Linton, William A. (Madison, WI, US)
Linton, John (Madison, WI, US)
Krueger, Julia E. (Deerfield, WI, US)
Dearing, Michael P. (Spring Green, WI, US)

Plaque It! Sponsored by: Flash of Genius

09/981219

01/23/2007

10/16/2001

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3861433	AIR TIGHT FOOD CONTAINER	January, 1975	Schier et al.	220/782
3918671	Bar antenna holder	November, 1975	Mizusawa	248/285
4116512	Drawer latching device	September, 1978	Wiser	312/330.1
4118693	Method and apparatus for producing uniform electromagnetic fields in an article detection system	October, 1978	Novikoff	340/572
4223830	Identification system	September, 1980	Walton	235/380
4354613	Microprocessor based vending apparatus	October, 1982	Desai et al.	221/4
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4580041	Electronic proximity identification system with simplified low power identifier	April, 1986	Walton	235/380
4616694	Fireproof cabinet system for electronic equipment	October, 1986	Hsieh
4636634	Apparatus with intelligent bins indicating the presence and identity of stored coded articles	January, 1987	Harper et al.	250/223R
4636950	Inventory management system using transponders associated with specific products	January, 1987	Caswell et al.	364/403
4639875	Quantity checking system and method	January, 1987	Abraham et al.
4656463	LIMIS systems, devices and methods	April, 1987	Anders et al.	340/572
4688026	Method of collecting and using data associated with tagged objects	August, 1987	Scribner et al.
4694283	Identification device in the form of a tag-like strip affixable to an article	September, 1987	Reeb	340/572
4746830	Electronic surveillance and identification	May, 1988	Holland
4785969	Medication dispensing system	November, 1988	McLaughlin	221/2
4837568	Remote access personnel identification and tracking system	June, 1989	Snaper	340/825.54
4847764	System for dispensing drugs in health care institutions	July, 1989	Halvorson
4862160	Item identification tag for rapid inventory data acquisition system	August, 1989	Ekchian et al.
4866661	Computer controlled rental and sale system and method for a supermarket and the like	September, 1989	de Prins	235/382
4881061	Article removal control system	November, 1989	Chambers	340/568
4961533	Inventory control system	October, 1990	Teller et al.	177/25.19
5008814	Method and apparatus for updating system software for a plurality of data processing units in a communication network	April, 1991	Mathur	364/200
5014875	Medication dispenser station	May, 1991	McLaughlin et al.
5019815	Radio frequency controlled interrogator-responder system with passive code generator	May, 1991	Lemelson et al.
5021800	Two terminal antenna for adaptive arrays	June, 1991	Rilling	343/820
5030807	System for reading and writing data from and into remote tags	July, 1991	Landt et al.	235/375
5036308	Identification system	July, 1991	Fockens	340/572
5038023	System for storing and monitoring bar coded articles such as keys in a drawer	August, 1991	Saliga
5091713	Inventory, cash, security, and maintenance control apparatus and method for a plurality of remote vending machines	February, 1992	Horne et al.
5099226	Intelligent security system	March, 1992	Andrews	340/572
5103222	Electronic identification system	April, 1992	Hogen Esch et al.	340/825.54
5117407	Vending machine with synthesized description messages	May, 1992	Vogel	386/97
5144314	Programmable object identification transponder system	September, 1992	Malmberg et al.
5155847	Method and apparatus for updating software at remote locations	October, 1992	Kirouac et al.	395/600
5194856	System for detecting the presence in a rack of a portable unit suitable for transmitting or receiving a signal containing an identification number assigned thereto	March, 1993	Zijlstra
5214409	Multi-memory electronic identification tag	May, 1993	Beigel	340/572
5231844	Defrost control method for refrigerator	August, 1993	Park	62/80
5240139	Package vending machine	August, 1993	Chirnomas	221/2
5260690	Article removal control system	November, 1993	Mann et al.
5266925	Electronic identification tag interrogation method	November, 1993	Vercellotti et al.
5285041	Automated food vending system	February, 1994	Wright	219/717
5287414	Coded file locator system	February, 1994	Foster
5294931	Method of interrogating a plurality of transponders arranged in the transmission range of an interrogating device and transponders for use in the said method	March, 1994	Meier
5327118	EAS system with alternating on/off transmitter operation and loop antenna	July, 1994	Drucker et al.	340/572
5335509	Food inventory system	August, 1994	Namisniak et al.	62/125
5365551	Data communication transceiver using identification protocol	November, 1994	Snodgrass et al.	375/1
5389919	Electronic interlock for storage assemblies with communication	February, 1995	Warren et al.	340/825.31
5392025	Electronic security system for display cabinets	February, 1995	Figh et al.
5408443	Programmable medication dispensing system	April, 1995	Weinberger	368/10
5410315	Group-addressable transponder arrangement	April, 1995	Huber
5421009	Method of remotely installing software directly from a central computer	May, 1995	Platt	395/600
5424858	Apparatus for locating file folders	June, 1995	Gillotte	359/143
5431299	Medication dispensing and storing system with dispensing modules	July, 1995	Brewer et al.
5446447	RF tagging system including RF tags with variable frequency resonant circuits	August, 1995	Carney et al.	340/572
5450070	Electronic missing file locator system	September, 1995	Massar et al.	340/825.35
5460294	Single dose pharmaceutical dispenser subassembly	October, 1995	Williams	221/2
5471203	Admission managing system	November, 1995	Sasaki et al.
5487276	Food inventory system	January, 1996	Namisniak et al.	62/125
5487764	Reclaiming and utilizing discarded and newly formed coke breeze, coal fines, and blast furnace revert materials, and related methods	January, 1996	Ford, Jr.	44/553
5489908	Apparatus and method for identifying multiple transponders	February, 1996	Orthmann et al.
5491715	Automatic antenna tuning method and circuit	February, 1996	Flaxl	375/344
5495961	Portable programmable medication alarm device and method and apparatus for programming and using the same	March, 1996	Maestre
5500650	Data communication method using identification protocol	March, 1996	Snodgrass et al.	342/42
5519381	Detection of multiple articles	May, 1996	Marsh et al.
5520450	Supply station with internal computer	May, 1996	Colson, Jr. et al.	312/215
5521601	Power-efficient technique for multiple tag discrimination	May, 1996	Kandlur et al.
5528222	Radio frequency circuit and memory in thin flexible package	June, 1996	Moskowitz et al.	340/572
5528232	Method and apparatus for locating items	June, 1996	Verma et al.	340/825.54
5530702	System for storage and communication of information	June, 1996	Palmer et al.
5537105	Electronic identification system	July, 1996	Marsh et al.
5539394	Time division multiplexed batch mode item identification system	July, 1996	Cato et al.
5541604	Transponders, Interrogators, systems and methods for elimination of interrogator synchronization requirement	July, 1996	Meier
5550547	Multiple item radio frequency tag identification protocol	August, 1996	Chan et al.
5557280	Synchronized electronic identification system	September, 1996	Marsh et al.
5564803	Portable nursing center	October, 1996	McDonald et al.
5583819	Apparatus and method of use of radiofrequency identification tags	December, 1996	Roesner et al.
5600121	Optical reader with independent triggering and graphical user interface	February, 1997	Kahn et al.	235/472
5602538	Apparatus and method for identifying multiple transponders	February, 1997	Orthmann et al.
5606902	Linear actuator	March, 1997	Hosono et al.	92/88
5608739	Apparatus and method for error detection and correction in radio frequency identification device	March, 1997	Snodgrass et al.	371/37.1
5621199	RFID reader	April, 1997	Calari et al.
5627517	Decentralized tracking and routing system wherein packages are associated with active tags	May, 1997	Theimer et al.	340/572
5627544	Data communication method using identification protocol	May, 1997	Snodgrass et al.	342/42
5629981	Information management and security system	May, 1997	Nerlikar	713/168
5648765	Tag tansponder system and method to identify items for purposes such as locating, identifying, counting, inventorying, or the like	July, 1997	Cresap et al.
5648767	Transponder detection system and method	July, 1997	O'Connor et al.
5680459	Passive transponder	October, 1997	Hook et al.	380/23
5686902	Communication system for communicating with tags	November, 1997	Reis et al.
5689238	Object locator system and methods therefor	November, 1997	Cannon, Jr. et al.
5699066	Synchronized electronic identification system	December, 1997	Marsh et al.
5701252	Distribution network system for products and information	December, 1997	Facchin et al.
5703347	Multiple-interface selection system for computer peripherals	December, 1997	Reddersen et al.	235/472
5708423	Zone-Based asset tracking and control system	January, 1998	Ghaffari et al.
5711160	Food storage tracking system	January, 1998	Namisniak et al.	62/125
5713485	Drug dispensing system	February, 1998	Liff et al.
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5726630	Detection of multiple articles	March, 1998	Marsh et al.
5742618	RF transponder system having error detection and correction	April, 1998	Lowe	371/36
5745036	Electronic article security system for store which uses intelligent security tags and transaction data	April, 1998	Clare
5745366	Pharmaceutical dispensing device and methods	April, 1998	Higham et al.
5751221	Electronic system, components and method for tracking files	May, 1998	Stanfield et al.
5764992	Method and apparatus for automatic software replacement	June, 1998	Kullick et al.	395/700
5774053	Storage device for the delivery and pickup of goods	June, 1998	Porter	340/568
5774876	Managing assets with active electronic tags	June, 1998	Woolley et al.	705/28
5777561	Method of grouping RF transponders	July, 1998	Chieu et al.
5786763	Antenna multiplexer with isolation of switching elements	July, 1998	Canipe	340/572
5787174	Remote identification of integrated circuit	July, 1998	Tuttle
H001743	Inventory management method and apparatus	August, 1998	Graves et al.
5797515	Method for controlling a drug dispensing system	August, 1998	Liff et al.
5798693	Electronic locating systems	August, 1998	Engellenner
5798694	Food storage apparatus and methods and systems for monitoring a food item	August, 1998	Reber et al.
5805455	Methods for dispensing items	September, 1998	Lipps
5805456	Device and method for providing access to items to be dispensed	September, 1998	Higham et al.	364/479.06
5805897	System and method for remote software configuration and distribution	September, 1998	Glowny	395/712
5818348	Method and radio frequency identification system for a novel protocol for reliable communication	October, 1998	Walczak et al.
5822714	Data processing system and method for accessing a plurality of radio frequency identification tags	October, 1998	Cato
5825806	Modulated spread spectrum in RF identification systems method	October, 1998	Tuttle et al.	375/200
5831531	Anti-theft method for detecting the unauthorized opening of containers and baggage	November, 1998	Tuttle	340/572
5836618	Stretchable thermoplastic labels for cryogenic storage containers	November, 1998	Perlman	283/70
5841770	Data communication system using indentification protocol	November, 1998	Snodgrass et al.	370/346
5842118	Communication system including diversity antenna queuing	November, 1998	Wood, Jr.
5842976	Dispensing, storage, control and inventory system with medication and treatment chart record	December, 1998	Williamson
5852911	Tablet dispenser	December, 1998	Yuyama et al.
5857152	Electronic toll payment	January, 1999	Everett	455/406
5883582	Anticollision protocol for reading multiple RFID tags	March, 1999	Bowers et al.
5886634	Item removal system and method	March, 1999	Muhme	340/572
5887176	Method and system for remote monitoring and tracking of inventory	March, 1999	Griffith et al.
5889474	Method and apparatus for transmitting subject status information over a wireless communications network	March, 1999	LaDue	340/825.49
5892441	Sensing with active electronic tags	April, 1999	Woolley et al.	340/539
5894266	Method and apparatus for remote monitoring	April, 1999	Wood, Jr. et al.
5902984	Merchandise dispensing by exchange of subsequently validated card symbols for article	May, 1999	Planke
5902991	Card shaped computer peripheral device	May, 1999	Kumar	235/492
5905653	Methods and devices for dispensing pharmaceutical and medical supply items	May, 1999	Higham et al.	364/479.14
5906228	Gasoline dispensing system and method with radio frequency customer identification antenna	May, 1999	Keller	141/94
5909581	Automatic software updating method	June, 1999	Park	395/712
5910776	Method and apparatus for identifying locating or monitoring equipment or other objects	June, 1999	Black
5912818	System for tracking and dispensing medical items	June, 1999	McGrady et al.
5923001	Automatic surgical sponge counter and blood loss determination system	July, 1999	Morris et al.
5923300	Multi-phase transmitter with single receive antenna for transponder interrogator	July, 1999	Mejia	343/788
5927540	Controlled dispensing system and method	July, 1999	Godlewski	221/2
5929779	Read/write protocol for radio frequency identification tags	July, 1999	MacLellan et al.
5929801	Method for repeating interrogations until failing to receive unintelligible responses to identify plurality of transponders by an interrogator	July, 1999	Aslanidis et al.
5930145	Method for medicament stock management by transponders and apparatus therefor	July, 1999	Yuyama et al.
5930766	Computerized system for maintaining bar articles stored on shelves	July, 1999	Gibb
5936527	Method and apparatus for locating and tracking documents and other objects	August, 1999	Isaacman et al.
5949335	RFID tagging system for network assets	September, 1999	Maynard
5950630	System and method for improving compliance of a medical regimen	September, 1999	Portwood et al.
5955950	Low noise signal generator for use with an RFID system	September, 1999	Gallagher, III et al.	340/572.1
5955951	Combined article surveillance and product identification system	September, 1999	Wischerop et al.
5959531	Optical interface between receiver and tag response signal analyzer in RFID system for detecting low power resonant tags	September, 1999	Gallagher, III et al.	340/572.1
5959568	Measuring distance	September, 1999	Woolley	342/42
5960048	Method and an arrangement for receiving a symbol sequence	September, 1999	Haartsen	375/366
5963134	Inventory system using articles with RFID tags	October, 1999	Bowers et al.
5963144	Cloaking circuit for use in a radiofrequency identification and method of cloaking RFID tags to increase interrogation reliability	October, 1999	Kruest
5969606	Food storage apparatus and methods and systems for monitoring a food item	October, 1999	Reber et al.	340/540
5971277	Mechanism for retrieving information using data encoded on an object	October, 1999	Cragun et al.
5974454	Method and system for installing and updating program module components	October, 1999	Apfel et al.	709/221
5977875	Collective objects management system using R.F. object indentification	November, 1999	Lin et al.
5979941	Linkage identification system	November, 1999	Mosher, Jr. et al.	283/67
5986570	Method for resolving signal collisions between multiple RFID transponders in a field	November, 1999	Black et al.
5990794	Apparatus for data communication and deactivation of electronic article surveillance tags	November, 1999	Alicot et al.	340/573.1
5993046	System for dispensing medical items by brand or generic name	November, 1999	McGrady et al.
5995019	Method for communicating with RF transponders	November, 1999	Chieu et al.
5995898	RFID system in communication with vehicle on-board computer	November, 1999	Tuttle	701/102
5999091	Trailer communications system	December, 1999	Wortham	340/431
5999741	Remote installation of software on a computing device	December, 1999	May et al.	395/712
5999808	Wireless gaming method	December, 1999	LaDue	455/412
6002344	System and method for electronic inventory	December, 1999	Bandy et al.	340/825.54
6003006	System of drug distribution to health care providers	December, 1999	Colella et al.
6006034	Systems and methods for automatic application version upgrading and maintenance	December, 1999	Heath et al.	395/712
6009274	Method and apparatus for automatically updating software components on end systems over a network	December, 1999	Fletcher et al.	395/712
6011243	Holding cabinet and method and apparatus for controlling a holding cabinet	January, 2000	Arnold et al.	219/506
6011999	Apparatus for controlled dispensing of pharmaceutical and medical supplies	January, 2000	Holmes	700/231
6012041	Apparatus for the control of inventory	January, 2000	Brewer et al.
6020856	EAS system antenna configuration for providing improved interrogation field distribution	February, 2000	Alicot	343/742
6021392	System and method for drug management	February, 2000	Lester et al.
6023610	Communication system including diversity antenna queuing	February, 2000	Wood, Jr.
6025780	RFID tags which are virtually activated and/or deactivated and apparatus and methods of using same in an electronic security system	February, 2000	Bowers et al.
6031459	Wireless communication devices, radio frequency identification devices, and methods of forming wireless communication devices and radio frequency identification devices	February, 2000	Lake	340/572.8
6034603	Radio tag system and method with improved tag interference avoidance	March, 2000	Steeves
6037879	Wireless identification device, RFID device, and method of manufacturing wireless identification device	March, 2000	Tuttle	340/825.54
6039467	Lighting system and methods for a dispensing device	March, 2000	Holmes
6040773	Radio frequency identification tag arranged for magnetically storing tag state information	March, 2000	Vega et al.	340/572.1
6044461	Computer system and method of selectively rebooting the same in response to a system program code update	March, 2000	Agha et al.	713/1
6056199	Method and apparatus for storing and reading data	May, 2000	Wiklof et al.	235/462.45
6057756	Electronic locating systems	May, 2000	Engellenner
6068156	Method for controlling a drug dispensing system	May, 2000	Liff et al.
6069564	Multi-directional RFID antenna	May, 2000	Hatano et al.	340/572.7
6070012	Method and apparatus for upgrading software subsystems without interrupting service	May, 2000	Eitner et al.	395/712
6070070	Method and apparatus for remote telephony switch control	May, 2000	Ladu	455/419
6075441	Inventoriable-object control and tracking system	June, 2000	Maloney	340/568.1
6088431	Method for transmitting voice or data in a wireless network depending on billing account status	July, 2000	LaDue	379/114
6107917	Electronic tag including RF modem for monitoring motor vehicle performance with filtering	August, 2000	Carrender et al.	340/505
6108588	Restocking method for medical item dispensing system	August, 2000	McGrady	700/231
6112152	RFID system in communication with vehicle on-board computer	August, 2000	Tuttle	701/115
6112502	Restocking method for medical item dispensing system	September, 2000	Frederick et al.	53/411
6116461	Method and apparatus for the dispensing of drugs	September, 2000	Broadfield et al.	221/98
6121583	Food warming unit with humidity control	September, 2000	Hansen
6121880	Sticker transponder for use on glass surface	September, 2000	Scott et al.	340/572.5
6127928	Method and apparatus for locating and tracking documents and other objects	October, 2000	Issacman et al.
6127981	Phased array antenna for radio frequency identification	October, 2000	Pritchett et al.	343/711
6131399	Refrigerated vending machine	October, 2000	Hall	625/127
6131812	Appliance door with integrated computer means	October, 2000	Schneider	235/385
6133835	Identification transponder	October, 2000	De Leeuw et al.
6144848	Handheld remote computer control and methods for secured interactive real-time telecommunications	November, 2000	Walsh et al.	455/419
6144859	Wireless cellular communicator system and apparatus	November, 2000	LaDue	455/511
6147601	Electronic message delivery system utilizable in the monitoring of remote equipment and method of same	November, 2000	Sandelman et al.	340/506
6147655	Flat loop antenna in a single plane for use in radio frequency identification tags	November, 2000	Roesner
6147662	Radio frequency identification tags and labels	November, 2000	Grabau et al.	343/895
6151536	Dispensing system and methods	November, 2000	Arnold et al.	700/237
6152364	Medicament distribution system and automatic dispenser for such system	November, 2000	Schoonen et al.
6152365	Credit and bank issued debit card operated system and method for controlling a vending machine	November, 2000	Kolls	235/381
6154790	Monitoring and reporting hard disk drives identification using radio frequency	November, 2000	Pruett et al.	710/15
6160477	Electronic message delivery system utilizable in the monitoring of remote equipment and method of same	December, 2000	Sandelman et al.	340/506
6169483	Self-checkout/self-check-in RFID and electronics article surveillance system	January, 2001	Ghaffari et al.	340/572.3
6170285	Vending machine	January, 2001	Huffman et al.	62/448
6185198	Time division multiple access downlink personal communications system voice and data debit billing method	February, 2001	LaDue	370/329
6204764	Object tracking system with non-contact object detection and identification	March, 2001	Maloney
6211782	Electronic message delivery system utilizable in the monitoring of remote equipment and method of same	April, 2001	Sandelman et al.	340/506
6218942	Radio frequency identification tag exciter/reader	April, 2001	Vega et al.	340/572.1
6229443	Apparatus and method for detuning of RFID tag to regulate voltage	May, 2001	Roesner
6249227	RFID integrated in electronic assets	June, 2001	Brady et al.	340/572.1
6258868	Foam material	July, 2001	LaDue
6260049	Automated shelf management system and process for tracking and purging file folders in a file storage facility	July, 2001	Fitzgerald et al.	707/104
6265976	Method and apparatus for providing receiver dual channel coupling in a reader for RFID tags	July, 2001	Roesner
6272394	Methods and apparatus for dispensing items	August, 2001	Lipps	700/231
6285868	Wireless communications application specific enabling method and apparatus	September, 2001	LaDue	455/410
6305609	Data card, process for manufacturing a data card and apparatus for manufacturing a data card	October, 2001	Melzer et al.	235/487
6313747	Resonant tag	November, 2001	Imaichi et al.	340/572.5
6327576	System and method for managing expiration-dated products utilizing an electronic receipt	December, 2001	Ogasawara	705/22
6338007	System and apparatus for the storage and dispensing of items	January, 2002	Broadfield et al.	700/231
6339732	Apparatus and method for storing, tracking and documenting usage of anesthesiology items	January, 2002	Phoon et al.	700/237
6351215	Monitoring antenna system	February, 2002	Rodgers et al.	340/572.1
6356197	Electronic article surveillance and identification device, system, and method	March, 2002	Patterson et al.	340/572.1
6362737	Object Identification system with adaptive transceivers and methods of operation	March, 2002	Rodgers et al.	340/572.1
6375780	Method of manufacturing an enclosed transceiver	April, 2002	Tuttle et al.	156/226
6385505	Methods and apparatus for dispensing items	May, 2002	Lipps	700/231
6392543	Mobile object tracking system	May, 2002	Maloney	340/568.1
6393339	Computerized stock control system	May, 2002	Yeadon
6407665	Object tracking system with non-contact object detection and identification	June, 2002	Maloney	340/568.1
6407669	RFID tag device and method of manufacturing	June, 2002	Brown et al.	340/572.1
6424260	Mobile object tracking system	July, 2002	Maloney	340/568.1
6424262	Applications for radio frequency identification systems	July, 2002	Garber et al.	340/572.3
6427913	Object control and tracking system with zonal transition detection	August, 2002	Maloney	235/383
6431438	System and device for storing objects	August, 2002	Pires et al.	235/375
6445297	Modular RFID antenna system	September, 2002	Nicholson	340/572.7
6451154	RFID manufacturing concepts	September, 2002	Grabau et al.	156/300
6462661	RF ID tag attachment to a disc drive	October, 2002	Pfeiffer et al.	340/572.8
6501435	Wireless communication device and method	December, 2002	King et al.	343/795
6512478	Location position system for relay assisted tracking	January, 2003	Chien	342/357.09
6517000	Dual ended cable for connecting electronic article surveillance antenna with RFID equipment	February, 2003	McAllister et al.	235/462.01
6522645	Computer telephony integration system and operation method therein	February, 2003	Lee et al.	370/352
6563425	RFID passive repeater system and apparatus	May, 2003	Nicholson et al.	340/572.7
6568596	XML-based barcode scanner	May, 2003	Shaw	235/426.01
6590498	Method and apparatus for improving the interrogation range of an RF-Tag	July, 2003	Helms	340/572.7
6609047	Methods and apparatus for dispensing items	August, 2003	Lipps	700/231
6639509	System and method for communicating with an RFID transponder with reduced noise and interference	October, 2003	Martinez	340/10.4
6639514	Method for selecting and writing into RFID-transponders	October, 2003	Müller	340/572.5
6640159	Replacement liner and methods for a dispensing device	October, 2003	Holmes et al.	700/244
6677852	System and method for automatically controlling or configuring a device, such as an RFID reader	January, 2004	Landt	340/10.1
6686830	Homodyne I/Q transceiver for a spread spectrum reader	February, 2004	Schirtzer	340/10.2
6693539	Inventory system using articles with RFID tags	February, 2004	Bowers et al.	340/572.1
6700491	Radio frequency identification tag with thin-film battery for antenna	March, 2004	Shafer	340/572.7
6714121	RFID material tracking method and apparatus	March, 2004	Moore	340/10.3
6717154	Evaluation of irradiated foods and other items with telemetric dosimeters and associated methods	April, 2004	Black et al.	250/393
6758802	Automated shelf management system and process for tracking and purging file folders in a file storage facility	July, 2004	Fitzgerald et al.	493/476
6760643	Methods and apparatus for dispensing items	July, 2004	Lipps	700/231
6761637	Method of game play using RFID tracking device	July, 2004	Weston et al.	463/42
6768419	Applications for radio frequency identification systems	July, 2004	Garber et al.	340/572.4
6771766	Methods and apparatus for providing live agent assistance	August, 2004	Shafiee et al.	379/265.09
6793127	Internet enabled resource constrained terminal for processing tags	September, 2004	Alsafadi et al.	235/375
6812824	Method and apparatus combining a tracking system and a wireless communication system	November, 2004	Goldinger et al.	340/10.1
6830181	Combined optical and radio frequency tag reader	December, 2004	Bennett	235/440
6836215	Printable identification band with top strip for RFID chip attachment	December, 2004	Laurash et al.	340/572.1
6838989	RFID transponder having active backscatter amplifier for re-transmitting a received signal	January, 2005	Mays et al.	340/572.1
6839604	Compliance tracking method	January, 2005	Godfrey et al.	700/116
6859757	Complex article tagging with maintenance related information	February, 2005	Muehl et al.	702/184
6883710	Article tracking system and method	April, 2005	Chung	235/385
6892520	Foldable hay rake	May, 2005	Rowse et al.	56/377
6909326	Amplifier modulation	June, 2005	Jesme	330/251
6970141	Phase compensated field-cancelling nested loop antenna	November, 2005	Copeland et al.	343/866
6975834	Multi-band wireless communication device and method	December, 2005	Forster	455/2.72
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Nguyen, Kimberly D.

Fitzpatrick, Cella, Harper & Scinto

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/241,907, filed Oct. 20, 2000.

What is claimed is:

1. A method of distributing a plurality of products from a cabinet having a door, the method comprising: fitting each product with a radio frequency identification tag; positioning the plurality of products in the cabinet; sensing opening and closing of the cabinet door; scanning the plurality of products in the cabinet upon sensing closing of the cabinet door to determine the number and type of products in the cabinet; generating a message based on the number and type of products in the cabinet; transmitting the message to a server; maintaining an inventory in the server based on the message; reading a code on a user badge; acknowledging having read the user badge; determining the authenticity of the code read from the user badge; opening the cabinet if the code read from the user badge is authentic; and performing a self-updating boot up procedure for a controller associated with the cabinet, said procedure comprising: (a) sending a message querying a most recent software version number; (b) comparing a software version number currently used to the most recent software version number; (c) downloading software having the most recent software version number if the currently used software version number and the most recent software version number differ when compared; (d) writing the downloaded software to memory associated with the controller; and (e) booting the downloaded software by the controller.

2. A method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: requesting an updated user list; and receiving the updated user list.

3. A system for distributing a plurality of products, each product having a radio frequency tag, the system comprising: a radio frequency user badge having a code; at least one micro-warehouse, the micro-warehouse having (a) an output device, (b) a door with a proximity sensor, (c) an antenna mounted on the micro-warehouse, and (d) a controller coupled to the proximity sensor and the antenna, the controller operable to receive the code, to activate the output device after receiving the code on the user badge, to scan the plurality of products and determine the identity of each of the products, and to create a message including the identity of each of the products; and a server coupled to the controller to receive the message, wherein the controller uses a self-updating boot up procedure, the procedure comprising: (a) sending a message querying a most recent software version number; (b) comparing a software version number currently used to the most recent software version number; (c) downloading software having the most recent software version number if the currently used software version number and the most recent software version number differ when compared; (d) writing the downloaded software to memory associated with the controller; and (e) booting the downloaded software by the controller.

4. A method of distributing a plurality of products from a cabinet having a door, the method comprising: fitting each product with a radio frequency identification tag; positioning the plurality of products in the cabinet; sensing opening and closing of the cabinet door; scanning the plurality of products in the cabinet upon sensing closing of the cabinet door to determine the number and type of products in the cabinet; generating a message based on the number and type of products in the cabinet; transmitting the message to a server; maintaining an inventory in the server based on the message; one of (i) reading a fingerprint and unlocking the cabinet in accordance with the fingerprint read in said reading step, and (ii) reading an RFID badge and unlocking the cabinet in accordance with results of said reading step; and performing a self-updating boot up procedure for a controller associated with the cabinet, said procedure comprising: (a) sending a message querying a most recent software version number; (b) comparing a software version number currently used to the most recent software version number; (c) downloading software having the most recent software version number if the currently used software version number and the most recent software version number differ when compared; (d) writing the downloaded software to memory; and (e) booting the downloaded software by the controller.

5. A method according to claim 4, wherein said method comprises step (i).

6. A method according to claim 4, wherein said method comprises step (ii).

7. A method according to claim 4, wherein said scanning step uses RFID to effect the scanning, wherein said generating step generates a message in accordance with a comparison between results of said scanning step and results of an earlier RFID scan of the products in the cabinet, wherein said unlocking step comprises controlling a solenoid of an electric actuated lock with which the cabinet is equipped, wherein said step of sensing opening and closing of the cabinet door comprises sensing output of a proximity sensor, wherein said scanning step uses an antenna mounted on or in the cabinet, and wherein passive tags are used in said fitting step.

8. A method according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of products comprise a biological product.

9. A method according to claim 8, wherein the biological product is selected from the group consisting of an enzyme, an assay, and a cloning vector.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to methods and systems for distributing products to customers. More particularly, the invention relates to a method and system that tracks the use of products using radio frequency tags and provides information to a central computer to enable automated restocking, inventory, tracking, or reordering of the products.

The Internet, EDI, and similar systems permit businesses and ordinary consumers to order goods. However, the delivery of those goods still depends on distribution systems that are based in the physical world. The science-fiction ideal of being able to instantly have goods pop out of a computer or to receive them through a “transporter” or some other device has not yet been realized, and probably will not for many, many years. Presently, consumers may have goods shipped via various overnight delivery services. One drawback of present delivery technology is that it is primarily paper-based. Orders are made on paper and delivery involves shipping invoices, receipts, and other paperwork, which is costly to handle and annoying to many people. Even with technology that is not paper-based, ordering and receiving goods requires a number of steps. For example, for a typical Internet order, a consumer must view the applicable Web site, select the item, such as by clicking on an icon, fill out an electronic order form, and wait for the product to be delivered. Regardless of whether paper-based or electronic technology is used, present delivery methods usually require that the customer or his or her agent be present at a physical location to take the delivery of the ordered product. Further, delivery is usually made to a loading dock or similar location. This requires some internal distribution system to deliver the goods from the initial delivery point to the location where it is actually needed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, there is a need to improve the distribution of goods so that consumers experience distribution of goods at a location proximate to where the consumer will use the goods without requiring paper or computer ordering. There is also a need for a distribution system that requires less user intervention and data input than existing systems.

The invention provides a system and method where a user need only find the product of interest and take that product. As compared to most Internet-based systems and methods, the invention is “clickless.” In other words, the invention requires little or no manual input from users. The invention provides a system for distributing a plurality of products. Each of the products has a radio frequency (“RF”) tag. As used herein, radio frequency means electromagnetic radiation having a frequency that is between the frequencies of the audio-frequency portion of the electromagnetic spectrum and the frequencies of the infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. Each tag is encoded with a unique identifying code. In one embodiment, the system is designed to be accessed by individuals possessing a radio frequency user badge with an identifying code. Alternatively, the system could rely on magnetic swipe cards, password systems, biometric devices (such as a retinal scanner, thumbprint reader, voice identification unit, or the like), or other systems for limiting access to authorized individuals.

The system includes one or more cabinets, refrigerators, similar storage units, (generically referred to as “micro-warehouses”) or even secured rooms that are stocked with the RF tagged products and accessed by individuals through one of the mechanisms described above. In one embodiment, each micro-warehouse has a door that may be equipped with a lock (such as an electric actuated lock), an antenna or antenna array mounted on or in the micro-warehouse, a client controller coupled to the lock and the antenna, and an output device such as a light or display. Using a signal from the antenna or other input device, the client controller checks the identity of the individual accessing the micro-warehouse, such as by reading the code of the user badge. The output device is then activated to indicate whether the individual attempting to access the micro-warehouse is authorized to access the unit. If the code or other identifier matches stored records of authorized users, the client controller opens the door and the user may remove desired products from the micro-warehouse. Once the user closes the door, the client controller performs a scan of the products remaining in the micro-warehouse to determine the identity of each of the products. The client controller then generates a message including the identity of each of the products or other message related to the products taken, and sends that message to a server. The server tracks product and user information automatically, that is, without relying on user input. In particular, the server tracks product inventory, customer usage, restocking, usage frequency, faults, micro-warehouse temperature, timing, and other information. The server also generates orders for products taken from the micro-warehouse by the user. The server can be programmed to automatically place those orders, with the result that the system is “clickless.” That is, the system eliminates the need for the customer to re-order consumed items.

In addition to the features noted above, the system may also locate the position or presence of one or more specific products in a micro-warehouse by conducting a scan of the micro-warehouse. In this way, the system can sense a disordered state of the product in the micro-warehouse. For example, the system can detect whether all of the components in a kit product are in the relevant kit box. Further, a product scan can detect whether any product in the micro-warehouse has been recalled, expired, or is otherwise not suitable for use. Upon detecting such a product, the system refuses access to the micro-warehouse until an administrator removes the product or otherwise addresses the situation.

The invention also provides a method of distributing a plurality of products from a micro-warehouse. The method may include fitting each product with a radio frequency identification tag, positioning the plurality of products in the micro-warehouse, sensing opening and closing of the micro-warehouse door, scanning the plurality of products in the micro-warehouse upon sensing closing of the door to determine the number and type of products in the micro-warehouse, generating a message based on the number and type of products in the micro-warehouse, transmitting the message to a remote processor or server, and maintaining an inventory in the server based on the message.

The method and system permit up-to-date information to be provided to the server which, in turn, can be connected to ordering and manufacturing information systems to ensure prompt re-stocking of the micro-warehouses. The system can be designed with multiple levels of access. For example, multiple micro-warehouses may be located within a secure room and a user badge may be encoded to permit a user to access the room only, a limited number of warehouses in the room, or all the warehouses in the room.

As is apparent from the above, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide a method and system of identifying and distributing products. Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system embodying the invention.

FIG. 2 is schematic diagram of the server and client controller of the system shown in FIG. 1 illustrating the architecture of the enterprise application of the server and the architecture of the software on the client controller.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of the flow of products and information in a distribution system of the invention.

FIG. 4a is a flowchart of the software's boot up routine of the invention.

FIG. 4b is a flowchart of the software of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before the invention is explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of the construction and the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

FIG. 1 illustrates a system 10 embodying the invention. The system 10 includes two servers (maintenance and commerce) 11 and 12 that create and maintain user lists, perform inventory, account, ordering functions, and monitoring functions, such as microwarehouse status, monitoring temperature and other faults. Servers 11 and 12 may communicate with a client (discussed below) using standard protocols such as TCP/IP, or other protocols over a network 13. The network 13 may be the Internet, a telephone network, a wireless network, power line carrier (“PLC”) network, or combinations thereof. Servers 11 and 12 include standard hardware and operating system software (not shown). Running on top of the hardware and operating system software is a micro-warehouse (“MW”) enterprise application 14. The MW enterprise application 14 accesses a profile database 15 that includes a registration module 16, an order history module 18, an account set-up module 20, and a stock request module 22. Each of the modules 16-22 is maintained for each client coupled to the server 12. The modules may be configured with web content designed to be accessible using protocols for the World Wide Web section of the Internet.

As best seen by reference to FIG. 2, the MW enterprise application 14 performs numerous functions. Broadly, the MW enterprise application 14 controls the arrangement of the RFID user badges (discussed below), manages communication sessions with clients connected to the server 12, maintains an inventory of products for each client connected to the servers 11 and 12, checks inventory of the MW and other local MWs before ordering a product, manages security of communications, provides system administration functionality, and monitors and maintains the health of clients connected to the servers.

The registration module 16 provides part of the inventory functionality of the server 12 by providing access to information regarding the location of clients to the server 12. In the invention, the clients take the form of MWs. The registration module also provides access to information regarding sales persons assigned to a particular MW and identification numbers for each MW. The registration module 16 may access a MW database 24.

The order history module 18 provides a history of orders for each MW and product preferences for each MW. The account set-up module provides administrative screens for payment authorization, user information, and similar information. The stock request module 22 controls inventory replenishment based on usage and on specific customer requests and similar information.

The server 12 also accesses a commerce engine 30 that uses information received from the client to generate orders that are delivered to the manufacturing infrastructure (not shown) that produces products to be distributed using the system and method of the invention. The information may be used by marketing, customer relation management (“CRM”), billing, and other systems and functions. For example, the invention may be used in the distribution of life science research products such as enzymes, assays, cloning vectors, component cells, and the like. (Of course, a wide variety of non-biological products could be distributed using the invention.) The information provided by the server 12 is used in the manufacturing infrastructure to ensure proper production of products according to the demand for such products. As noted above, the server 12 may be coupled to a plurality of clients. An exemplary client in the form of a MW 35 is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. While only one client is shown, the number of clients connected to the server 12 is limited only by the server's internal capacity and the capacity of the network 13.

The MW 35 may take the form of a refrigerated cabinet, a freezer, or other storage container. A secured storeroom, similar location, or other defined area could also be outfitted with a client controller and other components, as described herein, and be used to store products. As shown, the MW 35 includes a door 37, an electric actuated lock 39 and/or a proximity sensor 40, and an output device that may take the form of audio device or light 41. Other output devices such as a voice synthesis device, a display screen, and the like may also be used. The MW 35 is configured with an antenna array 43. The antenna array 43 is coupled to a client controller 45. In one embodiment, the invention may include an antenna with two vertically polarized array antennas. The antenna 43 is an RF receive and transmit device which communicates with a transponder device or tag (discussed in greater detail below). In one embodiment, the tag is a passive tag and powered by energy from the antenna.

The MW 35 may include a specialized card reader 47 in the form of a magnetic card swipe device, an antenna, a fingerprint reader, or similar device. The specialized card reader 47 is coupled to the client controller 45 via a communication link 49. The MW 35 may also include an internal and ambient temperature sensor 55. If included, the temperature sensor 55 is preferably positioned such that it can sense the temperature of the interior of the MW 35. The temperature sensor 55 is coupled to the client controller 45 to provide temperature information to the client controller. Additional information may be provided to the client controller through optional input devices. The location of the MW 35 may be monitored by a global positioning system (GPS) device (not shown) plus inertial frame recognition for fine measurement and for interpolation between GPS satellite acquisitions. The voltage, frequency, and other characteristics of electrical supply lines may be monitored and provided to the client controller 45 by a power line monitoring device (also not shown). Additional input devices, such as cameras, microphones, sensors, etc., could be coupled to the client controller to monitor environmental and other conditions.

The client controller 45 includes software to carry out several functions. The software included on the client controller 45 may be better understood by reference to FIG. 2. As shown, the client controller 45 includes an operating system 60. The operating system 60 is dependent on the type of processor used in the client controller. Preferably, the client controller 45 is an X86 single chip computer controller with a compatible operating system. If desired, the client controller 45 may be a consumer grade device such as a Palm Pilot personal digital assistant or Packet PC device, and modified according to the teachings herein. Depending on the hardware used, the client controller 45 may be configured with a graphical user interface (“GUI”) to facilitate interaction between the system 10 and its users.

The client controller 45 also includes an I/O interface 62, which may take the form of an analogue-digital, digital-analogue converter, digital input/output (ADC, DAC, and DIO) interface. The interface 62 handles input from the electric actuated lock 39, input from the temperature sensor 55, output to the electric actuated lock 39, and input from optional monitoring devices such as the GPS and power line monitoring devices.

In addition to the interface 62, the client controller 45 may have two other modules: an REID user sensing subsystem 64 and a radio frequency data collector (“RFDC”) inventory interface 66. The RFID user sensing subsystem 64 handles input and output to and from the specialized card reader 47. The RFDC inventory interface 66 handles input and output from the antenna 43 and handles links or sessions between the MW 35 and servers 11 and 12.

The client controller 45 includes software (not shown) which may incorporate the RFDC inventory interface 66 that reads the RFID signatures from tagged products (discussed below) placed inside the MW 35. The software may be implemented according to algorithms disclosed in International Publication No. WO99/45495 and International Publication No. WO99/45495, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. The referenced publications teach identification systems that can identify a plurality of RFID tagged items using an interrogator. The interrogator sends signals from antennas and cooperates with passive, transponder RFID tags in such a way as to eliminate or reduce interference problems that are typically associated with reading RF signals from multiple devices. The system 10 could also be implemented with active tags, although presently available active tags need to be improved so as to perform in the temperatures that the system is expected to operate within and at roughly the same cost and power consumption.

Before the system 10 may be implemented, one or more RFID access badges 75 must be generated. Preferably, the RFID badges 75, as well as the other RFID tags (discussed below) are passive transponder tags such as the tags disclosed in the above-referenced international applications. Preferably, the RFID badges 75 are encoded with information from the account set-up module 20 based on digital signatures. In addition, it is preferred that the digital signatures encoded on the RFID badges 75 used by restocking services provide one-time access to a specific MW, and thereafter expire. The RFID access badges may be fixed on a carton of products 80. Alternatively, they may be delivered separately to the facility where the MW of interest is located.

The carton of products 80 includes a plurality of individual products 90 each with an identification tag 95. Each identification tag 95 may be the same as an RFID badge 75, except that the digital signature on tag 95 will generally not expire. In one form of the invention, each tag 95 has a 16-bit identification code and a 72-bit item identification code. The 16-bit identification tag may be programmed with information such as the manufacturer of the product. The 72-bit item identification code is used to provide descriptive information regarding the product such as serial number, product type, date, lot number, and similar information.

Once all the products 90 have been fitted with unique RFID tags 95, the products may be shipped in the carton 80 to a designated MW such as the MW 35. As shown in FIG. 3, the carton 80 is packed according to a fulfillment request that is based on either an initial order from a customer (not shown) or MW specific business rules followed by the server 12. The carton 80 may be fitted with RFID access badge 75 or the RFID access badge 75 may be shipped separately to the location of the MW of interest. If fitted with an RFID access badge 75, the carton 80 may be shipped by a delivery service contracted to deliver the package to the MW 35. Once the carton is delivered, the recipient or user may use the RFID access badge 75 to open the door 37 of the MW 35 by passing RFID access badge 75 in front of the reader 47. Client controller 45 reads the digital signature of the RFID access badge 75 and confirms reading of the code by actuating a user feedback device such as a voice synthesis module or the light 41. Since, the server 12 provides a locally based user list to the client controller 45, the client controller 45 oversees authentication of the digital code read from the RFID access badge 75. Client controller 45 checks the authenticity of the read code by matching the code to the user list. Client controller 45 may then optionally read the temperature sensors 55 and transmit temperature information to the server 11. Preferably, the temperature sensor is also read on a periodic basis, with the temperature information being transmitted to the server each time the temperature is read. Client controller 45 can also be programmed to transmit temperature data if the temperature falls beneath or above a predetermined range. In many instances, it will be important to ensure that the temperature of the MW is within an appropriate range to store the products 90. If the temperature of the MW 35 is within an appropriate range, and the user is authenticated, the client controller 45 then actuates the lock 39 to open the door 37 (of course, the MW need not be equipped with the lock 39). If the temperature of the MW 35 is not within an appropriate range, then access to the MW may be prevented by maintaining the lock 39 in a closed state. This would allow a refrigerated unit associated with the MW to cool the interior space of the MW to a desired temperature before ambient air was allowed into the MW by opening of the door. This also provides for product integrity during power failure.

Once the door 37 opens (which may be sensed by the proximity sensor 40), a communication session between the MW 35 and servers 12, which may be segmented based on appropriate events to optimize user response and network usage, begins. Having full access to the MW 35, the employee of a carrier or logistic service who delivered the carton 80 now proceeds to place the individual items 90 into the MW 35. Once the carton of products 80 is empty, the delivery employee then closes the door 37, and removes the carton, if necessary. The proximity sensor 40 senses the closing of the door 37. The client controller 45 senses the status of the sensor. Preferably, the lock 39 (if used) resets automatically after being unlocked for a predetermined time, for example five (5) seconds. The user has that predetermined time to open the door. The RFDC inventory interface 66 is disabled once the door 37 opens. When the door 37 closes, the RFDC inventory interface 66 is enabled and initiates a scan of the products placed within the MW 35. Upon completing the scan, the client controller 45 sends a change-in-inventory message 100 to the commerce server 12. To ensure integrity of the inventory change billed to the customer, the client controller 45 employs an integrity algorithm when the RFDC inventory interface 66 scans the MW 35. The algorithm is based on statistical information, historical information, and other factors including RF algorithms (frequency-hopping, etc.) and delay data.

The MW 35 may be accessed by a customer at the MW location using a separate RFID badge 75 shipped directly to that customer. Alternatively, and as noted above, the reader 47 may be configured as a magnetic card swipe device, barcode, a fingerprint reader, or some similar device that controls access to the MW 35. Regardless of its exact configuration, the reader 47 reads the input from the customer and acknowledges reading of that input by lighting the light 41. The client controller 45 then sends an input signal to the server 12. The server 12 then conducts an authenticity review of the input. If an authorized input is received, the server 12 sends an okay message to the MW 35. The client controller 45 may have the capability to authenticate the review as well. Once authentication takes place, the client controller 45 then opens the door 37 allowing the customer access to the interior of the MW 35. The customer then removes one or more products 90 from the interior of the MW and then closes the door 37. Once the door is closed, client controller 45 scans the remaining products in the MW 35 and sends a message containing the missing products to the server 12. Identifying which products have been taken, the server 12 compares the previous inventory prior to opening, to the inventory of the missing items. From the comparison, the server 12 determines the missing items in the MW 35. The inventory information is then communicated to the commerce engine 30, which stores the information for future use for both marketing and inventory functions. Receipts for the used products can then be emailed or printed and shipped via regular mail to the customer at the MW location. Invoicing can also occur using electronic and standard mechanisms.

The inventory message can be used for other purposes as well. For example, the inventory message includes information regarding individual products. Therefore, the amount of time a particular product spends in any MW may be recorded by the server, as well as the product's temperature history. If this time is recorded, it is also possible to compare the amount of time any particular product spends in a MW to a shelf life for that product. Temperature history can also be stored and compared to other data. If the shelf life is passed, then an expiration message, such as a pick list, may be generated and sent to the MW or an e-mail address of a user of the system to inform users of products that should be removed from the MW and not used. In addition, the inventory message may be used to determine the type of products in the MW 35. If any of the products present within the MW 35 are subject to a recall, the MW 35 may be placed in a “lock down” condition, whereby access to the MW is denied until an administrator or other authorized individual removes the recalled product or otherwise addresses the situation.

FIGS. 4a and 4b are flow charts of the software used in the invention. Once the client controller 45 is turned on in FIG. 4a at step 138, it executes a standard boot up routine at step 140. Part of the standard boot up process enables the software to automatically update itself. At step 142, a message is sent to the maintenance server 11 to query the current version of the controller software. If the version on the server 11 is the same as the version on the client controller 45, the client controller 45 establishes a wait state as shown in step 152. If the version on the server 11 is newer than the version on the client controller 45, then the newer version is downloaded over the Internet, as shown at step 144. The newer version is loaded into the alternative pocket or partition and written to flash memory, as shown at step 146. Then the software is booted, as shown at step 148. A garbage collection routine clears the old version. A message packet accompanies each boot to the maintenance server, including version status and operating status. Each boot then requests a reload of the list of authorized users from the server 11 at step 150. The list is then reloaded at step 151. As shown in FIG. 4b at step 152, the client controller 45 then establishes the wait state of the system by initializing various variables or objects such as a USER, MSG 1, MSG 2, CNT 1, TEMP 1, TEMP 2, and SOLENOIDS. In addition, the client controller 45 initializes variables or objects SWITCHES, POWER, and LIGHT. Once initialization is complete, the unit is ready for user access. During this wait state, the client controller 45 performs periodic checks on the status of the MW 35. When a customer approaches the MW and presents an RFID badge, the client controller 45 reads the user RFID badge at step 154 and checks the validity of the identification code read from the badge at step 158. If the code does not match a valid code, an invalid user message is generated at step 162. The message may be displayed on an output device (not shown). If an optional lock is installed on the door of the MW 35, the client controller 45 then opens the solenoids in the lock on the MW 35, as shown at step 166, if the code is valid. An internal timer is then started, as shown at step 170. In one embodiment of the invention, the proximity sensor 40 is used to detect opening of the door 37 and the status of the door. Once the door opens, the proximity sensor 40 switches its status. At step 174, the client controller 45 checks to see if the door has been opened by reading the status of the proximity sensor 40. If the proximity sensor 40 has not changed status, the client controller 45 will continue to check for a predetermined amount of time, as shown at step 178. If the predetermined amount of time is exceeded, the solenoids are closed (step 182), which locks the lock 39, a timeout error message is generated (step 184), and the client controller 45 returns to the initial state, as shown at step 186.

If the door 37 is opened within the predetermined amount of time (currently set through practice at five (5) seconds), a second timer is started, as shown at step 190. The client controller 45 then records the internal temperature of the MW 35 at step 194 and then checks to see if the door 37 has been closed at step 200. The client controller 45 continues to check for closing of the door for a predetermined amount of time, as shown at step 204. If the predetermined amount of time expires, a close door message is generated as shown at step 208 and steps 190-204 are re-executed.

Once the door 37 is closed, the client controller 45 closes the solenoids, as shown at step 212. The client controller 45 then confirms that the door 37 is closed at step 216 and performs an inventory scan at step 220. The data from the inventory scan is then sent to the server 12, as shown at step 224. The client controller 45 then returns to the initial state (step 186).

In another embodiment, the system utilizes a defined area to enclose the tagged products rather than a cabinet. The defined area uses an access point to serve as its entryway. The products within the area are fitted with identification tags and specifically positioned in the area to be recognized by the RFDC inventory interface. Product scans begin when a sensor senses a user passing through the access point. The access point is controlled by a processor, such as the client controller 45, and is able to restrict access to the area and products, if necessary.

As can be seen from the above, the invention provides a method and system for distributing products. Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.