A wireless communication device and method for identifying a container, or communication
information about a container using a slot in the container as an antenna. The
device includes a wireless communication device for transmitting information regarding
the container. The container includes an outer wall forming rim and a slot between
the rim edge and the outer wall that is circular and continues without boundaries.
The wireless communication device is coupled to the slot to provide the slot antenna
for communications. An impedance matching network is additionally provided to make
the operating frequency of the slot substantially the same as the operating frequency
of the wireless communication device. Alternatively, shorting posts may be placed
in the slot to define boundaries of the slot to match the operating frequency of
the slot to the operating frequency of the antenna. Multiple feed points may be
provided between the wireless communication device and the slot.