The present invention relates to an electronic identification system comprising one or more transponders which store identification and other information in memory, and readers, which capture information from the transponders and write new information thereto, and in which communications between transponders and readers are accomplished using radio frequency signals. The present invention has attributes which make it particularly useful in automatic fare collection systems, where transponders, typically in the form of thin cards and used as pre-paid tickets, are carried by fare paying passengers to replace printed tickets and eliminate exchange of cash. Specifically the system achieves simultaneous identification of numerous transponders by one reader, permits a reader to selectively program any of many transponders under its control, exhibits fast transaction speed to maximize passenger throughput, and achieves exceptional data storage integrity.

An RFID wristband incorporates identification circuitry which may be of a read only, a read/write, a passive, or an active configuration. The wristband consists of a plurality of laminae which bear components of the RFID circuitry and which encapsulate said circuitry upon the securement or adherence of said laminae to each or one another. The wristband is incorporated in an identification system particularly adapted for hospital patient identification and is associated with an RFID reader which generates a magnetic signal requesting identification from the wristband. The wristband is automatically assembled by the utilization of at least two laminae of a polymorphic flexible nature to encapsulate the RFID circuit and includes the utilization of polymeric in conductive components in said circuit. The method of assembling the RFID components with the respective laminae results in the complete isolation of the RFID circuit from contact with deleterious and corrosive substances characteristic of hospital environments.

An infrared communicating badge is provided for transmitting an infrared coded signal, such as a patient identification number. The badge includes a sealed housing having an infrared transparent segment. The badge housing contains a power source, a microprocessor, an infrared transmitter, and an infrared receiver. The badge receiver is desensitized such that it does not respond to ambient light from the surroundings and, preferably, only detects signals from a programmer. This programmer transmits a coded infrared signal, which represents the patient identification number, to the badge. After the coded infrared signal is transmitted and stored in the badge, the infrared signal is transmitted periodically to another infrared receiver, located in a remote location. The remote receiver relays the information to a base unit at which the location of a person may be monitored.

An identification arrangement for an order fulfillment system includes an identification input associated with each location in an order fulfillment system at which items are handled, such as by removal or placement, for filling an order. Each item storage location includes a switch that is actuated by a user after items have been handled, such as by removing the items for placement into an order receptacle, as in a conventional pick-to-light order fulfillment system. The identification input includes a unique signal emitter carried by the user, such as an infrared transmitter which emits a signal having a unique frequency corresponding to the identity of the user. The signal is received by a signal receiver located adjacent the switch, and which is interconnected with a central controller that stores information on the signals used as identification for each user. The user can remove items from any location in the order fulfillment area to fill any order. The identification information is utilized to track user productivity and accuracy in filling orders.

An alarm-security system for maintaining surveillance of an individual. When unauthorized departure of an individual from a defined secure area is detected, the alarm-security system generates departure signals which are transmitted to a control center where alarm signals are initiated. In one embodiment of the system an alarm-secure band is carried on the person and cannot be removed from the person without generating alarm signals.