Merchandise verification and information system
US4739322A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 31, 1986 |
| Grant date | Apr 19, 1988 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 31, 2006 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07D7/12
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system is disclosed for individually tracing units of merchandise with authentication devices or tags as such tags (with merchandise) move through channels of commerce. The total system incorporates a non-counterfeitable authenticator or verification tag which bears a machine-readable identification number and which in one form includes perforated, tear-off sections bearing the identification number and in another form is adhesively integrated with a product package. Operating with the tag, the physical system includes a central processor with a memory means that is addressable by using the tag identification number. A tag reader senses the machine-readable identification number (may also verify the tag) and addresses the memory means for registering information to specifically identify the tag and indicate batch information. As the tag (and unit of merchandise) move to commerce, the memory information is supplemented to provide a history of such movement. In subsequent operations, the memory can then be tested for meaningful information on the merchandise. As one key to using the method to procure significant data, the system incorporates apparatus for testing the content of the…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.