Rfid transponder arrays for sensing input and controlling processes

Abstract

The invention described herein represents a significant advancement in systems that enable a user to control systems and input data into a very wide range of systems. User interface devices that comprise an array of input devices such as buttons on a remote control, keys on a computer keyboard, touch screens, and a computer mouse. Such devices comprise an array of individually readable RFID transponders that can be passive or active and whereby user input can be read according the to output state of each individual transponder using RFID techniques. As an information input means, a user may change the RFID signature emitted by individual transponders and in so doing control systems or processes. Transponders can be positioned in physical proximity to graphics or alphanumeric characters and this proximity can be stored in memory such that a user altering a specific transponder represents specific data to a controlled system or memory. Also, the sequence or change or direction of changes in transponders can be used to controlled systems or processes in predetermined ways. Remote controls, computer keyboards, a computer mouse, touch screens and pads created with the present transponder array invention need not use complex circuits and do not require batteries to operate wirelessly.