DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

[0027] In general, a system and method is useful for tracking an article or object at one or more stations over a transport path and associating the article or object with a recipient or another object. A smart tag is associated with each article to be tracked, for example, by being attached to the article either directly or indirectly, e.g., to a container containing the article. A second smart tag is associated with the recipient or other object with which the first object is to be associated after passing along the transport path. Each smart tag includes at least an electronic memory coupled to an antenna by which information from the memory may be transmitted and/or information may be received and stored in the memory. Smart tag control units (readers and/or writers) and antenna arrays at various stations communicate with the smart tags and may also communicate directly or indirectly with one or more processors that process the information, for example, for monitoring and/or controlling the stations and/or control units and/or lines including one or more stations.

[0028] As used herein, the following terms are used to include but are not limited to:

[0029] “Article” and “object” and “person” are used interchangeably to refer to any article, object or other thing or person or animal to which a smart tag may be attached or with which a smart tag may be associated. Examples include, but are not limited to, packages, parcels, containers, medications, medical devices, instruments, implements, containers therefor and the like in a medical or hospital environment. A person may be an “object” in, for example, a medical environment where the apparatus and/or method is utilized for associating a person as patient with his medication, medical device, treatment and/or other procedure.

[0030] “Electronic gate” is used to refer to an antenna or array of antenna in combination with a smart tag reader/writer that communicates with a smart tag via the antenna or array, and which may also include a display, annunciator or other device for providing information in human perceivable form. The antenna or antenna array may be disposed at an entry point or other location of a station for receiving information produced from a smart tag that is within its detection region and for transmitting information to be stored in the memory of a smart tag within its detection region, or at a point of use or treatment or other location.

[0031] “Smart tag” and/or “wireless tag” and/or “RFID tag” is used to refer to an article that includes at least an electronic memory wherein information from the memory may be transmitted and/or information may be received and stored in the memory. A “wireless” type smart tag including an antenna is preferred, wherein the information is electromagnetically coupled from or to the antenna over a distance or range. However, a “contact” type smart tag, wherein the information is electrically coupled through physical electrical connections made to contacts on the smart tag, may also be utilized, although it is less convenient.

[0032] “Station” is used to refer to any dispensing location, treatment location, point of use, booth, station, gate, portal, check-in position, article claim, check point, manufacturing or processing location, ramp, conveyor, conveyance, shipping area, receiving area, and the like that one or more objects may be at or pass at which a smart tag may be issued, read, written to, and/or collected.

[0033] “Transport path” is used to refer to any path, route, conveyor, conveyance, carriage or other means or combination of means by which an object, article or person may move or be moved from one place to another. FIG. 1 is a flow chart schematic block diagram illustrating an example embodiment of a tracking method. The process illustrated is described in general terms and then is described in terms of examples of various utilizations thereof, such as medication and/or medical device and/or implement tracking in a medical environment. For simplicity, the apparatus and/or method are described in terms of one or more smart tags (e.g., two smart tags) associated respectively with one or more objects (e.g., two objects), although any number of smart tags and/or objects may be associated and tracked individually and/or as a set or group. E.g., one patient may receive one or more medications and/or medical devices, and/or may receive medication and/or medical device at one or more times.

[0034] The process of FIG. 1 commences with the issuing 100 of one or more smart tags coded with related information, typically two smart tags where a tracked object is to move over a transport path that differs in some respect from the transport path over which a check object moves, and/or is to ve verified or checked at one or more locations thereof and/or at a terminus thereof. Typically, the tracked object and the checked object are associated at the beginning of the transport path, such as by being in the same location or origin, or by being in possession of one person, and are to be again associated at the end of the transport path, such as at a dispensing location, point of use, pick-up location, collection point or other destination. The smart tag issued to be attached to or associated with the tracked object is referred to as the object smart tag and the smart tag to be associated with the check object is referred to as the check smart tag.

[0035] In a hospital, clinic, pharmacy, nursing home or other medical facility or environment, the tracked object may be medication, medicine, a medical device and/or implement and the like, and the check object may be a prescription, written order, patient chart and/or patient identification band and the like.

[0036] The information stored in the memory of each smart tag when issued 100 may include any one or more of the identity of the tag, the object, the patient, medication, dosage and frequency, use instruction, expiration, refills, the physician and/or dispenser, the owner and/or sender and/or recipient, the origin and/or destination, the route, routing and/or other transport path information, the carrier(s), date and time information, issuing location and personnel, and/or any other desired or useful information. Such information is written into the memory of each smart tag as is an identifier associating each of the plural smart tags relating to a particular object or set of objects with the other or others. The smart tags will typically be flexible so that they can easily conform to a label or tag or paper receipt to which they are attached, e.g., adhesively.

[0037] The tracked object is tracked 112 , 116 by reading the smart tag associated with it as it is transported 114 over transport path 110 . For example, the tracked object is tracked 112 as it begins being transported 114 and is tracked 116 as it completes being transported and is to be associated 130 with the checked object. Steps 112 - 116 may represent the transport path 110 or one segment of a plural segment transport path 110 indicated by the dashed portion of the arrow emanating from box 116 . Any number of transport segments 114 and tracking points 112 , 116 may be utilized along the transport path 110 .

[0038] The check object is tracked 122 , 126 by reading the check smart tag associated with it as it is transported 124 over transport path 120 . For example, the check object is tracked 122 as it begins being transported 124 and is tracked 126 as it completes being transported and is to be associated 130 with the tracked object. Steps 122 - 126 may represent the transport path 120 or one segment of a plural segment transport path 120 indicated by the dashed portion of the arrow emanating from box 126 . Any number of transport segments 124 and tracking points 122 , 126 may be utilized along the transport path 120 .

[0039] Tracking and monitoring movement of the object smart tags and check smart tags may be accomplished in several different ways. Each tracking 112 , 116 , 122 , 126 may include, in addition to reading information from the smart tag, the writing of tracking information to the smart tag so that as the smart tag moves along the transport path it accumulates information identifying the tracking 112 , 116 , 122 , 126 electronic gates it passes and the date and time thereof. Tracking information may include, for example, the identity of each tracking station passed and the date and time thereof. Thus, each smart tag has the history of its travel stored in its memory, which tracking information can be read should the object and its smart tag not be in the expected destination when expected.

[0040] Alternatively and/or additionally, and optionally, such tracking information can be communicated along with smart tag identifying information to a processor and stored in a relational database for easy and quick reference and access as needed or desired, as described below. Further, and also alternatively and/or additionally, and optionally, such tracking information and tag identity information can be stored in the smart tag reader associated with each electronic gate at which tracking 112 , 116 , 122 , 126 occurs, for later retrieval, as and/or if needed.

[0041] The tracked object and the checked object are associated 130 at the end of their respective transport paths 110 , 120 . and the object and check smart tags associated with the tracked object and the check object, respectively, are read 140 . The information read 140 from the two smart tags is compared 150 to determine whether they match 150 , i.e. whether the object smart tag and the check smart tag were issued 100 together containing the proper relating information that was written therein at issuing 100 .

[0042] If a match 150 is found (path “Y”), the tracked and checked objects pass 160 from the tracking process which ends 170 . The object smart tag and check smart tag may go with the objects, preferably with the writing 160 of information to the smart tags indicating that they have been matched with the objects to be matched or erasing the information stored in the smart tags that relates to the objects being tracked. One or both of the object and check smart tags may be collected, and so are available to be erased and reused, and are unavailable for unauthorized attempts at reuse.

[0043] If a match 150 is not found (path “N”), as will occur if only one of the object and check smart tags is present without a properly matched companion tag, or if the object and check smart tags present do not contain proper relating information, or if an additional unrelated smart tag is present. In these cases, an alarm 180 may be given by any suitable means, such as a light, audible signal, signal to an official or police, or combination thereof, and the process ends 170 .

[0044] Alternatively and/or additionally, and optionally, if a match 150 is not found, a search 180 is initiated for the missing one of the object smart tag or the check smart tag relating to the smart tag that was read 140 . A search 190 is preferably conducted by identifying the records of a relational data base that includes a record for each smart tag each time it is read at any one or more of the electronic gates. Issuing 100 and tracking 112 , 116 of object smart tags and tracking 122 , 126 of check smart tags both include reading and/or writing of information to and/or from the memory of the smart tag and communicating 118 , 128 such read and/or written information to a relational database running on a processor. As smart tags are issued 100 and tracked (read) 112 , 116 , 122 , 126 , 140 , records are accumulated in the relational database that provide a chronology and history of the transport of both object and check smart tags so that their most recent location and complete travel history are readily available.

[0045] Considering FIG. 1 in the environment of a medical facility, such as a hospital and/or pharmacy, for example, wherein medication and/or medical device, supplies and implements are issued 100 for a particular patient, procedure or use: Dual smart tags are issued 100 for each procedure, treatment, medication and/or medical device ordered. One smart tag, an object smart tag, is issued 100 for each medication, medical device, implement, procedure and/or treatment and is affixed to the container therefor in the pharmacy, the implement to be utilized or the facility, such as the surgical operating room, diagnostic machine and the like, to be utilized. Where the medication, medical device or implement, for example, has plural units packed or contained in a larger unit or container, object smart tags are issued and affixed to each of the plural units.

[0046] The object smart tag is encoded to contain, for example, a serial number or other smart tag identifier, the identity of the medication and/or medical device, quantity and dosage, frequency and conditions of use, manufacturer and/or provider, expiration date, and the identity and particulars of the implement, procedure and/or treatment with which the object smart tag is associated or affixed. A paper label containing the same information as is stored in the object smart tag may also be issued and affixed to or associated with the medication, medical device, implement, procedure and/or treatment.

[0047] When a doctor, physician or other personnel writes a prescription, referral, script or other order for medication and/or medical device, a procedure and/or treatment, he utilizes a device that issues a check smart tag that is affixed to an otherwise conventional paper document. Encoded in the check smart tag is information such as, for example, a serial number or other smart tag identifier, the identity of the medication, medical device, implement, procedure and/or treatment, dosage, form and frequency of administration information, refill and repetition information, issue and/or expiration dates, the patient's name and other patient information, the name of the physician or other person writing the order, and/or the diagnosis or sickness or condition. The paper document preferably contains the same information in human-readable form

[0048] The medication, medical device, implement, procedure and/or treatment with the object smart tag associated or affixed is transported 114 over transport path 110 to the destination, i.e. the point at which the medication, medical device, implement, procedure and/or treatment associated with the object smart tag is administered or used. Along transport path 110 , the object smart tag is read and tracked 112 , 116 . The patient and order with check smart tag affixed is transported 124 over transport path 120 to the destination, i.e. the point at which the medication, medical device, implement, procedure and/or treatment associated with the check smart tag is administered or used. Along transport path 120 , the check smart tag is read and tracked 122 , 126 .

[0049] At the destination, the patient and his check smart tag are associated 130 with the medication, medical device, implement, procedure and/or treatment and its object smart tag, and both object and check smart tags are read 140 and compared 150 to determine whether they match. If there is a match 150 (“Y”), then the proper medication, medical device, implement, procedure and/or treatment is present for that patient as ordered, and the administration or conduct thereof may proceed 160 . If there is no match 150 (“N”), an alarm 180 is given and the patient is not administered the unordered or otherwise incorrect medication, medical device, procedure and/or treatment is not administered, and the wrong implement is not utilized.

[0050] In the case of no match 150 (“N”), a search 190 may be conducted to identify and associate with the patient the proper medication, medical device, implement, procedure and/or treatment, all of which are tracked in a relational database. Alternatively and/or additionally, and optionally, search 190 may be conducted for each reading 140 of the object and check smart tags for associating related information from the relational database. Such additional information may include, for example, the patient's other medical conditions and medications, medical conditions, allergies and reactions, drug interactions, the effectiveness of the prescribed medication and/or medical device or treatment for the indicated illness, disease or condition, and the like, and is utilized to alarm or alert 180 personnel as to any actual or potential problem or adverse effect.

[0051] It is noted that the transport paths 110 , 120 may be entirely or partially within a given facility, such as a pharmacy or hospital. In such case, the pharmacist receives the prescription or order with the check smart tag affixed and a tag reader reads 112 the information therein to provide a “pick-list” of the medications, devices and implements ordered, and can print the prescription labels therefor. The medication and/or medical device and/or implement filling the prescription has an object smart tag affixed thereto is associated 130 with the prescription having a check smart tag affixed thereto, and is dispensed at a window or “tunnel” or other dispensing point that includes an antenna and smart tag reader for reading 140 both the object and check smart tags and comparing 150 same for a match, as described. At this time, the pharmacist or other dispenser is alerted to any error or problem determined from the comparing 150 and/or from searching 190 the relational data base and/or medical information database. On the other hand, parts of transport paths 110 , 120 may also be in different facilities and locations.

[0052] For example, where the disease or condition is encoded in the check smart tag, and the relational database includes or is linked to a medical information database that includes medication and/or medical device, treatment and effectiveness information, then medical personnel are provided an indication of whether that prescribed is a functionally useful treatment such as a specific medication, or is useful as a supplement such as a vitamin or mineral or herb, or is functionally neutral or is functionally adverse or contraindicated. Such databases of medications and/or treatments are available and may be linked to the relational database utilized for searching 190 object and check smart tag records. One such database is available from eProcrates located in San Diego, Calif.

[0053] A significant advantage of such arrangement is the reduction of mis-prescribing and inappropriate and/or unnecessary treatment, or other human-errors due to an alarm or alert being provided. Likewise, drug interactions, adverse reactions and allergies are avoided. It is noted that such medical relational database can be coupled to the smart tag issuing 100 so that the physician or other person ordering medication and/or medical device or treatment is alerted to any potential problems at an early time.

[0054] In addition, at reading 140 just prior to dispensing 160 , the patient information from the check smart tag may be written 140 to the object smart tag on the medication and/or medical device or implement, and the object smart tag may thereafter be utilized with another smart tag reader described below to provide, for example, patient warnings and reminders, either visually or audibly, for alerting the patient to take the medication and/or to have a prescription refilled, or at the patient's home, living place or other point of use.

[0055] Thus it is evident that the same system elements may be configured to provide an apparatus and/or method in any one of many types of environments, facilities, locations, functions and operations. One example thereof is a facility, typically a centralized facility, at which large numbers of prescriptions for medicine, medical devices and the like are ordered via telephone and/or computer and are then filled and are dispensed via the mail or a delivery service. Typically such facility is operated by a pharmaceutical company or distributor contracting with a health insurance provider for providing medication and/or devices for treating long term and/or chronic conditions.

[0056] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example of a system 10 including plural stations 20 - 2 , 20 - 2 , . . . 20 -N. Check in and registration station RS is for receiving information relating to the object to be tracked and the check object, and coding that information into the memory of plural smart tags 200 that are issued accompany the tracked object and the check object. Typically, smart tags 200 are issued as part of an identification label or claim check displaying the pertinent information in human readable form. Station RS is monitored by processor CP and communicates the information stored in smart tags 200 thereto, and may be under the control of processor CP. Similarly, stations 20 - 1 - 20 -N and check-out station CS also communicate with and may be controlled by processor CP.

[0057] Because the object smart tags and check smart tags are the same functionally except for the information stored therein, and the various stations (electronic gates) are the same functionally, the system operates with both object and check smart tags in the same manner, i.e. reading and writing data from and to the smart tags 200 at each tracking station 20 - 1 - 20 -N that the particular tags pass. Thus, FIG. 2 illustrates a smart tag 200 traveling over transport path TP which can be either an object smart tag or a check smart tag.

[0058] As the issued object smart tag 200 attached to the tracked object moves over its transport path TP past ones of the various tracking stations 20 - 1 through 20 -N, object smart tag 200 is read by the respective electronic gate at each station 20 passed. The information so read from the object smart tag 200 may be stored in a memory of the electronic gate of station 20 and/or may be communicated to a central computer or processor CP via any suitable communication link. Information relating to the object and object smart tag 200 passing each tracking station 20 , such as the identity of the station and the date and time of passing, is either stored in (written to the memory of) object smart tag 200 and/or is stored in the electronic gate and/or is communicated to the central computer CP, for later retrieval and use.

[0059] Separately, as the issued check smart tag 200 attached to the object moves over its transport path TP past ones of the various tracking stations 20 - 1 through 20 -N, check smart tag 200 is read by the respective electronic gate at each station 20 passed. The information so read from the check smart tag 200 may be stored in a memory of the electronic gate of station 20 and/or may be communicated to a central computer or processor CP via any suitable communication link. Information relating to the check and check smart tag 200 passing each tracking station 20 , such as the identity of the station and the date and time of passing, is either stored in (written to the memory of) check smart tag 200 and/or is stored in the electronic gate and/or is communicated to the central computer CP, for later retrieval and use.

[0060] When the object and object smart tag 200 has completed its travel over its transport path TP to reach the destination, having passed those of tracking stations 20 - 1 through 20 -N that are along transport path TP, it becomes associated with the check and check smart tag 200 . Check and check smart tag 200 has completed its travel over its transport path TP to reach the destination, having passed those of tracking stations 20 - 1 through 20 -N that are along its transport path TP. Check out station CS then reads the object smart tag 200 and the check smart tag 200 and compares the information therefrom for a match to indicate that the proper object and check have been associated at the destination.

[0061] Where an object and check do not become properly associated at a destination, one or the other is at the wrong destination, and a search can be conducted by processor CP relating the records of the relational database therein pertaining to the particular object smart tag 200 or check smart tag 200 that is at the destination. Because both object and check smart tags 200 are preferably tracked and tracking information is stored in the relational database of processor CP, the whereabouts and travel of either or both may be quickly ascertained. If desired check out station CS may provide a tangible record of such information to any desire degree of detail. For example, a simple form of such tangible record may include the missing object's or missing check's identification and a list of tracking stations by which it passed. A more comprehensive form of the tangible record may include the object's identification, a list of the tracking stations passed, a list of the dates and times thereof, information about the object, its owner, the shipper or recipient, and any other data stored in the relational database of processor CP.

[0062] Moreover, such tangible record may be any one or more of a printed document, a computer floppy disk, a computer CD-ROM disk, or any other desired medium Where the tangible record is a computer readable medium, such as a floppy disk or a CD-ROM disk, the medium, the computer readable files thereon may include files directing access to either a central web site or to particular web sites at which further information may be accessed and/or retrieved. Such record may be provided to personnel seeking to find and match up the missing object or check or to the owner, shipper or recipient thereof, or other person, as may be desirable and appropriate.

[0063] While only one processor (computer) is necessary to the system 10 , it is often convenient to employ a network of processors (computers) in which plural decentralized processors are linked, as by a network, for example, together and/or to a central processor CP. Typically, each local processor is associated with one or more stations 20 for monitoring the operation thereof and/or for controlling such station(s) 20 , and is linked with the central processor CP for communicating monitoring information therewith and/or for communicating control and/or programming information therewith. Thus, stations 20 may operate independently, under the control of local computer, under control of central computer CP, or some combination thereof.

[0064] Communication between the registration station RS, the various tracking stations 20 - 1 through 20 -N, checkout station CS and (local processors and) central processor CP may be via any suitable communication means CM including but not limited to wire, cable, optical fiber, local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), radio (RF) transmission, optical transmission or other suitable means, or any combination thereof, with or without one or more communication hubs. Such communication may be in real time, be periodic or aperiodic, and may include one or more communications, and may utilize any suitable format or protocol, such as the RS485 and/or RS232 standards.

[0065] Communication may occur periodically, but promptly (e.g., within seconds or minutes) relative to the speed and frequency of passing of the objects in transport and the time and date thereof, and the timeliness of tracking and monitoring desired. Communication may be periodic, but less frequent, regarding the status of a station 20 . Periodic communication may be beneficial for wireless communication to reduce frequency spectrum and bandwidth requirements, and communication units may be placed at higher locations and unobstructed positions, such as in a tall building, or other suitable location for proper communication.

[0066] Suitable communication devices are available commercially from several sources and provide direct communication or communication via relay links. Such devices are suitable for communication between computers over local area and wide area networks and may employ CDMA and/or spread spectrum communication techniques. For example, RF communication devices available from Proxim, Inc., located in Sunnyvale, Calif., include, for example, a RangeLAN2 system operating at 2.4 GHZ, a Stratum Building-to-Building system, and a Symphony Home and Small Office system Such devices transmit and receive information and programming changes between and among central processor CP and local computers and/or control units 40 equipped with a compatible communication device.

[0067] Where information is written to and stored in smart tag 200 at each of tracking stations 20 - 1 through 20 -N, communication may be by check out station CS reading the information so stored in smart tag 200 . Smart tag 200 may be collected by check out station CS, thereby permitting reuse of the smart tags 200 .

[0068] FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an example of a tracking station 20 useful in the system of FIG. 2 . Station 20 includes an electronic gate 40 and a processor 30 for communicating with smart tag 200 , which may be an object smart tag or a check smart tag. Processor 30 is coupled to electronic gate 40 which includes a smart tag reader and/or writer 42 for at least receiving and decoding information from a smart tag 200 that is within its detection region. Processor 30 includes one or more memory devices for storing information relating to station 20 , date and time, and the like, and for storing information read from a smart tag 200 or entered via optional data input means 52 . Information from memory 32 is produced and communicated to smart tag 200 and/or to another processor via communication means CM.

[0069] Preferably, smart tag reader 42 receives information transmitted by smart tag 200 via an antenna or array of antenna 44 , i.e. when smart tag 200 is within a space in which electromagnetic radiation from its antenna 220 is effective to be received by antenna 44 of the smart tag reader 42 . In addition, and preferably, the smart tag reader 42 is a smart tag reader/writer 42 that also encodes and transmits information electromagnetically via its antenna 44 effective to be received by antenna 220 of smart tag 200 when in the detection region. Such smart tag readers and reader/writer 42 may be of any suitable type, including commercially available conventional reader/writers.

[0070] As described herein, the antenna 44 may be an all-orientation antenna array wherein the antenna are operated simultaneously and/or are either spatially separated or temporally separated by being activated sequentially in time to eliminate interference, and a single reader/writer unit 42 therefor may control and operate a plurality of antenna 44 . It is noted that the use of an antenna array 44 that has the ability to detect smart tags 200 in its detection region with substantially 100% reading rate may be important to obtain the full convenience advantage of the apparatus and/or method. Typically, substantially 100% reading rate means at least a reading rate of about 99%, and preferably a reading rate of about 99.5%, irrespective of the orientation of the smart tag within the detection region of the antenna array. It is noted that variations in the antenna and/or smart tags and/or reader/writer units, such as variations due to component, production, adjustment, tuning, matching and other tolerances, and variation over time and temperature, as well as any other sources of electromagnetic radiation incident on the antenna, may produce variation of those percentages.

[0071] Smart tag 200 includes an electronic device 210 and an antenna 220 by which information is provided and/or received. Electronic device 210 typically includes an electronic memory 214 in which information is stored and a processor 212 . Processor 212 retrieves and codes information produced from memory 214 in a form suitable for communication via antenna 220 and/or electrical contacts 222 . Preferably, processor 210 also codes and provides information received via antenna 220 and/or electrical contacts 222 and stores such information in memory 214 .

[0072] The coding provided by processor 210 may include modulating and demodulating signals for radio frequency communication and/or converting information to suitable digital and/or analog signal format for communication via antenna 220 , and may also include converting received information to a form, typical a digital format, for storage in memory 214 . Processor 210 may also perform signal synchronization, authorization verification and/or encryption/decryption as may be deemed necessary and/or convenient.

[0073] Information including related information from smart tag 200 and from electronic gate 40 , e.g., typically information that is a record of an object passing station 20 or plural stations 20 . Such information may be produced from memory 32 of processor 30 or from memory 214 of smart tag 200 , or both.

[0074] Optionally, electronic gate 20 may also include a display 50 and a data input means 52 coupled to processor 30 and to reader/writer 40 for communicating with a smart tag 200 . Display 50 typically includes a visual display device such as a video or computer monitor, LCD display, cathode ray tube, dot-matrix display, touch screen display, or any other display providing information in a visual form that can be perceived (e.g., seen) by a person. Display 50 may also include an annunciator, loudspeaker, or other sound transducer for providing audible information that can be perceived (e.g., heard) by a person, such as an alarm or reminder or warning, e.g., via pre-recorded and/or synthesized speech. Data input means 52 typically includes a keypad, keyboard, touch pad, light pen, or other device by which a person may enter information into electronic gate 20 .

[0075] Display 50 and data input 52 may be used, for example, to monitor the objects passing or that have passed station 20 and/or for entering information to be stored in the smart tag of an object passing station 20 , such as information indicating that the object has been manually inspected or otherwise received or should receive special handling or attention. Examples in the medical environment include, for example, inspection, quality control, searching for lost medication and/or devices, evaluation of operation and/or personnel, and the like.

[0076] Personnel may enter information requests and the like, i.e. requests for data items or specific records, via input means 52 which information is stored in a memory 32 associated with processor 30 or is transmitted to smart tag 200 via reader writer 40 . In either case, information from smart tag 200 and information entered via input means 52 are related and stored in a memory, and typically provide a record of activity relating to station 20 . The memory in which such information is stored may be memory 214 of smart tag 200 , or may be memory 32 of gate 20 , or both.

[0077] Also optionally, a printer to paper, or an electronic writing device that provides the information on other tangible media, such as floppy disks, CDs and other electronic media, may be associated with a particular station 20 or with a check-in or check-out station, either on a temporary or permanent basis. Such printer may be remote from a particular station 20 with information communicated thereto by conventional communication means including but not limited to wire, cable, optical fiber, local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), radio transmission, optical transmission or other suitable means, or any combination thereof, with or without one or more communication hubs.

[0078] Alternatively, display 50 may be a touch screen display 50 that provides an easy to use and convenient combined display 50 and input means 52 through which information may be provided and information and requests may be received. Input means 52 , which may be optional in this embodiment, such as a standard computer keyboard, provides a input means through which information may be entered into processor 30 .

[0079] Smart tags 200 are typically utilized for tagging and electronically identifying articles by reading information stored in the electronic memory of the smart tag using contact-less radio-frequency (RF) transmissions. Available smart tags operate at RF frequencies between hundreds of kilo-Hertz (KHz) and several giga-Hertz (GHz). Typical frequencies for RF smart tags and smart cards (functionally the same but different in form) include 125 KHz, 13.56 MHZ, 915 MHZ and 2.45 GHz. For medication and medical devices and implements, a smart tag of about 0.5 inch by 0.6 inch (about 1.2 cm by 1.5 cm) operating at 13.56 MHZ is typically preferred.

[0080] For the present smart tagging system and method, an electronic integrated circuit in the form of a semiconductor chip is connected to an antenna ANT on a substrate to serve as a tag. The semiconductor chip typically includes a processor and an electronic memory for storing information. Information stored in a smart tag can be read by a suitable smart tag reader and can be read and written to by a suitable reader/writer. The reader or reader/writer and the tag antenna are tuned suitably so that RF energy (electromagnetic fields and electrical signals) can stimulate the tag to emit a signal representative of the information (electronic codes or data) stored ill the tag memory. Such contact-less RF tags eliminate the need for an electrical contact or a line-of-sight path for communication with the smart tag.

[0081] Suitable smart card/smart tag semiconductor chips include the I-CODE chip and the MIFARE chip, both available from Philips Semiconductors located in Eindhoven, The Netherlands, and the types SLE4442 or SLE4428 memory ICs available from Siemens of Germany. Also suitable are the “Tag-it” devices available from Texas Instruments of Dallas, Tex., the “Pico-Tag” devices available from Inside Technology of France, and devices available from Microchips of Phoenix, Ariz. Each smart tag/semiconductor chip must have sufficient memory for storing all of the information desired to be stored therein. Typically about 100-500 bytes is sufficient, one kilobyte or 1000 characters is preferred, and 2000 bytes or characters is better.

[0082] Suitable smart tags include those, such as an I-code chip, that conform to the ISO15693 format protocol for wireless RF identification tags, as is available from several commercial sources. Smart tags may also include an overwrite protection feature whereby information stored therein may be protected from being overwritten or changed, thereby to provide a measure of security.

[0083] Suitable smart tag reader/writers include those available from Avante International Technology, Inc. located in Princeton Junction, N.J., the Fast-Track system available from Escort Memory Systems located in California, the Interrogator Control Module available from Samsys Technologies, Inc. located in California, and the Memor 2000 RFID available from Minec company located in Taby, Sweden, as well as readers/writers available from Intermec Technologies Corporation located in Everett, Wash., Fargo Electronics, Inc. located in Eden Prairie, Minn., or from Atlantek, Inc. located in Wakefield, R.I.

[0084] Suitable processors (both local processor LC and central processor 200 ) include any modern personal computer (PC), such as those having a Pentium®, Celeron®, or similar processor, running a Windows, Unix or other PC operating system. Where a LAN or WAN network is employed, standard PC networking hardware and software may be included in the PCs. Desirably, the processors, as well as the smart tag control units readers/writers, will have redundant memory and information storage, such as by one or more of non-volatile memory, a hard disk drive, a floppy disk drive, a CD-write drive and the like.

[0085] Applications programs suitable for recording and manipulating the information include relational database software such as the Windows-NT-based Microsoft ACCESS database as well as ORACLE, SYBASE and INFORMIX database software, and software languages such as Visual Basic, Java, or other language compliant with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Standard 256. Each database record will typically include fields some or all of the following information: The article identification and/or serial number and/or quantity, station and/or operation identification, entry and exit time data (arriving and leaving), date, bill of material data, actual/planned material usage, keypad/keyboard entered data, component/part/material smart tag information, operator/employee/individual smart tag information, quality control and inspection data, transport provider, and the like. Thus, the database maintains an inventory of the articles, their quantities and locations and may be utilized to categorize the data contained in the database records for tracking any article or any type or group of articles, and/or any station so also provide status and inventory by station, operator or any other desired category of the stored records. Typically, the database software interfaces with other standard software, such as the standard MRPII software available from the Great Plains division of Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Wash.

[0086] Desirably, processed information and/or transactional information should be available in human readable form, such as by display on a computer monitor or by print out by a computer printer, both of which may be conventional. Where certain information recorded and/or processed is representative of parameters or conditions that may pose a hazard to personel or property, or are critical to an operation or process, or indicate a failure of some test or condition, it is desirable to include an alarm, such as a loudspeaker, flashing light, buzzer, speech synthesizer, or the like, that is activated automatically by an out-of-limit or marginal condition.

[0087] FIG. 4A is a schematic representation of a memory allocation 240 suitable for a smart card 200 for use with the apparatus and/or method. Sections 242 , 244 , 246 of memory EM of smart tag ST are allocated or segmented for the storage of particular information. Typically, an EEPROM memory is utilized.

[0088] Manufacturers of the electronic devices or chips utilized in smart tags typically segment the memory thereof into two segments: a first segment 242 into which the manufacturer burns in (i.e. permanently stores in a way that the information cannot thereafter be changed) a unique identifier of the electronic device or chip. Such permanent number 242 may be tens or hundreds of bits in length, as is appropriate for providing a unique identifier. The remainder of the memory capacity 244 , 246 is left available for the storing of data therein in use, which data may be modified, written over or otherwise changed in the use of the electronic device.

[0089] Smart tags 200 are typically utilized for tagging and electronically identifying objects by reading information stored in the electronic memory of the smart tag using contact-less radio-frequency (RF) transmissions. For the present smart tagging system and method, an electronic integrated circuit in the form of a semiconductor chip is connected to an antenna on a substrate to serve as a tag. The semiconductor chip typically includes a processor and an electronic memory for storing information. Information stored in a smart tag can be read by a suitable smart tag reader and can be read and written to by a suitable reader/writer. The reader or reader/writer and the tag antenna are tuned suitably so that RF energy (electromagnetic fields and electrical signals) can stimulate the tag to emit a signal representative of the information (electronic codes or data) stored in the tag memory. Such contact-less RF tags eliminate the need for an electrical contact or a line-of-sight path for communication with the smart tag.

[0090] While it is satisfactory to utilize only the stored permanent number identifier 242 to identify the smart tag containing the electronic device, it is preferred that the permanent number 242 be stored in a relational database in a processor and be linked to other identifying or use information for use in identifying the object or article to which the smart tag is attached or with which it is associated. Such processor is in communication with the smart tag readers that read information from memory 240 of the smart tags.

[0091] One potential problem associated with such smart tags occurs where the information desire to be stored therein is simply coded and written into the writeable memory 244 , 246 . In that case, any change to the information stored therein is undetectable. Typical sources of erroneous or corrupted or erased data include electromagnetic interference, whether accidental or intentional, as well as any intentional or unintentional attempt to modify the stored information, whether authorized or unauthorized, such as by a thief or counterfeiter. Having other than the correct data stored in the memory of the smart tag can lead to misdirection, loss or damage to property and/or injury to person, none of which is desirable or acceptable.

[0092] To reduce the likelihood of undetected erroneous stored information, the remaining memory 244 , 246 available to the smart tag user is further segmented into two segments. The first segment 244 , which is typically of greater memory capacity, is allocated for the storage of application specific data, such as the article identification, manufacturer, batch or lot identification and other information, 244 a , and for information 244 b that is written back to the smart tag memory by the smart tag reader/writer at the various stations, such as station identification, operation performed, date and time, and the like. The second and smaller memory segment 246 is allocated for storing a relational check number or code that is a calculated or coded value representative of at least the value of the stored application specific data, and preferably representative of the value of both the permanent number and the application specific data. Herein, the relational check number or code is usually referred to simply as the relational check number to include numbers and/or codes.

[0093] Where the smart tag includes processing capability, the processor can be programmed to calculate the relational check number upon each time data is written to its memory, preferably upon command to do so. Alternatively or additionally, each reader/writer or an associated processor or central processor can calculate the relational check number. Because the electronic device utilized in a smart tag has substantial memory capacity, the relational check number can include many bits and so can be constructed to permit error correction as well as error detection.

[0094] The foregoing arrangement permits detection of errors and/or changes to the application specific data at any time by reading the card and recalculating the relational check number which is then compared to the relational check number read from the smart tag. If the read and calculated relational check numbers match, then there is a high degree of certainty that the application specific data has not been changed and does not include errors.

[0095] It is noted that while the permanent number, the application specific data and the relational check number or code are referred to as “numbers,” each may include numerical, alphabetic, alpha-numeric and other characters and symbols, conventional or arbitrary, as may be desired. The relational check number or code is representative of the information stored in the memory in accordance with a predetermined formula or algorithm or other scheme, either on a character by character basis or on the basis of one or more combinations of the characters or values stored in the memory. Suitable formula and algorithms include, for example, parity checks or other parity representations, sum checks, field relationship checks or any other predetermined relationship between the stored permanent number and application specific data values and the relational check number.

[0096] Thus, any change to the stored information, including a change that changes the stored value of the relational check number or code, will be detectable and an indication that the stored data contains one or more errors or changes. Typically, the particular formula or algorithm that generates the relational check number is not known to third parties and is not derivable from the data stored in the smart tag memory, and so the relational check number provides a degree of security for the information stored in the smart tags.

[0097] The formula or other algorithm or other encoder for generating the relational check code or number may be provided in protected firmware, in software or in a combination of firmware and software, to provide a higher level of security against deciphering or unauthorized coding. For additional security, each encoder may also include a unique identifier that must be paired with coding software having the same unique identifier for enabling proper functioning. The unique encoder identifier may also be included in or as part of the application specific data.

[0098] FIGS. 4B and 4C are schematic representations of memory allocations of a relational database of a processor suitable for use with the apparatus and/or method. Database 1240 represents an aggregation of records stored in relational database computer software running on a processor. Compiling records of data written to smart tags in a relational database is particularly advantageous where the data is written to the smart tag and where it is important to be able to retrieve such data should the smart tag be misplaced, lost or stolen, or if the information stored therein is changed or corrupted or lost for any reason.

[0099] In a complete database, database 1240 illustrated by FIG. 4A stores a record each time data is written to any smart tag used with the tracking system Database 1240 includes, for example, a number of data fields comprising a list 1242 of the permanent numbers of the smart tags, a list 1244 of the application specific data of each writing of application specific data to each smart tag, a list 1246 of the relational check number written to each smart tag with each writing of application specific data thereto, and a list 1248 of tag coding identifiers such as the date, time, reader/writer identification for each writing of application specific data to each smart tag. Lists 1242 , 1244 , 1246 , 1248 are comprised of aggregations of records corresponding to each writing of information to each smart tag, and may be provided from one or both of the smart tag and the reader/writer utilized for each writing of information.

[0100] In a simplified database, database 1240 ′ includes, for example, lists 1242 , 1246 and 1248 . This database arrangement may be advantageous where the database is stored in a local processor and/or a smart tag reader/writer where available memory capacity may be more limited than in another processor. In either a complete or simplified database, information relating to each writing of information to each smart tag is communicated to a processor in real time or delayed, and may be periodic or aperiodic. Information may be communicated by any of the means described as well as by manual communication, e.g., by transporting the smart tag reader/writer and/or local processor and/or computer media containing the information stored in such smart tag reader/writer and/or local processor to another processor.

[0101] Suitable relational database software include ACCESS and SQL Server database software which runs on conventional PC processors with standard operating systems, such as Windows-NT, both available from Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Wash., as well as the ORACLE, SYBASE and INFORMIX database software. Preferably the database software is “Internet-ready” in that it includes features facilitating connection to and communication of information via the Internet.

[0102] Each database record will typically include fields for some or all of the following application specific data or information in addition to the permanent number:

[0103] Object information including but not limited to the identification of the object, its manufacturer, its dispenser and/or shipper, its patient and/or recipient, the identification of the mode of, time of, dosage of and/or frequency of administration, conditions of use, refill and expiration information, and/or other identifying information, and the like.

[0104] Station information including but not limited to station identification, operator/personnel identification, entry and exit time data (arriving and leaving), date, expiration date, keypad/keyboard entered data, smart tag information, quality control/inspection information, and the like.

[0105] Relational check number representative of any or all of the foregoing application specific data and/or the permanent number of the smart tag.

[0106] Where the information written to each smart tag is all communicated to and stored in a central database and where all subsequent action to be taken will be taken based upon the information stored in the central database, then the use of a relational check number to verify the information stored in the smart tag and/or detect errors in and changes thereto is of much less importance.

[0107] In any case, the central database can be utilized to provide particular information, general information, status information, statistical information, and other information on an on-line basis that is at least as current as the entry of record information into the database. Where every writing of information to a smart tag is also replicated in a record stored in the relational database, the relational database contains and can provide a detailed history of the utilization of the smart tag, e.g., the path of the object's movement and the date and time of its passing each station as well as information entered at each such station.

[0108] FIG. 5A is a flow chart schematic diagram of an example of a utilization of the memory allocations 242 , 244 , 246 , and of memory allocations and relational database structures 1242 , 1244 , 1246 , 1248 of FIGS. 4 A- 4 C. Information from the smart tag is read 1200 , such information including, for example, a permanent number related to the particular smart tag, application specific data relating to the article and stations, and a check number representative of at least the application specific data and preferably the application specific data and the permanent number. Application specific data read from the smart tag is decoded 1205 and the permanent number read from the smart tag is stored.

[0109] A cross check 1210 is made between the application specific data and the permanent number read from the smart tag. Cross check 1210 includes calculating from the application specific data and the permanent number the value of the check number and comparing that calculated value to the value of the check number read from the smart tag. If the two check numbers correlate, then there is a high degree of confidence that the application specific data does not contain errors and has not been altered. It is noted that cross check 1210 is performed at least initially using only the information read from the smart tag and so does not necessarily require a central processor or database. If there is a non-correlation or other discrepancy, such noncorrelation or discrepancy produces an alarm 1215 and further correlation steps may be taken.

[0110] Results of the reading of smart tags and of the correlation of the check numbers thereof are reported 1215 in any convenient form Such reporting may be by aggregation of records in a database for current or delayed review, by displaying the results or summaries of results or statistics related to results on a human-perceivable display, or by initiating an alarm or alert 1215 of lack of correlation of check numbers. Such alarm may take the form of a print out, a paper document, a visual display, a warning screen, an audible signal, synthesized speech, a signal to a control or monitoring station or to a pager or cell phone, or any other convenient form of alarm alert or signal.

[0111] A further cross check 1220 may be made to check at least the permanent number and relational check number stored in the database to the permanent number and relational check number read from the smart tag. Because the permanent number of a smart tag cannot be changed, cross check 1220 includes comparing the relational check number read from a particular smart tag having a given permanent number with the relational check number stored in the relational database for the most-recent record corresponding to that given permanent number. Correspondence or lack of correspondence of the respective relational check numbers from cross check 1220 is utilized to confirm such correspondence or lack thereof by human-perceivable display or alarm or alert, as described above.

[0112] In particular, correspondence in cross check 1220 initiates confirming a match 1230 , e.g., by any human-perceivable display, report or alarm, as described above. Lack of correspondence in cross check 1220 is a discrepancy that initiates giving an alarm 1232 , e.g., by any human-perceivable display, report or alarm, as described above.

[0113] Initiating a human-perceivable display or alarm, or communicating information to or from another location can include liking 1234 the processor performing any of cross checks 1210 and 1230 and/or producing a report or alarm 1215 , 1230 , 1232 , to a remote processor, display or alarm via the Internet. Such linking via the Internet 1232 may include accessing a remote relational database, which may be an open database to which information can be added, deleted or changed or which may be a closed database not allowing information to be added, deleted or changed via the Internet link. Access may be controlled by access codes, passwords and the like as desired, and information communicated via the Internet may be encrypted, to provide the desired degree of security.

[0114] Further, correlation or lack of correlation or any other difference between the information read from a smart tag and the related information stored in the relational database initiates displaying 1236 data from any one or more of the smart tag and a local or central relational database, or if such data is limited or missing, displaying 1236 a default indication, e.g., whatever information is stored in the database. Displaying 1236 may include displaying information from the smart tag and the relational database or may be limited, e.g., to displaying the differences and/or discrepancies of that information, and may be immediate or delayed. Displaying 1236 may be for each cross check 1210 , 1220 , or may be for any number of cross checks 1210 , 1220 .

[0115] The display of the result or status of any step and/or of the information to which attention is to be drawn may be included in a display of information, e.g., such as by highlighting or coloring the portion of the displayed information to which attention is to be drawn, or by separately displaying the information to which attention is to be drawn. Where information desirable to be displayed is available in the relational database, such information is retrieved and displayed automatically, either locally, remotely or via the Internet, as appropriate. If such information is not so available, a warning or instruction to an operator is provided to instruct the operator to either retrieve the information or to segregate or mark the affected smart tag for special treatment or handling, e.g., such as alerting an attendant or operator at final or check out station when an article associated with that smart tag arrives.

[0116] It is noted that the foregoing arrangements and method also can enable the detection of changing or tampering with the information stored in the smart card for the unlikely case where the changing or tampering is done with knowledge of the calculation of the relational check number. In such case, the relational check number is correctly related to the application specific data and/or the permanent number and so the simple cross checking 1210 will not detect the changing or tampering. Because the information written to each smart tag is also stored in the relational database correlated to the smart tag unchangeable permanent number, comparison of the changed or tampered-with information read from a smart card is detectable by cross checking 1220 that read information against the information stored in the relational database.

[0117] Where desired, the relational database may be accessed and made available by any convenient means, e.g., by providing same on floppy disk or CD-ROM, optical CD and the like that is easily sent by mail, express and the like, or by making same available via communication means such as wire, cable, optical fiber, LAN, WAN, optical or radio frequency transmission, the Internet and the like.

[0118] FIG. 5B is a flow chart schematic diagram of another example of a utilization of the memory allocations 242 , 244 , 246 , and of memory allocations and relational database structures 1242 , 1244 , 1246 , 1248 of FIGS. 4 A- 4 C. It is noted that the steps of FIG. 5B include steps as described above in relation to FIG. 5 A, but arranged for a more direct illustration of certain steps. Information from the smart tag is read 1200 , such information including, for example, the permanent number related to the particular smart tag, application specific data, and a relational check number (also referred to as a “relational encryption code”) representative of at least the application specific data and preferably the application specific data and the permanent number.

[0119] The encoded application specific data and relational check number read from the smart tag are decoded and separated 1205 ′ and are compared 1210 ′ to determine whether the relational encryption or check code or number read from the smart tag corresponds to or matches the relational encryption or check code or number recalculated by the processor from the application specific data and the permanent number read from the smart tag. I.e. match 1210 ′ is a cross check that includes calculating from the application specific data and the permanent number the value of the relational check number and comparing that calculated value to the value of the check number read from the smart tag.

[0120] If the two check numbers correlate (i.e. match, path “Y”), then there is a high degree of confidence that the application specific data does not contain errors and has not been altered, and the application specific data is displayed 1215 / 1230 along with confirmation that the relational check number correlates.

[0121] If there is a non-correlation (i.e. non-match, path “N”) or other discrepancy, such non-correlation or discrepancy produces the display of a warning or alarm 1215 / 1232 and initiates further correlation steps. Such further steps include retrieving 1220 ′/ 1234 ′ from a relational database records stored therein corresponding the particular smart tag related, for example, by its permanent number, and displaying or posting 1215 / 1232 such retrieved stored records. Access to the relational database, if not direct in the processor, is by communication 1220 ′/ 1234 ′ with a processor via communication means, typically a LAN or WAN, or via the Internet.

[0122] Whether there is correlation or non-correlation of the relational check number, a record is stored 1238 in the relational database including the information read from the smart tag in step 1200 , whether or not the read data correlated or not in step 1210 ′, and the identity of the station or check point at which such data was read.

[0123] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an arrangement employing smart tags 200 in an environment for processing medicine or medication, medical devices and/or medical implements. Herein, medication is used and is deemed to include medication and medicine in whatever form, as well as medical implements, devices and other equipment of any sort, and is representative of any other thing that is to be dispensed or issued in a controlled manner.

[0124] Medication is provided, for example, in bulk or quantity in a container referred to as a “master” container 280 that contains plural doses of the medication. Medication may be received in container 280 or be placed into container 280 or be in inventory in container 280 , e.g., by a manufacturer, distributor, pharmacy or physician. Doses or units may be “loose” as in the case of a large number of scalpels, syringes, pills or tablets in a bottle, jar, canister or other container, or may be separately wrapped as in the case of a number of scalpels, syringes or bottles of pills in a box or carton. A master smart tag associated with carton 280 contains information identifying the medication, quantity, dosage, expiration, lot and date, NDC number, and the like.

[0125] In addition, plural smart tags 200 - 1 , 200 - 2 , . . . 200 -N are associated with each package or dose. Smart tags 200 - 1 , 200 - 2 , . . . 200 -N may be included in master container 280 or may be encoded and issued by the holder of container 280 , e.g., by a manufacturer, distributor, pharmacy or physician. As doses/units or dispensing of the medication is ordered, the medication is placed in a dose or unit container 290 , e.g., a smaller container for individual use, and one of the smart tags 200 - 1 , 200 - 2 , . . . <