Radio frequency identification method and system of distributing products

Abstract

A method and system for vending products from a defined area, such as a micro-warehouse with a door. The method includes fitting each product with a radio frequency identification tag, positioning the plurality of products in a 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 remote processor based on the message. The system is designed to be accessed by authorized individuals possessing some type of code or identifying mechanism. The micro-warehouses may be cabinets, refrigerators, secured rooms, or similar storage units or areas. Each micro-warehouse has an output device such as a light or display, a door, an antenna mounted on or in the micro-warehouse, and a controller coupled to the antenna. Using a signal from the antenna or other input device, the controller is operable to check the identity of the individual accessing the micro-warehouse. If the user is authorized, the controller opens the door and the user may remove products from the micro-warehouse. Once the user closes the door, the controller performs a scan of the products remaining in the micro-warehouse to determine the identity of each of the products. The controller then generates a message including the identity of each of the products, and sends that message to the server.