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.