Radio frequency identification transponder

Abstract

A radio frequency identification transponder including a power supply and a dynamic memory array which stores data. When power from the power supply ceases the data in the dynamic memory array is validly maintained for a predetermined period of time. The dynamic memory array is responsive to an interrogating signal for selectively updating the data. Further claimed is a radio frequency identification transponder wherein a signal processor extracts an identifier from the interrogation signal and is responsive to the identifier and the stored data to determine whether some or all of the identifier is stored in the dynamic memory array. Further claimed is a system wherein a transmitter provides a plurality of temporally spaced interrogating signals which are received by a receiver which incorporates a signal processor that is able to determine the order in which transponders were first in receipt of the interrogating signal. Further claimed is a baggage handling system wherein a transmitter provides a plurality of temporally spaced interrogating signals into an interrogating space through which a conveyor sequentially progresses baggage, a receiver receives transponder response signals which include baggage identity data, a signal processor then extracts the identity data and determines the order in which the baggage has progressed through the interrogating space.