition of the individual and the associated portable unit.
Conference Application In one embodiment, the system of the present invention can be used in a conference setting, thus enabling the tracking and access control of delegates to particular presentations and meetings, for example. For this application, each delegate can receive a personally encoded portable unit at the commencement of the conference, wherein the adjustable electronic display is capable of visually presenting the delegate's personal identification information, for example name and picture, enabling visual identification by other delegates. In addition, reader units can be strategically located at the entrances of conference and meeting rooms for monitoring and controlling zonal transitions of the delegates.
For example, just prior to a delegate entering a particular conference room, their portable unit is interrogated for identification by the reader unit associated with this particular room. The reader unit upon identification of the portable unit can send this zonal transition information to the database system for correlation. In this manner, the conference organisers, by accessing the correlated information within the database system, can track the attendance figures for the presentations at the conference in addition to evaluating the performance of the presenters. The performance of a presenter can be partially established by determining the number of delegates at the beginning of a particular presentation, relative to the number of delegates leaving the presentation at its conclusion.
In one embodiment, during a communication session between a portable unit and a reader unit, the reader unit can transmit instructions to the portable unit for adjustment of the adjustable electronic display. For example, typically at conferences there are particular identification tags for speakers, organisers or support staff providing easy visual identification of these individuals during the conference. By using the system of the present invention, as a speaker is entering the room in which they are to be presenting, the reader unit can transmit instructions to the portable unit of the speaker for the adjustable electronic display to indicate the speaker of the session.
This enables the organisers to limit the amount of additional articles distributed to the delegates upon registering for the conference, since the portable unit can display relevant information at particular times, with this plurality of information being contained within the database system.
The invention being thus described, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways.
Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and aI1 such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.
In one embodiment of the present invention, a reader unit can communicate with a portable unit in a contact or contactless manner, wherein the mode of communication is determined by the type of integrated circuit which is associated with the portable unit as previously described. For example, a contact reader can have a slot or any other type of configuration as would be known to a worker skilled in the art, providing a means for establishing electrical contact between the portable unit and the reader unit. In this manner a reader unit can inter ogate the portable unit for required information and can transmit information to the portable unit in response to the previously acquired information. In a preferred embodiment, the communication between a reader unit and a portable unit is performed in a contactless manner. For example, the reader unit can produce a communication field of electro-magnetic radiation wherein this field provides a means for the transfer of information between a portable unit and a reader unit as would be known to a worker skilled in the art. In one embodiment, the contactless communication between a reader unit and a portable unit can be designed to be compatible with many different wireless communication standards, for example, BluetoothTM, WiFi 802.11a-g, or Home RF.
In addition, the communication field produced by a reader unit can further enable a passive integrated circuit or RFID tag within a portable unit, to generate power to enable it to function, as would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment, the process of information transfer between the reader units and the database system can be performed in a number of different formats. For example, each reader unit can be hardwired to the database system by means of ether cabling, for example, enabling information transfer. In addition, a wireless communication network can be established for communication using for example, BluetoothT'", WiFi 802.11a-g, or Home RF. The selection of the method of communication between the reader units and the database system can be determined by the application of use of the present invention. For example, if the system is being used in a permanent manner and the reader units will be located at specific locations for extended periods of time, a hardwired system may be the most cost effective. However, if the system is being operated at a particular site for a short period of time, wireless communication between the reader units and the database system may be more effective.
In one embodiment, the information gathered by the reader units may be transferred to an intermediate location prior to transmission to the database system. In this type of configuration a main node can receive information from the reader units and subsequently transmit this information to the database system, thereby reducing the transmissions received by the database system. This type of configuration may be convenient if the database system is remotely located in relation to the reader units. The main node can communicate with the reader units using the method as previously described for communication with the database system. In addition, the main node can communicate with the remotely located database system using for example the Internet, wherein said main node gains access to the Internet through an Internet gateway which may be configured as a wireless or hardwired gateway as would be understood by a worker skilled in the art. Security of the information transmitted over the Internet can be provided using Internet information transfer protocols, for example Secure Sockets Layer (SSL).
Database System In one embodiment of the present invention, the database system contains a plurality of information relating to the objects, portable units and reader units of the present invention. This information can be original information in addition to supplemental information obtained during communication sessions between reader units and portable units. For example, the information contained within the database system comprises the location and identification of each reader unit, the identification of each portable unit and information relating to the objects with which a portable unit is associated. Through the con elation of information relating to the location of the reader units and the portable units identified by particular reader units, the database system can calculate the zonal location of each portable unit within the predefined area.
In one embodiment, the database system comprises means for controlling a plurality of access points in relation to zonal transition areas, for example door locks, alarm systems and the like.
By the determination of the location of a particular portable unit in relation to a zonal transition area identified by a reader unit, the database system can evaluate the access rights of the portable unit and hence the object with which it is associated, for entrance into the adjacent zone associated with the zonal transition area. If for example, the object does not have access rights for the adjacent zone, the database system can keep the "door" locked, or activate an alarm system to indicate unauthorised entrance attempt.
In one embodiment, the original information relating to an object can be the security clearance or access rights of this object to particular zones within the predetermined area. Therefore, the database system, upon identification of a particular portable unit and hence the associated object, can determine if this object has access rights to a particular zone or a connected zone. In this manner the system according to the present invention can provide security within the predetermined area.
In one embodiment, the database system can be located at the site of the deployment of the present invention or can equally well be remotely located in relation to the deployment site. For example, the use of a remotely or locally situated database system can be determined based on the permanence of the use or the scale of use of the system of the present invention. It would be obvious to a worker skilled in the art that the functionality of a single database system can be optimised in relation to the quantity of reader units and portable units with which it is associated.
This form of optimisation provides a means for effectively utilising the computational capabilities of a database system, while not over loading the system resulting in diminished performance. This optimisation of a system according to the present invention can determine if it is more effective to have a remote or locally situated database system. If, for example a remotely located database system is selected, a single database system can be associated with multiple deployment sites.
In one embodiment, the database system can operate using an application like BeehiveT"' in order to manage the information relating to the original object information and the supplemental information collected by the reader units during communication sessions with the plurality of portable units. The BeehiveTM application comprises a SQL (structured query language) database and a plurality of active server pages. This type of database system application can also be based on and integrated into a MicrosoftTM platform. In addition, alternate configurations of the database system can incorporate JavaTM programming incorporated into an OracleTM
database. Further configurations of the database system would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the database system can be mufti-tiered, wherein computational actions are performed by one tier of the database system and the storage of the plurality of information is performed by a further tier of the database system. This type of multi-tiering of the database system would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the database system further correlates the plurality of information relating to the zonal tracking of each portable unit including zonal transitions, thereby enabling the complete history of the movement of each portable unit to be monitored.
Encoding Device In one embodiment of the present invention, an encoding device is used to encode information onto the one or more integrated circuits incorporated into a particular portable unit. This encoded information typically comprises data relating to the object with which the particular portable unit is to be associated. For example, encoding devices providing the required functionality for the present invention are produced by Gemplus International SA and Verifone Ltd. Other encoding devices which may be incorporated into the present invention would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
In one embodiment, the data encoded on the portable unit can comprise alpha-numerical information, graphical or image information, executable programs wherein parameters for execution can be provided by a reader unit during communication with the portable unit, or any other information which may be relevant to the object in question or information required for a particular application. During communication with reader units and the database system this encoded information may be amended. As would be known to a worker skilled in the art information relating to the function of the various components of a portable unit are permanently contained within the integrated circuits and this information cannot be modified after it is installed.
In one embodiment, the method of encoding which is used by an encoding device is directly related to the type integrated circuit which it is encoding, for example, contact or contactless integrated circuits. Applicable forms of the encoding device for each of these types of encoding procedures would be known to a worker skilled in the art.
Uses of the System Security Application In one embodiment, the system of the present invention can be used to provide security within a building or other area where there are a plurality of different zones, wherein each of these different zones may require a particular level of security clearance in order for access to be granted. For example a facility of this type may be an airport, a research and development facility, a nuclear power plant, government agency facilities or other similar locations where security is essential. In this type of application at a facility, portable units can be associated with both visitor and employees, thereby providing a means for monitoring the zonal transitions of individuals within the facility, in addition to providing access, if appropriate, to zones within the facility.
For example, in this type of application of the system, a portable unit can be associated with a particular person and this unit can be encoded with the personal information of the wearer, for example name, occupation, employee number, security clearance level, picture, biometric identification and/or any other personal information which may be relevant to the desired application. Using the system of the present invention, the tracking of zonal transitions of a person and providing access to particular zones within the area or building based on the security clearance of the person is possible. The system can monitor the tonal location of a plurality of people within a predefined area through the communication between reader units and portable units. Since the location of each reader unit is predetermined, the location of a portable unit can be determined based on the identification of the reader unit with which it communicates. Upon identification of the portable unit and hence the person using it, the system can provide access to an adjacent zone if an acceptable clearance level is provided. This access to the adjacent zone can be provided by unlocking a door, for example. If for example, a person accidentally gains access to a zone for which they do not have security clearance, the system can deny any further tonal transition of this person thereby isolating said person within said zone.
The adjustable electronic display associated with the portable unit can display selected pieces of the individual's personal information for visual examination by security personnel thereby enabling the verification of the appropriate owner of a particular portable unit. For example, this displayed information can comprise a picture, name, security clearance level, employee number or any other type of information enabling easy visual identification. In addition, if during communication between a portable unit and a reader unit, it is established that the individual associated with the portable unit does not have security clearance to access the adjacent zone, the reader unit can send instructions to the portable unit to modify the adjustable electronic display to indicate that access is denied. In this manner, it is again easy for visual evaluation of the security clearance of an individual by security personnel, for example.
In one embodiment, a biometric identification device can be associated with each transition zone, thereby enabling the verification of the person associated with a particular portable unit. In this manner the personal information encoded on the portable device can be correlated with the biometric identification information acquired at the zonal transition area, prior to authorisation of a zonal transition of the individual and the associated portable unit.
Conference Application In one embodiment, the system of the present invention can be used in a conference setting, thus enabling the tracking and access control of delegates to particular presentations and meetings, for example. For this application, each delegate can receive a personally encoded portable unit at the commencement of the conference, wherein the adjustable electronic display is capable of visually presenting the delegate's personal identification information, for example name and picture, enabling visual identification by other delegates. In addition, reader units can be strategically located at the entrances of conference and meeting rooms for monitoring and controlling zonal transitions of the delegates.
For example, just prior to a delegate entering a particular conference room, their portable unit is interrogated for identification by the reader unit associated with this particular room. The reader unit upon identification of the portable unit can send this zonal transition information to the database system for correlation. In this manner, the conference organisers, by accessing the correlated information within the database system, can track the attendance figures for the presentations at the conference in addition to evaluating the performance of the presenters. The performance of a presenter can be partially established by determining the number of delegates at the beginning of a particular presentation, relative to the number of delegates leaving the presentation at its conclusion.
In one embodiment, during a communication session between a portable unit and a reader unit, the reader unit can transmit instructions to the portable unit for adjustment of the adjustable electronic display. For example, typically at conferences there are particular identification tags for speakers, organisers or support staff providing easy visual identification of these individuals during the conference. By using the system of the present invention, as a speaker is entering the room in which they are to be presenting, the reader unit can transmit instructions to the portable unit of the speaker for the adjustable electronic display to indicate the speaker of the session.
This enables the organisers to limit the amount of additional articles distributed to the delegates upon registering for the conference, since the portable unit can display relevant information at particular times, with this plurality of information being contained within the database system.
The invention being thus described, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways.
Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and aI1 such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.
Claims
OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A system for detecting and controlling zonal transitions of one or more objects within a predefined area comprising two or more zones, said system comprising:
a) a portable unit connected to each object, said portable unit comprising:
i) one or more memory means for storing information relating to said object including a unique identification number;
ii) an adjustable electronic display for displaying information relating to the object to which the portable unit is connected;
iii) transmitting and receiving means for communication with one or more reader units; and iv) a control means for controlling the functionality of the portable unit;
wherein said control means is in electronic communication with said one or more memory means, said adjustable electronic display and said transmitting and receiving means enabling transfer of information therebetween;
b) one or more reader units positioned at predetermined locations within the predefined area comprising a means for communication with the one or more portable units; and c) a database system for storing, managing and analysing information relating to said objects and said portable units, wherein said database system comprises a means for communication with the one or more reader units for tracking the movement of objects within the predefined area.
a) a portable unit connected to each object, said portable unit comprising:
i) one or more memory means for storing information relating to said object including a unique identification number;
ii) an adjustable electronic display for displaying information relating to the object to which the portable unit is connected;
iii) transmitting and receiving means for communication with one or more reader units; and iv) a control means for controlling the functionality of the portable unit;
wherein said control means is in electronic communication with said one or more memory means, said adjustable electronic display and said transmitting and receiving means enabling transfer of information therebetween;
b) one or more reader units positioned at predetermined locations within the predefined area comprising a means for communication with the one or more portable units; and c) a database system for storing, managing and analysing information relating to said objects and said portable units, wherein said database system comprises a means for communication with the one or more reader units for tracking the movement of objects within the predefined area.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002366140A CA2366140A1 (en) | 2001-12-21 | 2001-12-21 | System for detecting and controlling zonal transitions of objects |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002366140A CA2366140A1 (en) | 2001-12-21 | 2001-12-21 | System for detecting and controlling zonal transitions of objects |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2366140A1 true CA2366140A1 (en) | 2003-06-21 |
Family
ID=4170964
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002366140A Abandoned CA2366140A1 (en) | 2001-12-21 | 2001-12-21 | System for detecting and controlling zonal transitions of objects |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2366140A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2005025278A1 (en) * | 2003-09-04 | 2005-03-17 | Vernon George Houle | A method of controlling movement on the inside and around the outside of a facility |
| WO2015009242A1 (en) * | 2013-07-19 | 2015-01-22 | Wong Kok Ann | A contactless smart chip for biometric tracking |
-
2001
- 2001-12-21 CA CA002366140A patent/CA2366140A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2005025278A1 (en) * | 2003-09-04 | 2005-03-17 | Vernon George Houle | A method of controlling movement on the inside and around the outside of a facility |
| WO2015009242A1 (en) * | 2013-07-19 | 2015-01-22 | Wong Kok Ann | A contactless smart chip for biometric tracking |
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Effective date: 20040324 |