Arrangement for automatic setting of programmable devices and materials therefor

US6802659B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventors

• Mats Cremon · Hörby, SE
• Pixie A. Austin · Everett, US
• Patrick Helton · Marysville, US
• Howard H. Nojiri · Eugene, US
• William W. Kelly · Granby, US
• Steven Winter · Arlington, US
• Duane M. Fox · Snohomish, US
• Christopher A. Wiklof · Everett, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 24, 2001
• Grant date: Oct 12, 2004
• Expiry date: Jul 24, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B41J35/36
• WIPO field: Textile and paper machines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Method and apparatus for reprogramming a programmable product, such as, a printer, a wireless communication device, or a portable computer. A software programmable product that includes memory for storing product operation information and a method for configuring the software programmable products is provided. Software is configurable by data stored on an RFID tag. Data stored on the RFID is transferred reprogramming circuitry of the production which sets the configurable operating parameters. This configures the products features and options as desired by the specific user without requiring an external programming device or destructive entering into the packages or internals of the product. An RFID located in an electronic product, within or upon its packaging, or on an accessory may be loaded with reprogramming data such as media configuration data or usage data. The RFID reader may be located on a kiosk.