EP1880371A2

EP1880371A2 - Devices and methods for tracking, locating and providing protection to individuals

Info

Publication number: EP1880371A2
Application number: EP06790238A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Jordan Scott; Robert Reed; Gloria Reed
Original assignee: Smartwear Technologies
Current assignee: Smartwear Technologies
Priority date: 2005-05-06
Filing date: 2006-05-05
Publication date: 2008-01-23
Also published as: WO2006122041A3; GB0711230D0; GB2437588A; AU2006244141A1; EP1880371A4; JP2008541244A; CA2599363A1; WO2006122041A2

Abstract

Described herein are devices and methods for tracking, locating and/or providing protection to individuals. Such devices and methods incorporate an RFlD tag that are located with the clothing of the individual. An RFID reader and a device for data processing can also be used with such devices and methods.

Description

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TRACKING, LOCATING AND PROVIDING

PROTECTION TO INDIVIDUALS

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] Methods are needed to further protect individuals from becoming lost or abducted, and to track and locate children who are lost or abducted.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In one aspect are methods for tracking and locating an individual, and for providing protection to such an individual. In another aspect are devices for tracking and locating an individual, and for providing protection to such an individual. In certain embodiments, the methods and devices incorporate a tag. In further embodiments, the tag is an RFID tag. In further embodiments, the tag includes a microchip connected to an antenna. In further embodiments, the methods and devices incorporate an RFID reader. In further embodiments, the methods and devices incorporate a device for data processing. In further embodiments, the tag is incorporated into clothing. In further embodiments the methods and devices are used to track, locate, and/or provide protection to children, the elderly, the injured, the sick and other individuals in need of protection.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which: [0004] FIG. 1 provides one embodiment of the devices and methods described herein for tracking, locating, and/or providing protection to individuals.

[0005] FIG. 2 provides non-limiting illustrative embodiments of Unique Smart Tags with embedded microchips.

[0006] FIG. 3 provides non-limiting illustrative embodiments of apparel incorporating the RFID tags described herein. [0007] FIG. 4 provides non-limiting illustrative embodiments of apparel incorporating the RFID tags described herein. [0008] FIG. 5 provides a non-limiting illustrative embodiment of a method for obtaining subscribers for a subscriber network described herein. [0009] FIG. 6 provides a non-limiting illustrative embodiment of a subscriber network described herein. fOOlO] FIG. 7 provides¹ a non-limiting illustrative embodiment of the use of the RFID tags described herein. [0011] FIG. 8 provides a non-limiting illustrative embodiment of the use of the RFID tags described herein. [0012] FIG. 9 provides a non-limiting illustrative embodiment of the use of the RFID tags described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Overview of RFID Technology

[0013] Inside an RFID tag is a microchip connected to an antenna. The microchip can store modest amounts of information, up to about 2k bits. RFID tags are often used to store a simple identification number. In more sophisticated systems the tag can function as a portable traveling database for the item to which it is attached. Tags come in a variety of form factors and can be attached to basically anything

[0014] An RFID Reader controls the wireless reading and writing of information stored on an RFID tag. The RFID reader generates an RF field around its antenna. The RF field energizes the tag and a means to transfer data to the reader. The tag modulates the reader's RF field and the reader can detect this. Similarly, the reader turns the RF field on and off in the right sequence in order to write the tag. Circuit Components: [0015] The tag is one component of the circuitry. The tag is basically an integrated circuit deposited on a small silicon chip that has an integrated small, flexible antenna. This composite circuit creates a tag which by design is capable of processing a variety of frequency ranges and may be passive or active. The passive RFID works by magnetic induction. The integrated circuit provides data storage to record and store information. [0016] The Reader: A reader sends a signal to the tag. The tag absorbs some of the RF energy from the reader signal and then reflects the RF energy as a return radio signal containing information from its memory. The reader device generates an alternating magnetic field from a coil of wire. A tag also has a coil of wire that induces current from the magnetic field. This current provides power to the passive tag. The tag then sends back its own varying magnetic field which is read by the reader device.

[0017] Data Processing: Once the data is received from the reader the signal will be processed to trigger an alarm alert device, this may be in the form of a repeating audible resonance, flashing light, or a similar alert type device. Block Diagram of a typical RFID system. (Flow Chart)

Smart Tag sewn in children's night clothes»»»»»Radio waves emitted from tag », Received by Antenna and to Reader»»to Audible sound or Device.

Application of RFID technology

Method for Incorporating Identifying Tag into Apparel

[0018] The devices and methods described herein utilize an RFID tag called a Unique

Smart Tag configured as described herein and integrated into a wearable item. [0019] In order for the Unique Smart Tag to be integrated into an item of clothing, it must be resistant to wear and tear from laundering, folding, and daily use of the clothing itself. It must be resistant to a certain amount of heat from sources such as outdoor temperatures, body heat, and clothes dryers. It must be resistant to water and chemicals such as laundry detergent, chlorine, dry cleaning procedures, and the like. [0020] The Unique Smart Tag is a microchip that is attached to a small, flexible antenna or antennae. The microchip is composed of an integrated circuit deposited on a small silicon chip. The critical component of the Unique Smart Tag is this microchip since any damage to its circuitry could render the device useless. However, the microchip must be attached to the antenna or antennae in order for the signal to reach the microchip. [0021] The antenna is attached to the microchip by means that are known in the prior art. The microchip portion of the Unique Smart Tag is embedded in a material that is impervious to physical abuse, heat, water, and chemical damage. FIG. 2 displays an array of Unique Smart Tags with embedded microchips. The embedding "material" may be a resin or laminate. By way of example, the resin may be melamine resin, epoxy resin, polyurethane resin, polyurea elastomer resin, alkyl resin, casein, or mixtures thereof.

[0022] The method of manufacture for embedding the Unique Smart Tag in resin or laminate involves placing a predetermined amount of the resin or laminate on a substrate, allowing the resin or laminate to gel or soften and then placing the Unique Smart Tag on the resin or laminate with the microchip component centered on the resin or laminate drop. After placement of the Unique Smart Tag, another predetermined amount of resin of laminate ϊS' pla'ded on top¹ "of the microchip component efore the first gelled layer of resin or laminate is allowed to fully cure. This method seals the microchip in the resin or laminate completely.

[0023] A Unique Smart Tag that is ruggedized and therefore protected from physical abuse, heat and chemical damage can be integrated into various wearable items.

Practically every wearable item is capable of having a Unique Smart Tag integrated into it during manufacture. Outerwear, sleepwear, clothing, underwear, and even footwear and accessories have locations where a Unique Smart Tag may be attached or carried. [0024] Although the Unique Smart Tag may be attached to virtually any surface via an adhesive backing or other means of attachment, the preferred embodiment for attaching it to an individual's clothing is one in which the Unique Smart Tag is "incorporated" into a "concealed area" and therefore hidden from plain sight while the individual is wearing the clothing. In this way, an abductor may not be aware of, and cannot remove the Unique Smart Tag from the individual. Additionally, hiding the Unique Smart Tag protects the tag from further wear and tear, therefore extending the life of the tag.

Furthermore, concealment of the Unique Smart Tag protects the individual from irritation, either from physical friction with the tag or conditions such as allergies or contact dermatitis. [0025] A "wearable" item into or onto which the Unique Smart Tag may be incorporated comprises apparel, jewelry, accessories, patches, tags, or any other means by which something may be attached to or carried on an individual. In one embodiment, the wearable item can be "apparel" such as clothes, footwear, underwear, outerwear, sleepwear, and accessories. The wearable item comprises clothing patches, zippers, strings, collars, pockets, or any other item that can be sewn, ironed onto, tied, or otherwise attached to an item of apparel.

[0026] The Unique Smart Tag is small enough that it can be placed on fabric and sewn into a hem, waistband, collar or seam. In one embodiment, on outerwear such as shown in FIG. 3, the Unique Smart Tag is sewn into a collar as in A, a seam as in B, or a waistband as in C. In another embodiment such as the pair of jeans shown in FIG. 3, the Unique Smart Tag is sewn into a waistband as in D or a side seam as in E. In one embodiment, the Unique Smart Tag is sewn into clothing when an elastic waistband is incorporated into the article. In another embodiment, the Unique Smart Tag is sewn into a pocket. In yet another embodiment, the Unique Smart Tag is part of the heel, insole, midsole, or upper portion of footwear as show in FIG. 4. [002-7] TM ϊφέratϊonaϊ¹ design and use of SmartWear© is specifically designed for is individual safety and security, anti-kidnapping circumstance and or similar abduction situations. The devices and methods described herein utilize a Unique Smart Tag (Transponder) configured as described herein and sewn the individual's apparel. [0028] The Unique Smart Tag may also be used for more temporary purposes. In one embodiment, it may be incorporated into a patch that has an adhesive to be attached to a person either by placing it directly on the skin or by placing it on the person's clothing. A patch with a Unique Smart Tag may be used to attach information about a patient directly on his person. This may be useful particularly in triage during a large event where many people are injured, medical charts are not available, and patients may be moved frequently. [0029] The Unique Smart Tag is incorporated into the patch by the existence of two layers. The first layer has an adhesive backing and the second layer is a covering layer. A resin-encapsulated or laminate-covered Unique Smart Tag is located between these two layers. In one embodiment, the Unique Smart Tag is manufactured using one of the layers as a substrate and the top layer is fused on top using an adhesive. The layers may be made of paper, fabric, foam, or other sheet-like material. In one embodiment the material may be naturally-derived, such as cotton. In another embodiment the material may by synthetic such as plastic. In another embodiment the layers are a combination of natural and synthetic materials. The adhesive is similar to those used on medical bandages, is skin-friendly, and readily removable. Business Method

[0030] A consumer purchases or otherwise acquires said RFID tag-enabled product. At this stage, the point-of-sale, the consumer has the option to enter a subscription agreement and activate said RFID tag. To activate the RFID tag, a unique code is programmed into the tag using an RFID tag encoding device and assigned to the consumer, now subscriber. In another embodiment, the unique identification code which has been previously embedded on the RFID tag is read by an RFID tag reader and given to the consumer. This code is then entered into a subscriber network database by the retailer or consumer, along with identifying personal information of the subscriber.

[0031] A "subscriber" is a primary purchaser or consumer of the RFID tagged product as well as the purchaser or consumer's family members such as the purchaser's spouse, children or dependents. In another embodiment, an RFID-tagged product may be bought as a gift for a third party and the RFID tag may be activated by the third party, now subscriber, at the retailer at a later time. In another embodiment, an RFID-tagged product may'b'e'purcha'sed'VVgift'ϊbr a third party and the RFID tag unique identification code is provided for the third party, who is now the subscriber. The subscriber has the option of returning to the point-of-sale after the purchase of an RFID tag-enabled product has been made to subscribe to the network. [0032] In one embodiment, the RFID tag has no information embedded in it. In another embodiment, the RFID tag is already programmed with an SKU number for the purposes of inventory tracking. This number is removed from the RFID tag at point of sale. The SKU number is overwritten with the subscriber code in the event the customer subscribes to the network. [0033] The subscriber "network" is a secured computer network that contains a database of all unique identifiers assigned to the RFID tags and the accompanying information assigned to each code. A "unique identifier" is an entry within the database, associated with a subscriber's information. In one embodiment, each RFID tag-enabled product contains a unique identifier that is unique from all other RFID tag-enabled products. In another embodiment, the unique identifier is used for any number of RFID tag-enabled products. In this embodiment, a unique identifier belonging to a subscriber is unique from all other subscribers and the subscriber keeps a record of his/her unique identifier to encode all the RFID tag-enabled products which the subscriber owns. The subscriber provides his/her code when the RFID tag is activated at the point-of-sale. [0034] The subscriber has the option at any time to add additional relevant information to the database entry corresponding to said code. The subscriber has the option at any time to remove any or all information correlating to his/her code from the database, thereby ending his/her affiliation with the code. Removal of information from the database requires the subscriber to access to the database as an authorized user. [0035] The quantity and content of the information a subscriber may add is entirely at the discretion of the subscriber. This information is likely to be at least one of the following: (1) name of the subscriber (and dependents), (2) date of birth, (3) address, (4) telephone number, (5) emergency contact information, (6) next of kin, (7) medical conditions or requirements, (8) social security number, (9) physical description, (10) photograph, (11) any other information the subscriber deems relevant.

[0036] In one embodiment, relevant subscriber information is provided at the point of sale by a means determined by the method of sale. In another embodiment, relevant subscriber information is provided post-sale by one or more of the following methods: (1) telephoning the network provider customer service, (2) via the internet, (3) by mail, (4) by speaking to a network representative in person. [0057] In one emrMiirienfthe subscriber can add or remove relevant subscriber information at any time through one or more of the following methods: (1) telephoning the network provider customer service, (2) via the internet, (3) by mail, (4) by speaking to a network representative in person. [0038] Access to the subscriber network will be highly secured and limited only to authorized persons. Access will be by a username and password system unique to all authorized persons and all access will be logged by username, date, time and information accessed.

[0039] The subscriber will have access to personal information only as pertains to the subscriber's own subscription. The subscriber maintains control over access privileges to each individual item of the subscriber's information within the network. [0040] Full access will be available only to "authorized persons" defined as (1) certain employees of the network provider company and their affiliates, (2) emergency services personnel such as fire, police, ambulance, emergency medical personnel, physicians, Coast Guard, and National Guard, (3) other authorized personnel as required on a case by case basis and authorized by subscriber.

[0041] Authorized users will be able to access and view the subscriber's information using the code assigned to the RFID tag. The code assigned to the RFID tag can be associated with identifying information in the network via (1) telephone, (2) internet, (3) by speaking to a network representative, or (4) other secure means of routing information from a network in a fast and reliable manner. Subscriber Network

[0042] In one embodiment as shown in FIG. 5, a retailer offers for sale an RFID tag- enabled product. In one embodiment, the product is sold in a retail establishment or store. In another embodiment, the product is sold through a website or via the internet. In another embodiment the product is sold through a catalogue and mail order process. [0043] A consumer purchases or otherwise acquires said RFID tag-enabled product. At this stage, the point-of-sale, the consumer has the option to enter a subscription agreement and activate said RFID tag. To activate the RFID tag, a unique code is programmed into the tag using an RFID tag encoding device and assigned to the consumer, now subscriber. In another embodiment, the unique identification code which has been previously embedded on the RFID tag is read by an RFID tag reader and given to the consumer. This code is then entered into a subscriber network database by the retailer or consumer, along with identifying personal information of the subscriber. [U044] A subscriber" Is a"'primary purchaser or consumer of the RFID tagged product as well as the purchaser or consumer's family members such as the purchaser's spouse, children or dependents. In another embodiment, an RFID-tagged product may be bought as a gift for a third party and the RFID tag may be activated by the third party, now subscriber, at the retailer at a later time. In another embodiment, an RFID-tagged product may be purchased as a gift for a third party and the RFID tag unique identification code is provided for the third party, who is now the subscriber. The subscriber has the option of returning to the point-of-sale after the purchase of an RFID tag-enabled product has been made to subscribe to the network. [0045] In one embodiment, the RFID tag has no information embedded in it. In another embodiment, the RFID tag is already programmed with an SKU number for the purposes of inventory tracking. This number is removed from the RFID tag at point of sale. The SKU number is overwritten with the subscriber code in the event the customer subscribes to the network. [0046] An RFID Tag Reader controls the wireless reading and writing of information stored on an RFID tag. The RFID reader generates an RF field around its antenna. The RF field energizes the tag and a means to transfer data to the reader. The tag modulates the reader's RF field and the reader can detect this. Similarly, the reader turns the RF field on and off in the right sequence in order to write the tag. [0047] The subscriber "network" is a secured computer network that contains a database of all unique identifiers assigned to the RFID tags and the accompanying information assigned to each code. A "unique identifier" is an entry within the database, associated with a subscriber's information. In one embodiment, each RFID tag-enabled product contains a unique identifier that is unique from all other RFID tag-enabled products. In another embodiment, the unique identifier is used for any number of RFID tag-enabled products. In this embodiment, a unique identifier belonging to a subscriber is unique from all other subscribers and the subscriber keeps a record of his/her unique identifier to encode all the RFID tag-enabled products which the subscriber owns. The subscriber provides his/her code when the RFID tag is activated at the point-of-sale. [0048] The subscriber has the option at any time to add additional relevant information to the database entry corresponding to said code. The subscriber has the option at any time to remove any or all information correlating to his/her code from the database, thereby ending his/her affiliation with the code. Removal of information from the database requires the subscriber to access to the database as an authorized user. [0049] THiS "quantity; a"hd"cαrϊtent of the information a subscriber may add or remove is entirely at the discretion of the subscriber. FIG. 6 outlines possible discrete information fields that a subscriber may want to add content to. These fields all link to the main subscriber profile and consist of sub-fields of information that fall under the unbrella of the parent field. These fields are descibed further below.

[0050] In one embodiment, the medication profile field contain the following set of sub- fields for each medication being taken. Name of Medication; Condition being treated; Strength; Units; Form (Liquid, Pill, etc); Frequency; Duration; Directions; Start Date; Currently Taking (Yes/No); Prescribing Doctor. [0051] In one embodiment, the Doctor/Hospital Profile field contains the following set of sub-fields for each of the subscriber's doctors: First Name; Last Name; Title; Clinic or Hospital; Address 1; Address 2; City; State; Postal Code; Office Phone; Mobile Phone; Home Phone; Email.

[0052] In one embodiment the Allergy Profile field contains the following set of sub- fields for each allergy indicated: Allergic to; Allergic Reaction; Other Reaction;

Treatment; Doctor;

[0053] In one emboidment, the condition/illness profile field contains the following sub- fields for each set of condition/illness: Condition or illness; Active(active, inactive, resolved); Date of onset; Date of diagnosis; Date of resolution; Method of treatment; Doctor;

[0054] In one embodiment, the immunizations profile contains the following set of sub- fields for each immunization performed: Immunized for; Date of immunization; Doctor;

[0055] In one embodiment, the family member profile field contains the following set of sub-fields for each family member listed: Prefix; First Name; Last Name; Suffix; Date of birth; Gender; Race; Primary Language; Height; Weight; Eye color; Blood type; Photo 1

(Head Shot); Photo 2 (Profile); Instructions in event of emergency; Medical Authorization; Medical Authorization digital signature; Smartwear Digital ID; Date Added; User ID; Subscriber ID.

[0056] In one embodiment the emergency contact profile field contains the following set of subfields for each contact listed: Prefix; First Name; Last Name; Address 1 ; Address 2;

City; State; Postal Code; Relationship; Day phone; Evening phone; Mobile phone; Email address

[0057] In one embodiment the surgery & procedures profile field contains the following set of subfields for each surgery or procedure: Procedure; Date; Result; Doctor; [0058] In¹ one embodim^'ent; tHe subscriber profile field contains the following sub-fields:

User name; Password; First name; Last name; Email; Work phone; Mobile phone; Important information; Date joined; Status; Billing code.

[0059] In one embodiment the biometric profile field contains the following sub-fields: Finger print scans; Iris Scan; DNA profile;

[0060] In one embodiment, each field has a number of sub-fields common to each field, these include: Comments; Date updated; User ID; Access level where access levels allows subscribers to predetermine who will be able to access each discrete field. For example, a subscriber could allow a school or similar agency to access only the contact information, allow doctors and hospitals to access medications and allergies and allow law enforcement agencies to access every field.

[0061] In one embodiment, each information field is stored on a separate server in separate locations to facilitate greater security, faster access, improved reliability and flexibility in data control and access. [0062] Full automatic and unrestricted access will be available only to certain individuals as indicated in the subscription agreement and may include (1) certain employees of the network provider company and their affiliates, (2) emergency services personnel such as fire, police, ambulance, emergency medical personnel and physicians, coast guard, National Guard, (3) other authorized personnel as required on a case by case basis and authorized by subscriber.

[0063] Authorized personnel will be assigned a username and password that will allow them access to the network at their access level (doctor, school, law enforcement etc) and will be able to access and view the subscriber's information using the code assigned to the RFID tag(s). The code assigned to the RFID tag can be associated with identifying information in the network via one or more of the following (1) telephone, (2) internet,

(3) by speaking to a network representative, or (4) other secure means of routing information from a network in a fast and reliable manner. Early Warning System and Locator Device

[0064] Also described herein is a method for the tracking of individuals as they enter and exit a certain predefined area. In effect, this embodiment creates an invisible electronic fence around a home or building such that when an individual comes in close proximity of an exit portal, an audible or visible alarm will be triggered. This monitoring system is useful to prevent the abduction of individuals from homes and schools, or the departure of a sleepwalker, mentally disabled, or elderly person from a house or building. Such a monitoring system ϋan'be'ihvaluable in which only one or a few individuals need to be monitored such that the system is not triggered by pets, full-capacity adults, or guests. [0065] The illustration of FIG. 7 provides an overview of the components of one embodiment of the early warning system and locator device. In general, the system of the present embodiment collects data from an RFID device attached to a child 1 via one or more remote RFID readers which are located in a entryway or exit 2 and 4 or a window 3. [0066] The predefined area is a locality such as a house, apartment, condominium, or other dwelling. The locality can be a building such as a day care facility or school. In anther embodiment, the locality comprises a geographic area such as a neighborhood, amusement park, nature preserve, campsite, sports arena, department store, shopping mall, ski resort, etc. The geographic area could be defined by sphere of activity or physical boundaries.

[0067] The monitoring system is small in size and can be integrated into a new or existing home alarm system. In this way, the system is unobtrusive, and cannot be tampered with easily. Furthermore, the system may be such that a home alarm system is installed with it concurrently, in the same areas of the home, and can be turned on or off with the same action. The alarm device is also adoptable with cell phone technology. [0068] The monitoring system of the present invention includes an RFID reader which controls the wireless reading and writing of information stored on an RFID tag. The

RFID reader generates an RF field around its antenna. The RF field energizes the tag and a means to transfer data to the reader. The tag modulates the reader's RF field and the reader can detect this. Similarly, the reader turns the RF field on and off in the right sequence in order to write the tag. [0069] The RFID tag is integrated into a child or individual's sleepwear, apparel, or footwear, or can be otherwise worn or carried on the person as a wristband, bandage, or accessory. [0070] The RFID tag is activated by programming a unique code into the tag using an

RFID reader. The unique code can be a simple alphanumerical code. Alternatively, the unique code can be identifying data such as a name, address, phone number, or even a photo. [0071] RFID readers are embedded in certain strategic locations such as window frames, door frames, driveways, fences, or water sources. Water sources comprise swimming pools, spas, Jacuzzis, hot tubs, water gardens, ponds, lakes, streams, or rivers. FIG. 8 is an iHtøsftratibn'ofϋne embodiment in which the RFID reader 5 is located adjacent to a door frame and the RFID device is attached to a child's clothing 6. [0072] When an encoded RFID device passes in close proximity of an RFID reader, the system compares the stored ID with those stored in the system and triggers an audible and/or visible alarm if the ID matches any within the system. Alternatively, in the event the individual is physically moved outside a specified distance or range, as defined by specification, a detection notification in the form of an audible alarm or flashing lights will be activated. The alarm may be audible or visible either at the source of the triggering event, at another location such as a base station within the home or a parent's bedroom, or at multiple locations throughout the system. Since the system is wireless, once activated, deactivation by an intruder is virtually impossible.

[0073] In one embodiment, the identification tags are semi-passive devices. A semi- passive RFID tag is able to use an attached power source, but the power source is not continually transmitting information. An RFID reader is able to read and write data to a semi-passive RFID tag at a greater speed and distance than that of a passive RFID tag.

[0074] It is one object of the methods and devices described herein to create a small, efficient sensor which is capable of detecting a specific encoded RFID device when it traverses a predefined area. In one application, this predefined area is an entrance to a house or residential building. [0075] It is a further object of the methods and devices described herein to provide detailed information regarding the location of an individual, should the individual leave the predefined area and need to be tracked in a larger environment.

[0076] The devices and methods described herein provide a constant monitoring system that is wireless and able to be placed in an undetectable part of the individual's apparel. Moreover it has the ability to penetrate room walls, and similar obstacles normally encountered in the home or other similar environments. The Unique Smart Tag is highly reliable and can withstand severe environments and hot/cold temperature extremes. GPS Devices and Long Range Passive/Active Tags

[0077] Also described herein is the use of a GPS device with long range passive/active tags to locate an individual. New technology allows GPS-enabled devices to be incorporated into wearable objects, including clothing (using the principles described for RFID-enabled tags described elsewhere herein). [0078] In one embodiment, the identification tags are compliant with longer range detectors. The GPS-enabled device which is worn or attached to the person or child is such that it is not only capable of communicating with a short-range RFID reader, but also'is'capabϊb'OftahsήiittJn^ data to a GPS network such that location information within a larger area can be communicated via a satellite network. [0079] In one embodiment, such as illustrated in FIG. 9, a lost or abducted person 7 who is in an open environment may be located via a signal given by the GPS-enabled device (which also has RFID capability) to a GPS satellite 8. The signal received by the GPS satellite is transmitted to a GPS receiver 9 and retransmitted to a person or persons 10 with specific information on the location of the lost or abducted person. [0080] In one embodiment, the identification tags are active devices. An active GPS- enabled device system consists of the same features and functionality as a passive system with the addition of a power source associated with the tag. This power source enables reading and writing of the GPS-enabled device (which also has RFID capability) at a greater speed and distance and permits the tag to transmit information to a RFID reader. If an active identification tag is used, the active RFID system can be integrated with permanent structures such cellular telephone towers. [0081] While embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

WHAT IS '6IAMS1D IS.

1. A method for tracking or locating an individual comprising: providing the individual with clothing in which an RFID tag has been embedded, using a device to read a signal from the RFID tag, and processing the signal to track or locate the individual.

2. The method of Claim 1 , wherein the RFID tag contains a unique identifying number.

3. The method of Claim 1 further comprising a network of information on the individual that can be accessed by providing the unique identifying number.

4. The method of Claim 3 wherein the individual is a child.

5. The method of Claim 4 wherein the RFID tag is completely covered in resin.

6. An assemblage for tracking or locating an individual comprising an RFID tag that has been embedded into an article of clothing, a device that can read the RFID tag, and a device that can determine the location of the RFID tag.

7. The assemblage of Claim 6, wherein the RFID tag contains a unique identifying number.

8. The assemblage of Claim 7 further comprising a network of information on the individual that can be accessed by providing the unique identifying number.

9. The assemblage of Claim 8 wherein the individual is a child.

10. The assemblage of Claim 9 wherein the RFID tag is completely covered in resin.